U8′s News
MONDAY MAY 6TH 2013
AWARDS Day:-
On our usual Mill Road pitches at 9.30 on Bank Holiday Monday – directly ahead of Army Day activities.
APRIL 28TH 2013
SUDBURY FESTIVAL:-
We took 2 mixed ability teams to Sudbury in an effort to maximise the amount of children getting experience of a Festival, and reports as follows:-
POOL 1 – CRFC Reds
Game 1 v Sudbury A: The home team started at a pace which took CRFC a few minutes to adjust to, by which time we were behind, and were never to catch up. However, the match did even out and some great tagging by Eleanor, good team play started to develop and a notably stellar run from Ethan down the wing for his score, just not enough this time.
Game 2 v Ipswich YM: A better start this time, defending improving and Noah made a great effort to stop a try. Noah then turned on the burners for a couple of trys, and some real determination got Owen over the line too. Max B contributing throughout was well rewarded with his try but we came up a little short again against a good side.
Game 3 v Hadleigh A: We were now finding our feet, and despite the mixed team we pushed the Hadleigh team that had won the Ipswich Festival the previous week all the way in a close encounter. The opposition were strong in defence and Joseph was taken down a couple of times illegally but still picked himself up to power over a couple of trys. Max B continued his good work with excellent support play for another couple of trys, Alannah made space for Noah to score, and Owen also got one. Considering the well drilled opposition who had been playing as a team for some time this was a tremendous performance if still a defeat.
Game 4 v Ipswich. For another group of kids this dead rubber could have seen them drop their heads, but we have a fantastic spirit in the group. Whilst we did not win this last match Noah once again was tagging everything and Owen, Noah and Ethan all made excellent runs for trys. Joseph was enjoying himself and after some tough moments earlier in the day wen over the line 4 times which a big smile on his face.
No final but just immense credit to the group who showed all that was good about our Club and their character in spite of the results which were at time a little harsh.
POOL 2 – CRFC Reds
Game 1 v Sudbury B: Bright start from Colchester with solo tries from Toby, great defending from all the team and excellent tagging by Max. Good running and passing saw Colchester win out 9- 6.
Game 2 v Hadleigh B: The Hadleigh team were not so experienced as Colchester and the better ball handling from Colchester soon showed. All the team got their names on the score sheet and Colchester were able to demonstrate that they can play a passing and running game. Hadleigh kept persevering but Colchester comfortably won 9-3.
Game 3 v Braintree: Braintree had shown they were a strong team in the earlier rounds but Colchester were in fighting form and kept them at bay for long periods of the first half. This was a tight match with both teams winning turn over balls, tagging superbly and running very well. With Colchester on the charge to equalise in the last play of the game an errant tag came off the would be try scorer and the try could not stand. Colchester lost out 5-6 in a very competitive and closely fought game.
Game 4 v Woodbridge. This was a must win match for either team if they wanted to go through to the play offs but it seems as if too many lunch time chips got in the way of a good performance. Silly mistakes steadily crept in to the Colchester game but Woodbridge were suffering a similar fate and the game was neck and neck throughout. There were still some flashes of excellence with try matching try but the sparkle seemed to have gone from Colchester when Woodbridge fought that little bit harder to get the final play ball over the line to win 5 -6.
Although no play off place an enjoyable festival for the team who generally played very well and did themselves proud.
See Fixtures & Results page for scores and scorers, and here are some pictures from the fixtures:-
Yellow Squad
Red Squad
APRIL 28TH 2013
AWAY at WITHAM:-
On a sunny Sunday afternoon the blues took a trip down to Witham for the last game of the season. Whilst some individuals shone at different times through the day, everyone played there part and the end result 3 out of 3 wins for CRFC.
First match saw Jonny produce a great run for a try, Alex B running length of pitch for his score, Thomas also making his mark and Josh running down the wing to complete his hatrick.
Second match saw some fantastic teamwork from Josh West and Charlie Warren to help set up scores, Jonny crashing through for a try, Oscar producing a brilliant run for his first score and Josh getting another hatrick.
The whole team continued to show great positional play from all in match 3 and one of the tags of the season from Thomas Davies to save a try. More great running from Josh C produced his hatrick of hatricks ! Only slightly overshadowed by a powerful display by Oscar who ran in 5 as we wrapped up the season in style.
See Fixtures & Results page for scores and scorers, and here is a squad picture:-
APRIL 21ST 2013
HOME with Brightlingsea:-
Finally there was some spring like weather for the last but one fixture of the season. While two teams went to Ipswich one team stayed to welcome Brightlingsea to Mill Road where three games were played.
Game 1: Colchester got off to a flying start with a fast try from Dominic. Brightlingsea countered with some initial good tagging from the team but could not keep them at bay. The match ebbed and flowed with the restarts but Brightlingsea went into half time with the upper hand. The second half started with a Brightlingsea runaway try which was quickly balanced with another solo effort from Dominic. However the good tagging from the first half had deserted the team and Brightlingsea soon replied without hindrance. Max charged over the line on a surging run and Alannah took a good pass to dodge round several players to score in the corner. Some good individual but only occasional tagging failed to hold off some fine running and passing from Brightlingsea and the visitors finished the victors 8 – 9.
