First game of 2020 didn't go our way

All the boys seemed keen and eager before kick off even though they had spotted their seriously big opposition. Tackling was goint to be tough but Michail Nastoulis showed how to do it with two massive early hits. The bigger they are, the harder they fall. From the kick off Celts were under pressure and before they'd even touched the ball had conceded under the posts after a prolonged attack from Eastleigh. Niall Moss was a terrier all over the pitch, chasing down the oppositions and tackling well. Then, with the ball in possession, he distributed well. Eastleigh's defence was incredibly quick and nullified all our attacks quite quickly; something we were unable to content with nor replicate. We never really got going. When we made a breakthrough with William Breeze and Rhys Jones down the flanks, they were met by a seasoned full back who didn't let anyone pass - we'll nickname him Gandalf for now....

George Popplewell, Charlie Noble and William Parker (Captain) all got stuck in at the rucks and mauls and made ground when the ball was in hand. Before long, Eastleigh were looking for their second and after getting the ball to their rapid wing, a try looked nailed-on. But, oh no, Owen Williams came across the pitch cool as a cucumber and not only stopped the winger but with the help of his friends got him into touch and made the turnover - Well Done!!

That was not the only try saver of the day, Noah Gridley chased down an Eastleigh breakthrough all the way to the line to not only make one tackle on the line but he then got up and with Rhys Jones in support drove eastleigh back off the line - super commitment!

Harry Martin and Harry Ormsby made a big impact off the bench with pace and strength in abundance. However, they could not beat the Eastleigh defence and despite a few near misses, Celts were unable to make a breakthrough. There were a few things we can improve on through training and practise which we will look at soon - defensive formation, scrummaging, rucking.

We're very proud of the way the Celts kept trying and the commitment they showed in defence. At the end of the day, we were beaten by a better side. What counts is the way the boys came off the pitch, with smiles and their heads held high. These boys will learn from today and be a better side for it. They could easily have chucked in the towel against intimidating opposition but they kept going, well done!!

Celts Player of the Match - William Breeze
Most Improved Celt - Harry Ormsby

Thanks to everyone who helped out today.