HRFU

21/01/12 Winchester and Andover at Winchester

Trojans U13s travelled with their whole squad to play Winchester and Andover in a triangular fixture.

As Andover did not bring sufficient to make two teams it was decided our development team would take on the Winchester development squad in a full 50 minute game, and leave the front sides to play each other in shorter games.

There's only had 30 players so it would mean lots of effort from all with no back up on the bench.

The development side kicked off first, and although the ball did not go ten metres, T's regained the ball from the scrum on the halfway line and quickly gained good field position. Following a good ruck James Grant picked up and forced himself over for short range, as there were no posts there was no conversion.
Immediately from the restart Ryan Board collected the ball, and made good ground, but a forward pass brought the attack to and end inside the W 22. However the forwards were already gaining dominance and another solid scrum from the halfway line, led to Lewis Curtis (making his debut in the forwards) picked up from the base and ran right through the defence to score the second try.
W established some field position,but a strong run from Dan Wort moved the T's up to the half way.  Several good phases through the hands of Callum Lobban and Ben Lippold notably released Ryan Board who forced his way over with another powerful run to score another try.
The forwards continued to dominate, and more strong runs from Board established more good ground. Strong tackling as well from Matthew Robinson  and Lewis Curtis continually forced W back as even without the ball T's made good ground, and when we turned the ball over Finn Hills was ready at the back of the ruck to seek down the blindside to score a fine try in the corner.
More strong tackling this time from Lippold meant W were not able to gain any territory, and even when they did have possession close to our line huge tackles from Curtis repelled more attacks, the determination of the whole squad was shown by two of our smaller players (Lippold and Lobban) combined to tackle when necessary.  Carl hunter also defended well out wide forcing another attack into touch.
T's began to make some sloppy errors, giving penalties away as they tried to be too open. They quickly though regained control, and Simone Kelly was tackled into touch.  Another good try saving tackle from Wort brought another W attack to an end.  T then moved swiftly down the pitch, and from a scrum close to the W line Hills fed Jago Kelly who was held up just short. The attack was maintained though and Callum Loader secured the ball, popped to Curtis who raced over for another try.
From another penalty Hugo Pounsett made good ground into the 22, and a penalty to T enabled Board to drive hard through the defence for another score to take it to 30-0.  Almost immediately a line out in the W 22 was won by Board who passed to Robinson to score his first try of the season. 
Austen Penny catches the restart and runs the ball the full length of the pitch to score a great individual try. T's continued the momentum with more strong runs from Board and Lippold and pressured W close to their line. From the next ruck Callum Lobban picked up from the base and raced blind to score in the corner.
Another clean catch at the restart started another good forward drive from Grant gained ground. Curtis then picked up from the next scrum and raced over to score again. W never gave in and it needed persistent attacks to create space which finally happened and allowed Curtis to score again. The final act was straight from the kick off as Penny received the ball and repeated his run of earlier to go the full length of the pitch. 
The final score of 60-0 did not flatter T's, and the forwards in particular showed great effort and determination at the breakdown to secure good ball time and again.

Andover vs Trojans A

T's kicked off, a good chase by Bennett meant he recovered the ball and broke clear, only to be brought down close to the line, but pressure forced a A to concede a 5m scrum.  Coates picked up from the base and ran straight through their defence, Bennett missed the conversion.
Good tackling from T's forced A back, but we're penalised for one tackle and lost some ground.  However  regained the ball, and with some good passing released Bennett who seemed to be clear, but lost control as did a few players throughout the day. More pressure though forced A to kick to clear their lines, but the kick was collected cleanly by Morris who took the ball back with a good run before passing to Jenkinson who was able to race clear of the last defence o score, Bennett missed conversion.
From the kick off Sean Nuttall collected and made good ground with an elusive run through the A defence to force a penalty at the breakdown. A tap to Miles Spake who set the ball and released to the backs who showed their handling skills moving the ball one way and then the other with good hands from all before Jackson finally was able to put Bennett clear to score a great team try.
Again straight from the kick off Coates caught the ball, and made another really strong run, this time being able to offload to Jenkinson who faced with just one defender chipped ahead raced away, but just failed to pick up the ball, only for Charlie Boyes to be in support and score the try. Conversion missed again, but 20-0 at half time.
From an early scrum in the second half a fine loop by Hett released Bennett to score in the corner, a fine move straight from the training ground. Conversion successful

A fine kick with the strong wind by Hett established good position which T's never gave up despite strong defence A we're not able to clear their lines. The pressure finally told as yet another fast ball from a ruck released Jenkinson to score leaving the final score 32-0

One game down, but only 5 minute rest before we had to face Winchester A in what was bound to be a hard fought match with Winchester rested.

Early pressure from T's against the wind gave Winchester little chance to clear their lines, resulting in quick ball finally going through the hands, Steven Daly received the ball in midfield, and passed onto Jenkinson who released Morris up in support to show his speed to race clear and score in the corner, Jenkinson missed the conversion.
From then T's relaxed and a number of errors, lack of commitment at the breakdown allowed W back into the game, as they gained ground into our 22. As with all season T showed resolute defence, with good tackles from Bennett in particular. However with the errors mounting up through T's trying to force the ball, the pressure eventually told and W forced their way over in the corner, the conversion was missed, but the momentum had changed. The half-time whistle went with the scores at 5-5. T's had to stop the errors and play simple rugby to avoid their first defeat of the season.