Game 2: the second match began with a turnover by Brightlingsea although Colchester won it back for Kane to score a fine team effort. Brightlingsea responded with a good try and Dominic received a fine pass from Alannah to reply and keep Colchester in the game. However the good tagging which Colchester started with at the beginning of the first game deserted them and Colchester were fortunate to go into the break on level terms. The second half started with an excellent try from Ethan following some good team passing, but Brightlingsea replied with a solo effort from the restart. As the game progressed some silly mistakes slipped into the play and with turnover balls, missed passes and some stout defending Brightlingsea managed to take a solid lead. In one of the last plays of the game Josh W from the restart went on a searing run, dodging, ducking and diving to evade numerous tag attempts and score a fine try in the corner. But once more Brightlingsea emerged triumphant rolling out winners 5-7.
Game 3: this started with a breakaway try for Brightlingsea and when Colchester tried to reply the Brightlingsea defence held firm. Several turnovers and run outs kept the first half very tight and the visitors went into the break with a 1-3 lead. After the break Colchester came out a different team and started to play as we knew they could. Kane led the charge with a great run straight down the line and a try in the corner. Finally the quality of tagging and position play picked up and the home team held the visitors away from the try line. Some great passing and running gave Kane the chance to score again. Brightlingsea rallied and snatched a score from themselves but as Colchester picked up the pace Max took a flying pass on the run to set up Ethan to score. Another breakthrough try from Dominic sealed an emphatic second half win but it was only good enough to bring a draw to the game 5-5.
Special mention for Ethan and Alex T who played for Brightlingsea at different times when one of their players was injured.
APRIL 21ST 2013
IPSWICH RUFC Festival:-
We were asked to grade our teams and so put out an A and B team versus our usual efforts to mix things up.
POOL 1 – CRFC Bs
Game 1 vs Ipswich: Owen opened the scoring with a run from his own half, Ipswich then replied before Emily scored from short range after a pass from Owen, Ipswich replied again before Colchester retook the lead after a good passing move finished in the corner by Owen to make it 3-2 at half time. Ipswich levelled the scores before Emily scored again after turning the ball over, Ipswich scored 2 more tries to take the lead before Emily completed her hat-trick, Ipswich went ahead again before the last move of the match was called and Eleanor scored in the corner after the 6th tackle had been called. Honours even.
Game 2 vs Hadleigh B: Owen opened the scoring with a try after running nearly the whole length of the field to score, this was followed shortly after by another try from inside his own half from Alex, the first half scoring was completed by Charlie after a good pass from Owen. Colchester increased the score straight from the kick off with Eleanor finishing off a good move. Hadleigh scored a try before Jonny scored from close range and then Emily scored after a run from inside her own half after turning over the ball after the 6th tag to complete a comfortable victory.
Game 3 vs Sudbury: Colchester opened the scoring with Emily finishing off a good passing move, Sudbury then scored twice to take the lead before Jonny scored straight from the restart to level the scores at leave the half time score at 2-2. Emily scored again after a multi pass move before Sudbury scored again to level the scores, some good tagging from both sides resulted in no more being were scored and Colchester finishing in second place in the pool and through to the Plate final.
Plate Final CRFC B vs Bury
This Plate Final was a clear step up in class against a strong and at times physical Bury side who started strongly opining Colchester back and securing turnover ball on the 7th tag. By the time Colchester had adjusted to the different level of play, the game had got away from them, but enormous credit to the team who kept going to the last and had some excellent moments with a well taken ball from Charlie leading to a terrific try from Josh. Tagging of a different class by Eleanor, Charlie and Alex as well as Jonny making one particularly strong run down the middle. Colchester were rewarded with 2 further trys both by Owen who showed his skilful running and finding space where others could not to better reflect the terrific effort Colchester put in on the score sheet. Well done Colchester B – credit to the Club.
POOL 2 – CRFC As
Game 1 vs Woodbridge: A rude awakening to the quality in this pool as Woodbridge started off at a pace, with great pace, set moves and some excellent tagging. However Colchester have are made of stronger stuff these days and by half time we had got on to the score sheet initially via Noah and Oscar who they simply could not be contained as half wore on. Thomas showed great hands to take a long pass by Joseph to score his try and we were now in control. Woodbridge still showed their talent but with Noah’s electric running, Gus chipping in with a nice try and Oscar completing his hatrick it was a great winning start.
Game 2 vs Hadleigh B: If anything the bar was raised again in the match against Hadleigh. Toby got us off to a solid start in what would prove a tight affair. The opposition were well drilled in attack and defence but we held our own and Maxs tagging stood out. Colchester showed great determination but both Thomas and Joseph were denied close to the line, the latter on last tag. In the end Hadleigh just edged the match despite a break from Noah and another power run by Oscar – Hadleigh would go on to be worthy winners of the Festival final.
Game 3 vs Stowmarket: Colchester now knew the level of competition and went toe-to-toe from the start of this one. Noah thought he had been tagged but went on to score when he realised not. Gus continued to show great support play and was again rewarded with a try. Thomas had a strong game and got on the score sheet and Joseph was able to break up play which allowed Noah to ultimately run in a further try. There were some missed opportunities with Thomas and Joseph being tagged just short of scoring, but the win was secured nonetheless.
Game 4 vs Bury: Another strong team and quite physical for tag rugby at least. Our lads again rose to the challenge in another really tight match. Low scoring and tagging from Joseph and Noah standing out and ensuring we were able to keep them at bay. Joseph was brought down but recovered to score his try, Thomas produced an unstoppable run for his well deserved try, and Noah gave us another of his speedy efforts to score. Max was producing a great individual display and was rewarded with a try too but not quite enough to see Bury off as scores were all level coming the last play of the day when the referee bizarrely gave turnover ball to Bury on their line, resulting in them scoring the winning try. Credit to our lads for respecting the decision despite the evidence in what would have made the difference in Colchester making the Plate final, and just a great effort.
