Colts Encounter Impressive Ivybridge

Saturday 15th September 2018 Home v Ivybridge Colts

A very different game this week. The Colts came up against a very strong squad of 23 from Ivybridge who were playing only their second game of the season. Saints had a small squad of 16 with many key players unavailable and as a result several were playing out of position.

The first 20 minutes saw the game played entirely in the Ivybridge half with a large portion in their 22. Three try scoring opportunities were lost in this period which if taken would have changed the whole game. Simple handling errors cost Saints dearly and as the half progressed Ivybridge gained in confidence and competed more at the breakdown and set piece. The break through occurred late in the first half when a series of strong tackle-bursting runs saw the first touchdown and conversion. The first time our Colts have been behind this season. Two further tries followed before the break along with Saints having to replace Matt Trehair at tighthead with a player borrowed from Ivybridge. All credit to Matt after some rest and treatment he returned and put in a solid shift for the last quarter.

Saints started the second half positively but Ivybridge grew in strength and composure. Saints threatened their line but failed to cross on several occasions and were punished by the speed and organisation of Ivybridge’s counter attacks.

The game was a wake-up call for the Saints Colts. The unforced errors need to be addressed, competition at the breakdown has to improve and coordination and communication must match the talent and ambition of the team.

There were good individual performances; ‘Smudge’ Smaridge at hooker played well throughout, Niall Blackbeard tackled and competed relentlessly at the breakdown, sometimes on his own, Hughey Campbell at scrum half distributed well and tackled all the way through. Josh Barden-Waters did well playing out of position on the wing and then coming in at No 8 for Harry Pyatt who suffered a compressed neck and blow to the head. Gabe Connolly for stepping in at 12 and then taking over the captaincy when Harry went off. This week's ‘Man of the match’ and the ‘Jug’ goes to Kit May at fly-half for an all round display and good tactical kicking that kept Saints in the game. Even though we failed to score we never stopped competing, showing the character and resilience expected at Tregorrick Park.

The Colts have their first League Game next weekend at home against Saltash. This is going to be a week of serious training and preparation. The Colts do not want that losing feeling again.

Nick Bailey - Colts Head Coach