23 September at Avonmouth RFC.
The first game of the new season. With a depleted squad and two injuries N&B were able to field the minimum squad for the game. With a majority of players favouring forward positions, some players had to play out of their preferred position.
The game kicked off and within two minutes Avonmouth had run in a try. Not deterred by this early set back, N&B fought back with some strong tackling, in cases doubling up to deal with taller stronger players. This, combined with defensive pressure and having the edge over Avonmouth at the ruck, led to Nailsea and Backwell’s first try.
This invigorated the squad and was followed a spell of concerted pressure; straight running, great decision making and support play at the tackle, and increasing the tempo of the game at every opportunity was pleasing for coaches and supporters alike. The kicking game was also used to good effect; kicking into space when under pressure, and pressing the ball gatherer. This combination, and the players’ recognising opportunities to release the backs resulted in a flurry of tries. Half time score: 1 try to 6 in N&B’s favour.
Spirits were high going into the final 25 mins on both sides. Avonmouth came out with renewed vigour and started the second half with a strong try closing the gap to 2-6 tries. This was followed by a period of sustained pressure from Avonmouth, which N&B defended well against continuing the good work from the first half.
Somewhat against the run of play N&B ran in their 7th try, and again this lifted their spirits. Re-energised, N&B’s play in the loose rose to another level. Overturning rucks at will, and shifting the ball quickly allowed the backs to demonstrate their flair; drawing their opposite numbers as the ball moved down the line, and releasing the wings N&B capitalised on the larger pitch, which seemed to suit them.
N&B struggled at the set piece scrum, and this is an area they’ll want to work on. In broken play N&B looked formidable, but they will need to be more structured as the season progresses.
However, nothing can take away from the real Team performance the boys put in. The tries were evenly spread, with those not scoring making a contribution in some way, whether that be, securing the ball, making last ditch tackles, delivering a well-timed pass, or running support for the ball carrier.
N&B came away 12-2 winners. The game was played in the true spirit of rugby with both teams putting everything in until the last whistle.
A fantastic building block for the rest of the season.
