A day out at the beach for the Under 14’s today with a first ever trip to our neighbours in Weston. Sadly both teams were a little under strength with the Knights suffering from a number of injuries from last weeks festival, illnesses and family commitments – the best the Knights could muster was 13 fit players and Dan (still suffering with a back injury) as water boy. Necessity had a number of players playing out of position with Dylan and Stav in the centre, Josh in at prop and James as Hooker – thanks to all who moved around. Weston were also short with injury and other commitments and had 14 players.

A chance for both teams to play on the first team pitch today and it was in excellent condition for this stage of the season if a little large for a 13 a side game Under 14’s game – open spaces and free scoring looked likely. The weather was fine if a little chilly for the attire we had all decided was appropriate……one days sunshine lulling us into a belief that summer had arrived….

The high velocity first half kicked off with Weston probing – big hits from Dylan, Elliott and Lee keeping them at arms-length. This was a theme particularly from Dylan who tackled anything that moved all day. A great line out and good first phase ball to Mac and Joe was controlled well along the line for Stav to unleash his blistering pace to score. Mac converted. Mac and Joe at 9 and 10 controlled and distributed the ball excellently all day with strong performances. Our stand in centres Stav and Dylan tackled hard and hit the line with pace. From the next kick off Max got the ball to Billy and he sold an audacious dummy to sprint in for a second score running from well within his own half – from the side lines Rich was heard to say ‘us Marsdens don’t run that far’ - a second score for the Knights. Mac’s conversion from an awkward angle hit the bar and dropped agonisingly short. Weston were not going to roll over and their strong combinations from 10-12 hit back with a try of their own from a rare lapse of tackling in the opening stages. Another flowing back line first phase move resulted in Stav almost scoring again but from the reset ball Ollie went for a run and Bailey finally crossed in the corner to give the Knights a well-deserved 17-5 lead. Unfortunately at the ruck Stav took a knock and had to retire from the game to the hospital for an assessment of an ankle injury – get well soon Stav – a blistering 20 minute cameo at centre. As the high octane first half came to an end the Knight defensive line started to slow and failed to hit the first man a couple of times and two late converted tries gave Weston a slightly flattering 19-17 lead. All in all a brilliant half of rugby….

The second half simply could not continue at the same speed - tough tackling across the defensive line notably from Bailey and Matt on both wings and with James, Lee and Elliott really stepping up in the centre – Dylan was simply everywhere… No compromises anywhere and the pressure resulted in a marauding run from loose play by Josh to score. The scrum functioned well all day and was moving forwards – again good ball was recycled by Joe to Josh who thought he had scored again but was adjudged to be held up over the line. The resulting 5 metre scrum was taken by Mac probing but held up and then with a forceful second phase drive by Max scored with a full length stretch. The Knights came up field again and got some great field position 15 metres out, a second drive from Josh allowed Mac to pick and go - probing to the right to score a try in the corner. The Knights were now controlling the ball with great recycling and multiple phases and when Matt and Mac combined to chip the ball through Mac was clearly obstructed off the ball to stop a certain try and a penalty try was awarded. Weston heads did not go down despite the four unanswered tries and they had the last word with a final score of the game.

A great game to watch and despite a little tetchiness in the second half due to the attritional no compromise rugby both teams played with great spirit.

For a strong game on the wing both in attack and defence Bailey was awarded Man of the Match.

Ian and Slim hope you are enjoying tour you would have been proud of them today.

As usual if I have anything wrong or missed anyone – drop me a text on 07813 000889. Back to training Tuesday guys.