In their second competitive fixture Macmillan Academy's Year 7 rugby team performed extremely well, emphatically topping their qualifying group with two 5-0 wins.

By Tom Carmichael Y10 Sports Correspondent

In their second competitive fixture under coach Mr Richardson, Macmillan Academy's Year 7 rugby team performed extremely well, emphatically topping their qualifying group with two 5-0 wins.

The first game was against Trinity; Esa, George, Luke, Oliver Cairny, Oliver Cann and Kieren Thompson were all impressive try scorers, running through a sluggish Trinity line with ease.

A tough match against a strong Acklam Grange side followed, with 'winner takes all' to top the group following their win over Trinity. George Luke was again among the scorers, along with Jack Baxter, Esa and a double from James Oliver.

Good rucking and solid tackling was the key for the victories and there was a notable improvement in passing the ball, which is the focus the team needs to aid progression and become a top rugby side.

The Year 7 squad took the Middlesbrough schools festival by storm and will be looking to impress next March at the Tees Valley rugby finals in Redcar.