MHRUFC U15 v Newark

Market Harborough U15’s hosted Newark for a return fixture after losing to Newark away at the start of October. Harborough were missing several players but still managed to field 27 players on the day. The players and coaches were well aware that this would be a very tough and competitive fixture and that is exactly how it played out. Newark are a strong and well drilled team but Harborough took advantage of early territory and possession, scoring an early try after a succession of forward dominated rucks, with Fergie touching down to make the score 5-0. Newark hit back immediately from kick off after Harborough failed to exit effectively. 5-5.
Conditions underfoot were very poor and the two packs dominated possession, exchanging pick and go’s with both teams demonstrating excellent first up tackling. Harborough found themselves on the opponent 22m line and Amael sniffed a chance with a quick pick and go, bulldozing over to make the score 10-5. Newark again scored immediately from the kick off, taking advantage of a knock on and scoring a converted try. 10-12 half time.
Wholesale changes followed to ensure all available players had at least half a game. The second half was another competitive affair. Hard tackles, strong carrying from both sides, aggressive rucks and counter rucks meant no score for the first 15 minutes of the second half. Harborough eventually found themselves in a great attacking position with a scrum just outside the opposition 22m. Newark defended stoutly, however they were unable to stop the developing Harborough attacking momentum and eventually, the ball went quickly through hands, ending up with Sam B who crashed over from close range. 15-12.
Harborough were determined to make life difficult for themselves at kick off yet again, giving up possession immediately and Newark demonstrated their pace and power out wide to eventually run the ball under the posts within seconds of the restart. A successful conversion made the score 17-15 with 12 minutes to play. Harborough maintained possession for large parts of the remaining time. The penalty count for Newark grew with several offside infringements allowing Harborough to kick for touch and set up a strong attacking platform. A resulting lineout and maul put Harborough in an excellent position to score but the Newark defence held firm. Harborough won a penalty due to hands in the ruck and decided to go for the posts with 7 minutes to play. It was not ideal conditions for the kickers, but Finn C kept his composure and slotted the penalty. 18-17.
The remaining minutes were forward dominated with both teams looking for a break in their opposition’s defensive line but the gaps never emerged and the game finished 18-17.
A fantastic fixture with both teams playing with great spirit and determination.
The coaches are delighted with how the Harborough players stepped up today. Superb stuff!!