1st XV v Trent College Won 15 - 7

1st XV vs Trent College

We knew from the outset that this was going to be a test for the XV and we were not wrong in our predictions as they proved a sizeable and athletic team from the very first whistle.
This was a very even game between two evenly matched teams and, having traded attacks on the early stages of the match I was more than relieved when Tom B scampered over from close range.
More tense play followed as the sides took it in turns to go at each other with hammer and tongs. The opposition fly half directed the games well and the Trent forwards had the better of the maul but we looked by far the better team when we rucked and when we put pace on the ball in the backs. We gained a little more breathing space when Tom once again crossed the line after an impressive run which took him through the heart of the opposition forwards.
10 - 0 at half time looked good on paper but with the wind in our face we knew that there was still much rugby to be played. As in the first half there was little between the two sides with neither team prepared to take a backward step. Slowly, however, we began to gain the upper hand and, following a stolen ball at the breakdown we moved the ball wide with impressive speed and dexterity to leave James with a small gap to squeeze through  …..15 - 0 with 15 minutes to play.
Trent hit back with real determination and thoroughly deserved their try as we lost our concentration and started miss tackles. They upped their game still further and we were guilty of panicking somewhat and making a number of poor decisions; in all honesty we got away very lightly when the Trent winger crossed the line only to spill the ball when attempting to ground it but we managed to hold on an there was much relief when the final whistle blew.

This was far from a faultless performance but a very good win against a strong opposition. The XV can be pleased with their efforts and, with two weeks until our next fixture, we can spend some quality time concentrating on the finer points of the game.

Opponents        Result           Score          Tries   
  
Trent                  Won              15- 7            Tom B 2
                                                                 James C   
       

RJMNov08