Thames U9 & U10s vs. Rochford U9 & U10s, 7 February 2010
Match Report by Chris Berry Thames had a combined team, predominantly U9s, with about 3 or 4 U10s, so the Rochford side was set up to try to reflect this balance, with players from both sides playing together in a real match for the first time.
The combined Rochford side started well, with some excellent tackling and rucking from Sarah-Jane. The U9s, whose rucking had not been the best part of their game this season, joined in once they had someone to show them how it was done, and for the first time this season were dominant in the rucks, getting good possession. From one typical ruck midway through the first half, Sarah-Jane ensured we got good ball, James Berry got there to grab it and passed out well to James Barber of the U10s, who dodged through the remaining defences of Thames for the first try. From that point on, Rochford never really looked in danger of losing. Thames runners were cut down by some excellent tackling, with Nicholas, Chris H, James Berry and of course Sarah-Jane leading the way, ensuring that Thames rarely got a sniff of the Rochford try line.
At the other end of the pitch though, Rochford were creating good chances. James Barber got the second try with another mazy run through the Thames defenders, and that left the half time score at 2-0.
The second half was more of the same. Further good work from Sarah-Jane saw the ball reach James Barber, who made a terrific pass out to Chris H in space on the line, and Chris ran through to touch down for our 3rd try. A couple of minutes later, the ball was passed back from the scrum to James Barber again, who cut through a couple of attempted tackles and reached the line to touch down for his hat trick, and Rochford's 4th try.
From the restart, Rochford managed to get turnover ball, and nearly got through for a 5th try, but Nicholas was tackled into touch, and the game was over.
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