INVERCLYDE Phoenix Youth Team got their 2012 season off to a good start at the Clyde Valley Tournament, winning two of their three games to go into second place in the National League.

The Phoenix got off to a shaky start against the national champions Highland Wildcats, losing 24-6 but got their game together against Edinburgh Wolves, coming from a two-touchdown deficit to win the game 26-18. The final game was against the former powerhouse Clyde Valley Falcons who are undergoing a rebuilding year. Phoenix recorded their first ever victory against the Falcons, shutting them out 12-0.

Highlights of the day were the performances of two new players -- Port Glasgow boys Jordan Harvey and Tony McLeod. Jordan was the leading tackler in the team over the three games while Tony took MVP (Most Valued Player) honours for his role as the featured running back.

There were many other great performances including those by Connor Nicolson -- soon heading to Top Gun Camp in Virginia -- David Fisher, Kyle Ellis, Ruairidh McKillop, Scott Galbraith and Alex Cleary, all scoring touchdowns. Everyone in the team played a vital part with a touchdown-saving tackle by Connor Finan, a great first down run by Gary (Midge) Mullan and good pass coverage by Jacqueline Nordmann.

All in all it was a positive start to the season and, with the next tournament coming up soon at East Kilbride, the Phoenix are looking in good shape.

The Phoenix thank Lenny Allan for refereeing and bus driving duties as well as friends and family who made the trip.

For more details see www.inverclydephoenix.com

Back row - Tony McInnes, Scott Galbraith, Jordan Harvey, Connor Nicolson, Kyle Ellis, Ruairidh McKillop, Vince Gillen
Front row - Connor Finan, Tony McLeod, Alex Cleary, Gary Mullan, Jacqueline Nordmann