W kicked off, and T regained the ball, Hett used the wind brilliantly to kick down the ground, and with a great chase from Boyes we forced a scrum.  A good solid scrum, released the backs and jenkinson was able to cross under the posts following a simple pop ball in the midfield, he duly converted his own try. T did not relax now though, and more good handling with all players involved, the ball finally falling to Bennett who saw space behind and kicked well again to move back into the W 22.
An infringement at the scrum lead to a free kick for W, but they failed to clear their lines, and resulted in another scrum to T's close to their line.  This time Coates
Ickes up from the base, and ran straight across the pitch taking all defenders with him, before deciding to run towards the try line and force his way over for a other try, conversion missed.
From the kick off W regained the ball, put passed loosely in midfield straight into the hands of Daly who looked shocked but reacted well to move the ball on, more good passing including a brilliant take and give by James Campbell released Morris to race round the outside to score again, Jenkinson converted.
The final score of 24-5 maintained T's undefeated record for the season.
 

11/12/11 New Milton   Away  W 32 - 12

The penultimate match before Christmas put Trojans up against New MIlton, who had won the County Championships every since they were U7s, so the team (and parents) knew how hard this would be.

T's kicked off, and a good chase and tackle by Marsh recovered the ball, and good passing released Bennett who ran outside the cover from inside his own half to score an excellent try, the conversion from Jenkinson came back off the posts, but a brilliant start.  New Milton kicked off straight to Spake who made good ground with a strong run, however at the breakdown the ball squirted loose, but Bennett reacted quicker than anyone else, and kicked the ball through and then picked up the ball and fell over for a second try in the opening couple of minutes, the conversion was missed by Jenkinson.New Milton then began to assert themselves and it needed good all round defence from the T's to hold them out.  However T's were able to withstand the attacks and with great pressure defence were able to force an error, and Jenkinson this time was the quickest to react and like Bennett a few minutes earlier kicked through and dived over to score a third try for T's inside the first 15 minutes.

From the restart Ramos tackled well, and forced NM back, but NM were able to retain the ball by winning the ruck, and forced a penalty.  They kicked the touch, won the following lineout and continued to put pressure on the T line, however T's would not let them through, and some great defence forced a knock on.  From the scrum with quick ball and although inside our own 22 they realised the space was outside, but the precision of the passing was not quite there, resulting in a loose ball, and more pressure from NM, the fact they were not scared to try though showed a great awareness. NM were unable to break through and Miller made some good ground with a strong run from a tap penalty which took T's back inside the NM half.  The intensity of the tackling from both sides was excellent, forcing errors, but when T's did get the chance to show their handling skills it was only a last ditch tackle by NM that saved another try in the corner.  NM cleared their lines and forced another scrum on the halfway line, but one against the head released Coates on a powerful run that was only stopped by a brave tackle just inside the NM 22.  The ball changed hands a few times in the NM 22, but with T's driving for the line they knocked on just short, and that was the end of the  first period with T's leading 15-0.

Some substitutions were made for the next third, but the effort from both sides did not drop, and in fact it was NM who really now began to try and come back into the game.  They began to gain some ground and possession, not helped by some loose kicking from the T's centres, the speed of the game had certainly increased, and as NM gained more ball they looked dangerous, but T's were still forcing errors with some good tackles.  Just as before the ball changed hands at the breakdown, but it was NM this time with the slight advantage, as T's were regularly penalised at the rucks.  Following another penalty NM finally were able to cross the T's line for a try and reduce the deficit to 15-7.

T's needed to again penalised establish field position, and strong runs by Spake and Miller helped to get back into the NM half.  Coates then took off on another powerful run, only to lose the ball in contact, and NM were able to clear the ball to touch.  Another penalty to NM gave them a chance to clear their lines, but they failed to reach touch and Jenkinson ran it back, but T's were penalised again at the ruck, and NM were able to move all way down into the T 22.  Great tackling though held them out, but with T's being penalised in midfield a tap penalty by NM and they forced their way over again to reduce the gap again to 15-12.

T's quickly though moved downfield, and Marsh made a good break, and forced a scrum on the NM 5m line.  Coates knocked on at the back of the scrum, and NM were given the opportunity to clear their lines, but great pressure in midfield forced an interception by Jenkinson, and although he was topped just short of the line he was able to pop the ball up to Bennett running a great support line and he crashed over under the posts to score a try that Jenkinson converted.  That ended the second 20 minute period with T's winning 22-12.

The final period gave an opportunity to rotate more players into the game.  NM started the stronger pressing the T's back into their half, but solid defence turned the ball over and Jenkinson was able to break through, and an offload to Nuttal which he collected brilliantly down by his ankles, and was able to make more ground before being forced into touch.  Yet more good backplay by T's allowed Jenkinson and Bennett to link again in the midfield which forced a penalty to T's as NM infringed at the ruck.  Another good run by Miller from the penalty established good quick ball, and slick hands released Gardner down the blindside and he was able to force his way over right in the corner for a try that Jenkinson failed to convert.  T's were now beginning to dominate again, and another good run by Coates released Jenkinson who passed onto Morris who was tackled well into touch just short of the NM line.  T's continued to press though and when Coates once again got the ball he was not going to be denied again and scored a try all his previous efforts had thoroughly deserved.

That was the last play of a very good game of rugby from both sides with the final score 32-12 with T's maintaining their unbeaten record.

27/11/11 Portsmouth   Away  W 10 - 5

Trojans travelled away to local rivals Portsmouth as both teams put their unbeaten start to the season on the line in what turned out to be a very tense, exciting but high quality match.  As with last week the game was split into the first 40 minutes with the strongest teams, and then a final 20 giving everyone a chance to get some game time.

Portsmouth kicked off, but an immediate error by T's resulted in a scrum from a knock on.  Portsmouth won the ball and immediately began to probe the Trojan defence with their big strong runners, and as the T's failed to make the early tackles they gained good ground before Gardner stopped the attack with a good tackle into touch.  T's conceded a penalty and Portsmouth probed deep into our 22 with a solid kick.  However solid defence resulted in a turnover and Spake was able to break clear and offload to Bennett in good support to relieve the initial pressure on our line.  T's though could not get any continuity and lost possession again, but with Portsmouth kicking back down field, Jenkinson was able to gather the ball and put in a solid clearing kick into touch.

