Saxons Show their Fighting Spirit at Portsmouth

The Saxons trained at Portsmouth before splitting into two teams to play the single Portsmouth side. Portsmouth had some big spiky players who liked to run and charge and fight their way through tackles, but it was great to see that the Saxons didn’t shy away and worked together to tackle and stop the Portsmouth runners. What was pleasing to see was the good tackle technique being shown by the Saxons resulting in players being stopped or brought to ground, Portsmouth didn't tackle as well and while they were committed there were more scrag tackles and swinging players about. Keep to the techniques you have been taught and you will continue to tackle safely. The first match saw determined attack and defence and was still scoreless after the first half, with Freddie going a step too far when finishing a try and Portsmouth held up over the line - good defence.

The second half erupted with the Saxons working hard to support each other in attack and releasing Freddie to score twice. Portsmouth fought back and scored and the game finished 2-1 to Gosport Saxons.

After a short break the second match got underway and was again a close and tight game, with lots of turnovers through ripping the ball in the tackle, some clearing out and Saxons competing for the ball on their feet. I did not see any Saxons playing the ball when they were off their feet today, well done. The score line was fast and furious, with Alfie and Matthew T scoring twice each to finish off some great phases of play involving all the team. The game was heated and a bit of a scrap on occasions; there were some scraggy and high tackles from Portsmouth but I liked the Saxons discipline - you directed your aggression into competing for the ball, protecting it and taking it forwards - Well done. With the departure of a Portsmouth player, Will H stepped in to play for Portsmouth and made a great contribution to their team, tackling hard, supporting the ball carrier and making a great break by running a good line before finishing his try. He was so integrated he stayed with Portsmouth for the three Cheers at the end! You showed great sportsmanship, scored a great try and took the Saxon spirit to Portsmouth, well done Will, you are the Saxon Player of the Match.

The coaches and many parents agreed how strong the Saxons are. We are not the biggest side, but your spirit, determination and teamwork is unparalleled. I know that every player on the pitch is able to take the ball, look after it, take it forward, protect it and make it available for their team mates. You all did it today, we saw great drives, fantastic offloads and passes, players taking the ball at pace, the ball passed out to players in space.

You played as a team today, you looked after each other, we have no selfish players, everyone carried the ball and I hope you enjoyed it. You had a bit of a scrap today but came away smiling.

Well done Saxons, the Parents and Coaches are proud of you. You are meeting with success and becoming a difficult team to beat....

There will be an album to follow courtesy of team Phot Peter C, once it has been cleared by the Webmaster. Thank you Peter.