Match Report - Round 7 - Darra 15 v Marist 0
Photos courtesy of Adam Allica
Match Report - Round 5 - Marist 80 v Uni Norths 0
After the tough game the previous weekend, Marist found themselves playing against a desperate opposition. There were many excuses why we could have just gone through the motions, playing with a depleted side due to withdrawals and injuries. In addition, some of our dominant forwards were playing despite having endured sickness during the week. Our training was disrupted and we had numerous players out of position and one on the bench.
However, this is a different squad with a mentality that we are able to overcome any obstacle to ensure we turn up to play. Despite being challenged to play in positions they are unaccustomed to not one boy whinges. They just get on with it. This is a credit to each member of the team and should lead them to many more victories during the season.
Also pleasing is the fact that there could have been excuses to go one out in attack against a tiring defence. However, the opposite was the case. Most of the tries were team efforts, using the ball expansively to create opportunities across the paddock. The unselfish play is rare in schoolboy rugby, but this team work together and are growing in confidence each week.
The work of the forwards was the catalyst for such a score. They laid the platform with hard, decisive running, working hard at the breakdown and combining well in attack. Matt and Burton were dominant in this area and completely controlled the centre with their running game. Tom, Aidan and James took advantage of this and were very effective in all facets of the game. Aidan was at his devastating best, creating problems with the defence in close and out wide. Ben, Joel, Will and Aaron also played their roles to perfection.
Probably the most impressive aspect were the backs. They were very clinical with their ball movement and confident in their attack. This was due to both Haysey and Will taking control and directing play all over the oval. Creating opportunities continuously led to many charges down field. Liam and Sam, playing together in the centres for the first time, were terrific, creating chances consistently out wide and down the middle. Their defence was also effective, blocking out any chance the opposition had to make ground. The three Joes – Egan, Mamalai and Young, profited from this work and made tremendous ground each time they touched the ball.
While our attack was great, our defence was just as impressive. Uni-Norths had no answers to our quick defence, limiting their decision making and chances. This was maintained throughout the contest – despite having only 12 players on the field from the 25-minute mark. This was a test of our character and we stood up to the challenge. The opposition coach came up to me and stated that our performance was the best team effort he has seen all season – and they have played many of the top sides – just goes to show what we are capable of.
Boys we need to take confidence from this game and use it when we come up against the tougher opposition. We showed what we are capable of against Eddies, but we need to do it consistently against all opposition. This was a good way to finish before we have a break for the long weekend. All the best for to all those boys playing this week for the rep sides. I look forward to welcoming back three members of the team as we prepare for a tough away game against Trinity.
Points
3. Matt Galvin, Burton O’Kane
2. Aidan Tolich, Joe Mamalai
1 Will Adams, Will Hayes
However, this is a different squad with a mentality that we are able to overcome any obstacle to ensure we turn up to play. Despite being challenged to play in positions they are unaccustomed to not one boy whinges. They just get on with it. This is a credit to each member of the team and should lead them to many more victories during the season.
Also pleasing is the fact that there could have been excuses to go one out in attack against a tiring defence. However, the opposite was the case. Most of the tries were team efforts, using the ball expansively to create opportunities across the paddock. The unselfish play is rare in schoolboy rugby, but this team work together and are growing in confidence each week.
The work of the forwards was the catalyst for such a score. They laid the platform with hard, decisive running, working hard at the breakdown and combining well in attack. Matt and Burton were dominant in this area and completely controlled the centre with their running game. Tom, Aidan and James took advantage of this and were very effective in all facets of the game. Aidan was at his devastating best, creating problems with the defence in close and out wide. Ben, Joel, Will and Aaron also played their roles to perfection.
Probably the most impressive aspect were the backs. They were very clinical with their ball movement and confident in their attack. This was due to both Haysey and Will taking control and directing play all over the oval. Creating opportunities continuously led to many charges down field. Liam and Sam, playing together in the centres for the first time, were terrific, creating chances consistently out wide and down the middle. Their defence was also effective, blocking out any chance the opposition had to make ground. The three Joes – Egan, Mamalai and Young, profited from this work and made tremendous ground each time they touched the ball.
While our attack was great, our defence was just as impressive. Uni-Norths had no answers to our quick defence, limiting their decision making and chances. This was maintained throughout the contest – despite having only 12 players on the field from the 25-minute mark. This was a test of our character and we stood up to the challenge. The opposition coach came up to me and stated that our performance was the best team effort he has seen all season – and they have played many of the top sides – just goes to show what we are capable of.
