U15s away to Chippenham

Match Report from Chippenham

Chippenham away was a new experience for the Rams. Chippenham were a good team when they visited OBR a number of weeks ago and put up a good fight before eventually going down to the Rams. So, a rematch was eagerly anticipated by both sides.

The Rams, fielding a full-strength side for the first time this season discovered the long journey down the M4 didn’t deter the weather being an influence throughout the game. Playing three 20 mins sessions in driving wind would test both sides. Rams faced the wind in first 20 and played rugby in their half despite being up against the wind. The continuity of play was excellent as pods off the scrumhalf proved powerful. It seemed the rucking work in recent training sessions was bearing fruit. This work paid off as we were able to move the ball quickly through the hands, to enable Will Young exploit the space outside and beat two defenders to score.

Chippenham managed to score bringing the two teams level at the break.

Second 20-minute session meant that the Rams could use the wind to their advantage but struggled in parts as Chippenham were determined to keep the ball. Their tactics in the lineout were making an impact and it wasn’t long before their driving maul sent them over for a try.

As there were three 20 minute sessions, it was left to the flick of a coin to determine who had the benefit of the wind for the final 20 minutes. Fortunately, the Rams won and not surprisingly chose to keep the wind at their backs. The half started well for the Rams as some intelligent kicking by the backs pinned Chippenham in their half. Its pleasing to see players problem solve the scenarios they faced today and inventive use of the kick ensured Chippenham were under the cosh for long periods. This led to long periods within the Chippenham 22 and invariably led to a try by Jed Payne, after the ball was switched to the blind side to score in the corner.

It wasn’t long before several penalties allowed Rams to punt up the field enabling them to get close to the opposition try line. Close work at the rucks and maul led to several attacks being attempted but thwarted by Chippenham. However, after continual pressure by the pack ,Harry Allen scored a try.

Rams grew in confidence and appeared to control things in the Chippenham half. A period of continuity with consecutive rucks being won allowed the point of attack to switch to the blind side which enabled some go forward. Two defenders were beaten by slick supportive offloads putting Oliver James in the clear to go under the posts.

With 30 seconds on the clock Chippenham took the kick off and managed to capitalise on some indecision from the Rams to collect the kick off. Their strong centre charged forward and managed to get over the wine line to score.

Final Whistle blown. Good competitive game and a deserved win for the Rams.