Saxons Struggle in Second Day at Poole

The Saxons team had some players who had played on the Saturday, but gave other Saxons the chance to enjoy the 'Sports Tours' organised Festival at Poole. The weather was kind, with perfect conditions and as ever, the Sports Tours organisation was fantastic.

Ruislip A v Saxons 5 - 1

Gosport Saxons found themselves up against Ruislip 'A' for their first game, and despite some determined battling and attacking, found it hard to make breaks against Ruislip and get away to score. Aden J made a characteristic break for our only score, well done. By comparison, Ruislip A's found gaps in our defence which they were able to exploit and some missed tackles allowed them to pull ahead by three scores.

Hove v Saxons 5 - 1

Again Saxons were not short of determination and good ball handling, maintaining possession well but were unable to make breaks, save for a great Callum T drive which sucked in defenders and a great offload sent Freddie B on a run into clear space. Again a ragged defence made it to easy for the fast Hove runners.

Wendens Ambo RFC v Saxons 6 - 0

This game provided a demonstration of how effective a blitz defence can be. Wendens Ambo were so quick up as a line and tackling the ball carrier as he received the ball, that it was hard to make any yards. To their credit, the Saxons conceded little ground (we observed other teams being driven back 30 yds while in possession before the 7th tackle turnover, requiring Wendens to make 5 yds to score!), but the Wendens were equally devestating in their attack and in contrast, our defence left gaps for them to exploit.

To thier credit, the Saxons battled hard all day. Every player was confident carrying the ball into attack, showed composure being tackled and protected the ball. There were no silly turnovers given away and when we were organised our defence was strong. There was much to be confident and upbeat about, and whilst some tackling practice will never be amiss, our weakness is more about organisation than commitment or skill, and that can be taught.

The Saxons had a great Festival at Poole and if the fun and exploits enjoyed by the U10s U12s and U14s are anything to go by, we should stay over at the campsite next year!