MHRUFC U14s Vs Old Laurentians

MHRUFC U14s Vs Old Laurentians

24 Jan 2016

Cold and wet weather has been hampering training and fixtures during the first few weeks of 2016 but today the Under 14s were able to get out on a pitch and at last play some rugby. Having met Old Laurentians at their home ground twice in 2015 the team were well aware of what a tough opposition they would present. There was a generous turnout for the home team so in order that every player had some game time the team was spilt across game quarters.
From the off OLs set out their stall and pinned MH within their own twenty two and piled on the pressure for an early score. Harborough had difficulty clearing the ball and found themselves hemmed in again and again. OLs gritty determination very nearly paid off early on were it not for some great defensive work by Josh Ford, Elliot Coxon and Dan Hands who each managed to hold the ball up for several very near tries by OLs. The game was extremely physical and mostly forwards dominated, an area where OLs certainly appeared to have the upper hand physically but not entirely, they often won the drive at the scrum but lost the ball to the quick footwork of Harbrough's second row. Despite some strong running and counter attacks the pressure remained very much on Harborough and as half time approached OLs exploited a gap in the defence and ploughed through for a try and conversion. Followed up by a second try and conversion just ahead of half time.
Harborough were aware that their game was lacking a little of the flair that they have demonstrated so often through the season and hoped to make amends in the second half. Certainly the game swung more from side to side than it had in the first half. Harborough's backs who have made such an impact at previous occasions tried to get involved but still OLs managed to steer the game to a more forwards dominated style of play. Heavy pressure form Harborough about ten minutes in had OLs pinned and it looked as if a try was certain, Sam Dexter grounded the ball, but sadly his effort was denied to what appeared to be an earlier knock on. Despite a fine display by the Harborough boys OLs were able to counter and gain themselves another try and conversion before the game ended.
A disappointed Harborough had to acknowledge that on this occasion they had been outplayed by a determined OLs team. A hard lesson, but it's games like this that the squad needs to challenge them and get a focus on what they can do to improve for next time. A cracking game of rugby despite the loss, and a great experience to draw from.
It was good to see two new players getting involved with Harborough withConnor and Cory joining the squad from Stewarts & Lloyds and acquitting themselves so well with their team mates. Well done lads.
Finally a big cheer from all for William Henderson who was unable to play today as he is in hospital. Get well soon Hendo!