Manchester Magic 95 v Sheffield Junior Saints 56

A baptism of fire for Saints under 18’s as they opened their 2011-12 season with a difficult away trip to face Manchester, who are perennial contenders for national honours. Manchester started the game with physical and aggressive man-to-man defence, which took the Sheffield boys out of their rhythm and forced them to make a string of errors.

Despite the physical nature of Manchester’s approach the Sheffield boys fought back doggedly, unfortunately Manchester are a taller and more experienced team who controlled the game after their initial onslaught.

Sheffield Saints players will learn from this experience and realise what they must do to overcome the top sides in the country.

Top scorers: Callum McKenzie 14; Dennis Kaka 12; Shcue Matewe 10; George Brownhill 11