On Saturday (12th March), NEC Harlequins Wanderers played Redruth in the quarterfinals of the English Under 19 Cup. Going into this round, Redruth had not conceded a try in the tournament. However, Quins produced a fine performance to run in eight tries and move into the semi-finals with a convincing victory by 49-5.
The Wanderers got off to a flying start and played some excellent rugby that led to full back Charlie Amesbury scoring the opening try of the afternoon. Redruth showed their resolve and came straight back at Quins to level the score, to the great delight of the travelling fans. However, Quins continued to play some quality rugby, and their pace and power proved too much for Cornish side.
Number eight Andy Hodgkins, winger Kiba Richards, captain and lock forward George Robson, and fly half Mike Brown all added tries to the tally before half-time, with Brown converting his own score to give Quins a 27-5 lead at the break.
Brown started the second half as he finished the first with a good try. Alex Rogers joined the game in the second half after coming off the bench the previous evening to help England Under 19's to claim their first ever Six Nations Gland Slam. He immediately made an impact with some powerful runs.
Richards broke four tackles to score his second try of the afternoon, which was followed by a penalty from close to the halfway line by replacement fly half Richie Parker. The scoring was completed by replacement centre Adam Thompstone, who showed good strength to get over the line.
This was a pleasing performance from the whole squad with flanker Jamie Redmanye outstanding and hooker Chris Turner showing why he has been selected for the British Colleges tour to New Zealand this summer.
NEC Harlequins Wanderers XV: Rob Cooper, Chris Turner, Joe Reid, Alex Ayling, Geoge Robson, Jamie Redmanye, Andy Hodgkins, Darren Clayton, Steve Jay, Mike Brown, Kiba Richards, Chris Butt, Ben Young, Johny Wehbe, Charlie Amesbury
Replacements: Alex Fisher, Alex Rodgers, John Brandling-Harris, Ben Wolfe, Richie Parker, Dene Richards, Adam Thompstone