With the waterlogged pitches over at Belper, we were lucky to play today as Belper were willing to travel. The only minis / junior game to take place.
Dronfield had prepped well during the week and started with a bang.
From an early scrum, an 'off the training pitch' screen play opened up the edges and created dog-legs in the Belper midfield. After the tackle, a good tip on from the forwards exploited a gap coming back from the touchline to open up the scoring early in the half.
From some strong defence, Dronfield bundled the Belper attack into touch, providing an opportunity for another first phase set piece attack. Again, playing out the back of the initial pod, Henry attacked the middle of the defence putting kasper into half a gap who had the strength to trundle upfield and score.
3 more tries came Dronfield's way from a very organised and efficient attack. The breakdown quick and slick, players organised and in role and 50:50 moments won. Really pleased to see the depth in attack, and quality of handling.
As coaches, we were particularly pleased with the level of organisation and leadership from the boys, the energy in the breakdown, the wins in the collisions and the speed of ball to the edges. An emphatic 5 -1 lead going into the break. Perhaps the half of the season.
Coming out in the second half, new positions and roles caused some confusion, meaning the boys lost the fluidity and control. A dropped kick off in the first minute gave the opportunity for Belper to score, minutes later another knock on from a kick off providing opportunity for their second.
The energy dropped, the error count was on the rise (as was the frustration) and tackles were missed. Belper were now on the front foot and taking the opportunity to pick off the tries.
The game ended in a disappointing 5-5 draw.
A very disappointing second half, but great to see the training elements coming into play. Some very high class rugby in the first 20, fight and energy high, and dominating the physical elements.
Players of the match:
Mentions first to Henry, George, Owen and Charlie who captained various elements of the game brilliantly, and great work from Seth, Billy and Ollie, and George Carlin, back in the fold.
Isaac: busy in attack and 2 very good tackles on the edge to halt Belper attacks. Scored a great try with footwork after a break, working hard to be available to continue the attack. Good to see the threat he offered.
Kasper: outstanding workrate. After a carry with little support, he was turned over. Not being satisfied he bounced to his feet chased the attack, made a hit and won the ball back. Just an example of the energy he brought today. A few tries to his name, but instrumental in everything good about our play.