U11 Etihad Cup - first round

U’11 A squad success in the first round of the Etihad Cup

An early start at the qualifying rounds for the Etihad Cup did not phase our U’11 A squad. Through shear determination they fought their way through to qualify for the next round in March 2010. The first match was against Rutlishians who proved no match and we ran out 6 – 0 winners. This game was really just a warm up – tougher opposition was to come in the form of Canterbury , a team we had never come up against before. This side had some big, strong forwards and we had to fight very hard at every breakdown to win ball. Canterbury were constantly a danger and only some fearless tackling stopped them scoring. We managed a 1 – 0 win.

The final game was a real test of endurance and character. Beccehamians scored first and we were under lots of pressure. This is where the boys showed real determination, courage and fortitude. Having worked their way up the field, a team effort was topped off with a great try. The second half saw the team score another well served try to secure victory. Well done on a tremendous effort to reach the next round in March. Remember, our B squad will take part in round 1 qualifiers on January 23rd. The Etihad cup is not split into A and B squads, so hopefully the B’s will also make it through to the next round in March.

As ever there were things the squad did well, particularly scrummaging and things we need to work on, rucking and ball retention in particular.  An important stage for the boys in their rugby careers is that they themselves are starting to become more aware of what they need to do to improve their team and individual games - the development work continues at training next Sunday.

Thanks must go to Alex Hand, Ryan Notter, Adam Lee, Evan Williams and Josh Smart (and their Mums and Dads!) who gave up their Saturday afternoons to help the squad prepare for the tournament. Also, thanks to Luke Sterry (and his Dad!) who not only came along on Saturday afternoon but also stood in at the last minute on Sunday to replace Rory Barry who unfortunately could not play due to illness.

Etihad Qualifying round 1 - results

Rutlishians        Won     6* – 0    Riordan, Matt, Jamie, George, Alex

Canterbury         Won     1 – 0     Alex

Beccehamians   Won     2 – 1     George and Matt           

 * Embarrassingly we cannot remember who else scored – if anyone can recollect, please can you let us know for the records, thanks

Ian and Mark