An away trip to Matlock for the U13’s this morning. The hosts looking to avenge our victory against them in the NLD Cup started hard and fast with Dronfield seemingly suffering a confidence hangover from last weeks defeat to Tigers. Matlock were much quicker to the breakdown, jackling for turnovers and ripping ball in the tackle. Quick ball found their pace out wide and their huge forwards proved to be decisive powering over at close range.
Finding ourselves 30-5 down the final phases of play in the first half built some much needed confidence, with Harry receiving a Matlock kick and bursting forward on an aggressive meandering run taking us deep into Matlock territory. Three further phases took us towards their try line before time was up and a turnover allowed Matlock to end the half.
Following a half time “Pep Talk” from their coaches, Dronfield stepped up their game considerably. Quicker to the breakdown, faster ball, line breaking determination with ball in hand and quicker line speed giving ourselves better tackling opportunity against our bigger opposition. A tremendous line breaking try by Charlie, quick thinking tap and go from Tom and powerful aggressive runs by Ben and Alex lead to Dronfield winning the second half 20-15.
A much improved 2nd half and a platform to work from in training and into the next match against Sheffield RUFC in two weeks time. A 45-25 defeat over all, however lessons to be learnt, onwards and upwards. Player of the day to Oscar for his constant bravery, tenacity and technique in the tackle against lads twice his size 💪