Wisbech youngsters feature in three games at Thorney

Storm Darragh disrupted the age-grade fixture list right across the local area, but the Wisbech squad of U12/13 players managed to get to Thorney RFC.

Fortunately, the worst of the rain stopped before the kick-off.

The cold wind was a challenge for both teams who showed tremendous energy and spirit to play three games of 15 minutes.

The pitch was in great condition allowing the players to show off their team and individual skills.

The Wisbech team were set the challenge of playing at a more controlled pace than at the end of the previous Sunday’s games. This approach was put into practice from the kick-off.

Strong running and accurate passing soon led to tries.

An impressive feature of the team’s play in the first game was the safe catching of the Thorney restarts which allowed Wisbech to add to the scoring.

The Thorney team chased, tackled and rucked in a very determined manner and showed that they could gain ground with some forceful running.

In a break between games, the team agreed to focus on some extra go-forward at the rucks.

This soon paid dividends with some turnovers that put the team on the front foot.

The possession that was won was used very well with impressive individual running and pleasing off-loading to support runners which resulted in more tries.

Before the third game, the team was reminded of the need to tackle low.

As with the other work, the lads responded positively with several well-executed tackles.

When in possession the strong direct running, energetic rucking and safe handling by the Wisbech players led to more tries.

Thorney continued to defend with determination and showed great team spirit when carrying the ball at the Wisbech defenders.

Well played to both teams for the spirit in which the rugby was played. It was particularly pleasing to see so many different Wisbech players score tries.

Wisbech coach Dave Dobson thanked Thorney RFC for their hospitality and efforts to make sure the fixture went ahead.