Neither team were willing to give any ground, and some fierce rucking from both sides meant the possession was constantly changing hands, but slowly Portsmouth established a degree of control and territory, and with T's still falling off the first up tackles the pressure remained on the T line.  The defence then really stepped up, but the relentless nature of the Portsmouth attack finally led to a try, the conversion was missed but for the second week running T's were behind.

Straight from the kick off there was more intensity in the T's tackling and Spake set the standard by making a crunching tackle into touch.  Portsmouth though were still very dangerous in open play as they had a number of very good strong and fast runners, and they regularly stretched the T's defence as Nuttall and Jackson were forced into tackles out wide.  On such occasion it looked like Portsmouth had broken through as their player broke down the wing, and apparently clear, only for Jenkinson to make a great cover tackle and force him into touch. T's were still struggling to gain any real territory, but when they did gain good possession they showed great handling and gained good ground, only for an offload in the tackle to go slightly forward

At half-time T's were still trailing 5-0, the question was if they could turn it around.  Straight from the kick off Coates made a crunching tackle, but T's lost the ensuing ruck and gave away another penalty.  Portsmouth kicked down field for touch, but lost the lineout and then T's started to probe, as Jenkinson picked the ball in midfield just outside our 22, made an initial solid hand off and then outsprinted the whole of the cover defence to score a fantastic try, which unfortunately he could not convert.  The scores were tied, with still over 10 minutes to go.  T's quickly moved back into the Portsmouth half, and really stepped up the intensity with a great run by Coates and offload to Jenkinson, but he was tackled into touch. Both teams defence was excellent and regularly forced a knock on in the contact areas as turnover continued to change hands as both teams strived for the next score.  

Another good break from Bennett moved T's again into the Portsmouth half, but more good rucking from Portsmouth stopped that attack, but a loose kick fell to Coates, who despite struggling with an injury made a great surge only to be stopped just short of the line, but the ball went forward in the tackle and Portsmouth were able to clear the danger again. Changes were made to give fresh legs, and Ramos immediately made an impact by dropping on a loose ball to regain possession inside the Portsmouth 22.  A good run by Boyes set up another strong position, but with time almost gone it looked like the game was to end in a draw.  Portsmouth under intense pressure, as they had been for most of the second half, cleared their lines with a solid kick, but did not go into touch, Jenkinson was there to gather the ball.  One missed tackle from Portsmouth just outside the 22 gave him the slimmest of openings, and he needed no second chances as he raced down the touchline to score a try in the corner, and although he failed with the conversion, it was the last act of the match and T's had come from behind yet again to secure a really hard fought victory 10-5.

It was a great team effort that showed tremendous guts, determination and a refusal to give in no matter what the situation. A special mention here must also go to the parents and supporters who really gave the boys that encouragement and lift they needed!!

The last 20 minutes started with T's showing a further 8 changes, however the squad showed their character by refusing to drop the intensity levels showed in the first 40.  Portsmouth started on the front foot, but good cover tackling by Mitch Spalding & Dan Wort stopped their strong runners.  Portsmouth though continued to press, and gained ground into the T 22, and from the next scrum gained some quick ruck ball and were able to force their way over for a try, the conversion being missed.  T's though refused to lie down and some good ball in the midfield had Jago Lees running a great line committing two defenders before releasing Bennett to race clear and score under the posts, but as with Jenkinson earlier could not convert.  5-5 at half time and a great effort by all.

Portsmouth renewed the attack in the second half and relentless pressure in the T 22 inevitably led to another score as despite spirited tackling by all, T's simply ran out of numbers and the try was converted.

T's continued to defend with great spirit and determination, hunting and competing at every breakdown, they were determined not to give an inch, however as the penalty count began to mount against the T's Portsmouth were able to attack time and again., and after a number of brilliant last ditch tackles on their line in particular by Daly, Spalding & Taylor, the defence was finally breached as Portsmouth scored again to end the game at 17-5.

This was a great day of rugby from both teams, when T's showed yet again their pride, determination and collective spirit that carried them through yet another incredibly tough match, well done to each and everyone!!

13/11/11 Haslemere   Away

Trojans travelled with their full squad out of county to face Haslemere, and put their unbeaten start to the sternest of tests against a very strong team.  The morning was divided into 3 games of 20 minutes to enable al players to get at least 20 minutes of action.

The first game matched the two strongest teams from the clubs.

Haslemere kicked off, and the first few phases indicated very quickly this was going to be the toughest test of our season so far as Trojans kept the ball initially over a number of phases, only to be turned over at the next breakdown, but strong tackling in midfield by Curtis & Bennett stopped Haslemere's attacks on the gain line.

The forwards continued to stand up to their bigger opponents, and refused to take a step backwards in some very solid scrums, from one such scrum a good break and some quick passing released Bennett down the wing.  The pressure continued from Trojans, but a lack of intensity at some rucks, meant they lost possession on a number of occasions against a quicker and more effective rucking team.  Trojans continued to try and play the game with ball in hand, and a good move down the blind-side saw Jackson release Jenkinson who then times his pass well to put Nuttall clear, but great defence stopped that attack.

The teams were evenly matched and some good attack and solid defence from both sides meant no team really gained an advantage.

Haslemere kicked well to gain ground into the Trojan 22, and right under their posts T's were penalised for not rolling away, and Haslemere recognising the tightness of the game opted for the simple 3 points and took the lead.

This was the first time this season that not only had T's faced a team playing very good rugby, but also one that had taken the lead, the question now was how they would react, in the final 8 minutes.

