Week 2 Rugby Report

After the first full week of training, the rugby club took on the challenge of St George’s, Weybridge. The fixture card has been designed to be challenging and this was certainly due to be a baptism of fire. The 1^st and 2^nd XV travelled away and both suffered losses. The 2^nd XV struggled to get a foothold in their game and the opposition was dominant. The first half saw the 1^st XV struggle to get their hands on the ball and some ill-discipline allowed the opposition to spend most of the match camped in the Pangbourne half. The second half saw a more sustained period of pressure but points were not forthcoming. A frustrating afternoon ended 18-7 to a strong opposition.

The U16s and U15As had a mixed afternoon with the A teams both winning convincingly and the B teams suffering losses. The U15As dominated from the first whistle and played as one. The scoreline of 58-0 represents a superb afternoon rugby and, with some players rested soon into the second half, it could have been higher. The U16s continue their good season following their opening run out against Eton. The pack was dominant and some superb interplay led to a number of tries being scored. The 31-17 win was an excellent return on the effort and commitment they have shown during training. Whilst the B teams didn’t win their matches, the U15Bs put up an excellent fight and crossing for the first try of the match in the early minutes of the match gave the opposition a real scare. It was unfortunate that they eventually went down 12-19 but it could have easily been a different story.

For the U14s this was their first real opportunity to represent the College. They did not disappoint and despite the results not going their way, showed incredibly spirit throughout the afternoon. Both A and B teams had moments of excellence and it is important that they harness this as they progress forward in the season.

Finally, the 3^rd XV started their season hosting Radley 6^th XV. Whilst this may appear like a mismatch of teams, the massive number of students available to the Radley Coaches means that this was a competitive fixture.  The rugby played was superb and, despite the physical nature of the sport, was played in excellent spirit. The 3^rd XV crossed the line a number of times and came out eventual winners 29-17.

After a tough weekend, all teams must regroup quickly as we have a double header of derby matches this week. We look forward to hosting Shiplake on Wednesday and Lord Wandsworth on Saturday. Good luck to all our boys!