High Wycombe RFC U15 ‘A’s 22 v 12 Redingensians Rams U15

After an anxious hour or so in the morning waiting for Kerry’s email to arrive letting us know that the match was still on after the deluge of rain overnight; 20 or so Ensians U15s and their supporters made their way to High Wycombe to watch a thrilling encounter between two excellent sides.
It’s been a while since I scribed a match report; so I figured I would dispense with the facts early on and go with my thoughts on what I’ve observing this season.
Facts
• Ensians score first through Liam Cook – 0:5
• Conor Boyd converts – 0:7
• High Wycombe full-back scores having broken through a number of tackles – 5:7
• High Wycombe score again after we were penalised for not releasing – 10:7
• Alex Canham scores after Conor’s penalty hits the post; High Wycombe knock-on and give away a penalty at the resulting scrum and Alex Crocker sends our Fly-Half blind to cross the line – 10:12
• High Wycombe score under posts following some defensive errors – 15:12
• High Wycombe scrum-half scores a well worked try in the final stages followed by an excellent conversion – 22:12
Thoughts
This age group should be delighted with the progress they are making this season. Whilst today was factually a defeat; every player in the squad played like a winner for every second they were on the pitch. The words of respect spoken by the High Wycombe manager in the Clubhouse after the game, about the impression our lads made today should stay with us, and be our inspiration, for the rest of the season. They were clearly expecting an easy game of it today and didn’t get one.
Our team has been through a very challenging transition from Mini to Junior rugby over the last two seasons, and despite all the reassurances that we’ve had from colleagues at U16, U17 & Colts that have been through this ‘twilight zone’; it’s still extremely difficult to take when you’re on the wrong side of some serious spankings in the Berkshire League. What we’ve seen so far this season is compelling evidence that this squad of players have absolutely turned the corner. The work ethic of the boys is second to none, with 20+ committed, respectful players turning up every Thursday and Sunday to put in a great shift at training and turning it into disciplined, thoughtful and competitive rugby on match days.
A noticeable difference this season from last is the significant closing of the gap between the more experienced players and those that are relative newcomers. This has become quite apparent over the last few months; however, was in full evidence today. The seamless manner in which Andy was able to transition the replacements into the game in the second half today, without a drop in performance, is a massive testimony to what’s happening in our age-group.
Whilst it’s right that the boys should take the credit, I think that the coaches – Andy, Owen & Giles should be praised for the outstanding commitment, perseverance and long-term education in the game that they giving these players. The culture that they provide at training, the inclusion in which boys are getting game time, and the progress we are making doesn’t happen without great coaches and the Admin & First Aid team that back them up. As parents, we are all massively grateful to have Andy, Owen, Giles, Kerry, Steve & Carol running this age-group.
My final comments for today go once more to the players:
You are all privileged to be able to play this game. When we observe the culture that has crept into Football recently, it makes me proud that our sons have chosen Rugby as their Sport. Where else can you compete the way we saw from both sides, especially in the weather we had today; gain the respect that you did from both sets of players & coaches, share a drink & some banter with each other, and then head home knackered but satisfied. We still have a lot to prove (to ourselves – no-one else); however, if you continue to work as hard at your games as you are, keep competing like you do, and believing in yourselves; then you’re going to surprise a few teams in the League in the New Year.
Thanks for a fantastic morning.

Graeme Cook