The Ravens welcomed last seasons U13's Champions to Gosport Park with both sides opting for a full squad played coaching session of 3 periods. Both coaches opted to field strongest sides then bring on other squad players to give all 50 young players present a chance to play some rugby.
Ravens started well with a try after 4 minutes from Harry(R) followed 4 minutes later by a try from Ben, both went unconverted. Tottonians kept up the pressure and were awarded a penalty try, they converted, and then scored one of there own which gave them a 12-10 lead going into half time. Ravens were strong up front with prop Sam playing his best game of the season but Ravens looked rattled and Head Coach had strong words with them in the huddle.
Second half began with Ravens dominating possession but not making breaks as the back line was static and quickly shipped the ball to the wings where the cover tackles were waiting. The forwards began to take a more direct route and drew in the defence. After 5 minutes Owen went in for their 3rd try and again Ben followed up with 2 more. Harry converted 2 from 3. Ravens began to introduce their substitutes. They then let Totts in again and everyone knew Totts weren't giving up. Ravens shut out the half and it finish 29 - 17 to Ravens.
The third session saw a full introduction of the remaining Raven squad players and the team lost its cohesion and too many tackles weren't made. Totts score 3 tries in 6 minutes and converted all 3. Overall score had now changed to 38-29 in Totts favour. A couple of injuries and tactical substitutions saw Ravens refocus their game and score 4 tries in 9 minutes, 3 for Ben and 1 for Harry (F). Harry converted all 4 to make the final score 57 - 38 to Ravens.
Samuel (R) was awarded Man of the Match by Totts in recognition of his outstanding game in the front row and on the flank later in the game. He maintained a high work rate, never shirked a tackle and constantly put pressure on the opposition. A captains performance all day by Ethan and good contributions by Euan and William in getting the ball moving again. Olly and Tom (E) made sure that the backs were receiving good ball.
A good win to have but still more to do as Ravens build towards their Cup run.
Perhaps some practice diving at the try line would pay dividends as 4 scores were lost by poor technique ... or diving at the wrong line!