The DB Pirates U12s arrived in Thailand with ambition, left with silverware, and in between delivered a masterclass in defence and skill at the Bangkok 10s. Over two days of intense rugby, the young Pirates not only lifted the trophy but did so without conceding a single try.

Saturday began with an early bus ride from the team hotel, but any hint of sleepiness was drowned out by excitement and a playlist that had the squad bouncing in their seats.

The Pirates opened their campaign against Nak Su, a Bangkok side known for pace and skill. Nak Su showed flashes of flair, but the Pirates’ defensive line was immovable. With clinical finishing and relentless pressure, the boys stormed to a 5–0 victory.

Next came the fiery Flyhi Rugby Academy from Sri Lanka. The match had edge, physicality, and more than a little niggle, but the Pirates kept their composure. Solid rucks and suffocating defence paved the way for a 2–0 win.

The final pool match against Bangkok Lions B was a statement performance. The Pirates dominated, sealing a commanding 9–0 victory.

With a semi-final looming the next day, the team gathered poolside for a tactical reset. The prospect of meeting the Cobrats, the tournament’s most physically imposing side, required a clear plan … On attack: move the ball wide and avoid the heavy traffic. On defence: shut down space and don’t let the big forwards get to speed.

Sunday’s bus ride was different — quieter, tighter, full of nervous energy…

The semi-final against Bangkok Lions A started with intent. A quick try settled the nerves, and the Pirates’ defensive line held strong. A second try sealed a solid 2–0 win, booking their place in the final.

A large crowd gathered for the showdown. The Pirates, quietly confident, yet to concede a try. The Cobrats, massive in size and reputation, were ready to test that record.

A knock on from the kickoff put the Pirates under immediate pressure, but what followed was a defensive stand that set the tone for the match. Wave after wave of Cobrats attack was met with fearless tackling.

A clever chip kick nearly produced the opening try for the Pirates. Moments later, the Cobrats broke down the touchline, but an incredible cover tackle kept them out.

Then came the breakthrough. After repeatedly driving the Cobrats backwards, a turnover at the ruck allowed the Pirates to spin the ball wide to their pacey backs, who finished brilliantly in the corner. 1–0 Pirates.

With five minutes remaining, the job was far from done. The Cobrats threw everything at them, but the Pirates’ defence — the defining feature of their tournament — held firm. In the final scrum of the match, a sharp blindside move sealed the deal with a second try. 2–0. Champions.

The DB Pirates U12s showcased not just skill, but heart, unity, and tactical maturity beyond their years. Against bigger opponents, they trusted their system, trusted each other, and delivered when it mattered most.

A huge thank you on behalf of the DB Pirates u12 goes out to all the parents for their incredible support, the organisers and volunteers who made the tour so special and finally the coaches, who, without their passion and commitment would not have made these performances possible.

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