Haslemere knocked on from a good long kick off, and T's had a scrum in a good position inside their 22.  Coates picked up and broke blind, but yet again some great counter-rucking forced a turnover and they were able to clear their lines.  T's though maintained good territory and continued to press and forced haslemere time and again to tackle well to hold them out.  Haslemere yet again cleared their lines with a kick that just failed to make touch, being caught by Curtis out on the wing, he timed his pass to perfection as Jenkinson raced up on his outside, gave a solid hand-off and raced round the covering defence from the 22 to score a try right in the corner.  Jenkinson then struck the conversion brilliantly to get it over from the touchline and stretched their lead tp 7-3.

It was now a matter of defending the Haslemere onslaught that was sure to come, but great defence from the whole of the team, and some great rucking from captain Campbell, leading from the front as always repelled every attack they had.  The scrum continued to be very solid, and created a good platform for the backs, also in the lineout they gained good ball, and Jenkinson was able to clear down field with a long clearance kick into touch, that although Haslemere took quickly T's refused to miss a tackle and another good ruck from the forwards regained possession.  Bennett then broke blind and a good chip over the upcoming backs forced Haslemere back into their 22 for the last play of the game.  T's regained possession and as the ball went into touch they had hung on to claim a well fought victory, and keep their line in tact.

It was a great team performance, with no individual taking the plaudits, more a great team effort and total commitment from everyone as they fought back from behind for the first time this year, showing a lot of character, and preparing themselves well for the tough matches to come.

The second match started with T's changing 13 out of their first 15, to give everyone a good chance.  Haslemere on the other hand had a far smaller squad which meant they could only change about half of their team, T's would have to really fight to stay in this 20 minute period.

Haslemere quickly gained ground through their bigger stronger runners, but the T's refused to rollover and again and again stopped the attack at source, and forced a knock on close to their own line which gave them the chance to clear down field.  With confident running from Austen Penney in his debut T's made good ground again, but the bigger Haslemere pack dominated the breakdown and slowly imposed themselves, and when their 6 foot Number 8 picked the ball up from 15 yards despite valiant efforts from all, especially Josh Henderson (also on his debut) he scored underneath the posts, with the conversion being successful.

Haslemere gained possession again from the kickoff, and went through a number of phases only to be stopped again short of the T's line bu some resolute and determined defence.

However from the ensuing scrum a clearance kick was recovered and with some good passing meant there was a clear overlap for Haslemere to score again, and convert.  Sebastien Barrett was then introduced to the game, but in his eagerness to get into position he tripped over his own feet, and fell flat on his back - a great introduction to his first appearance for the T's.

T's gained possession again from the kick off, but again the bigger and more experienced pack of H. turned the ball over and released their huge No 8, but a great tackle by Henderson, stopped him in his tracks and a strong follow up tackle by Barrett forced them into touch.  The T's were as determined as ever, and more solid tackling by the backs, including Ryan Caddick and Jago Lees kept them in the game.  The forwards continued the good work of the first period and held their own in the scrum and contested all the breakdowns with true effort and guts.  However the pressure told, and despite a great tackle from Marsh they were able to cross our line again, but failed with the conversion.

T's regained possession again, and recycled the ball through several phases, and with Ollie Ramos leading the attack with some strong runs they showed they were not giving in.  But a scrum against the head won by Haslemere led to another try as the T's finally ran out of defenders, and the conversion increased the lead to 26-0.

T's though finished the game on the front foot with a number of tapped penalties, but they lost possession after a few phases, and the ball finally went into touch the end this game.  Although a defeat, in a way this was as good a performance as the first period, as all the team showed great determination and commitment against a far bigger and better opposition, and with just a little bit more luck they could have come away with a try that all their efforts truly deserved.

The final period was a mixture, starting off with the strongest teams, but then slowly introducing some other squad members.

Straight from the kickoff, some good runs from Spake and Daly established good field position, but an up and under from Bennett gave away a penalty as the T's were in front of the kicker.  T's regained possession from the lineout and after a couple of phases with some good quick ball Jenkinson broke blind and fed Nuttall again on the outside.  Haslemere though counter attacked, but with T continuing to tackle brilliantly and press in defence, they had to resort to kicking to gain ground, some indecision at times from the T's failed to really punish some wayward kicking, but on the occasions they did look to counter Morris, Nuttall and Jackson all gained good ground.

Haslemere were able to recycle the ball through a number of phases, but time and again the T's forced a scrum as strong tackles forced a knock on.  More kicking from both sides resulted in a less structured game as some good kicks were mixed with some poor options and poor execution from both sides.  Spake running one  such kick back, and again with good support from Nuttall who was tackled into touch.  Constant pressure from the T's though even without the ball forced more kicks, and Doble this time was able to combine with Jenkinson and Bennett who released Nuttall, who again was tackled into touch just inside the Haslemere 22.

Substitutions then followed, but the game kept the same format with some good kicking, followed by some less effective.  T's making some good ground at times with long clearance kicks, but on others kicking away good possession, when keeping ball in hand was the better option.  The game continued to be very close with both teams gaining and surrendering possession showing the intensity both sides were bringing to the game, with forced errors being more common as the players tired.

Haslemere attacked down the middle again, only to be stopped by strong tackling by Jenkinson & Curtis, as they forced a penalty for not releasing.  T's then kicked poorly to gain only a few yards, but the next kick by Jenkinson, although other options may have on was well weighted behind their defence, and forced a 5m scrum as they pressured H to put the ball down behind their own line.

This was the last meaningful action of a great morning of rugby where both squads contributed to some great competitive rugby, and T's front side maintained their unbeaten start to the season, and the reserves should be very proud of their collective and individual efforts as they stood up to a very strong team, and came away with a huge amount of credit.

13/11/11 Alton   Home  Hampshire Cup  W 41- 0

Trojans had their first truly competitive match this season in the second round of the Hampshire Cup.  Alton, who had been beaten quite easily only a few weeks ago turned up with a different team, and a determined attitude not to repeat that experience.