See Fixtures & Results page for scores and scorers, and here are some pictures from the fixtures:-
Our CRFC B Plate Finalists
The Squad
APRIL 14TH 2013
Coaching plus ‘BRING A MATE’ Day:-
It is our last full coaching Sunday of the Season and we are using it as an opportunity for anyone of the appropriate age to come along and give Rugby and CRFC a try. There will be coaching but emphasis will be on fun and should provide an insight for anyone thinking of trying us out next season. ALL welcome !
APRIL 7TH 2013
HOME with NORWICH:-
At last the sun shone on our Mill Road pitches, and along with it came a touring Norwich squad who fielded 2 teams for a set of matches against our boys and girls who we set up in mixed ability into 2 teams. Six matches were played in total and all were well contested and incredibly even. Our guests showed great team spirit and were well organised by their coaching team, a couple of days bonding in Clacton having clearly done them no harm at all. Overall though CRFC just edged things with 3 wins, 2 draws, and a solitary defeat but more importantly all the children had a great days rugby, smiles all round, and they clearly left their energies on the field as there was an eerie quiet as all enjoyed some food after the matches!
Special mention for Toby Clinch for some excellent solo tries, Alex Thomson finding gaps that could not be seen, some exceptional tagging from Charlie Warren possibly only surpassed by a couple of extraordinary tags by Thomas Davies, Emily Eves finding space along the wings to score, Owen Hopes getting on the score sheet and notably from one unstoppable effort after an exceptional take on the run from an offload by Joseph Loizides. Dominic Batchelor finished off the day in style, picking up turnover ball to run nearly the length of the field for his last try day of the day in the last action of the day. Finally a big thank you to Norwich for helping make a great day and for the plaque they presented (see picture below) which will go on display at the Club.
Just a great days rugby overall with everyone playing their part and a great advert for anyone looking to come along to our “Bring A Mate” day next Sunday April 14th at 10.15am at our Mill Road ground – all welcome.
See Fixtures & Results page for squad, scores and scorers, and here are some pictures from the fixtures:-
MARCH 24TH 2013
COLCHESTER FESTIVAL CANCELLED
A BIG thank you to all those who helped and or volunteered. Many of you have seen from previous years what a massive undertaking the organisation and planning is, and many hours have gone in to the day without any reward or opportunity for the children to enjoy the fruits of that effort.
Our next get-together is after Easter on 7th April. We are no longer visiting Ipswich on that day as we now have, not only the expected visit of Felixstowe, but also a touring Norwich team. We also hope to have press along so hopefully the weather will have calmed down and we can get a full turnout on that day to present ourselves in the best possible light. See you all then.
MARCH 17TH 2013
SOUTHEND B FESTIVAL:-
A team of seven from the U8s went to play in the Southend B Festival and the weather conditions were far from ideal - mud, mud and more mud, and then rain ! The team played five games in our pool. The team played well together, lots of passing and support. Some great runs, excellent tags at times, tagging generally could of been better, but improved as the day progressed.
The boys won 3, drew 1 and lost 1 and so came 2nd in their pool and went on to play Southend in the Plate Final. Their tagging was much improved and they managed to turn the ball over twice, which led to trys on both occasions, and finally to victory and 3trd place overall.
Thanks to our coach Graham Patten, who was also our appointed ref – especially as he got so wet while we all sheltered under the gazebo !
Like to thank Southend for their hospitality, and the U8 control tent who kept everything running smoothly.
See Fixtures & Results page for squad, scores and scorers, and here are some pictures from the fixtures:-
Before the mud
…after the mud
MARCH 3RD 2013
AWAY FIXTURE at BRIGHTLINGSEA:-
We took a mixed ability gropup of 8 to play Brightlingsea on a beautiful Spring morning where the sunshine gave witness to a few bare legs among the children. Conditions were perfect and the hosts very welcoming and organised. With them being a player short we agreed to rotate players to them so as to even things up which worked well. Match reports as follows:-
The first match started with some good tagging, followed by a great recovery from Kane who went on to score his try. Jakub was also getting involved in the tagging but also snuck through for a try. Emily and Dominic were weaving around the opposition and scoring for us, and a good effort ended with Joseph going down in the corner. The tagging was improving with Alex B starting the day as he meant to carry on with some stand out effort and was just enough to win this first match.
The second encounter was just as well balanced as the first. Dominics running was a highlight and he was rewarded with a hatrick of trys. Jospeh had a couple of excellent runs and Kane produced a real power effort through the opposition before being bought down. Jakub broke through for his try and another strong all-round performance from Alex B adding trys to his tagging and defensive work. Defense was improving but even the tag of the day by Alex T could not stop a narrow defeat this time.
A great days play was rounded off by a final match-come-coaching session which gave Dominic and Jakub one last chance to show their direct running skills with a brilliant effort through the middle, and Alex B finishing off the day with a succession of tags showing everyone how it should be done – well done.
A final special mention to those children who in good sporting tradition, put on an opposition shirt and played for them like they meant it, though Emily, Ethan and Joseph did not need to go as far as scoring excellent trys for Brightlingsea, though each of them did !
