U15s overcome tough challenge from Rushden

A testing game for the squad last Sunday against a very big Rushden team. Added to this were the challenge of a sloping pitch, some bottomless mud and the introduction of virtual pitch marking. Still its the same for both teams so on to the game....

Right from the start it was clear that the set piece would be a key part of the game - with Rushden's impressively sized pack looking to dominate. Unfortunately Zac sustained an injury in one of the first scrums and after treatment had to leave the pitch - hope to see you fit and raring to go soon Zac! The pack reorganised and Fred joined Tom in the second row - it was a day to keep the ball moving rather than engage in a forward arm wrestle.

Soon the backs got into gear and after a couple of penalties to Kettering at the breakdown Joe R-N found space from a quick tap to break the defence and score to the right of the posts, converted by Ed. 0-7.

However the lead was short lived and Rushden were sooin putting pressure on the Kettering line with some strong runs. They then won a scrum against the head on the Kettering 22 and spread the ball wide to score easily against some patchy defence, to the left of the posts - adding the extras as well to bring the sides level. 7-7.

The remainder of the half was spent trading attacks with neither side able to gain the upper hand. With some of the Kettering team not having played together recently there were several errors and whilst this was understandable it also showed how important it is to do the basics well, look after the ball and allow pressure to build. HT 7-7.

Fortunately for Kettering the second half saw an improvement in both accuracy and intensity. Moving the ball quickly into space and keeping things simple paid off as Josh Langley was sent in at the left corner after 5 minutes - this time unconverted. 7-12.

Kettering continued to up the pressure and after a good kick chase Ed was unlucky to have what looked like a good turnover try disallowed as the try line wasn't clearly marked. Rushden kept up their strong running game though and forced several penalties against Kettering for indiscipline at the breakdown as well as not retreating 10 metres. It was important that the team didn't panic and kept their shape to regain possession and start to eat their way back into Rushden territory. Another sweeping backs move saw the ball move through the hands quickly and once more Josh Langley was sent in at the left corner - despite some strong cover tackles - again without the extras from a difficult angle.7-17

It was now Rushden's turn to lose focus as their legs started to tire from a massive effort. As the clock ticked down they missed a kick to touch and Ed returned the ball well. Kettering won quick ruck ball and another speedy backs move saw George go through in the left corner - this time with Cam making an excellent conversion via the crossbar. 7-24.

FULL TIME RUSHDEN 7 - KETTERING 24

This was a decent performance against a much improved Rushden side. Both sides showed a willingness to run hard and straight on a difficult surface and tried to play some positive, attacking rugby. Well done to all the squad members who got a run out and welcome back to Jess Clements who showed he's lost none of his competitive edge in the loose while he's been away.

And finally the Golden Bacon Butty challenge. Two slices of well done bacon, a soft roll, non HP sauce and a very reasonable £2. Possibly in contention for the end of season award with a competitive 7.5 out of 10.

Until the next time....