COACHES THOUGHTS: @ SANDWELL
We catch up with Head Coach Jack O’Beirne following a big road win for the Under-19s as they travelled to face the Sandwell Steelers in scorching conditions and came away with a 30-13 victory. The result moves the Knights to 2-2-0 on the season and marks a real turning point as the team showed grit, resilience, and a glimpse of their true potential.
It was trench warfare in hot conditions during the game.
This Sunday’s trip to Willenhall Rugby Club to take on the Sandwell Steelers was always going to be a test. A hot day, a long journey, and a roster reduced by nine players due to injuries – it had all the ingredients to be a difficult afternoon. But what I saw from this group of young men was nothing short of remarkable.
Before we go any further, I want to take a moment to speak on someone who couldn’t be out there with us. Our captain, Hawkan Hall, suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 1 against Nottingham Caesars. It was devastating news for the team, and he has been in all of our thoughts. Hawkan embodies what it means to be a Knight – tough, committed, and inspirational – and we’re all behind him on the road to recovery. You’ll be back stronger, Hawk.
Despite the absences, the team came together in a way that makes me incredibly proud. The work Coach Bobby has been putting in with our offensive and defensive lines paid off in a big way. We controlled the trenches all day, with standout performances from Alfie Harman, Harrison Bridge, Luke Vincent, and Jeremiah Quainoo, who stepped in and handled centre like a seasoned veteran. On the defensive front, Sam White was dominant once again – multiple sacks and a safety – and Alfie Newton put in a gritty display next to him.
But the breakout star of the day? That was Rocky Murtala. Rocky has always had the potential, and on Sunday, it finally all came together. He was everywhere – setting the edge, collapsing the pocket, and making life miserable for the opposition. That’s the Rocky we’ve been waiting for, and I know this is just the start.
We also had the debut of Alex Gomes, who only recently made the switch from goalkeeper to defensive line. I’ll say it now – this kid is special. Multiple tackles for loss, sacks, and a presence that’s hard to teach. He’s going to be a name to remember, and I’ve no doubt universities will be knocking before the season’s out.
Offensively, Marcus Cownley once again showed why I believe he’s the best junior quarterback in the country. Two passing touchdowns and one on the ground – calm under pressure and always in control. Mo Sule was unplayable yet again – over 150 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Nobody has found a way to stop him yet. And while the stat sheet won’t show it, Sam Griffiths was instrumental with some huge downfield blocks that sprung big runs for Kalan Hall and Tommy-Lee Jubane.
A special mention to Olly Keeber, who returned to form with a gorgeous sideline grab from Marcus. It’s great to see his confidence shining through again.
Defensively, Braydon Contina and Cayden Greet were given tall tasks in covering two elite receivers – and they passed with flying colours. Cayden even came away with an interception that nearly went all the way. Our linebacker duo of James Usher and Louey Franks was relentless – a nightmare for the Steelers’ offence, flying around with chemistry built on years together at Wellingborough RFC.
And finally, Hayden Quantrell made a huge impact in his return from injury. Two interceptions and blanket coverage all day – a reminder of why he was our Coaches’ Player of the Year last season.
We owe a big thank you to Sandwell for hosting and we wish them the best for the rest of their season.
As for us, we now look ahead to a home fixture against the Birmingham Lions on June 1st. Our focus remains simple: go 1-0-0 every week and enjoy the journey together. We’ve come through a tough start to the year, and this win showed the resilience and heart that defines this team.
And I’ll end on this – to the parents and supporters who travelled, cheered, and stood by us all day – thank you. Your presence does not go unnoticed. It means everything to our players and to the coaches. You are part of this family, and we are so grateful that you trust us to help raise your sons. We couldn’t do this without you.