See Fixtures & Results page for scores and scorers, and here are some pictures from the fixtures:-
FEBRUARY 24TH 2013
AWAY FIXTURE at HERTFORD:-
We mixed up our 2 Red/Blue teams again (Squad lists on Fixtures/Results page) for a series of matches againts 3 Hertford teams on temperatures just above zero. Match reports as follows:-
BLUES
The first match against the Lynx saw Dominic, Thomas, Oscar and Max all weigh in with multiple trys in an end-to-end encounter which did expose the weakness in defense. In sayiong that, individually there were good examples in the likes of Kane showing good tagging as did Max, which was much needed on this cold day. Running and scoring was a bit easier and Thomas produced a couple of great scoring runs in succession, straight running from Oscar, Dominic showing his worth but Max standing out in this one where we came up just a little short. The defense was again the culprit in the second match against the Pumas, which may have something to do with us having mixed up the teams again, but all good experience.Thomas scored immediately after their opening try from the start and we continued to see good running going forward from Kane, plus Jakub and Alex T were getting more involved – Alex T in particular gave us a a great run and pass that helped Max score one of his 3. A brilliant try by Oscar was not enough to help close the gap in this one. The group clearly were gelling better by the time of the final match against the Cheetah/Bobcats. We started securing turnover ball and from just such an occasion Dominic ran the length of the pitch to score. Alex T was rewarded for a strong run with his score and Oscar showed great determination to take the ball, run and score despite string defense for one of his 3 trys. The defense was definitely improved lead by Max with some great tagging and Jakub scored from turnover ball too. A final pitch length score by Dominic for his 4th of the match sealed the win, good reward for a great team effort.
REDS
The Reds first match was against the Pumas and they proved tough competition. Max B worked hard for the team with some great runs and passes to keep possession at key moments. Jonny Hedley produced a terrific run for a try and Charlie took a great p[ass for his try. Gus got on the score sheet and throughout, Toby showed his ability with great support as well as running to score 4 times but not quite enough to win this time. Defense improved in the second match against the Cheetah/Bobcats notably from Alex B and Toby. Max B remained unrewarded but still produced good breaks and passing and Gus was more involved with good support and a couple of scores notably from one end-to-end run. Ethan and Charlie got involved and scored but once again Toby came through with 4 scores and some great play overall. The good form continued into the Reds last game with Toby still scoring and producing perhaps the tag of the day, and the whole team getting on the score sheet for a well earned final victory.
See Fixtures & Results page for scores and scorers, and here are some pictures from the fixtures:-
FEBRUARY 10TH 2013
YELLOWS AWAY FIXTURE at HARWICH:-
Colchester Yellows made their second port of call in two weeks, this time to Harwich & Dovercourt RFC. The weather was on the chilly side with the wind howling in from the nearby beach, we were on one of the pitches further from the sea as the nearer pitches were waterlogged and were informed we wouldn't get the sea spray as the tide was in - as advised by one of the Harwich parents !
There was a short warm up period before the first match started. An end to end match resulted in a 8-7 win for the home team with the Colchester trys shared throughout the group.
An immediate start to the second match which was another end to end game which resulted in another narrow win for Harwich 12-11. Credit to Dominic in particular who ran in 6 trys in this match, capping a good performance.
After the second game it was a rapid return to the clubhouse for warmth and food on a very cold day. All credit to the kids AND parents for facing up to both the opposition and the extreme elements !
Some pictures of the day contained in the following:-
RED/BLUES HOME FIXTURE with BRENTWOOD:-
Some very wet and windy conditions for todays matches, which our brave young players dealt with well on our temporary pitches. Match time was limited to avoid hyperthermia but some great rugby was played by our 2 teams which were put together on the day by Tony Day. Match reports as follows:-
BLUES
The match started with some good interplay getting the ball to Noah who finished well. Some decent tagging notably by Jonny got us the ball back soon after leading to a length of field try by Toby with the first of his 3 in this match. We also saw a great break from Joseph who set up Oscar to finish. A fantastic, mazy run by Eleanor ensured we edged out Brentwood in this encounter.
Toby continued his excellent performance in the first match with a great break to start this second match, setting up Alannah who scored with a jinking run. Noah showed us his sidestepping skills to go the length of the pitch to score. Brentwood were finding it more difficult to keep pace with us in this match despite benefitting from a pitch-length try from our Emily who they had (wisely) borrowed for the match. Defence was turned up a level, good pressing, some excellent tagging by likes of Eleanor, resulting in turnover ball for trys by Toby and Joseph. The match ended with some terrific teamwork which summed up our performance in the 2 matches, with a great pick up and run by Noah, quick passing to Toby and on to Joseph to finish and complete the win.
REDS
The match started with a great try by Brentwood, albeit scored by our (loanee) Max Patten ! After that we got ourselves together and some good passing by Max B to Josh who scored the first of his brace. Our defence was much improved and some excellent pressing caused Brentwood to spill the ball and an alert Owen seized the opportunity with a brilliant pick-up followed by an almost pitch length run for his deserved try. The rest of the match was a tight affair but our team play made the difference in the end and it was a great team try that lead to Charlies second and match wining try.
Max P was back in Black for the second match and really stepped up, showing real leadership to our Reds. He lead from the front with a strong solo run for our first try. The match saw some excellent trys from our team, notably a great dodging run by Max B, and end-to-end effort by Charlie who kicked on again from his showing at Woodford, and a fantastic breakthrough run by Josh right down the middle. Improved teamwork in this match along with some individual excellence resulted in a well-earned wider margin of victory !
