Under 13 rugby report – August 1

Match Report vs Trinity Grammar August 1^st

The U13’s pulled off an entertaining win against Trinity to finish off the season with three victories on the run. The win was built on the back of a dominance performance from the forward pack and backed up by dedicated work from the backs. We had spoken about running straight; the boys did this fantastically. At training this week we had worked on our counter rucking and decision making at the break down; this really showed in our game with our ability to turn over and counter attack.

Max, Joseph and Quinn each made some fantastic runs and showed how damaging a hard and straight line can be. Joseph backed up his first try of the season (running out of our own 22) with another in the second half. I’m sure he will score many more next season and Max won’t be too far behind in scoring his first too. Quinn also really impressed me with his game smarts; looking ahead to the next phase of play and setting himself in a good position to take a run. These smarts will be really important looking ahead, as the opposition grow in defensive confidence we are going to have to build up a few phases. All of you should be really proud of your games today.

Jonathan and Jovesa were really damaging in their ability to win the ball at the break down. Once he straightened up Jonathan also showed us again what a bulldozer he can be, scoring three tries. We really missed Jovesa’s tackling and counter attack after he had to leave the pitch at half time with an eye injury. Sam and Jack Burns were tenacious in their tackling. Xavier was able to link up well with the back line, flicking a blind pass early in the game to help set up Macarthur’s first try. Lachie and Alex continued to grow in confidence; Lachie taking ownership of the ball and not backing down from making contact, Alex getting involved at the break down.

The backs faced up against a very impressive centre pairing playing for Trinity and found themselves having to really stand up in defence. I am really happy with Owen’s growing confidence in taking leadership of the team’s attack and in his backing himself in taking the ball into contact. I enjoyed the goose step too- Jovesa isn’t the only one with a bit of flair! Adam really lead the way with his defensive efforts and did well keeping up with what was a very open and fast paced game. I’m really looking forward to seeing his pairing with Owen at fly half develop into the future.

Of the other backs, Macarthur should be really proud of his first try as well as with his efforts in kicking for goal. Matthew played a very good game and was perhaps a little unlucky in not being awarded what would have been a great try. Jack Thomas showed us he can be really strong at the break down and Connor with his steady hands and cool head was reliable on the wing. Kento continued to impress at full back with some really solid counterattack and great positional play; always placing himself where he was needed. We have really enjoyed having Kento with us for these last three games and look forward to seeing him back next year.

Be proud of your efforts today boys and be proud of your season. It has been the best of any Yr 7 St Pat’s team. As well as effective, your rugby these last few weeks has also been really very exciting to watch and it is great as a coach to seeing you enjoying playing together. There is still a lot of room for improvement; I’ve got no doubt we can build up to an even stronger season next year. Encourage your school mates to join you- the House 7’s tournament next term will be a great chance to introduce them to the game.-

Final Score 32-21. Debono 3 tries, Vivian-Fagan 2, Roberts 1. Roberts 1 conversion.-