Caldy U8's coaches used this lovely sunny morning to play some different combinations against a strong Anselms squad.

In the first game,Ethan, Harvey R, Harvey, Barney, Harry Wilson, Harry Wyles, Jack, Oliver M and Lewie took some time to get structure and understanding between the players. This showed a lot more in defence where our tagging was found to be wanting against some speedy and well-balanced Anselms runners. Barney distributed the ball well and Ethan, Harvey R and both Harry's scored with Harry Wilson getting his hatrick with some great awarness of the touchline when running at speed. Anselms ran out comfortable winners 12 : 8.

The second game saw Caldy fieldHarry H, Seb, Alex J-S, Jack P, Jonny, Oliver and Monty. The boys were soon into the opposition and turned the ball over twice in the first half with excellent tagging. We went into the break leading comfortably 4 : 1. The second half saw some excellent attacking and entertaining rugby from both sides and again Caldy turned the ball over twice through excellent tagging. We did however start to make a few errors in trying to force the passes and a couple of poor decisions which resulted in us running (sometimes with a bit of help) into touch. A couple of unforced knock-ons also let Amselms back into the game and the second half ended up being a fair 5 : 5 draw. Overall we won 9 : 6but it could easily have been more comprehensive if we cut out the errors and passed wide when we had space and used the overlaps rather than trying to take on the whole team on your own!

All players made notable contributions. A brace of tries for Harry, Alex and Oliver and some great running by Jack. Monty tagged like a demon as we have come to expect and Jonny showed excellent pace. Seb helped ensure the defence line kept its safe and bossed the right well. Harry H was notable for some great passing (stats please Lee).

Things to work on - communication and agreeing set moves, utilising space better, running from deep and having a lot more depth on the re-start. Simple passes and being on the shoulder to receive the quick offload. In defence, making sure you are back onside before adding to your tag count!

The golds and greens played round robin in amongst all this and having chatted to many of the parents it sounds as if all had a great morning.

Parents note - next week is the tour so there is no training. The following week is Easter Sunday so again there is no training but we hope the boys will be back to burn off those extra chocolate egg calries!

Keep a close eye on the website for notices of extra fixtures and training in prearatin for the festivals!

AJ