Some Pictures of the day:-
FEBRUARY 3RD 2013
YELLOWS AWAY FIXTURE at FELIXSTOWE:-
Colchester Yellows made the trip to the Suffolk coast to play Felixstowe
at the Coronation Sports Ground. As the temperature was on the low side
it was decided to play two 5-aside games simultaneously with Felixstowe
lending Colchester a player so everyone was active, a good move !
We were made very welcome by our hosts . We played a series of games with a necessary warm up first.
Some really good positives to be taking from the day with Jonny play very
well throughout and good team ethic shown particularly by Finlay Yarrow who asked to go back on - mum was pleased!
Good rugby and good development too, albeit in freezing conditions. Well done all and some pictures from the day:-
RED/BLUES AWAY FIXTURE at WOODFORD:-
Good effort by Woodford to get this match on with pitches holding up well considering the dampness. Everyone was early to avoid parking issues (scare tactics working well) and we mixed the teams up again to play a selection of teams from Woodford. Match Reports as follows:-
BLUES
Blues first game started with a try to Woodford after ball went to them after 6 tags. Owen produced our first with a strong straight run. Second try again came from Owen who played solidly throughout and we witnessed some great tagging from both Owen and Joseph. The second half saw Charlie step up with a strong, determined run against his old team and as this first match progressed the team gelled, improved and worked well as a unit; all reflected in performances later in the day.
The Blues second game started with Owen passing to Joseph, straight through Woodfords defense and down over the line. This game proved to be very evenly matched with some good game play from both teams. Our last try of the first half, on the whistle, was down to Gus determined effort to even the score. Despite Oscar receiving studs to the front of his leg in first half, showed the character of the team to come back on after a little ice and went on to score an amazing straight run through the Woodford defense. Our final two trys both came from Josh who is now proving to be a very strong team player, as well as delivering some great solo runs.
Oscar was definitely the star of this final game producing three blinding trys all with Joseph on his shoulder to protect our ball, and Owen again came through for us. Tiredness may have been creeping in as our tagging during this game was not as strong as it had been, with Woodford managing several strong straight runs. Our second from last try for the Blues on Sunday came from Alex who was determined not to miss out on the action.
A loss, a draw and a win against some very strong competition, well done all with everyone on the scoresheet !
REDS
See Fixtures & Results page for scores and scorers, and here are some pictures from the fixtures:-
JANUARY 27TH 2013
ALL MINI RUGBY CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER
JANUARY 20TH 2013
ALL MINI RUGBY CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER
JANUARY 13TH 2013
Our first fixture of 2013 was at HOME with a strong muixed ability group from Maldon. We mixed things up a little which initially impacted some of the teamwork, but it was a great, if tough days rugby with everyone getting involved.
See Fixtures & Results page for scores and scorers, and here are match reports.
Match 1 CRFC Red 9 v 9 Maldon 1:-
This was a keenly contested, end to end match. With 18 tries in total, it was fair to say that tagging wasn't the top priority at times! There were some breathtaking tries from Noah, Max, Thomas & Toby. Maldon more than played their part in a cracking contest.
Match 2 CRFC Red 10 v 7 Maldon 2:-
A game played in great spirit, was littered with great tries, Toby (4),
Noah (3), led the way for Colchester. There were also great scores from
Max, Thomas & Rory. Their was a marked improvement in the tagging,
led by Max B & Charlie. A special mention to James from Maldon, who
in helping himself to 5 tries, lit up the game with his mazy running.
Match 3 CRFC Yellow 3 v 8 Maldon 3:-
From the off this was a tough game against Maldon. Scoring two trys, Their second try coming from our player being knocked out, ball to them. Our players produced our first try Kane starting ball, passing to josh weest then to Alex t and down on the line.. Then came a speedy straight down the field from their player.We then witnessed an inspired try from Alex Banks after a great pass from Toby. Our third try of the game came from Josh West, who side stepped their players after taking the ball from Darcy and Alex Thomson. Well done to all our players a great effort.
Match 4 CRFC Yellow 1 v 7 Maldon 1:-
This proved to be a tougher game than the first for our Yellow squad, Maldon played hard. Our players did well to keep up with their pace. We saw some great tagging from all our players , high lighted by Alex Banks desperately going for the tag ending up on the field. Kane produced a determined try by dodging many tag attempts by Maldon for his team in this final game.
Match 5 CRFC Blue 9 v 11 Maldon 2:-
This proved to be a very evenly matched game. With 20 trys in total during this game, all but two of our players getting the ball over the line. All players showing great support and team spirit. High lighted try thought has to be Eleanor's leap in to the sky receiving the ball from Dominic, side stepping the entire Maldon side thumping the ball over the try line.
Match 6 CRFC Blue 7 v 8 Maldon 2:-
Our first try came after Maldon were pulled up on a one handed ball. The rest of the game was well matched with Oscar, Joseph, Alannah, Josh C and Jonny producing trys. None of which would of happened had we not had such a well formed team. Eleanor being very vocal organizing the players, Oscar using the whole width of the field before his try. Our second from last try Alannah running the whole length of the field. The last try Josh running through their players straight for the line.
Match 7 CRFC Red/Blue 8 v 8 Maldon mix:-
The was quite literally a game of 2 halves, contested by different teams
in each half. In the first half the Reds played some of their best
rugby of the day, with some lovely interplay between Thomas, Rory, Noah
& Max, led to tries for each of them. Toby scored a cracking solo
effort. Half time score was 5-3. The 2nd half saw some great tagging
from both sides, Joshua bagged 2 tries, with 1 for Joseph. Maldon fought
there way back valiantly to earn a draw at the death. A great final
game, which was fitting given the excellent spirit in which the day was
played.
