JUNIOR rugby league players from Warrington took the Rhinos Challenge by storm, coming home from Skegness as tournament winners in grand style.

Woolston Rovers under 12s were crowned champions of their age group after being unbeaten over the entire weekend against teams from all across the country.

Chris Forster, one of the team's five coaches, said: "This is the first Woolston Rovers team to ever win the Rhinos Challenge so it is a bit of history for the club.

"The weekend's success is down to all the players who took to the field as they were brilliant and had so many other teams commenting on how much of a good side we have.

 

Woolston Rovers under 12s celebrating their success on the pitch

Woolston Rovers under 12s celebrating their success on the pitch

 

"This has been years in the making as the coaches have worked with these lads for a long time to get them where they are now.

"The scary thing is that there is still a lot more improvement in us as a team and we cannot wait to see what the lads can do in the remainder of the season and in the years to come."

The nines tournament at various age groups featured teams taking over the Butlin's site in Skegness for the weekend.

Woolston played four group games of 14 minutes each on the Saturday, beating Dewsbury Moor 8-0, East Hull 16-4, Queensbury 24-0 and Golborne 20-8.

The winners of each group went on to play for the trophy the following day, in 20-minute games.

Rovers defeated Skirlaugh 12-8, Queensbury 24-8 and Holderness 20-12 to finish top of the pile.

 

Woolston Rovers under 12s at the trophy presentation

Woolston Rovers under 12s at the trophy presentation

 

Woolston, who play in the North West Counties League Premier Division, scored 31 tries and conceded only 10 across the seven matches to make their coaches - Matt Robinson, Andy James, Pete Bowden, Adam Talbot as well as Chris Forster - very proud.

 

The Woolston Rovers under 12s coaches, like brothers in arms

The Woolston Rovers under 12s coaches, like brothers in arms

 

"We want to say a massive thank you to every single player and parent for coming along and giving absolute everything all weekend," said Chris.

"All the parents and siblings cheered the boys on in every game and were the loudest crowd at the competition.

"This definitely helped the lads when things got tough and it was brilliant to hear.

"We pride ourselves on the family atmosphere within our club and it was a brilliant to see everyone come together and enjoy the whole weekend."