Starting as we mean to go on

A good win for the Colts on Sunday against a very spirited and tough Academy side from Tonbridge Trojans. A big Hurrah needs to go to the front row of U17's with several players out of position They were scrummaging against a big U18's front row and never seemed to go back. A special mention should go to Flanker Joe Richards who played prop for the first time and our new hooker Tyler Hooper whose strike at times was lightening fast and whose drives invariably got over the gain line. James Ford as the other prop always punches way above his weight and is totally dependable at the rucks and knows only one way and that is going forward.

The rucking and mauling were good and on a hot day the forwards were more often than not quick to the break down. We managed to hold one of Trojans big chaps up close to our try line which resulted in a turn over. We had two good tries from Chris Rae -Gammon after a driving force from the forwards. Unfortunately the referee was unsighted on one occasion and the try was disallowed. Also a special thanks to Kyle Woollard for turning out after a hard 1st Team game on Saturday. His off loading and drives caused constant problems for the opposition. I hope his knee has recovered from concussion.

The backs played with skill and the passing under pressure was slick and resulted in several tries. The line breaks by 10, 13 and 15 constantly put the opposition on the back foot. A bit more closer support for the offloads would have resulted in more tries especially with the pace we have in the backs. A blistering hat trick from Stephen Marsh after some devastating running - welcome back to the team. A very dangerous player who always returns kicked balls with great interest.

Unfortunately I did not see what play led up to Marcus Miller's try as I was trying to untangle the handbags that were being thrown at Harvey Wickens.

As your Captain said you all put in a 100% effort on a very hot day. Well done.

Mike
Manager Hove Colts