Maldon Rugby Club's Under-9s are starting their first ever season of 'contact', after years of playing tag rugby.

Being in Year 4 at school, it has been a scary proposition but the youngsters have been excited to start playing contact rugby.

Always going forward with a smile - the Maldon Under-9s ethos. (Credit: Liam Clarke)

Their first two weeks of matches have seen them flourish. A first week visit to Mersea Island was followed up last weekend with a trip to Upminster for their Mini Festival. They played teams from Upminster, Rochford, Thurrock, Brentwood, Hackney and Epping.

A Maldon RFC spokesperson said: "The young players highlighted just how great of a team they were, both on and off the pitch.

"We welcome players regardless of experience who want to play rugby and have fun in a great team environment."

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