After a brief two-week sojourn, the boys travelled to the lovely setting of Ashfold school. These fixtures have always been an entertaining affair and the 2023 version proved no less. After some really hard work in practice, captains Monty F and Chris E led a determined team onto the Ashfold pitch. In a strange twist, I had to referee the game as opposed to standing on the sidelines. Luckily, Mr Barrett stepped in brilliantly to be the guiding voice from the side of the pitch.
Bruern were switched on from the start and a bruising first half saw the boys tackle and ruck with zeal and intent. Edward R and Henry D were particularly tenacious in and around the ruck area with Louis S distributing the ball quickly and efficiently. Bruern held a 2 try lead up to the last 5 minutes when Ashfold bit back with two excellent tries orchestrated by their very good No 10.
The second half saw Ashfold score two quick tries, and this threw the team a bit as they desperately tried to score back thus losing a bit of their shape and poise. However, they rallied in the last 10 minutes of the game and were unlucky not to score at least two tries against the robust Ashfold defence. The game ended 6-2 to Ashfold but it was a hell of a game.
A game where the boys learnt a lot but one where they can celebrate the teamwork, effort and heart shown. Three qualities which are more important to me as a coach than wins or losses.
I'm so proud of how the squad is developing and look forward to more next week!
Mr Vadivale
