A
series of 4 x 15 minute games were played between
Maidenhead and Andover . One of the objectives being to
match the strongest teams first and then enable
substitution from the total squad of players .The game
format was used to enable all the boys to learn and apply
the skill developments being introduced during each
session. Careful selection enabled all the boys of
different standards to participate and to give all 24
boys a share of match play.
Game One
Within minutes of starting
the first try was scored by Ryan Sherwin following strong
forward play but unsuccessfully converted. The two teams
were very evenly matched - Andover had a particularly
strong scrum but were held by Toby Harrison, Guy Sears
and Robin Scanlon. Consistently strong tackling by
William Page, Luke Fletcher and Paul Roberts kept Andover
struggling to score and before too long, the second try
was scored by a great run from Oliver Woodward and
converted by Alec Roberts making the score 12 - 0.
Andover retaliated with a try from a well worked speedy
run down the wing and converted well.
Score: Maidenhead 12 - Andover 7
Game Two
Maidenhead’s depth of
playing ability was illustrated in this game. With Alex
McKeown, Sam Alderson, Christian Shepherd all playing
well together in the pack. William Brennan at outside
centre received the ball from Mark Lucas at fly half and
was able to stretch out on a long run to score a try
initiated by Guy Sears and Joe Dutton working well at
scrum half. Before too long, Andover fought back and
scored to draw level . Both teams showed great spirit in
another close encounter.
Score: Maidenhead 7 Andover 7
Game Three
This game provided a chance
to try different combinations and produced some
remarkable attacking rugby. Jonathan Lowther showed great
determination from the scrum and scored the first try.
George Colbourn at inside centre tackled and linked well
with Alec Roberts at outside centre to enable Chris
Bradbury on wing to use his speed and gain good ground.
Before too long Luke Fletcher managed to take advantage
to drive over from the left wing and score the second
try. Jamie Ford created a blind side opportunity to run
from full back and through to score the third try . He
also converted all the tries by improved kicking.
Score : Maidenhead 21 - Andover 0.
Game Four
The final game provided
another opportunity for the squad to try different
players. All the boys showed a lot of commitment. The
forwards namely Toby Harrison( Prop), Ryan Sherwin(
hooker), Sam Alderson (prop) worked well against a much
heavier front row, with support from Christian Shepherd
(Prop). Guy Sears and Robin Scanlon (2nd Row)
were ably supported by new players Sam Clarke and Nick
Hillier who played at Prop and 2nd Row
respectively. They all continue to improve against good
opposition. Mark Lucas worked very hard passing
accurately throughout.
Joseph Dutton (scrum-half) fed the ball out to enable
Paul Roberts ( fly-half) to use his speed and strength
and link well with centres Robert Whittle and Mark Lucas.
Improved quick accurate passing enabled both Angus Cadden
(right wing) and provide new member Rick Blacker (left
wing) with the chance make some wonderful runs. A
excellent mornings rugby was had by all.
Two tries were scored by Luke Fletcher and Oliver
Woodward. And converted by Alex Roberts.
Score: Maidenhead 14 - Andover 0
An excellent mornings
rugby was had by all. Andover praised the boys
sportsmanship, our organisation, and fair refereeing (
Well done Tony and Dave) They also enjoyed the skill
sessions arranged by Brian, Tom, Steve and Trevor. We
have been invited us to play a return fixture at Andover
next year!
Match report: Eva
Colbourn and family.
Coaching notes: Brian
Ford
|