Clocks went forward and so did the U11s @ East Grinstead... 21 - 4!

CRFC U11s

On the rescheduled Sussex fixture @ East Grinstead, there where no more weather beasts in the way BIG or little for the U11s squad to enable them to take to the pitch again.

Entering a mixed ability squad to the Sussex u11's Festival, due to injuries and non availability, the coaching Team considered it was going to be a testing day for the squad, with the opposition being; Heathfield, Eastbourne, Shoreham & Worthing being the last fixture of the day.

The first fixture, lead to an apprehensive and slow start for the squad as all the players where slow to find there rhythm, which told against Heathfield resulting in a loss of 2-1. This though, was the 'wake up' call the squad needed as they entered the second fixture against Eastbourne, with some players who had possibly been hibernating during the cold spell awaking and delivery performances the coaches knew they where capable of - result 8-0 to Chichester; fantastic, but, remember we need consistency and you know who you are. Third fixture against a very strong Shoreham team, was going to be a challenge. But, the motivational speaking of coach Matt DeLacy (Matt, being available for after dinner speeches, etc), put the extra 'fizz' into the squad and what a performance - the intensity shown was breathtaking from the experienced players, but, more importantly those players not used to this kind of game, they rose to it and excelled with the final result being 6-0 to Chichester. Final game at the end of the day against Worthing, was as intense, but, it was noted the squad where lagging a little due to the previous fixtures and the long morning, but, their resiliency shone through and the will to work as a Team showed, with the result being 5-3 to Chichester.

In summary; 21 points for and 4 against, tries being made by over 50% of the squad and not just specific players (Within the opposition it was just specific players). So strength in depth is working, the unity as a squad really shows, and something the whole squad should be proud of! I am, and so are the rest of the coaches. CRFC U11s Player of the Festival was Archie Willis.... Well done Archie and just remember to choose one element of the game and focus on that, making sure you bring your best and this contributes to the TEAM result! You did, and a well deserved reward, keep it up.

To the parents on the day, thank you for your prompt attendance - much appreciated it really does help the squad and coaches. Anyone who attended and did not receive a medal please let me know?

I would also like to publicly apologise (again!) to our Team Admin Grace Hutchings, as I was wrong and you where right - your humble dad, still seeking forgiveness(!), will she ever let it go ;-)

No rugby this coming Sunday due to Easter Sunday (1st April), and with an away session @ Lewes RFC (8th April) currently, so as to assist with the 'admin' can you update availability now please as I will be away and would like to ensure all is sorted in good time.

My best wishes and speedy recoveries to James Scrivin-Wood & Finlay Ronnie for your injuries. Also a prompt return to good health for Oliver Davidson.

Enjoy the weekend off

PS. CRFC U11s Festival Awards @ Guildford where Kai Treagus & Finlay Ronnie - congrats to both and keep it up!