Scouts show resiliance and grit to win tough encounter

U16's went into the game with several players switching positions due to injuries, however the positive attitude to adapt and "get on with the job" typified the lads commitment to work for each other. In a very physical first 20mins the Scouts stood resolute and matched Dunstable tackle for tackle. Both teams showed a willingness to ship the ball and play expansive rugby, however every time they looked to pass out wide Noah and Gianni worked tirelessly to close the space down and force them back inside. With the forwards starting to gain the upper hand and some excellent counter-rucking this gave Josh time and space to control the game as we worked the territory. Dunstable then made a fatal mistake by kicking the ball to Tom Berry who's counter running, foot work and strength took him from the half way to the try line, Scouts 5 points up. Our second try came from a sustain pressure on the Dunstable try line and Elijah crashing over 10-0.

Dunstable's had good possession and territory showing some nice running lines and support play but after trying to go through the middle, without success, Dunstable looked to the wings - where they found Jack and Matt "Birthday Boy" Duffy waiting for them!! Even if they broke through the line Tom Berry was solid as the last line of defence and didn't miss a tackle all afternoon, brilliant performance Tom. As half time approached Dunstable was camped on our try line but time and again the Scouts defensive stood firm with everyone putting in massive tackles to deny the home team a score. Half time 0-10.

Second half was going to show which team had the better fitness levels and with our forwards covering the park and starting to offload to supporting runners it was clear the Scouts had worked hard during pre-season and this started to pay off. Turn over ball from the line out (great steel Matt Redmond) and quick reaction from Ethan Bonner produced a well worked manoeuvre from the backline giving Noah space to carve through a tiring defence for Scouts 3rd try, which was well converted by Josh. Dunstable showed great determination to get back into the game but this wasn't the day for our lads to miss tackles and with the likes of Harry, Luke, Ewan, Louis and Reece hitting them back and Evan storming into the 9 and 10 channel Dunstable had no answers. With a few minutes left it was great to see our new player Josh Chandler taking to the pitch and having a run out with his new team mates - welcome Josh. A final converted penalty pushed the game away from Dunstable with the final score 0-20.

Well done lads, just back this up next week....