West Norfolk under-16s hitting form at the right time as Norwich are beaten in cup semi-final

After a string of narrow defeats earlier in the season, West Norfolk under-16s have found their form at the perfect time, putting together an impressive late cup run.

Two weeks ago, they made the long journey to Lowestoft & Yarmouth and returned with a convincing 20-48 win.

That momentum was carried into Sunday’s semi-final, where they faced a strong Norwich side.

The match started with both teams displaying high levels of skill and determination.

West Norfolk controlled much of the early possession, keeping Norwich pinned in their own half but, Norwich defended very well. Their pressure eventually paid off with two quick tries.

Norwich responded with one of their own before a red card left West Norfolk a man down going into halftime with a 12-7 lead.

Despite being reduced in numbers, West Norfolk showed incredible resilience in an encounter that could have gone against them.

They extended their lead with two more well-worked tries, demonstrating both power and precision.

The game took another twist when scrum-half Tom Lloyd was forced off injured and a yellow card further reduced them to 12 players.

Norwich took advantage with some late tries, but West Norfolk refused to let the game slip away, finishing extremely strong with the final try when the game was beyond Norwich’s reach to seal a well-earned victory.

Norwich played in great spirit throughout, making for a fiercely competitive but fair contest.

With home advantage for the final in May, West Norfolk will now prepare to take on their old rivals, Holt, and are calling on as much local support as possible.

Try scorers: Fraser Pick (2), Oliver Rowland (2), Seb Taylor (2).

Conversion kickers: Tom Lloyd and James Shorthouse.

Man of the Match: Oliver Rowland.