U11A v The Elms

U11A v The Elms

This was a disappointing match and displayed a number of factors which need addressing within the team. It was particularly disappointing in view of the fact that we won most of the set scrums and more than our fair share of the loose ball. The three key points arising from this match are:
1. Tackling. This was erratic. Only L. Litchfield, T .Cridland, and to a lesser extent, M Mfula and C Herdman got stuck in. Too often we backed off important tackles and allowed the opposition to gain territory. Everyone in the team knows how to tackle, it now needs to be executed properly.
2. Passing. The pack won quite a lot of good ball (and loads of good ball from the scrums) but passing along the backs was wayward. Too often, the pass was behind the body of the supporting player or above his head. Tackling under pressure is difficult and it can be helped by backs standing a little deeper and so giving the player a split second longer to make the pass. Remember that if the first pass is poor it puts pressure on the rest of the supporting players, so make your pass a good one in front of the body. Also, pass out along the line; don’t treat the game as though it is a game of bulldogs and try and go the length of the pitch on your own! Make the break and then pass the ball out.
3. Organisation. Again, this mainly concerns the backs on this occasion. Too often players were in the wrong place and at the wrong angle. When defending we need to be as flat as possible and into their faces as quickly as possible. When attacking, we need to be deeper and looking to get the ball wide.

There were some encouraging aspects to this game and one or two players (T Cridland, C Herdman and H Ludlam at times) took several steps forwards. The scrum was generally effective, although too many players took breaks at key times. However, unless we work on the points above and start to play as a team rather than as a bunch of individuals who find themselves standing next to each other, it will be a very long season. This team has definite potential and despite the fact that we were beaten by a better side on this occasion, we should be giving a better account of ourselves on the field.

RESULT: Lost 49 – 0

Man of the match: T Cridland