Burton U14 vs Tamworth U14 1 March 2015

Burton kicked into a strong wind in the first half and the early exchanges were pretty even. Tamworth worked the ball into the corner and kept pressure on the Burton line after a series of ambiguous penalties. Tamworth scored twice in quick succession from short range and converted both trys. The Burton U14 team, as always slow starters, then decided to score one themselves into the wind with Ben Gilleland scoring in the corner and the conversion missed. Then, unfortunately, Jo Semple took a boot to the throat and was forced to retire leaving the team with a mountain to climb and Jo Jo Daji in the very unfamiliar role of 2nd Row.

Burton turned around at half time and had to rejig the cards, starting the 2nd half with a lightweight but determined back row of, Henry, Kieran and Jo Jo at 8. The team never gave in despite Tamworth running in several more trys. Every time Burton got some momentum it got bogged down and penalties were conceded, the penalty count being 4 to 1 to Tamworth. This was disappointing from a coaching and spectator perspective and not least for the players who had travelled. Burton did manage one more try just on the whistle after good work from Ed Robson, who went on to convert his own try.

Final score 34 v 12.

Man of the match for Burton was Alex Yiget who put in some monster tackles and prevented some nailed on scores. A special mention to Riley for a job well done on his debut for Burton.

In summary, Tamworth were stronger than the Burton side that travelled that day and they deserved their victory, the 22 points of a difference being harsh on the Burton side under the circumstances. The players very much look forward to next season to have another game against Tamworth.