Trojans kicked off, and Alton gained possession straight from the kick off, but good pressure from the Trojan midfield forced a loose pass, that Russell Bennett intercepted and raced clear to score a try under the posts inside the first 30 seconds.  Jenkinson converted.  The game restarted, and Trojans tried to re-establish good field position again, but time and again they were either counter-rucked off the ball or penalised which kept Alton in the game.  However, once again good pressured defence from the Trojans led to a repeat of the first try as Bennett intercepted yet again, to run away from the cover defence to score under the posts for Jenkinson to convert again.

Alton though continued to press, and with Trojans continually being penalised at the breakdown the pressure was back on in Trojan 22.  Trojans though refused to concede and a great try saving tackle by David Marsh yet again stopped another attack as he tackled them into touch.  From the lineout though Alton regained the ball, and a good passing move released their winger who crossed the try line, but before he could get the ball down he was forced into touch in goal to release the pressure from our line.

Trojans gradually made their way down the pitch, and a strong run by Miles Spake gained good ground, and was still able to offload to Bennett to keep the momentum going, more quick ball and the backs began to finally show their handling skills as they stretched the Alton defence wide.

The forwards dominated the scrum from the start of the match, and time and again, they pushed Alton off their ball, giving a good solid base for the backs to move the ball again.  From another in the Alton 22, Spake again broke free, and offloaded to Laurie Gardner who had run a great support line, but was held up just short of the line.  The pressure was maintained, and Alton were penalised for offside at the next breakdown, and a penalty from 5 metres out was easily run in by Spake, a just reward for his efforts so far.  Jenkinson again converted, this time from a bit further out.

The story of the game continued as Trojans dominated possession, but conceded penalties at most rucks giving Alton hope of coming back into the game.  However when Trojans did manage to get good ball they gained ground very quickly with some good running and support play.  The pressure defence was also working well, as Steven Daly charged down a clearance kick, and Charlie Boyes made good ground into the Alton 22, quick recycled ball released James Jackson (JJ) on the blindside, and with very little room to work in finished brilliantly for his first try of the season right in the corner, Jenkinson failed to convert.  Half time score 26-0, although not flattering Trojans had been hard earned, and they would have to cut out any errors to stop any comeback from Alton.

The kick off at the start of the second half went straight to Jenkinson who cleared with a long kick down field that was chased by JJ, Bennett and himself as they pressured the Alton back line back again and again.  The set piece continued to work well, and with the Trojans backs running good lines and with some good handling the only thing holding them back was the lack of intensity at the breakdown and the errors that meant they could not get any real sustained period of possession.

A great flowing move from the backs released James Murphy who made good ground into Alton's 22, and despite losing possession it did not stop the forward momentum as Trojans hunted the ball down and forced Alton to touch down for a 5m scrum.  Great tackling in midfield by Lewis Curtis forced a knock on and another scrum to Trojans, this time with a big blindside to work with Bennett broke and forced his way over out wide for another score, that Jenkinson failed to convert.

Alton never really got into the Trojan half in the second half, as despite using the entire squad Trojans continued to dominate territory.  As the teams tired there was more space on the pitch, and with Trojans showing their handling skills they were always threatening to break through again, and from one such move Gardner broke clear and timed his pass to perfection to release JJ for his second try finishing off a great flowing move.  Jenkinson failed to convert another difficult chance.

The last 10 minutes were all in the Alton 22, but a number of mistakes yet again stopped the momentum.  However the pressure was always going to tell again, and although it was not until the last play of the game, Jenkinson broke clear with another strong run and once a again a perfect timed pass to Gardner who had run yet another good line enabled him to score, a fully deserved try.

06/11/11 Petersfield  Away  Friendly  W 64- 0

The week before the first round of the cup, we travelled to Petersfield a last minute change of opponent in order to give the squad a final run out.

Despite the confusion over the start time, Trojans were quickly into their stride and and probing the Petersfield defence for any weaknesses.  An early good break by JJ with support from Ed, gained good ground, but the ensuing ruck led to an early injury for Ryan Board, and an early introduction for Miles Spake.  This did not disrupt the early pressure though and good pressure from Miles himself led to an early turnover and good field position.  Trojans then created a number of chances through good passing moves and set Sean Nuttall free only for him to be held up just over the line.

Trojans were not to be denied though, and from a scrum Eddie Jenkinson broke blind and timed his pass out of the tackle to set Mike Morris free on the outside to score a good worked try out wide.  Jenkinson failed with a tough conversion.  The match restarted and Petersfield gained some good territory, but time and again they failed to break through the determined Trojan defence, resulting in them resorting to kicks ahead to try and gain field position.  When Trojans had the ball though they continually tried to stretch the defence wide, passing one way and the next, the ball going through everyone's hands as they showed how comfortable they all are with ball in hand.  They quickly gained good field position in the opposition 22, and although it was a Petersfield scrum the pressure from Sean and Lewis Curtis forced them back again and again, finally led to the ball being forced free in one tackle, only for Jenkinson to pick up the loose ball, and run clear of the defence to score under the posts, enabling him to convert his own try.

Straight from the kick off, Trojans regained the momentum with a strong run from Steven Daly down the narrow side, this was followed by more good rucking.  Petersfield continued to press though, and Sean Nuttall was forced out wide, but somehow evaded numerous tacklers and broke clear, but just as it looked like a certain try, a great last ditch tap tackle brought him down, and despite good support, the ball was eventually cleared into touch.  Trojans maintained the pressure, moving the ball quickly and accurately side to across the pitch, showing good handling skills yet again.  Petersfield though continued to press, only for their attacks to be stopped each time by some great tackles, notably from Sean Nuttall.  More good work from the Trojan forwards with some good strong running from the two second rows, Tom Miller and Miles Spake produced more quick ball, and some good passing put Eddie Jenkinson away down the blind side and he burst through the last line of defence and sprinted clear to score out wide, resulting in the conversion drifting wide.