Boys we need to take confidence from this game and use it when we come up against the tougher opposition. We showed what we are capable of against Eddies, but we need to do it consistently against all opposition. This was a good way to finish before we have a break for the long weekend. All the best for to all those boys playing this week for the rep sides. I look forward to welcoming back three members of the team as we prepare for a tough away game against Trinity.
Points
3. Matt Galvin, Burton O’Kane
2. Aidan Tolich, Joe Mamalai
1 Will Adams, Will Hayes
Photos courtesy of Adam Allica
Match Report - Round 4 - Wests Vs Marist
Marist 5 Vs Wests 24
A week is a long time in rugby. Last Saturday we were celebrating one of the best wins this team has achieved against Eddies – this week we came back to reality with a loss to Wests. In reflection after the game, I honestly believe that the score is not a true indication of how close this game was and perhaps under different circumstances we could have actually pulled off a win.
Let me explain. Against a team like Wests, you need a solid bench to provide fresh legs at the back end of each half. We had one reserve. This meant that the majority of the forwards had to play throughout the contest, which was a very tough encounter. We had one of our more damaging forwards out wide - Sam. I have to give huge credit to this young man. He has played out of position in the last two games and never once complained. In fact, he was very solid out wide and was terrific in defence and attack.
I will put this game down to lost opportunities. We had a chance to score in the opening minutes and again early in the second half but could not capitalise on either. Our draw and pass was not able to put the Wests backs in doubt so we had to work even harder in our general play. The centre combination of Jayden and Riley continue to develop and they are turning into a very dominate threat in the middle – both with and without the ball. Ryan at the back was impressive also. His defence, positioning for the kick and willingness to get involved adds a new dimension to our backline. Joe had a good first up game on the wing while Haysey and Will had some good moments during the contest.
This was a gritty performance, with our forwards not taking a backward step. They competed well during parts of the game while the lineout again dominated. Matt and Burton had their best games while Liam continues to lead by example. This allows Joel, Aidan, Tom, Aaron, James and Ben to compliment his work and create opportunities on the edge. Some nice linkage between the forwards created pressure on the Wests defence and we need to continue to use this style of play in the weeks ahead.
Sounds like we playing positive football. However, there was not the consistency from last week. Especially at the breakdown. The tireless work from the game against Eddies was only seen during parts of the game. We need to learn from this. Poor decision making let us down. The short dropouts have to stop and stop now. They put us under pressure straight away. Lack of communication is killing us. We have to develop this aspect of the game. The poor choice of going left where we had only two players puts us under pressure. We had them on the back foot with all our backs screaming for it on the right. We need to introduce a more astute kicking game to turn their large forwards around. We become too isolated too often, which hurts our momentum. We need to continue to build on our game each week. There were reasons that we did not perform to our best, which I think people forget about. Our dynamic winger James who was out injured could possibly have scored 2-3 tries. That would have made a different story to the result. Our player being penalised one metre from the line for a reason that still amazes me, to only see Wests score 1 minute later. A 14 point turn around. That would have made a difference. If we had more reserves to keep the momentum, going that would have made a difference. If we had a ref who – no I will not go there. I will leave that to the Wests parents.
Boys this was a game that we could easily have won. It now means we really need to focus on our next three games. You have come a long way in a short period and I encourage you to continue developing our style of play that will take us deep into this competition. Learn from this game and build on what we did against Wests. You never gave up on Saturday and this is a true sign of the willingness each of you have to work for each other. Results will go our way if this positive attitude is maintained.
Points
3 Matt Galvin
2 Sam Allica
1 Burton O’Kane, Joe Egan
A week is a long time in rugby. Last Saturday we were celebrating one of the best wins this team has achieved against Eddies – this week we came back to reality with a loss to Wests. In reflection after the game, I honestly believe that the score is not a true indication of how close this game was and perhaps under different circumstances we could have actually pulled off a win.
Let me explain. Against a team like Wests, you need a solid bench to provide fresh legs at the back end of each half. We had one reserve. This meant that the majority of the forwards had to play throughout the contest, which was a very tough encounter. We had one of our more damaging forwards out wide - Sam. I have to give huge credit to this young man. He has played out of position in the last two games and never once complained. In fact, he was very solid out wide and was terrific in defence and attack.
