Bakelock 08 – 24 Newark

Bakelock welcomed current NLD champions Newark to the Meadows for their first cup match of the season. Straight from the off Bakelock signalled their intention to take on Newark’s renowned backs head on as Peachey powered through most of their back line before drawing the penalty. Opting to kick Peachey slotted over to give the home side an early 3 point lead.

Inspired by this early success Bakelock grew in confidence. The backs threatening every time they had possession, the forwards defending valiantly in the middle of the park. Fabulous tackling from Butterworth and Everest combined with precise tactical kicking from Orridge kept Newark at bay for long periods.

Just as it looked like Bakelock would go into the break ahead Newark turned over the ball and scored a simple converted try. Half time score Bakelock 03 – 07 Newark.

The second half started similarly to the first with the Bakelock midfield outclassing the opposition in defence and attack. Under immense pressure Orridge released an unbelievable pass through his legs to Peachey giving him time to run at the opposition – 5 points the inevitable outcome.

Now 1 point ahead the home side looked strong and although not dominating looked good value for the lead, Tallis making ground on the wing and man of the match Elchin unsettling the opposition with some brutal hits.

Newark, however, aren’t the current champions for nothing as they ruthlessly capitalised on several Bakelock mistakes running in 3 unanswered tries.

With time running short Bakelock responded well with Orridge orchestrating matters superbly. Recognising that Newark could be hurt out wide he spread the play to the flanks where Peachey managed to put the ball on the line only for the try to be ruled out. This proved to be the last play of the match final score Bakelock 08 – 24 Newark.

Coaching points

A great game and an excellent performance. In the end Newark’s experience in certain areas and ability to win ball was the difference. Some slight tweaks and we could have won! Special thanks to the players that didn’t get any game time and those that came to support – greatly appreciated.

Positives

First and foremost we weren’t intimidated by the opposition and played our game.

The forwards defensive line was the best I have seen. Up quickly and in line. Elchin, Dan, Harrison, Joe. Ryan, James and Matt showing no sign of fear of the opposition.

Harris’ decision making was superb, particularly the kicks into space for the backs to run on to. We shouldn’t forget that this is the most pressured position on the pitch. Oh and what a pass!

The combination of Will, Lewis and Harrison in the centres is sensational. Newark didn’t have a look in and were very apprehensive of our strong running. Their coach told me he had instructed them not to kick for fear of our midfield running the ball back – high praise indeed.

Negatives

It's hard to find negatives after such a great display but I will. Turnovers - I counted 2 to us and about a dozen to them. This put us under pressure especially on our own line where we were forced into mistakes. It also starved us of ball that we could have used to exploit them.

Training as usual on Wednesday

Thanks