This was always going to be a very hard fought match. Ranby came away winners when we met at the Worksop festival and it was clear from that match that we would have to drastically step up our game if we were going to stand a chance in this match.
The first 10 minutes were extremely physical with both sides tackling well. Our ball retention was superior to Ranby’s and we made this tell as Harvey W crashed over for the first try of the match. Alex W converted, giving us a 7-0 lead. The rest of the half was much of the same as the ball was generally kept in the forwards. Our pack were now showing what potential they really have. Their rucking was first rate, the mauling was well organised and the scrummaging was outstanding, so much so that Ranby rarely won their own put in, with our forwards driving them off the ball on virtually every occasion. Tight defence in the backs saw us through to half time leading by 7 points.
The second half saw us start brightly and the expected surge from Ranby did not really materialise. They were being soundly beaten in the forwards in all areas and our backs were now starting to run some lovely lines. We continued to press and ensured that we had the territorial advantage throughout. Cameron D made the most of this pressure as he went blind from a maul and dived over in the corner to score an excellent try. Again this was converted by Alex W. The last few minutes saw Ranby put pressure on us and for the first time in the match they looked like they could score. Our strong defence and superb tackling held them at bay until the final whistle. This was as close to a complete performance as has been seen this season so far – still more to come though. Well done boys!!
Posted on
Sat, October 3, 2009
by MAC