I will put this game down to lost opportunities. We had a chance to score in the opening minutes and again early in the second half but could not capitalise on either. Our draw and pass was not able to put the Wests backs in doubt so we had to work even harder in our general play. The centre combination of Jayden and Riley continue to develop and they are turning into a very dominate threat in the middle – both with and without the ball. Ryan at the back was impressive also. His defence, positioning for the kick and willingness to get involved adds a new dimension to our backline. Joe had a good first up game on the wing while Haysey and Will had some good moments during the contest.
This was a gritty performance, with our forwards not taking a backward step. They competed well during parts of the game while the lineout again dominated. Matt and Burton had their best games while Liam continues to lead by example. This allows Joel, Aidan, Tom, Aaron, James and Ben to compliment his work and create opportunities on the edge. Some nice linkage between the forwards created pressure on the Wests defence and we need to continue to use this style of play in the weeks ahead.
Sounds like we playing positive football. However, there was not the consistency from last week. Especially at the breakdown. The tireless work from the game against Eddies was only seen during parts of the game. We need to learn from this. Poor decision making let us down. The short dropouts have to stop and stop now. They put us under pressure straight away. Lack of communication is killing us. We have to develop this aspect of the game. The poor choice of going left where we had only two players puts us under pressure. We had them on the back foot with all our backs screaming for it on the right. We need to introduce a more astute kicking game to turn their large forwards around. We become too isolated too often, which hurts our momentum. We need to continue to build on our game each week. There were reasons that we did not perform to our best, which I think people forget about. Our dynamic winger James who was out injured could possibly have scored 2-3 tries. That would have made a different story to the result. Our player being penalised one metre from the line for a reason that still amazes me, to only see Wests score 1 minute later. A 14 point turn around. That would have made a difference. If we had more reserves to keep the momentum, going that would have made a difference. If we had a ref who – no I will not go there. I will leave that to the Wests parents.
Boys this was a game that we could easily have won. It now means we really need to focus on our next three games. You have come a long way in a short period and I encourage you to continue developing our style of play that will take us deep into this competition. Learn from this game and build on what we did against Wests. You never gave up on Saturday and this is a true sign of the willingness each of you have to work for each other. Results will go our way if this positive attitude is maintained.
Points
3 Matt Galvin
2 Sam Allica
1 Burton O’Kane, Joe Egan
Photos courtesy of Adam Allica
Match Report - Round 3 - Marist 19 Vs Eddies 7
This match in the corresponding game last year saw Eddies dominate the game winning by over 60 points. However, this is a different Marist team and one that works hard for each other during the week and in the game. This was particularly evident on Saturday where, as a team, we played perhaps the most impressive style of footy I have seen for many a year. It was inspirational to witness how we ignored the reputations of the opposition, focused on our style of play and played a consistent brand of football for the whole contest.
This was particularly impressive as we had Aidan, Matt and Dyson return from their 10 camp, and numerous injuries during the game resulted in boys playing out of position. Special mention to Sam who played in about 4 different positions. We could have used this as an excuse, but instead we gained strength and confidence knowing that no matter what confronts us, no matter who is playing beside us – we are capable of doing good things on the field against any opposition.
Where do I start – every single player can hold his head high knowing they left nothing on the paddock – giving 100% to all aspects of the game. Liam must take a lot of the credit for the way we play. For a young man the words he uses before the game and during the week ensure that the squad is ready to play and know their responsibilities. He led by example on the weekend and the result was a fine reward for all the hard work he devotes to the team.
The whole forward pack was a powerhouse for the entire game. They completely dominated all facets of the contest, especially at the break down. They steam rolled the Eddies forwards stopping their go forward and ball movement. James, Burton, Tom, Matt, Aaron and Joel were the foundations of the win. They led from the front and limited the go forward of the opposition pack. The work of Liam, Ben, Sam, Aidan Will Dyson and Riley was outstanding. Both with the ball and in defence they worked tirelessly for each other and dominated all aspects of the game. The impressive thing too was their willingness to link in attack and support the backs.
The excellent work of the forwards allowed more time and space for our halves to control the game, Both Haysey and Will had their best game of the year to date – controlling the play, providing excellent service and solid in defence. Astute kicking and good communication capped off a great game from our halves.
