U12s battle to tough win at Barnstaple

Barnstaple U12s 21 v Maidenhead U12s 28

Saturday 24th October 2009

The U12s had a successful weekend away at Barnstaple playing a curtain raiser before the 1st XV game, here's a match report and some photos…

Fielding a reduced strength touring side MRFC U12s, overcame tough opposition, in the form of a much larger Barnstaple A team playing on their main pitch in front of the grandstand, filling up with spectators for the main game which followed.

Maids started slowly and poor tackling allowed Barnstaple through for an early try. Then soon after, a well worked scrum and drive from Barnstaple created the opening for a second try. But then 'man of the match' Will Doolan took control of the forward loose play and stole several turnovers for Maids. From one of these, the ball was then driven up field by Shane McKenna and Richard Derry, before Lawrence Jones showed quick thinking to pick up a loose ball and take it over from short distance for the first Maids try. This gave them confidence to attack the Barnstaple defence. Will Lawrence took a clever free-kick and with good follow up by Alex Thompson, the pack were able to drive the ball on again to create an opening for Xabi Leadbetter to nip around the blindside for the equalising score.

In the second half, Maids continued to exert strong pressure up front and create space as a result. Ben Lawrence broke through a gap from short distance for Maids third, before Barnstaple equalised. As the tight game drew to an end Maids' better ball handling told as they spread the ball wide and a powerful run from Joel Greene, put debutant Sean Makweche in for the winning try in the corner.

The players appreciated the interest and support shown by the 1st XV and coaches throughout their game.