With every training session Mark and I can see improvements in the way the boys are playing both individually and (more importantly) as a team. We have been encouraging them to take that knowledge and skill into matches. This week we really witnessed this happening.
Playing against a well organized and managed Ise Lodge team the team knew this would be a tough match. The boys responded magnificently to the challenge.
Before the match we’d asked them to remember the usual ‘basics’ i.e. pass and move / communication etc. However, this time we also emphasized taking the play to the opposition and attacking them – rather than relying on our own defending. The boys did everything that was asked of them. They can count themselves as unlucky to be 3 down at half time. The three goals were really well taken by the Eagles. The boys should not feel bad about the goals conceded. Few defenses playing at older levels would have stopped them.
As mentioned, we’d asked the boys to attack more. The best part of today’s match was the amount of time we spent going forward – in both halves of the game. Some of our play from back to front was a joy to watch. We were very unlucky not to turn the pressure into goals. Some excellent ‘last gasp’ defending by Ise Lodge thwarted us.
As ever, the effort put in by the boys was fantastic. Every week they give 100%. We go into a break now for Christmas. The boys should go into the new full of confidence that their efforts will be turned into results.
