Their first match of the season was played against a weakened Sai Kung Stingrays side at Tin Shui Wai Sports Ground. On a glorious afternoon, the Sandy Bay boys kicked off under the captaincy of Briac Asi Talatini. After a nervy start, Sandy Bay U14s took control of the match at around the mid-way point of the first half and did not look back.

With tries coming from both wings, and with ball increasingly being played through their hands, the Sandy Bay boys ended the first half with a 20+ point margin lead. With nerves sufficiently calmed and many of the players enjoying the game more, the second half continued in largely the same vein as some incisive runs from the backs saw them scythe through the Sai Kung Stingrays defence on at least two occasions. The forwards played controlled rugby with outstanding performances from not only their captain, but also Ralphy Dray who showed aggression and leadership belying his years.

The game ended after Sandy Bay had scored 8 tries -- healthily shared among the team -- converted 4 and conceded 0. Special mention to Harry Golovski who was "playing up" for the first time with the U14s, and who equipped himself capably among the backs as well as being the team's nominated conversion kicker.

Next week's opponents -- HKFC -- promise to be an altogether tougher proposition, and the Sandy Bay boys look forward to having their injured players back for that game.

A final word of appreciation for U14s coach Marno Meyer whom the boys have already developed a healthy rapport with, and whose tutelage has been, thus far, simply outstanding.