Now to our centres. A new combination they were up against rep centres who had gained a reputation of winning games by themselves. Big, strong and elusive they had dominated all opposition players. Until last Saturday. Both Jayden and Riley were up for this game, they put their bodies on the line and limited any space the Eddies centres craved. This frustrated them and they made little impact throughout the whole game. With their confidence growing they both attacked with aggression and variety. It was the turning point of the game when Jayden put his foot down to run a great line, control the ball and in the next phase, the ball was swung wide for James to score.
Our outside backs have made huge improvements as well. Both positioning in defence and attack have allowed them to create more space and with their pace they cause the opposition huge headaches. James, Ryan and Joe continue to develop in their position and there are many promising times ahead. Ryan’s work at the back is most impressive; he is solid in defence, positions himself consistently to nullify the effect of the opposition’s general kicks and combines well with the backline in attack. Our wingers, James and Joe always create headaches for the other team with their speed and this was evident on Saturday where James created many chances down the left flank.
Boys I want you to savour what you felt at the end of the game last Saturday. It was a special moment for you all. I also want you to now stop talking about the opposition and realise that you are capable of competing against any team in this competition. Remember also that this is round three – there is a long way to go in this season and I still believe that we have much improvement left in us. What I like about this squad is that you are working for each other and you listen. I wanted consistency at the breakdown – you delivered. I wanted the backs to provide more variety in their attack – you did this. If we continue to develop as a squad, learn from each game and build on this then I am confident that the potential is unlimited and who knows what will happen at the business end of the season. I do know that this competition is now not just a two horse race – there is another major player in the mix.
Congratulations boys on a wonderful game and even better result. Let us work hard this week so we do not waste what we achieved against Eddies. This was a real team effort but the following boys received points this week:
3 Liam Bowron
2 Jayden and Riley
1 James and Sam
This was particularly impressive as we had Aidan, Matt and Dyson return from their 10 camp, and numerous injuries during the game resulted in boys playing out of position. Special mention to Sam who played in about 4 different positions. We could have used this as an excuse, but instead we gained strength and confidence knowing that no matter what confronts us, no matter who is playing beside us – we are capable of doing good things on the field against any opposition.
Where do I start – every single player can hold his head high knowing they left nothing on the paddock – giving 100% to all aspects of the game. Liam must take a lot of the credit for the way we play. For a young man the words he uses before the game and during the week ensure that the squad is ready to play and know their responsibilities. He led by example on the weekend and the result was a fine reward for all the hard work he devotes to the team.
The whole forward pack was a powerhouse for the entire game. They completely dominated all facets of the contest, especially at the break down. They steam rolled the Eddies forwards stopping their go forward and ball movement. James, Burton, Tom, Matt, Aaron and Joel were the foundations of the win. They led from the front and limited the go forward of the opposition pack. The work of Liam, Ben, Sam, Aidan Will Dyson and Riley was outstanding. Both with the ball and in defence they worked tirelessly for each other and dominated all aspects of the game. The impressive thing too was their willingness to link in attack and support the backs.
The excellent work of the forwards allowed more time and space for our halves to control the game, Both Haysey and Will had their best game of the year to date – controlling the play, providing excellent service and solid in defence. Astute kicking and good communication capped off a great game from our halves.
Now to our centres. A new combination they were up against rep centres who had gained a reputation of winning games by themselves. Big, strong and elusive they had dominated all opposition players. Until last Saturday. Both Jayden and Riley were up for this game, they put their bodies on the line and limited any space the Eddies centres craved. This frustrated them and they made little impact throughout the whole game. With their confidence growing they both attacked with aggression and variety. It was the turning point of the game when Jayden put his foot down to run a great line, control the ball and in the next phase, the ball was swung wide for James to score.
Our outside backs have made huge improvements as well. Both positioning in defence and attack have allowed them to create more space and with their pace they cause the opposition huge headaches. James, Ryan and Joe continue to develop in their position and there are many promising times ahead. Ryan’s work at the back is most impressive; he is solid in defence, positions himself consistently to nullify the effect of the opposition’s general kicks and combines well with the backline in attack. Our wingers, James and Joe always create headaches for the other team with their speed and this was evident on Saturday where James created many chances down the left flank.
