We enjoyed a good game of rugby against St Mary’s this afternoon. With St Mary’s a little short on numbers, we combined the teams and played a ten-man match, so there were as few subs as possible. The game was a bit congested and it took us a while to adjust but I was pleased to see our best rugby in the final third. It was good to see Monty giving instructions and communicating to the team, with Rafa also taking a lead role in organising things.

We scored a number of tries and the best one came from a number of phases, the ball going all the way out to one wing before coming all the way back to the other before the try was scored. The ball must have been passed 20 times and I was pleased to see the linking, passing and positional play. Senuka ran with real power and speed, as did Tristan. The boys are beginning to learn how to keep in position and to play a wide game. Sasha ran well when he got the chance and Dexter’s dancing quick feet were great to see. Great hands from Archie who linked really well, as did Monty, Alexander A and Rafa who’s timing on the pass was excellent. Mack, George and Maxi all ran well with the ball when they got the chance.

In defence, we tackled well on the whole, particularly from Wilfred, Harry and Rafa, although we still need to work on keeping a good shape and trusting the man next to us to make his tackle. I suppose this only works if you can really rely on them to make the tackle and a few missed tackles from some of the boys led to their tries. Charles showed good intelligence by aiming to tackle his man into touch to win the turn-over.

It was great to see everyone enjoying their game, other than poor Alexander L who misplaced his gum shield, but the group are really coming together as a handy squad, there is real depth of talent in this group. I look forward to seeing them grow and develop as the season progresses.

Well played, boys.