U15Bs in convincing home victory over Ruislip

Maidenhead U15B 24 v Ruislip U15 17

Sunday 27th November 2011

Another strong squad performance saw Maidenhead U15Bs continue their recent run of form with a convincing home victory against a big, fast Ruislip side. Fierce, blustery crosswinds meant clean ball handling and composed defence were required.

Both teams acquitted themselves well to produce an enthralling match.

Ruislip dominated the early play, passing well to run in the first try thanks to a well drilled pack and quick passing in the backs. But Maidenhead took this as their cue to wake up, their forwards rucking well and winger Seb Cooper twice denied a score on the blind side by straying into touch.

Maids drew level when scrum-half Cillean Richard, in another outstanding display of battling commitment, pounced as the ball bobbed from an overthrown line-out to storm over the line.

The home side extended their lead before the break, finally shipping the ball all the way along the line for Cezary Apcio to score from the wing. With the wind at their backs, Maidenhead spent most of the second half laying siege to Ruislip's try line.

Number 8 Ross Munro, lifting the team on his return from injury, extended the lead with a quick tap-and-go penalty from five metres.

A breakaway try by Ruislip, seizing on a chip over their line by Maidenhead, was against the run of play. Maids responded with an excellent try from fly half Nick Burnage after a scrum near the Ruislip line. He converted, his second of the game despite the wind.

Ruislip narrowed the score line with the last play of the game in a reminder of their potency as opponents.

Maidenhead made a succession of changes during the match, showing their strength in depth as several substitutes made an impact: notably John Raiwale who gave a storming performances at centre with excellent tackling and mauling.