Boys I want you to savour what you felt at the end of the game last Saturday. It was a special moment for you all. I also want you to now stop talking about the opposition and realise that you are capable of competing against any team in this competition. Remember also that this is round three – there is a long way to go in this season and I still believe that we have much improvement left in us. What I like about this squad is that you are working for each other and you listen. I wanted consistency at the breakdown – you delivered. I wanted the backs to provide more variety in their attack – you did this. If we continue to develop as a squad, learn from each game and build on this then I am confident that the potential is unlimited and who knows what will happen at the business end of the season. I do know that this competition is now not just a two horse race – there is another major player in the mix.
Congratulations boys on a wonderful game and even better result. Let us work hard this week so we do not waste what we achieved against Eddies. This was a real team effort but the following boys received points this week:
3 Liam Bowron
2 Jayden and Riley
1 James and Sam
Photos courtesy of Adam Allica
Match Report - Round 2 - Marist 44 Vs Cooma 5
This match was an opportunity for Marist to learn from last week’s game and to work on the fundamentals of rugby, which will allow us to compete against any team in the competition. Travelling away and with a weakened squad due to Yr. 10 camp was not going to be easy but the build-up during the week was encouraging. We wanted to work on three aspects – disciplined footy, (which included limiting our mistakes), more consistency in our defensive structure and more variation in our backline play.
The game started to plan, with some excellent expansive play resulting in Joe scoring two great tries, resulting from solid teamwork all around. From here the game did not flow as we would have liked but for the first this season each member of the team remained focussed and did not leave it to other members of the side to get the job done. This was particularly evident in a passage of the game where Cooma were on our try line for what appeared to be at least 10 minutes – but the determination from this team reflected in the end result – preventing the opposition from scoring. This was most impressive and great resilience. It is also a credit to our captain, Liam who continues to grow into the position and lead by example.
Our discipline in the first half was much improved and our control of the football allowed us to make inroads into the opposition territory. This is where Jayden and Riley looked impressive, constantly pushing through the defence and setting up the outside backs (Joe and James) to use their speed and score on 5 occasion before the break. The most impressive aspect was the selfless play by the inside backs – it could have been tempting to take the ball and run – but this side is all about the team and this attitude will hold them in good position as the season unfolds. Much better service from Haysey and Will provided quality ball for this to happen. Ryan at the back is beginning to turn into a very effective fullback, and this should provide us with more options down the track.
Our forwards were working hard throughout the contest – and with limited numbers from the bench it meant that most had to play for longer minutes. There is still much work to be done but the effort is beginning to show. Joel was dynamic in the centre, constantly ploughing into the defence and making yardage. Tom, James and Burton ably supported him. One of the most impressive aspects was the speed of our loose forwards who were always working hard in defence, at the breakdown and in support. Liam, Ben and Sam continue to develop a great combination and will become more effective as the season progresses. Special thanks to Isaac who helped us out and made a solid contribution.
Boys one of the more disappointing aspects of this game was the missed opportunity to put into practice the moves we have been using at training. Yes, it was great to see the expansive play on Saturday but we will not get the same latitude against Eddies. We needed to be more selective in a game management, be more creative in our set plays and vary our attack. This will cause Eddies to be more hesitant in defence and provide opportunities for us to get over the advantage line. If we continue to play one out attack, we will fall into their hands – just like we did against Dara. We wasted a perfect opportunity to do this – and to have players ignore this on the field is something I do not want to see again. This was not a game to see how many tries we could score – it was a game to prepare for Eddies and we missed the chance.
We are a work in progress. There is a long way to go before we reach the standard I am expecting from this team. But the signs are there that we will become a very competitive team. This will happen if we continue to work hard during the week and take what we learn there into each game. Consistency is the other key component that we are striving for. We must continue to work hard as a forward unit from the outset and this starts at the breakdown. Too often we are not displaying the intensity required here. When we get it right we look good -–but it has to be each time. This goes with our support play where we tend to still run one out and isolate ourselves.
If you read this report there are many areas we need to work on – and yet we still completely dominated the opposition on Saturday. Imagine when we get these things right - there are some exciting times ahead. I just hope that each member of this team knows the potential you have and to bring the talents you undoubtedly possess to the game each week. Eddies will be tough, but let us worry about our own individual game, be confident in your ability and that of the player beside you and work at the aspects mentioned in this report. I know that we have the potential to do something special this season – it is more important that you all believe it. It will happen – we just need to be patient.
A special work of thanks to each of the parents who ensured all players were there in plenty of time – a huge ask but one that was greatly appreciated.