DECEMBER 16TH 2012
Our final fixture of 2012 was at HOME with Chelmsford. WIth the visitors down on expected numbers we focused on training for Yellows and put out 2 teams of mixed ability from our Reds and Blues pool to play 2 Chelmsford sides in unseasonably pleasant conditions.
SeeFixtures & Resultspage for squads, scores and scorers, and here are match reports.
Reds Match Reports:-
The first red game started with a knock-on to us, followed by Eleanor passing to Jonny then onto Joseph for our first try. Chelmsfords first try was a straight run from one of their fast players straight down the middle. We responded by getting the ball to Emily who scored after some great side stepping. The first half finished at 3-2 to us. We began the second half strongly with great teamwork shown by Oscar getting the ball out to Emily then Joseph. During the following move we witnessed some great tagging from Emily. The next move unfortunately saw Oscar just come up short from a great solo try by edging out of touch putting the ball back into Chelmsfords hands, but that only gave us the opportunity to show our steady improvement in defence and notably some amazing tagging from Dominic. Our final try came from Dominic who was by now, picking up a loose ball behind our try line to race the length of a pitch for a well deserved try. A great match to watch.
The second red game started with some great team work from all players, putting Chelmsford out of play resulting in our first try between Eleanor and Joseph. Chelmsfords excellent first try came from another of their strong players with an end to end try. Our second try came from Owen showing quick thinking and good hands to get the ball down over the line. Owen followed that up with some neat dodging before Eleanor placed the next ball down for us. Emily then went close but was tagged just before the line tried to get the ball to Owen but the ball was then out of touch and Chelmsford went on to score another try. Our next try came from great teamwork including a great pass from Charlie, who had joined the reds for the last half of the game, which made it to Emily and on to Joseph who placed it over the line. The last try of the game came from Oscar who was rewarded for his great support play after received the ball from Owen and Emily.
Well done to all our player especially Charlie, Dominic, Toby and Jonny who joined our Red team during the games and made excellent contributions.
Some pictures:-
Blues Match Reports:-
Blues first game started with some great tagging by every player, generating turnover ball. Our second try involved Gus, Toby and Rory in a great team try finished by Noah. Strong, direct running was in evidence throughout the team with Gus, Josh, Toby and Rory all getting on the scoresheet as a result. A high point was Noah going on to score an end to end try to wrap up the match, but the real highlight was the overall great support play and some brilliantly organized defense.
Our second Blue game started strongly for CRFC again with great tagging from Thomas and Rory. We saw a super try from Rory after being supported by the whole team who stayed with him up to the line. Second half saw Toby get his team into shape for the start of play which in turn took him to make two trys. Chelmsford found Josh unstoppable in this match and he went over for 4 trys but once again the trys were spread around the team. A terrific effort from Thomas got him his reward and we also had an amazing end to end try from Gus. Another win but more importantly a good performance, seeing brilliant improvement throughout the group.
Some pictures:-
DECEMBER 9TH 2012
SeeFixtures & Resultspage for squads, scores and scorers, and here are match reports.
RED/BLUES AWAY FIXTURE with WESTCLIFF:-
On a beautiful December morning we took our A/B Squad to play Westcliffs 2 mixed ability teams. We had lost a few players due to sickness and injury over the prior days and Westcliff volunteered one of their own to supplement our Reds, our Reds and Blues having been rotated for the first time.
Reds Match Reports:-
The Reds first game began with a strong first run from Max Patten, who managed to get the ball to William (Westcliff loanee) who, despite taking a tumble as he was tagged, fed the ball to Joseph Loizides resulting in our first try. Westcliff responded despite our strong defensive line and excellent tagging from Max and Oscar Lansbury-Dunn, and we were unable to stop their first attempt for a try. Our second try again was a great team effort with Emily Eves passing to Max, then Oscar, finishing with Joseph in the corner - a feat he would repeat a couple more times during this match. It was to and fro and we saw a great try from their player William who received a fab pass from Max to score. William seemed to be enjoying playing with our guys and proceeded to grab us a sixth try with Emily finishing with our seventh. Oscar to Emily then again one last challenge from their players tagging Emily on the line, but unable to stop us in a very even encounter despite us edging Westcliff out. (7-5)
By the second match our 5 Reds were now finding their rhythm and this time were supplemented by Mikey from Westcliff, who once again showed great enthusiasm for the role. We saw a great try from Max running straight through Westcliff and over the line. Mikey really pitched in with our third try; Mikey to Emily to Mikey onto Joseph to a running try. We were quickly on top, with Josephs direct running regulalry wrong-footing the Westcliff defence and weilding more trys aided by some superb tagging from Emily, Josh Calvert and Oscar, with turnovers being earned due to 7 tag rule. Second half we saw Westcliff come back strongly with some great defending however they could not back on terms with CRFC and we saw one of the moves of the day in which Joseph break through Westcliff yet again only to be tagged short of the line but find Max overlapping at pace and showing great hands to take the ball in his stride and at pace for an unstoppable try. Our final attempt at a try came from Oscar who took a tumble on the ball. Never mind fantastic team work and interplay all round. (6-2)
Game three started with a knock on to us, Oscar receiving well from Joseph leading to our first try. This was a tighter encounter in which we witnessed some fantastic tagging from Emily and Max; Emily was again brilliant in defense for us. Oscar was soon breaking through again, this time supported by Joseph who received the pass on the run for yet another try for us. Second half remained tight with Josh showing his passing ability, and Max and Joseph working well in formation with the rest of team. We saw a great try from Emily during this half, having had the ball passed from Oscar. Emily was so determined to produce one more try but instead attempted a great face plant at the end. (4-3)
