A super performance by the Under 15 Rugby team from start to finish in the match against Newlands School, beating them 39 – 12. Both sides fielded a mixture of Year 9 and 10 boys to create more opportunity for fringe players to get valuable game time.

The three main concepts for development this game were; quickly identifying space to attack, man on man flat-line defense in the Backs and blitz defense to deny time and space for the opposition. All three areas were evident throughout the game and I was particularly pleased with Ryan Scott (Captain) who made excellent decisions at fly half. Ross Ball used his agility brilliantly when in possession to break the gain line and was always supported by Ryan Elson who showed a great turn of pace. Dillan Saunders and Max Rummery; wingers, saw plenty of action and Dillan Saunders scored the opening try just inside at the corner flag. Ryan Elson went on to score two tries in the first half and two in the second of which Ryan Scott converted one.

The Forwards, led by Jack Hemblade, were outstanding in the scrums and won most of the Newlands put-ins to their dismay. John Williams used his height in the lineouts and was always immediately supported by Bertie Hinkley and Jack Woods. Two Year 9 boys played in the Forwards; Josh Bird (Prop) and Ben Knee (Flanker) and both had exceptional games carrying lots of ball and making runs. Elliot Le-Warde had a tough game at scrum half but never faltered getting the ball out to the Backs. James Harrison saw lots of the ball in this game as the Newlands fly half kicked a lot of possession away and James was quick to react and get into position, gaining ground and looking for space to attack.

Seb Day replaced Jack Hemblade, Cesar Fraile replaced Bertie Hinkley and Will Thomas replaced Luke White. All of these substitutes made an excellent impact in the second half and I am proud of how we are blessed with such depth of talent in this team. Ryan Scott scored and Shoreham College were also awarded a penalty try due to a professional foul; James Harrison converted.

Congratulations once again to the whole team on an outstanding result and very well done to the Year 9 players for their commitment and contribution to the team’s success.

Final Score: Shoreham College 39   Newlands School 12

Try scorers: R.Elson (4), D. Saunders, R.Scott.

Conversions: R.Scott, J.Harrison.

Most Valuable Players:

• Dillan Saunders – supporting the ball carrier, alertness, tackling and pace.
• John Williams – hitting rucks hard, picking and driving to gain ground and improved tackling technique.
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