Eccles RFC

A Winning Start.

Match Report

After a frustrating 18 months of Covid delays, the Senior Colts finally got what they wanted, a game of competitive Rugby. We did a few adapted friendlies in the spring, but this was the real thing: Full Contact, scrums, mauls and lineouts, with actual points for the winner.

Eccles started brightly, with some great possession and attacking play with Connor almost scoring with a solo run after few minutes from a penalty tap and go. An accidental infringement from Sale in the breakdown led to an Eccles scrum, which after several phases made its way across to Henry who went over by the corner flag. A frustrating period of play followed characterised by Eccles playing their way up into the 22 but giving away penalties allowing Sale to kick their way back into territory. The saving grace for us was our solid lineout, where we consistently disrupted Sale stopping them getting clean ball. But the sheer number of penalties eventually allowed them to level the score. The remainder of the half continued in the same vein, Eccles winning the open play but losing territory to penalties.

After a frank group discussion at half time the lads committed to cleaning up their play and supporting each other into the breakdown.

This new attitude showed immediate results with Eccles pinning Sale firmly into their 22. Eventually a panicked fullback clearance from Sale flew straight to touch. Eccles secured the lineout, with sale knocking on at the next ruck giving Eccles a 5yd attacking scrum. After a few resets Jake claimed the ball passing it wide to Louis who strode over for his opening try of the season. History repeated after the restart, with this time Will B taking the posts after a penalty to give us a 13:5 lead.

Unfortunately, Henry was tackled as he claimed the restart twisting his knee. For a team playing with only 6 backs and one sub this was a worrying development.

With two forwards now playing in the backs we had to grind out the moves and phases, but Duncan still managed to go over for our third try.  Now with no replacements the heat took its toll as Sale could rotate their 7 subs. These fresh legs eventually showed, and in their first visit to the Eccles 22 Sale scored their second try. Eccles regrouped, and with the return of limping Henry showed their passion to hold on for the win - aided by a late Penalty from Will B.

A great game, especially when you consider that the lads hadn’t had a full squad training session since April. A little more practice in defence and we could equal our U16 season successes. Two special notes on this match: Firstly, a big thanks to Jack H, who playing in his first match for us, slotted straight into the team and impressed us all with his commitment and attacking play. Secondly, the Eccles Ladies, who stayed after their training to cheer our lads through a second half of searing sunshine. Thanks for the loyal support!

Match Captain: Thomas C

Man of the Match: This isn’t always about who played the best, but who played their best. Showing growth in their skills, capability & commitment. On this basis our men of the Match are Dylan and Jack.

Report by Andy Connell, Eccles RFC U18 Colts Manager

Highlights

8’ 5-0 Try Henry
20’ 5-5 Try Sale
35’ HT 5-5
42’ 10-5 TRY Louis
45’ 13-5 Penalty Will B
57’ 20-5 TRY Duncan Conv

Will B 61’ 20-12 TRY & Conv Sale

66’ 23-12 Penalty Will B

70’ FT 23-12.