Fullerians A team win comfortably in the cold

“You lot play well for each other.” Those were the words of the Hemel coach whilst watching his team play our A-squad in a well-disciplined, hard fought encounter.
Hemel scored the first try after a good bit of backs’ interplay, but after that blip (must be switched on from the first whistle, Fullerians!) the visitors never looked like they were going to do so again.
The forwards dominated at the breakdowns and provided good ball for the backs, all of which passed extremely well and played some very nice rugby. In particular, Tom Walsh and Harry Samuel deserve a special mention for their physicality and willingness to put themselves amongst the muck and bullets. In fact, the entire pack were very efficient today, and each of the boys (including our old friend Lewis Whyte who out in a guest appearance!) can be proud of themselves. Well done.
The ball that the forwards provided was well used, especially by Max Brown at flyhalf, who continues to grow in this role. “The danger man,” was how the visiting coach described him, before putting his own son on him to try and nullify his efforts. Angus Finnegan was solid at fullback, combining good attack with sensible positioning in defence.
Defensively we were very solid. Hemel were much stronger in the second half, but we kept them scoreless thanks to an organised defence. Our line speed still needs a little work, but good communication among the backs meant we were in the opponents’ faces, forcing mistakes and nullifying their attack. Tackling was very good, and a special mention has to go out to Oliver Higgins, who put in some fantastic tackles, showing great technique and a desire to dominate his opposite number.
We might have scored more in the second half, but for some poor handling at crucial moments.

Things to consider:
Breakdown – on the whole quite good, but we were still not as dynamic as we need to be if we are seriously going to challenge the best teams in the county next year.
Ball retention – four tries wiped off the board because we did not look after the ball properly.
Lineout – lost too many against the head today. We have to be clearer on the calls and more forceful when challenging for the ball. Forwards were slow to bind and drive when the ball was won. Work needed (again).
RESULT: Fullerians won 3-1 (HT score 3-1) Try scorers: Tom Walsh, Harry Samuel and Max Brown.