Old Cats U15 vs Reigate

First game of the new year for the U15 team and they left off where they finished last year with a great performance and win against a very physical Reigate side.

Kick off and Old Cats maximised the down hill advantage, pinning Reigate in their half. Line speed was terrific forcing errors from Reigate. Paddy’s quick thinking and blistering speed, finished off a well worked team try.

However, Old Cats did not have it their own way. The team were not quick enough at the breakdown allowing too many times for Reigate to force the turnover. It made it hard work for Old Cats, who had to put in a massive defensive shift just to keep Reigate at bay. What we cannot dispute is the boys desire not to concede tries. With Reigate camped on the Old Cats try line, first came a massive turnover from Beau; stripping the ball and then quick hands up to Josh D who sprinted up the field for a second try. Yet again Reigate exposed Old Cats at the break down, created some fantastic moves up near to Old Cats try line but we managed to turnover the ball, thwarting a certain try. Again Old Cats were not satisfied with removing the threat but quickly turned defence into attack with the ball being moved around with superb fluidity over to Chris, one of our speed merchants who used all his speed and power – great hand off to fend off the last defender and go over for a try. Half time and it was 19 -0 to Old Cats. A flattering score given how close Reigate came to scoring but it did reflect the never say die attitude of Old Cats.

Second half was in much the same vein, Old Cats got solid possession and three more tries from Will, Josh D and Harry. Reigate continued to press and to be honest got their just rewards with 2 tries of their own. This did spark Old Cats back into life and they finished the game well.

Yes, some tactical and technical things for the coaches and team to work on. However, the spirit, teamwork and commitment by all players are something that we have in abundance.

Such a great game with all players making a contribution it will always be difficult to pull out individual performances:

Harry – great defensive shift and powerful runs through the middle of the field and rewarded with a great try.
Chris – tireless work in defence, a try saving tackle. Showed his speed and rewarded with a try.
Will – carried on from where he left off from last season and just tackled everything that moved.
We had some new starters who made a great contribution on their debut performance – Jesse with some great tackles.
Ephriam – showed a great turn of pace and got stuck into the opposition.
Man of the match is a difficult call with so many players playing great rugby however Josh D wins this. Turn of speed for some great breaks, defensively great tackles.

Team – well done! Great to see how far you have progressed.
Tries:
Paddy x 1
Chris x 1
Josh D x 1
Josh M-L x 1
Will x 1
Harry x 1
Conversions
Ross x 3
MoM – Josh D