Petersfield continued to probe through good technical play, stretching the defence each time, but a solid tackle by Laurie Gardner once again turned the ball over and a good clearance kick by Russell Bennett and chase put pressure again on the Petersfield line, and after Russ had "sorted out" their full back (thanks Luke for that particular phrase!), more good drives from the forwards, and quick ball gave JC the opportunity to break away and score his first try of the season.

The second half started following a number of half time substitutions, but the determination showed by all never dropped despite change of personnel.  Trojans quickly established field position again, and some slick passing through Toby Hett, Sean Nuttall and Jim Murphy finally put Eddie Jenkinson clear to score early in the second half, but again he failed with the conversion from out wide. Toby Hett though was injured in the build up, and more enforced changes again did not disrupt the flow of the team and showed the depth and adaptability of the whole squad.

More good rucking from the forwards, and a great tackle by Tim Miller led to another turnover in the Petersfield 22, this time it was David Marsh on hand to pick up the loose ball and race clear for his first try of the season, this time Jenkinson did convert from a tricky angle.

Petersfield restarted and gained possession in the Trojan half, but some great tackling in the forwards, notably by Charlie Coates stopped them time and again, and continued pressure by the Trojans eventually led to Russell Bennett intercepting a pass, and showed everyone a clean pair of heals by racing clear from the halfway line to score under the posts, giving Jenkinson an easy conversion.

Straight from the restart, Petersfield showed they still had the heart and a good passing phase put their winger in the clear, only to finally be tackled into touch by Jenkinson.  Trojans regained possession from the lineout, and following a number of phases of play, the ball finally reached Mike Morris after yet another good passing move, and he was able to arc his run round the outside and finally show his paces as he opened his legs and was able to race clear of all the cover defence from well inside his own half to score under the posts for Jenkinson to convert yet again.

From the restart Jenkinson made a good clearance quick and between him and Bennett pressure the Petersfield defence only to be bundled into touch on the halfway line.  However a great catch at the front of the lineout from Steven Daly, and a strong run from him set up another quick ruck on the Petersfield 22, and Charlie Coates, arrived just in time to pick the ball up from the base of the ruck and show his strength to burst through some tackles and cross the line, only then did he show his real pace as he sprinted across the pitch to the posts, and then seemed to hesitate before finally putting the ball down as close to the posts as he could get, Jenkinson converting again.

Petersfield were finally tiring, but never lacked effort, but the kick off from the try went straight to Jenkinson inside the Trojan 22, he passed to Bennett who burst through a number of tackles and then timed his pass to perfection to Jenkinson who had continued in support and raced away again to score under the posts, before completing the scoring for the day with another conversion.  Final score 64-0.

Six straight wins, and big score lines, but the most satisfying aspect is still the determination of the whole squad whoever is on the pitch not to allow the opposition to score, and another clean sheet showed this yet again, it sets us up perfectly for the first round of the cup - and gives the coaches a headache to select the first XV!

30/10/11 Tottonians   Away  Friendly  W 31 - 0  and 19 - 0

We travelled to Tottonians for our fifth game of the season with our full squad enabling everyone available to have a game.

Tottonians, runners up in the County Championships last year were certainly going to pose a tough challenge to the so far undefeated Trojans, and this indeed proved to the case.  It was Tottonians who started the stronger, as Trojans struggled yet again to start the game well, maybe as a result of the last minute change of venue, or the extra hour in bed they were defending their line for the first few minutes.  However handling errors from both sides made the game a bit dis-jointed and neither team were able to get any momentum in the early stages, and despite all their territory in the early stages Totts never really threatened to cross the Trojan line.  There was great tackling from both sides as neither team gave an inch in defence, so unsurprisingly the tide turned when Jenkinson made a good clearance kick, and with a very good chase by him, Bennett and Charlie Boyes we were able to regain possession.  Some good close driving by the forwards including Charlie Coates making his debut slowly drove them towards the Totts line, and when the ball finally came back to Charlie Boyes from yet another good ruck he was able to force his way over for his first try of the season and relax  the nerves of everyone.  Bennett converted.

We had scored yet again after being under pressure in the early stages, and we were then able to establish more good field position, and a good break and offload from Bennett put Sean Nuttall in the clear, but a tremendous tackle by the Totts defence stopped his drive just short of the line, and they were able to clear their lines.  However the relief was only temporary as Trojans regained possession, and Laurie Gardner broke down the blindside, drew the defenders, and timed his pass to perfection to Jenkinson who ran a great line between the Totts defence to score and stretch the lead.  Bennett missed with the conversion. 

The rest of the half was more pressure from Trojans, but the Totts defence was very solid, and made tackle after tackle, but Trojans continued to retain possession and another good passing move put Jackson in space on the wing, only to be stopped by a very high tackle, which un-noticed and unpunished by the ref, who immediately blew for half time.

A few substitutions were made, with Jackson having to go off injured, and Doble soon followed, but did return later.  Despite the changes in personnel and positions for some, Trojans continued to dominate the game, and although the Totts never gave in, pressure started to tell, and a scrum close to their line led to a pick up from Bennett from the base, and a strong drive to the line, but the chance was missed and a knock on over the line enabled Totts to clear. 

From the drop out though, Bennett broke through the initial defence and timed his pass well this time to put Jenkinson outside the last defender and a solid hand off enabled him to cross for his second try, this time Bennett did convert from a difficult angle.

Continued pressure from Trojans and a great passing move between Bennett and Jenkinson in a very narrow channel ended with an overhead pass inside from Jenkinson to Bennett to score in the corner, which he himself converted.

The match continued in the same vain with some good solid scrummaging from Trojans and good work at the breakdown forced Totts back again deep into their 22.  A set move from the lineout saw Marsh peel round and set up good field position, and from the ensuing breakdown Bennett broke and again gave the pass to Jenkinson to score again, leaving the final score 31-0.

