U 10’s Match Report
London Irish Tournament
1st December 2013 (Festival 2)

Fordingbridge v Oakmeadians Lost 0 – 3
Fordingbridge v Bournemouth Lost 0 – 2
Fordingbridge v Overton Won 1 – 0
Fordingbridge v Alton Won 2 - 0

The morning was in two halves - it certainly felt as if the first two matches were somewhat subdued, but after that, the team seemed to enjoy themselves and come alive.

Oakmedians
In the first match we conceded 2 tries in the in the first minute of the game then held the opposition at bay for the next 7 minutes of the half. We then conceded a try in the first 30 seconds of the second half and then held the opposition at bay for the next 7 and a half minutes. It seems they are sleepy at the start of the matches but once they wake up they are as good as anyone.

Bournemouth
I think I was having a nap during this match – no idea what happened – sorry!

Overton
It was time for the third match – this time against Overton. By this point our team and supporters were getting a bit fed up with no tries in the bag. Where was the fighting spirit? There was some great play from Luc, Archie got stuck in and almost scored, and Finley’s fluorescent arms were always in the action. Max also did some great running. Eventually after a stream of great play from all, Jack P put us all out of our misery by storming forward and scoring the first try of the day – what a relief! This was the turning point of the day and from that moment on, the Fordingbridge under 10’s were back! Luc played really well in this match and some of his tackles were brilliant.

Alton
We knew that Alton were going to be tough but after a very good match against Overton, we knew we could do it. Hayden B kept driving the ball forward and so keen was he that he was even running forward before the whistle! Jack Wells by this time was on fire and was not going to let anyone go anywhere with the ball, Jack – can you not leave this play till the last match next time? and Ben Potter saved the day with 2 fantastic tries. We think that Man of the Match in game 4 was Hayden B, he was in the thick of the action throughout the game and was clearly loving every minute!

TK’s Summary
“In general terms we lost the first 2 matches primarily through lack of concentration (this after a warm-up routine). With ref to the next 2 matches as we are all aware this was a complete turnaround. The players excelled themselves not only as individuals, but the fact that they have really started playing for each other as a team.

Individual comments as follows: 5 players were selected as captains throughout the matches - Ben, Finley, Max, Gaby and James. All led the team well by example and individual ability. The tries scored were subject to great individualism combined with good team play and awareness. Jack P's try was worthy of an international match! Ben's try in the final match was the result of outstanding team play initially, and Ben's strength and pace which enabled him to score.

Must make mention for two other areas of play which we have been working hard on at training. First was the very high standard of tackling from all players - however, it would be remiss not to mention the superb individual efforts of Jack W, Luc, Ben and Finley. Secondly, was the overall commitment driving in at the rucks and mauls in all 4 matches. Brilliant!

It was great to see Haydn 1. losing the fear factor and making a superb effort by being all over the field, driving, rucking and hitting everything that moved. Haydn 2. is also making a contribution but needs to get involved further.

Finally I'm not sure whether you saw the display of the F'bridge rendition of the Haka - great fun - something to work on!” TK

Thanks to Martin, Richard and TK for helpful comments – hope it all makes sense – roll on Sunday at Fawley!

Fordingbridge Rugby Club

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