An under-strength Scarborough team made the long trip to Castleford but gave a good account of themselves in the U18s’ return fixture from earlier in the season. The result was not as close as in the original match but still all the players enjoyed the game and made it a good contest. The defences were equally matched between the 22s but the home side just had the guile and speed on the edges as they worked through the phases effectively to create space out wide. All the girls performed well but the pick of the forwards was Ruby Parker who never stopped and the backs’ choice was Emily Heaps who picked up 4 tries. Other try scorers were Milly Toole, Tally Bryer (2), Bobbie Wardy (3), Lily Williams, Millie Bell and Millie Gould. The U13s’ game was competitive from start to finish with some accomplished defensive work – good cover play as well as solid and effective tackling – shown by both sides. It has been pleasing to see the Cas girls play with more structure and organisation in defence and, increasingly, in attack. The continuity play was good with Layla-jaimes Carson particularly effective with pop passes from the floor to supporting players before rucks were formed. All the girls contributed to the game as they rose to the challenges caused by visitors’ pressure, with some playing their best games of the season so far. The first try was by Daisy Platt after a clever interception, soon followed by her sister, Lilly’s, after a trademark feint. Kahmani Sene-lefao’s direct running was on display again and she was rewarded with 2 tries. Other try scorers were Olivia Stead ( from dancing down the wing), Dina Santos (2 - showing her power) and Alicja Kadziak (2 - after lightning breaks). Coaches’ POM was Georgia Longfellow. The photo credit goes to Richard Gould and shows Ruby Parker breaking through the Scarborough defence in the U18s' game.