A great all round performance against the strongest team we have faced so far this season, meant they had to create the opportunities to score against a very good defence, but with great handling and lines of running it showed what the team can do when they have!!

We then played a second match that gave all of the other players in the squad an opportunity to have a run out, and show the strength of the squad.

The first play of note led to scrum to Trojans as the ref got in the way of Doble as he broke through!  Despite 13 changes from the starting 15 of the first match the desire and teamwork was still to the forefront, let alone the great passing moves that opened up the Totts defence on more than one occasion, which ultimately led to the ball being held up over the line and a 5m scrum for Trojans.  Charlie Coates, playing his first match picked up from the base and drove over 2 or 3 defenders to score his first try of the season, Josh Henderson missed the conversion.  The match restarted and Trojans quickly re-established field position and a great run and crunching hand off from Coates nearly led to another try, but instead in the ensuing plays both he and Ryan Board were injured, both needing a breather before returning to action in the second half.  The half ended with Totts under yet more pressure trying to clear their lines.

More changes at half time brought Gardner on at stand off, and moved Henderson to scrum half, but the tempo of the game continued to be set by Trojans as they showed the high skill levels that the whole squad have in passing.  Ryan playing his first game of rugby made a great tackle stopping the Totts attack in it's tracks, an act that brought as loud a cheer as any try before!

Totts were again pressed back into their 22, and Marsh made a great run and then timed his pass to perfection to put Ben Lippold over for his first ever try for Trojans, producing another loud cheer from the crowd.  Laurie Gardner converted.

The game continued to be played in the Totts half, and from another scrum in midfield Gardner waltzed through the defence, and around the ref to score under the posts, which he again converted. 

In the last 5 minutes Totts brought some of their stronger players back on, but despite this Trojans refused to allow them to score as everyone put in great tackles, and were able to repel anything that Totts could muster.

Another great run from Coates finished with his hurdling the last defender to put the ball down, only to be pulled back for a penalty to Totts

Another great result 19-0, overall a wonderful day when all the squad were able to show their team spirit and determination to prevent Totts scoring at all in any game.  The victories were not over at the final whistle though, as we returned en masse to the clubhouse for a post match celebration, only to outnumber the opposition by about 5-1!!

23/10/11 Alton   Home  Friendly  W 54 - 0

Trojans continued their good start to the season, with an impressive victory over Alton making it four wins out of four.

For the first time this season though they started on the front foot, and with a slight breeze behind them quickly established good field position and pressured the Alton line, with aggressive defence forcing the Alton players back deep into their 22, resulting in a defensive scrum on their 5m line.  However it was the Trojan forwards who struck first with a scrum against the head allowing Russell Bennett to break from the base of the scrum, and although he had players outside him was able to force his way over and get the ball down for the first try of the match.  Eddie Jenkinson was not able to convert despite a great effort.

The kick off was quickly ran back at Alton and with the ball being recycled quickly and cleanly time and time again, the ball was able to be moved from side to side dragging the Alton defence one way and then the other, ultimately leading to space that Eddie Jenkinson made the most of, and avoided the last few defenders before scoring under the posts, which he was able to convert himself.

It was certainly a far better start to any match so far this season, and although Alton regained possession soon after the restart, their backs looking to pass the ball out wide, but although they had good running lines, as has been the case all season our defence was excellent and we forced the Alton attack into touch.  From the following lineout Trojans through Tom Miller secured yet more good ball and David Marsh making one of many good runs in the day took the ball into contact.  This time though he was supported by Aiden Taylor, who drove him forward a further 5 yards, before presenting the ball perfectly for the rest of the forwards to drive over, securing more great front-foot ball for the backs, who gained more ground with good strong straight running.  Another great ruck enabled the ball to be recycled again and a pop ball to Russell Bennett gave him the chance again to burst through the first line of defence before racing away to score under the posts, and Jenkinson converting again.

Trojans quickly regained good field position, with more great rucking and close quarter driving from the forwards who were really beginning to impose themselves on a solid Alton team, who despite great effort, and little answer to the powerful running of the Trojans forwards.  More pressure continued in the Alton half, but with Alton failing to make any ground despite lots of possession, Trojans forced them into conceding a penalty just a few metres from their own line.  Quick thinking by Russell Bennett and he scored an easy try under the posts that Eddie Jenkinson was again able to convert.

Another solid catch from the kick off from Ryan Board led to more recycled ball, enabling Mike Morris to have a powerful run down the narrow side taking two Alton defenders with him as he forced his way over the gain line.  The back row of Aiden Taylor, Russell Bennett and Charlie Boyes were in support again, Charlie picking and driving further, deep into the Alton half.  Another break down the blind-side by Jenkinson broke the first line of defence, but although Lewis Curtis had run a great line cutting inside Jenkinson was unable to get the ball away and was forced into touch.  It was just a short respite for the Alton team, who despite winning the lineout were under intense pressure and forced back deep into their 22, and a clearance kick was charged down by Jenkinson, who was able to scoop up the loose ball and dive over for a good try resulting from pressure defence from the whole team.  He was able to convert his own try, and the teams went into half time with Trojans leading 33-0

The second half started, with continued substitutions, but despite the many changes it did not disrupt the rhythm and ascendancy of the Trojan squad.  Toby Hett continued to control the back line and was able to finally show his paces as he side stepped inside his opposite number and raced away from inside his own half to score under the posts, and with Jenkinson off the field he converted his own try.

The backs slowly started to show their handling skills as Lewis Curtis continued to run strongly and was able to offload in the tackle to keep the forward momentum going, following one such break Miles Spake was on hand to drive through the heart of the Alton defence, quick ball and the ball went down the line, only to be held up just short of the line.  Yet another good ruck enabled the ball to come back and quick hands saw Laurie Gardner see a gap in midfield, and force his way through the Alton defence to score his first try for the club under the posts, which Toby again converted.

