U9's Penclawdd Away 5.11.06

Date : 05/11/2006
Score : South Gower 0 : Penclawdd 11
Tries : none

Game Summary:
The sun was shining, the birds singing - the South Gower all blacks were ready.
With no time for a warm up the game started. Penclawdd kicked to us - we gathered but they stole possession from the ruck. The ball went to ground in what we thought was the try area so we grounded it awaiting a 5m restart. The ref did not blow, they picked up and put the ball down in the dead ball area. 1:0. (looks like the ref did not know what line represented the try line). The next try they broke away from a maul and ran down the line to be tackled in the corner. The ref gave a try in the correct area. Both coaches then confirmed to the ref what was the try line and what was the dead ball line - needless to say our boys were now a bit disheartened.
Penclawdd continued to apply pressure but we tackled well. When we stole the ball we tried to ship it wide only to be tackled mid field by a very determined Penclawdd back line. They rucked over and shipped the ball wide to score in the corner.
This trend continued with their rucking play being much more agressive and we were in defense mode for the rest of the game. A slighly unfair score although Penclawdd were the best team we have played this season.
We can learn three things from this game :

1. The ball will not suddenly magic itself into our hands by standing and shouting - we have to fight for it. If you can see it then go and get it.
2. Once we have it, we need to keep it at all costs - by supporting and making sure we are always behind the ball. Remember if you are in front of the ball, you may as well be on holiday in disneyland as you cannot be passed to.
3. If they have bigger boys - tackle them around the legs. They will not fall down if you try to tackle them around their bellies - you will just bounce off.

Although we lost, we did not give up and ran and tackled to the final whistle. Well done boys for your determination and spirit!