Honiton welcomed the Exeter Chiefs U13’s to Allhallows on a very wet pitch that was going to be Honiton’s undoing. This was an overdue encounter that both coaches and players were relishing.
As the game got underway Honiton began the strongest and produced good attacking rugby from the off. The fwds were working well as a unit within the scrums and rucks that were led by Saun Monkhouse and the ever confidant Giles Richards (capt). The ball being recycled at every opportunity to the backs where it seemed to fall foul of poor running from curtain individuals who decided to try and bull doze their way through the opposition’s defensive line instead of passing it out. This happened on several occasions and proved pivotal in the game as they lost out on several tries.
The tide soon turned and the visitors returned this pressure and started to exploit Honiton’s weaknesses where they soon started to put points on the scoreboard, something that the home side couldn’t do. Soon the confidence started to ebb away, tackles were being missed and as the game progressed the heads began to drop. They may of had the same players out on the pitch but it wasn’t the same team from the previous week. Honiton did manage a consolation try from Harry Todd who went on one of his trademark runs to score in the corner.
The performance to say the least was below par, they should off won this game and the players know this. Poor decision making out in the backs at key moments of the match and lack of support play was their down fall.
You have to stand tall and be counted; you can do it one week and not the next. Look at yourselves and your team mates and say to yourselves could of I approached this game any different or did I give 100% effort throughout!
No rugby for a week, so let’s enjoy the international at Twickenham on Saturday and be inspired, some of you have the potential.