Parramatta 1st Grade Colts vs Eastern Suburbs
Saturday 13th March at CA Redmond Field, Brighton Le Sands
Parramatta 1st Grade Colts continued their encouraging start to the 2010 Season by impressing all who watched them play against Eastern Suburbs last Saturday. The game was definitely much quicker and more intense than the week before against the Newcastle-Hunter Representative Squad. I am glad to say that we all “stepped up” and performed well under the pressure of a 1st Grade Colts “Competition” Game.
Both teams started in top gear and continued to play with a commitment that is rarely seen in mid-March trials. Whilst spectators searched for shade, we defended our line in the first half in typical Two Blue style, with our back row of Pat Searson, Wayne Marion and Jordan Goddard all working themselves to a standstill. Our Centres Rob Beathe and Brett Jones need also to be congratulated on their ability to make some bonecrushing tackles in the backs.
Our quiet confidence was complemented by a tenacity that definitely took our opposition by surprise, resulting in the referee issuing a few yellow cards for ill discipline. In the last few minutes of the first half we took play into their quarter with Brett Jones going ever so close to scoring. Both teams went to the break for a well earned rest and a scoreline of one try to nil in favour of the home team.
The half time break was positive and players took ownership of the situation. The second half started with an inspirational run immediately from the kick off by our second rower and skipper, Ian Parkinson. Straight away Easts were on the back foot, and we continued on the “never say die attitude” which was evident in the first half. An Easts scrum advantage and a few penalties against us for entering from the side did not allow for the continuity required to find their tryline.
The efforts of Ryan James, Chris Sheather and Chris Simons who joined the fray, was typical of good club men. Well done and thank you. Most Parramatta players were playing their first game in 1st Grade Colts, which also meant “a first” for 80 minutes of rugby. Whilst the final score was 2 tries to nil against us, we had plenty of wins throughout the day. Not all of our wins were seen on the scoreboard.
A big thank you to all coaches and managers who worked so well together on the day. Likewise, it is great to see so many parents, friends and families come along to support our teams. Thanks.
This week we will start training at Grantham Oval, Seven Hills at 6.30pm on both Monday and Wednesday nights. Next weekend we will travel to Penrith.
Thanks,
Peter Koen
Parramatta 2nd Grade Colts vs Eastern Suburbs
Seconds Colts displayed a gutsy brand of Rubgy against a very large and physical Easts outfit.
Again our disrupted preparation for this week's game saw several changes to the team first selected and I thank the players who stepped up to the challenge. Thanks to Todd Carter who played a full game in 3s and then over half a game for 2s. Thanks also to Lucas McClennan, Tim Sproats, Jack Baum and Joe Bailey for helping out following injuries.
We were super competitive especially in the first half gaining substantial turnover ball or disrupting their play. We must learn the value of making our first tackles and putting the ball-carrier on the ground. This will provide additional opportunities to win opposition ball.
Our discipline in the second-half was a little loose and this provided Easts with ball and field position to take advantage of scoring opportunities.
On the positive side we continue to develop our attacking chances and we saw at least 5 tries go begging due to a lack of patience and composure. We will learn to capitalize on these and exert & maintain pressure on other teams.
Chris Smith played well at #10 and was always a threat when he had the ball in his hands. Unfortunately he suffered a headknock and had to retire hurt. Ryan James controlled the game well and drove his forwards relentlessly. Big efforts by the back-row trio Chris Sheather. Brendan Post and Michael Barrett cut short several attacking raids by Easts. Luke Stevens who started on the wing and then at 13 ran hard and straight and more match fitness will result in him being a very important attacking weapon.
In order for Seconds to improve, we need to see you guys regularly at training and our continuity and teamwork will improve as a result.
Penrith this week , lets train well and see the improvement on Saturday.
Steve
To all players we need to see more of you on the bus, this develops a good club spirit and it ensures that you are at the game on time. When a player is late it results in a good deal of uncertainty and stress for the Coaches. We understand you may have important issues that you need to deal with after a game and we will always consider your interests paramount. However in general we would like to see you ALL on the bus. It saves you petrol money and we fundraise with the refreshments for our end of season activities.
Also a big thank you to Glenn Goddard and Brian Blacklock who tirelessly ran the water for all grades, it's hard work in that heat. Thanks Guys.