Some pictures of the day:-
Blues Match reports:-
Some excellent tagging from both Noah Arulampalam and Eleanor Jacobs got the Blues off to a good start. Great team effort from Owen Hopes onto Jonny Hedley to score a super try. We then saw two storming trys from Owen and Toby Clinch who went on to get a hatrick of trys in this match. All players very much involved in the game, with some great ball contact. Brilliant tagging resulting in an evenly matched game. (10 - 10)
The Blues second game saw some improved tagging again from all our players and excellent attack play too. Great passing from Eleanor onto Noah who went on to score our third try. Once again, brilliant passing from Eleanor this time to Gus Pattinson who got our fifth over the line. Highlights of this once again very even match were Noah with his forth try of the match and Eleanor's passing and great play shown throughout. (7-7)
The Blues 3rd and final match, as with the Reds, was a more cagey affair. Again great passing from all the team followed by a great running down the pitch from Owen resulting in a try. Toby took a great pass from Noah sprinting for the line resulting in our third try. Very consistent tagging through out the game. Very well matched and enjoyable game to watch in which we just pipped Westcliff. (5-4)
Some pictures of the day:-
A special mention for Westcliff. Many parents commented on the terriffic atmosphere the day was played in with the tone set by the Westcliff coaches who exhibited some excellent in-match coaching along with the referreeing duties, as well as providing substitute players to make a 6 for our injury/sickness hit Reds. As such, we are sure all the children on both sides went away having enjoyed themsleves and improved - our primary goals.
YELLOWS HOME FIXTURE with HARWICH & BILLERICAY:-
Another cold day at the Mill Road open air freezer, the visitors today were from Harwich & Dovercourt RFC and Billericay RFC, and in view of the cold weather it was agreed that CRFC would lend the Billericay B (yellow) team two players for each game so we had four teams and that all teams would be in action to keep warm.
The first game CRFC played was against Billericay A with the CRFC squad being made up of Alex Banks, Dominic Batchelor, Jakub Bohaty, Max Boone, Kane Garrard, Charlie Warren and Finlay Yarrow. CRFC got off to a good start after an early move took them up field and Max touched down from close range. Billericay responded immediately from the kick off with a quick try, followed shortly after with another score. Max scored again to bring the scores level after a good passing move but Billericay scored again before half time to make it 3-2. The second half was a more one sided affair with Billericay scoring 4 unanswered tries to finish up with a final score of 7-2 to Billericay.
In the other game Darcy Carroll and Josh West played for the Billericay B team against Harwich, Darcy got on the score sheet with a try for Billericay in a 7-4 win for Harwich.
In the second round of games against Harwich the CRFC squad was Alex, Jakub, Max, Darcy, Kane, Charlie and Josh. This was another one sided game as Harwich ran out 9-1 winners with Jakub getting the solitary CRFC try. Max and Darcy both went close to getting tries with good support play from Charlie.
In the other second game Billericay A defeated Billericay B 9-4 with Dominic Batchelor and Finlay Yarrow playing for Billericay B.
The Final game for CRFC was against Billericay B who were also represented by Alex and Max, the CRFC squad was Dominic, Jakub, Darcy, Kane, Charlie, Joshua and Finlay. The first score of the game was by a Colchester player, unfortunately he was playing for Billericay as Alex scored after a cross field run to score. Kane pulled the scores level after a long run resulted in a try but Billericay hit back straight away from the kick off with Alex scoring again. CRFC hit back immediately with Charlie finishing off a move from the kick off with a cross field run to score in the corner. Alex completed a first half hat-trick and Billericay scored again before half time. Billericay extended their lead again in the second half before CRFC scored again from the restart with Kane touching down, Billericay also hit back directly from the restart. The final score of the day was also the try of the day as Dominic finished off a move that started on the Colchester try line. Final Score CRFC 4 Billericay 6.
The other final game played was a clash between the previously unbeaten teams Billericay ‘A’ and Harwich, this game went the way of Billericay 4-3, congratulations to Billericay on their success today particularly after our enjoyable visit to Billericay a few weeks earlier.
NB: A big thank you to Roy Banks re the scoring and match reports for Yelllows !
NOVEMBER 25TH 2012
This Sunday, due to the weather, our only surviving fixture was at HOME with Sudbury for A&Bs where we put out 2 teams of mixed ability from our A/B pool, Reds and Blues to play 2 Sudbury sides in very blustery conditions which were a challenge for all.
SeeFixtures & Resultspage for squads, scores and scorers, and here are match reports.
CRFC Reds started their first game brightly, against a strong Sudbury 1 team. They soon found themselves 2 tries behind, but never let their heads drop. Excellently worked tries from both Ethan & Owen, brought our Reds back into the game. A burst of 3 tries from Sudbury all but put the game beyond Colchester. However some great interplay from Josh, Eleanor & Rory led to tries for each of them. A couple of late scores from Sudbury secured the win. (TB)
Reds started their second match against Sudbury 2 with a length of the pitch try from Josh, & the team performance never let up! A flying tag from Rory was another highlight of the 1st half. Sudbury played their part in a cracking contest, scoring some good tries. They couldn't cope with the strong running from Josh who bagged 4 tries, Rory who claimed a hatrick, & Joseph with 2. Alex's tagging & support running were equally eye catching. The players (& parents!) were rightly buzzing at end of a thrilling match. (TB)
CRFC Blues played consistently in their 2 matches against Sudbury 1 and 2, with some great tagging notably from Gus and Oscar, Charlie and Thomas strong running, and multiple trys?for Max, Toby, Noah and Gus.? This input from the whole team lead to 2 solid victories over the?very competitive Sudbury competition.
