HRFU

Under 15 Season Report as at 24 October

174 points in the first four games of the season would be an acceptable tally for any side but it is the single loss in the league that takes centre stage in the squad’s thinking.  The positives so far are the regular high numbers turning out for training sessions which are always committed, the ability to give good game time to the whole squad and the increasing continuity on the pitch.  The negative is that single defeat.

Due to the squad number which falls between enough for two squads and too many for one a deliberate policy of friendlies that enable all to play has been adopted.  The opening game against Eastleigh showed little rustiness with the A squad whilst on the pitch wholly dominating and the Development Players easily holding their own.  Bickford showed safe hands and a beautiful turn of pace from full back to persistently threaten Eastleigh and Santer showed the raw aggression so evident in early training sessions to rampage through the game Eastleigh ranks.  A final score of 41-13 adequately reflected the game and the wide range of players Trojans put out.

The first league game of the season took place in tropical conditions.  Trojans were missing a couple of key players but burst out of the blocks with sublime play from the kick off to go 7-0 up.  A combination of over confidence and a good, strong Gosport side conspired to an eventual defeat 12-7 and a major body blow to league hopes.  Trojans had their chances but the Gosport line held.  The squad learned that they have no right to beat anyone and will no doubt have learned a valuable lesson from this defeat.

The third match was an enjoyable affair against Basingstoke.  Both sides put out Development sides with cameo appearances from sundry A team players.  A frenzied farrago of flowing rugby ensued with tries being scored by both sides with aplomb.  Basingstoke, in our age group, have always been respected opponents and they pulled away early on with good tries wide.  Trojans tightened up their game to plough through the middle (some things remain the same) and a battle of styles ensued.  As time wore on Trojans got on top and ran out deserved 62-22 winners after a splendid match.  We look forward to the battle between the two A squads later in the year.

Last Sunday saw our first game against Aldershot and Fleet and we were happy to be the first team to utilise their splendid new club house’s away dressing room.  Size, I am told, is not everything but it makes a pretty big difference when you play rugby at under 15s.  Trojans had it and Aldershot did not and in essence that was the story of the game as Aldershot struggled to win any clean possession at all.  When the game went to uncontested scrums after half an hour there was greater balance and Aldershot showed great spirit in adversity.  Particularly pleasing were tries from those whose presence on the score sheet is not always guaranteed such as Apps, Kyle-Henney and Loader.  Trojans ran out 64-0 victors.

The rugby has, so far, been enjoyed but there is much to do if this excellent squad are to live up to their full potential.  They still need to learn that a team of fifteen will always do better than 15 individuals and they need to be prepared in a game situation to put into practice that which they do with consummate ease on the training ground.  With wider vision, some imagination and a lot of hard work I have no doubt that they will succeed ...... with their commitment they deserve to.

E-Mail  web@trojansrugby.co.uk or phone the Club on 023 8061 2400 (Bar) 023 8061 3068 (Admin)      

This page last updated:  01 December, 2011