Locked together in a scrum, Like two hands or fingers

Taken out in a tackle, Like a demolition ball on a house.

Jumping for a line out Like two waves.

Scoring a try, Like a pouncing tiger.

Kicking a conversion, Like a bird taking off.

Lifting the cup, Like a weightlifter.

Rugby.

Life?

By James Taylor, aged 14 who receives Penguin Modern Poets 1. Submitted by Joan Secombe of Bishop Luffa School.

Most sports are serviceable metaphors for life and James has assembled a splendid team of rugby similies. They win the day not only for their wider applicability but as strong physical images in themselves. The second couplet is terrific: ouch! We’ve all had days and some, alas, lives like that. Sharply observant (that’s just how people lift cups), four-square and no-nonsense, the poem not only scores but converts.

Kit Wright

Next term’s poet is Wendy Cope. Poems, up to 20 lines long should be sent to The TES, Admiral House, 66-68 East Smithfield, London E1 9XY, by December 15, and must include the poet’s name, age, school and teacher.