After the initial round of matches it was suggested (by Sudbury) that the 2 Clubs put out 2 teams but this time based on ability from which we put together a A and B teams based on ability/form on the day for the first time.
For the A team, we saw a marked improvement on the defensive side, and some key tags taken, as well as closing down of the opposition. Sudbury were well organised and focused, but were unable to cope with Colchester going forward where everyone contributed to some great team trys, though Josh Calvert and Noah Arulampalam should be congratulated on not only making the step up to A/B but also integrating well and indeed going over for some important trys with strong, committed running. Terrific team performance and it was good enough to see Colchester edge out a valiant Sudbury effort.
For the B team, Thomas opened the scoring, with a cracking long range try, but overall Colchester couldn't quite manage to hit the heights of earlier in the day. Sudbury scored 4 unanswered tries, before Colchester worked their way back into the game with a pitch length try from Rory, quickly followed by a 2nd from Thomas. The final Colchester try was well worked between Charlie, Owen & Eleanor, led to a try for Ethan. It wasn't enough to avoid defeat, but there were lots of positives to take from a great day's rugby. (TB)
Overall a challenging but great day's rugby for both sets of children, and very rewarding to see the progress we are making against opposition who have proved difficult for us in the past. Well done all.
NB: A thank you to Terry Breen for his contribution on the scoring and with some of the above, excellent match reports !
NOVEMBER 18TH 2012
A/B vs Southend 1&2 - Home
On a beautiful day for rugby, Southend brought 2 very capable and athletic teams to play our mixed ability Reds and Blacks. With relatively recent experience of playing Southend fresh in the memory, it was encouraging for all to see the progress our kids have been making so evident on the pitch.
For the Reds, Thomas Davies showed some terrific support play throughout as well as an end-to-end try, Max Patten weighed in with some good running and trys, and Gus Pattinsons overall game was rewarded with Player of the day, with both games won in some tight encounters.
For the Blacks, despite some elusive Southend elusive running 2 matches were played at a high tempo and whilst both were lost, the competitiveness, particularly in attack, was clear. Eleanor Jacobs was always involved with excellent support, running and passing. Joseph Loizides, with some forceful running delivered 8 trys and interlinked well with Owen Hopes who also scored some excellent trys in an inspired performance resulting in his player of the day recognition.
Great teamwork and energy plus a last gasp try by Joseph Loizides resulted in the Blacks pipping the Reds in a final inter-Colchester match to round off a great day, played in terrific spirit, very much aided by Southend and the attitude their players and coaches exhibited on the day - first class.
SeeFixtures & Resultspage for squads, scores and scorers and here are some pictures from the day:-
Owen Hopes in attack
Joseph Loizides scoring
Eleanor Jacobs evading taggers
Max Patten on another strong run
Gus Pattinson heading for the line
Oscar Lansbury Dunn on the move
CRFC Development vs Billericay – Away
On a sunny Sunday morning Billericay helped make this a fun day for all. Billericay provided a good challenge for the squad with good running from Josh West, Max Boone and Jonny Hedley; against physical opposition the team stayed strong and carried on even when players got injured they dusted themselves off and carried on playing. In other matches the team showed some good passing and good try scoring with some notable running from Alannah Boone and Josh Calvert however the whole squad gelled as a team to get try after try.
After the matches, both squads had a game of tug of war. All in all they did CRFC proud. Great effort all round and here are some pics of the day:-
Max Boone eluding taggers
Jonny Hedley dodging taggers
Jakub Bohaty on the move
Josh Calvert breaking through
CRFC on the attack
SeeFixtures & Resultspage for squads, scores and scorers
NOVEMBER 4TH 2012
With the rain coming down hard throughout the morning, Woodford still managed to bring a couple of teams along and we also fielded 2 teams of what ended up being mixed ability for some competitive rugby matches.
Despite the driving rain and cold, the kids all did remarkably well to keep going and indeed turn in some excellent performances. Tagging was a slippery challenge but there was notably some excellent attacking play with great solo try from Alannah Boone, Thomas Davies running in from distance and Oscar Lansbury Dunne turning in a Player Of The Day performance with excellent team play as well as great trys.
SeeFixtures & Resultspage for squads, scores and scorers
OCTOBER 21ST 2012
We sent 2 teams away this weekend for A and Elite Festivals at Southend and
Bishops Stortford Respectively.
Both festivals were very competitive and it was a real challenge for our mixed ability teams but they achieved some creditable results with some excellent individual performances along the way.
Particular well done to our Southend team who achieved a 4th place overall in very wet conditions and here is a picture of the happy, if muddy team:-
SeeFixtures & Resultspage for squads, scores and scorers
OCTOBER 14TH 2012
The team we sent to the Festival were a credit to the Club with some excellent play throughout our Pool matches resulting in us making it into the Shield Final in which we beat Diss 6-5.
Noah Arulampalam stood out as Player of the Day with some excellent trys and running with the ball in hand. But Excellent contribution through the group with terrific running by Alannah Boone, great passing by Emily Eves, and good organising by Joseph Loizides.
SeeFixtures & Resultspage for squads, scores and scorers, but just a couple of pictures from the day:-