More confident play ensured the Trojans quickly established more good field position, and a great passing move resulted in putting Carl Hunter in the clear just 10 metres from the Alton line, but great cover defence meant he was held up, and Alton finally cleared their lines and forced their way back into the Trojan half.  A scrum on our 10m line followed and Russell Bennett took the opportunity to break from the base of the scrum again and race through the defence to score under the posts, and Jenkinson was able to convert again.

That was the last score of a great all round performance by the squad, on a day when the forwards worked together brilliantly as a unit, with good aggressive rucking and confident offloading sets us up for the rest of the season.

16/10/11 Fordingbridge   Away  Friendly  W 50 - 0

The U13s travelled for their first away match of the season to Fordingbridge to face traditionally a very well organised team.

The match started in a bizarre fashion with both teams playing for a few seconds before they realised the ref wasn't even on the pitch!  However on the actual restart, Trojans once again were very slow to get going and faced wave after wave of determined Fordingbridge drives, that were all repelled, but were never to really clear our lines.  There were some great tackles from debutant Lewis Curtis in the midfield, and after 2 or 3 five metre scrums were repelled, finally we secured ball and kicked downfield.  The kick was very well chased by a number of Trojans causing a loose pass straight into the hands of Eddie Jenkinson who sprinted away from the halfway to score under posts, which he converted himself.  Once again a slow start by Trojans led to a try against the run of play, but created out of great determined defence.

That settled the team as a whole, and they began to assert pressure on the Fordingbridge line, and after recycling the ball 5 times, Russell Bennet went over for the second try, Jenkinson again converting.

This time Fordingbridge rallied well, after absorbing Trojan pressure, and were able to slowly move upfield and into Trojan territory again.  However from turnover ball in the middle of the pitch James Jackson saw the smallest of gaps and was able to sprint clear again to score under the posts, again for Jenkinson to convert.  From the kick off Fordingbridge quickly re-established good field position, but once again great determined defence from the whole of the team, ultimately Fordingbridge ran out of ideas, and a turnover resulted in a good clearance kick from Jenkinson, than Sean Nuttall was able to reclaim, sidestep the last defender and ran away from the halfway line for his first try for the team, and gave Jenkinson another easy conversion under the posts.  That was 28-0 at half-time, although three of the four tries were scored by the backs, it was the cohesive play from the forwards that was created the ball for the backs to show their paces.  The set pieces were very strong, especially the scrum that never took a step back all day, but with Tom Miller on his debut claiming a number of great line out steals Fordingbridge were never able to get good field position for long enough.

The second half started as the first had ended with Trojans on the front foot, and after more pressure, Bennett was able to go over again for his second try of the day, this time with Jenkinson off the field, Bennett himself had to attempt the conversion, but with the difficult chance fell just short.  Jenkinson came back on following an injury and quickly took advantage of another solid scrum and good use of the blind side by Bennett who timed his pass to perfection to create an opportunity for Jenkinson to sidestep two opponents before scoring quite wide out, making the conversion his hardest of the day.  However, his aim was slightly wrong with this as he stroked the ball due East (unfortunately the posts were to the South!).

The game continued to go in Trojan's favour  as they re-established good field position, and another scrum in the Fordingbridge 22, led to Bennett again breaking from the back, this time though he did not need support as he scored close to the posts to allow Jenkinson to convert again.  As the game moved into the last 10 minutes with all players having been involved, Olli Ramos collected a kick from Fordingbridge and made a great run to take Trojans once again back into Fordingbridge territory, quick ball generated by the forwards enabled Jenkinson to break through again for a try in the corner, which he failed to convert.

This was the final score of the match, leaving the result 50-0, a scoreline built on great defence and creating good quick ball to enable all the backs to show their paces with ball in hand.

Trojans U13s vs US Portsmouth RFC Sunday 2nd October at Trojans FC

Trojans U13s vs Havant RFC Sunday 25^th September at Trojans FC

Trojans U13s started their first season of 15 a side rugby with a home match against a large, and traditionally strong Havant team.  The first five minutes of the match were all Havant as they imposed their extra strength and size in the forwards in putting the Trojan line under continued pressure with close quarter driving and solid scrummaging.  However the Trojan forwards turned the tide with two great defensive scrums close to our line, enabling Trojans to break away with some good kicking and strong driving from the forwards.

Gradually Trojans worked their way down the pitch and a couple of strong runs from the forwards culminated with yet another good drive from Ryan Board to cross for the first try of the season, converted by Eddie Jenkinson.  The pressure on the Havant line was quickly re-established and more forward drives from close quarters lead to another try close to the posts enabling a second conversion for Jenkinson.

It was then the backs finally showed their paces, after creating a number of chances only to fail at the last a superb break from Toby Hett at stand off and a perfectly timed run in support from Russell Bennett enabled him to cruise under the posts for another try.

Havant though never gave in and continued to offer great resistance in the loose as they regularly turned Trojans over at the breakdown, but Trojans were not finished for the first half, after another solid scrum on our ten metre line, Eddie Jenkinson burst through the first line of defence and out-sprinted the cover defence to score an excellent solo try, which he converted himself.

Despite a number of changes from both sides the game was still a good open match, but Trojans continued to hold the upper hand as Russell Bennett burst through the line on a number of occasions, and with good close support from the forwards was able to regain good field position.  From one good break Eddie Jenkinson burst down the blind side to score another good try.

Trojans continued to show their handling skills throughout the team with numerous flowing moves, however it was a kick and chase that led to another try for Russell Bennett.  As the players on both sides began to tire, the game opened up a bit, but following a good run from Miles Spake, supported by David Marsh led to a flowing passing move through a number of hands culminating in a try for Mike Morris.

The final score of 45-0 represented a great start for Trojans, and bodes well for the rest of the season.  There were numerous good performances across the whole team with everyone of the squad contributing to a wonderful first match of the season.

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This page last updated:  01 December, 2011