Upminster vs. Rochford U11, 20 February 2011

Wow ! What have the boys (and SJ) been eating!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In very muddy and slippery conditions we started of exactly as we left last week. ie. very well, against a well drilled Upminster side. Upminster were dominating in the scrum which enabled them to give their backs some good quick ball to use. For periods of the game their attacks tested our defence to the limit but with some big hits and support from all players we defended our line like lions.

It was noticeable that unlike in previous weeks the first players to the breakdown after the tackled player or tackler didn’t just stand there looking they got themselves into some great positions and with support of the other forward rucked like id never seen before, pushing some big lads off the ball, and securing great turnover ball. This excellent turnover ball was presented well and Matt N used effectively by quickly getting it out to the back line, they in turn made some very effective forward breaks, especially Lewis, Ryan and James, as well as getting it out wide to the wingers allowing Louis and Luke to make some good runs.

The only try of the game came from our forwards, especially SJ, Ray and Matt P continually picking up the ball, driving straight at the heart of the Upminster defence, and with great presentation was able to recycle the ball again for the supporting forwards to drive on again and again, ultimately leading to Ryan breaking off the side of such a ruck to dive over. A special mention to Ray who had a blinder of a game on his debut, tackling superbly, well done.