0

Tries 0
Conversions 0
Penalties Cenceded 0

26

Tries 4
Conversions 3
Penalties Conceded 0

Chippenham are the only side to beat the talented Colts team this season and were the perfect opposition for a warm-up prior to our last 16 game in the national U18 cup next weekend.

Despite a last minute switch of venue, due to the Pats pitch being sodden, we took a big and talented squad to Wiltshire. We were missing a few players due to their involvement in the county team and a couple away or injured but, thanks to our strength-in-depth, we were still strong.

Last time out against this side, we were below par physically, falling off tackles and were, frankly, well beaten. They have some big lads and carry hard with a simple game plan. Not today though. Thankfully the torrential rain that forced the change in venue and dogged the drive to the match cleared in time for kick off. The 4G pitch is not to everyone’s liking but, it’s flat and dry and let us play our expansive game.

It took a few minutes for both teams to warm up but the intensity built and the hits got bigger. Far from shirking the physical, we were double and triple tackling their big runners with our pack working hard.

Our fitness was also obvious and as we offloaded and quickly shifted the ball, the gaps started to appear.

Sam P was mixing up the play and putting our runners into space with first Sam H then Jamie, Ethan and Sam again running strong lines to score. All forwards this time but the backs were not missing out with some scintillating running. That their defence was having to cover so much ground meant that eventually something had to give. Our phase-play and off-loading was causing havoc and the support lines from multiple players were excellent.

What was most pleasing was the performances of the whole squad. We used nearly 30 players today and, without exception, they gave their all for the team. The level of all of our players improves week by week thanks to the coaching and the chance to play amongst such a talented group. Next week we can only name 22 in the squad and competition for a place will be high. I’m delighted to see so many showing their best today and wanting to be involved.

The Ref was great too, dazzling in pink and managing the match with sensitivity and intellect.

Next week, we are at home to Olney RFC in the last 16 of the National U18 Cup. In itself, this is quite an achievement, but we have ambition for more. It will be a massive game and we absolutely need our home crowd. Bar and catering are promised and a festival of excellent rugby is guaranteed. Please do come and support the lads at Everest Road on Sunday. Allez les Pats!

Tom Perris