U14s strong display against Newton Abbot

Withycombe U14s finished off 2019 in fine style as they welcomed Newton Abbot to Bicton for an eagerly anticipated clash against an always well drilled and very physical side. With heavy pitch conditions it had all the hallmarks of a classic forwards encounter.

From the first few phases it was apparent that Newton Abbot would look to use their large pack at every opportunity, but the Withy boys were more than up for the challenge and from an early turnover the nimble Withy forwards were able to string three passes together and crash over for the first score of the game.

This seemed to settle any nerves on the home side as the boys in green and black then looked to play their expansive rugby that has proved so successful this year. And it would again. Whilst Newton Abbot were always contending at every break down they spent little time in the Withy half, this was starting to be reflected on the scoreboard as tries came at regular intervals. Slick hands and excellent running lines saw the backs break through the visiting defence on numerous occasions and on every occasion they were ably supported by their eager forwards who were controlling the breakdown area against their larger opposition. And several further unanswered scores saw the young Withies turnaround with score at 26-0.

With halftime team talk finished and both sides making changes the second half got underway way. The pattern stayed much the same and after Withycombe picked off a loose pass for a breakaway score the game was effectively over as a contest. The young Withies seemed to take their foot of the pedal for a ten minute period allowing the Newton Abbot visitors to cross for two scores.

With the young Withies again galvanised and eager not to let any more points against them they redoubled their efforts. And with tired heavy legs on the away side the speedy Withy youngsters took full advantage to use the available width and score three further tries to bring the game and the first half of the season to an end with a final score of Withycombe 47 Newton Abbot 12.

This has been an outstanding half of the season with the young Withies racking up 555 points in their games played so far, and a bright second half of the season anticipated.