Newham Dockers RLC

The first half was slow starting and a number of defensive errors lead to St Albans taking an early lead of 18 – 0. The Dockers soon started to question their own performance and it was pleasing to see a number of leaders shine through with tactical ideas to improve their ways.
Mihails Laskovs helped turn up the heat with some powering runs in attack, sending a number of defenders back in their tracks in the process, soon followed by similar runs that broke the defensive line by both Yhoni Bayona and Tyron Lukun.

The second half started with a phenomenal display of athleticism which has been an obvious strength of the Dockers of late, with man of the match Dovidas Jankauskas returning the kick off with a exhilarating solo run that saw him weave in and out of defenders and find the try line to score, with Anthony Sinclair adding the extras. Shortly after, Ranjit Singh was in the heat of the action after a clever attacking play resulted in Singh breaking the line and crossing with Sinclair again adding the extra 2 points. 12 – 18 the score, with St Albans feeling the pressure.

The Dockers were able to continue an improved performance, but the St Albans side were efficient in their passing to exploit gaps in the defence to put them further ahead. Recognition was duly rewarded for putting the opponent’s speedy winger into touch through a Donatas Vainorius and Gediminas Degesys demolishing defence, the tackle only inches away from the Dockers Try Line.

The home team proved both strong and wise in attack and were able to execute a number of passes that lead to creative attacking play, and with such leadership in their backs, were able to score once more before the close of play. The score 32 – 12 . With only 10 minutes left on the clock, Dockers were still absorbing tactical knowledge from their coach and were able to use that to create a break up the left wing that saw great link up play from Laskovs short burst leading to Jankauskas step into space resulting in him scoring in the corner. The kick narrowly wide, the final score 28 - 16.

The last few minutes saw some developing maturity from the Dockers who had been frustrated throughout the game. Singh almost came close to a second had it not have been for a double movement, but day saw the lads again able to take on board personal responsibility – something that will help them to further develop.

Assistant coach Ash Greaves added “The boys were clearly frustrated in the first half, but their display of unity at the start of the first half was exactly what was needed for them to move forwards and get back in the game. It is now important that the team take on board training to increase their knowledge and ability as we strive towards another Dockers victory”.

For more information on the Newham Dockers U14’s please contact Chris Williams on 07712 895966 or chris.williams@londonbroncosrl.com. The team train every Wednesday @ Memorial Park, West Ham from 4.30pm – 6pm with free pick-ups from schools. Get in touch to find out more!