Depleted U14s team defeated at Lewes

A depleted U14s squad, missing six usual starters through injuries and other commitments, were beaten by a cohesive Lewes side in a great game of rugby at the Stanley Turner Ground.

The game started with Lewes putting us under pressure both in terms of territory and possession which lead to the first try after 15 minutes. To their credit, the East Grinstead boys fought back well. Some good runs and offloads by the forwards gained pitch position around their 22m line where Lewes conceded a couple of penalties. Some quick calling by Eoin O’Donoghue hurried Tommy Townsend into a tap and pass which Eoin then exploited by powering through the Lewes defence for the equalising try.

Half time = 5 -5.

We were fully in the game at half time but too many basic mistakes were costing us heavily. Dropped passes, poor presentation in the ruck, spilling the ball in contact, conceding silly penalties for not releasing quickly enough in the tackle; all examples of how to lose control of a match. The amount of possession we gave away meant we could not get a foothold in the game and Lewes played with better precision. With a larger squad on the day Lewes were also capable of making substitutions for tired players later in the game and this meant they started to run us ragged in the second half. A couple of classy tries late in the second half sealed the victory for Lewes and therefore the first defeat for the Gs in over a year.

Nonetheless, the coaches were pleased with the way the squad gave 100% during the game, the desire and passion was evident to all those present and there were some positive individual performances despite the result.

Luke Peel at full back had a strong game, cleaning up the Lewes kicks and making solid tackles. Cameron Beeney had a positive game for us, always willing to carry the ball into contact using his size and power. Eoin O’Donoghue shut down the Lewes attack on numerous occasions with some fierce tackles in midfield. Tommy Townsend was tidy at scrum-half and Tom Jenkins, learning his trade at fly-half, handled the ball well and showed some strong running in the first half.

On this occasion, Lewes played better rugby and well done to their lads for a great performance. However, there were many positives for us to take from the match, especially the way the squad stepped up and gave Lewes a good contest.

More concentration and accuracy needed next time.

MOM: Luke Peel. One word: Solid