Southend vs. Rochford U10, Upminster Festival, 27 March 2011

Southend are always ruthlessly efficient and so it proved as Rochford fought valiantly to restrict Southend possession. Unfortunately Southend scored twice early on and from then on it was going to be difficult to turn round. Despite the set back Rochford continued to work hard and drive Southend back towards their own line but found it difficult to create a gap.

The second half began as the first finished with Southend in their own half and very much on the back foot. The team were winning their share of scrums and line outs and using width by bringing the wingers into play as often as possible. As is often the way with matches against Southend, Rochford had plenty of possession but were unable to convert it into scoring chances.

The progress of the team was reflected in the disappointment in not making the final. With each match the team are playing better as a unit and the belief is growing. Ties against Southend are a useful barometer for charting the team’s progress. This was a very even match and the team should be proud of their performance.

Their rucking is improving but still needs some work and encouraging them to be more assertive on the pitch is helping. It’s easy to forget that for a good number of the team, this is their first season.