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U17s overcome Abingdon and the weather Maidenhead
U17s 14 v Abingdon U17 0 Sunday 22nd November 2009 |
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Despite some of the worst weather conditions possible, Maids put in a sterling performance to comfortably earn our first league win season - just reward for a squad who have put in much effort on the training ground. The apocalyptic weather dictated that this was a day for the forwards ...and thoughtful rugby. Abingdon won the toss and understandably decided to play with the elements and apply pressure from the start. They had not anticipated a Maids' pack full of determination and aggression. The ball was like gold for Maids, and to reach half time at 0-0 was an incredible effort by all. The forwards and scrum half Matt Bill controlled proceedings sensibly, playing good 'into the wind' rugby. Despite a competitive Abingdon pack Maids played the conditions effectively, out-muscling their significantly larger opposition through powerful set-pieces and controlled aggression at the breakdown. The power of 6'6" Michael James at scrum and ruck time was a significant factor in the team's much improved performance. Once again playing out of position in the second row, Chris Withers put in his usual tireless and grafting performance. Sensible control at the base of the scrum by Jack Fleck supported by flankers Theo Harden and Rory Creffield gave the team a controlled supply of ball. The front row worked tirelessly throughout and dominance at scrum time was testimony to their technique and united power. Prop Conor Murphy was his usual galvanising force in the dark recesses, James Wilson a controlling influence, and John Cullivan hooked faultlessly and seemed to be everywhere! One could only feel sorry for the backs on both sides who faced conditions that made every catch and pass a lottery. Nevertheless, despite losing valuable skipper Mike Habgood early through injury, Maids tried to play rugby when the opportunity arose. Any relieving kick downwind from Abingdon was countered by scything runs from in-form full back Alex Glennister, a player full of potential. Fortunately for all (not least our valiant supporters), the weather conditions subsided somewhat in the second half, but there was still sufficient wind for fly half James Brooks to manage affairs with an array of strategic kicks that kept Abingdon pinned back and Maids playing in the right areas. It was not a day for the wider backs to show their creative talents but centre Olli Evans and wings Jack Bower and TJ Hudson chased kicks all day and were magnificent in defence when called upon, with Bower turning over one very important ball when Maids were under pressure. Maids lost scrum half Matt Bill early in the second half requiring Brooks to move to the 9 position and Tom Simpson to 10 (And vice versa!). It didn't take long for Simpson to break out and score a fine individual try under the posts that Brooks duly converted (7 - 0 to Maids). Abingdon were now under the cosh and Maids were awarded a well deserved penalty try when James Wilson was judged to be held back in a probable try scoring position with Brooks once again converting (14 - 0). Mid way through the second half hard working flanker Theo Harden was also forced to retire giving Rij Ralhan the opportunity to get on and show the results of his recent fine efforts in training. Despite some notable absentees, this was a good day's work for Maids U17s squad! If our forwards perform to the same standards in future matches, our pacey backs will certainly ensure Maids are a force to be reckoned with. |