Wisbech Rugby Club's nine-match winning streak ends with defeat to North Walsham II
Wisbech’s nine-match winning streak came to an end to second-placed North Walsham II on Saturday.
It was a game which will be seen as a missed opportunity for the Men in Red.
It lived up to the pre-match predictions. In a physical hard-fought encounter, Walsham won the tightest of matches 9–0 courtesy of three Jamie Hooker penalties.
Conditions were heavy and Walsham adjusted their gameplan to suit. The first half saw both sides enjoy an equal share of possession and penalties in an evenly matched arm wrestle.
In a tight match Wisbech’s tactics were clear - dominate the lineout and when in range drive to the line with the pack.
The visitors had three or four kickable penalties but, on each occasion, opted for a kick to the corner.
On another day and against another team it might have worked - but not against Walsham, whose defensive effort was solid. Try as they might, the Men in Red just couldn’t break through.
The first half ended 6-0, with Wisbech having it all to do in the second half.
The second half was a repeat of the first half, with neither side being able to cross the line. Wisbech enjoyed the majority of possession but rarely broke through Walsham’s defensive cordon.
The home side continued to manage the game well and saw out the 9-0 win, with this proving the difference between the sides.
Wisbech director of rugby Leonard Veenendaal said: “Walsham kicked their penalties when they had the opportunity to do so which enabled them to come out on the right side of the scoreline.
“We made our own problems, particulary around the breakdown area, and that’s not good enough, but we have some positives to take from the result.
“The three week break did not help but that is no excuse, we are still top of the league and have to accept every team will come after us as if it’s their cup final.
“There are ten games still to be played against ten good sides and after those games are over, we will tot up the points and see where we are then.
“We need players to step up their commitment, we have to approach each game as if it’s the final.”
Wisbech are at home to Colchester II on Saturday.
Elsewhere, Wisbech U10s took on West Norfolk RFC on Sunday.
Before play started, the Wisbech players joined with the West Norfolk players to observe a one minute applause in memory of Doddie Weir.
The players formed a number five shape, Doddie’s shirt number, to pay a respectful tribute to someone they consider a rugby hero.
From the start of the three games played, Wisbech put into practice what they had talked about in the warm-up.
Ball carriers used two hands on the ball and there was strong rucking to help maintain possession and turn over possession after a successful tackle.
This resulted in some of the best rugby the team has played so far this season.
The U10s were given praise for the energy they applied in all games played, the teamwork shown and the good spirit in which they played the games.
West Norfolk players and coaches were also congratulated for being great opponents.
Wisbech U10s coach Dave Dobson thanked the families on the touchline for the positive support given.
The Club has age group squads from U7s- U11s and new players are always welcome. Boys and girls in school years 2-6 are very welcome to join. Training and matches take place on Sunday mornings from 10am.
