A tough test

The clocks going back meant an extra hour of sleep for the team. It was certainly needed as the Ashby under 8's represented the toughest challenge we have faced this season. Each club fielded 3 teams and played a round Robin of 3 games, 10 minutes each way.

Despite increasing levels of physicality (still no tackling, but plenty of bumps and barges), the games were played in a good spirit - the Ashby and Burton teams showing great sportsmanship and respect throughout. Our team managed a couple of "super tags" - ripping off not only the tags, but the entire belt!

The Ashby teams had some very strong, quick runners and were very well organized in defense, which presented a challenge for Burton that the boys and girls rose to in no small part. Isaac put in a superb performance - always showing willing for the ball and wanting to take the attack to the opposition.

There was a first match appearance from Henry, who visibly grew in confidence as the game progressed, culminating in a try that took him from his own half, past 3 defenders and into the scoring zone. It was great to see Logan and Kody continue to grow in confidence and passing the ball with accuracy.

A special mention to Robert F, who at a young age shows a real ability to read the game and to find space in attack - great vision to go with his natural speed. He was always available for teammates after they had been tagged.

Each of the games was very close - in summary Ashby scored some very good individual tries, but the team try of the day went to Burton - involving passes to all 6 players and an offload from Sam N that I still cant work out how he did it - it honestly drew gasps from home and away parents alike!

Moving forward, we will be trying to focus on asking the guys to run straighter in attack and to close the gap to the opponent more quickly in defense.