Match report: 2

Ilkeston U12 v Mansfield U12

Date: 13TH October

A chilly but bright morning saw a large Mansfield U12 squad travel to Ilkeston for a development match. After a warm-up session, Mansfield selected their first half team. Ilkeston, whilst short on players, utilised players from the Mansfield U12 squad to ensure all had extensive game time.

H1:

Kick-off saw a brisk start with both sides gaining turn over possession. After 2 minutes Mansfield pressed forward retaining possession and keeping the ball live through multiple ball carrying phases across the pitch. The last of these saw Mansfield quickly into the ruck to secure the ball, quick distribution gave Mansfield (Freddie-New) the opportunity to score the try in the corner. From the kick-off Mansfield charged forward applying pressure and catching Ilkeston in possession, Mansfield secured possession and passed the ball away from the ruck for Mansfield (Corey) to score the try under the posts.

The match continued to flow with some great individual ball carrying and tenacious tackling on display from both sides. Good game awareness and link up play gave Mansfield two further opportunities to score- these were both taken by Mansfield (Thomas and Elijah). With the half ending Ilkeston applied pressure to the Mansfield “D” line before scoring the try in the corner (Frankie).

H2:

During half time the team line-up was switched with Mansfield players also representing Ilkeston. Kick-off started with the same pace and throughout the half, players from both teams continued to display a relentless work ethic both at the breakdown and in open play. Two skilful individual ball carries resulted in tries for Mansfield (Thomas and Frankie) with Ilkeston responding with tries (Corey) and an Ilkeston team try. A try saving “tap tackle” from Mansfield (Joe) on his teammate (Elliott) closed out the match.

Match Summary:

To echo the sentiments of an appreciative Ilkeston coach. A competitive and enjoyable game played with the spirit and values of Rugby in mind. To finish- Birthday bumps under the posts for Big Max and Jacob.

Mansfield Player of the Day: Elliott