Rugby Weekly Update
Unfortunately our opposition in the U16 game cried off because of the cold weather, which was a disappointment, especially as all the other colts games went ahead.
Anyway once the snow ploughs had finished clearing the Kings Park pitch the U19s laid on a cracker against Tigers in our Division 1 game. Despite the cold weather, indeed probably because of it, we were treated to plenty of fast exciting action, between two fairly evenly matched teams. In the early stages we were unable to finish off our attacks, whereas Tigers got close to our line three times and scored twice to lead 10 – 0. We came back but were thwarted by some strong tackling and scrummaging from the Tigers. Then just before half time we took a long range penalty, which fell short, but a Tigers fumble and some quick following up saw us go over under the posts and it was 10 – 7 at half time. We started the second half strongly and this time some good forward pressure paid off with another converted try. However the boys were too excited and soon after they failed to stop Tiger’s big centre bursting over to put them back ahead 17 – 14. However after that the lads really got going and for the next 20 minutes it was all Breakthrough Pandas. There was some excellent back play and the forwards kept crashing away, stretching the Tigers and the gaps eventually came. We scored twice more and went into a 26 – 17 lead. Despite a spirited come back by the Tigers in the last few minutes we held on and secured our first victory in the higher division.
A really great team performance made me really proud and most importantly on such a bitterly cold day left me feeling nice and warm inside, although the hip flask may have also helped with that feeling. As I left Kings Park I could have sworn I saw sleet, but again that may have been due to the contents of the hip flask!
Next Sunday on 31 January we have the U19 2ndXV in action at the Police Club versus East Kowloon, KO 1.30pm. The girls have a sevens tournament at various locations. I am not sure where ours are in action but if anyone wants to go and watch I will send you details, although hopefully it has warmed up by then as this is definitely not sevens weather.