Points:
3 – Joel Leiper
2 – Joe Mamalai/James Tsipiras
1 – Riley Eaton-Jones/James Orr
The game started to plan, with some excellent expansive play resulting in Joe scoring two great tries, resulting from solid teamwork all around. From here the game did not flow as we would have liked but for the first this season each member of the team remained focussed and did not leave it to other members of the side to get the job done. This was particularly evident in a passage of the game where Cooma were on our try line for what appeared to be at least 10 minutes – but the determination from this team reflected in the end result – preventing the opposition from scoring. This was most impressive and great resilience. It is also a credit to our captain, Liam who continues to grow into the position and lead by example.
Our discipline in the first half was much improved and our control of the football allowed us to make inroads into the opposition territory. This is where Jayden and Riley looked impressive, constantly pushing through the defence and setting up the outside backs (Joe and James) to use their speed and score on 5 occasion before the break. The most impressive aspect was the selfless play by the inside backs – it could have been tempting to take the ball and run – but this side is all about the team and this attitude will hold them in good position as the season unfolds. Much better service from Haysey and Will provided quality ball for this to happen. Ryan at the back is beginning to turn into a very effective fullback, and this should provide us with more options down the track.
Our forwards were working hard throughout the contest – and with limited numbers from the bench it meant that most had to play for longer minutes. There is still much work to be done but the effort is beginning to show. Joel was dynamic in the centre, constantly ploughing into the defence and making yardage. Tom, James and Burton ably supported him. One of the most impressive aspects was the speed of our loose forwards who were always working hard in defence, at the breakdown and in support. Liam, Ben and Sam continue to develop a great combination and will become more effective as the season progresses. Special thanks to Isaac who helped us out and made a solid contribution.
Boys one of the more disappointing aspects of this game was the missed opportunity to put into practice the moves we have been using at training. Yes, it was great to see the expansive play on Saturday but we will not get the same latitude against Eddies. We needed to be more selective in a game management, be more creative in our set plays and vary our attack. This will cause Eddies to be more hesitant in defence and provide opportunities for us to get over the advantage line. If we continue to play one out attack, we will fall into their hands – just like we did against Dara. We wasted a perfect opportunity to do this – and to have players ignore this on the field is something I do not want to see again. This was not a game to see how many tries we could score – it was a game to prepare for Eddies and we missed the chance.
We are a work in progress. There is a long way to go before we reach the standard I am expecting from this team. But the signs are there that we will become a very competitive team. This will happen if we continue to work hard during the week and take what we learn there into each game. Consistency is the other key component that we are striving for. We must continue to work hard as a forward unit from the outset and this starts at the breakdown. Too often we are not displaying the intensity required here. When we get it right we look good -–but it has to be each time. This goes with our support play where we tend to still run one out and isolate ourselves.
If you read this report there are many areas we need to work on – and yet we still completely dominated the opposition on Saturday. Imagine when we get these things right - there are some exciting times ahead. I just hope that each member of this team knows the potential you have and to bring the talents you undoubtedly possess to the game each week. Eddies will be tough, but let us worry about our own individual game, be confident in your ability and that of the player beside you and work at the aspects mentioned in this report. I know that we have the potential to do something special this season – it is more important that you all believe it. It will happen – we just need to be patient.
A special work of thanks to each of the parents who ensured all players were there in plenty of time – a huge ask but one that was greatly appreciated.
Points:
3 – Joel Leiper
2 – Joe Mamalai/James Tsipiras
1 – Riley Eaton-Jones/James Orr
Match Report - Round 1 - Marist 0 Vs Daramalan 26
While this was not the start we were hoping for, I honestly believe that the score does not truly reflect the game. After 20 minutes, it was 0-0 and in fact, Marist had the better of play. However, we just could not get across the try line. Some poor execution was one reason, along with an inconsistent kicking game, which just did not allow us to get on the front foot. This was ashame as our defence was very good. We repelled anything Dara put to us and it was looking positive.
What was also very disappointing was the fact that every 50/50 call went against us and while we cannot use this as an excuse, it certainly did not help us. Two tries just before half time saw Dara move ahead but we were well and truly in the contest. We discussed at the break the need to be more consistent at the breakdown, move their forwards around and to be conscious of executing our backline moves with more authority. In fact, the backs in the first half were very hesitant and lacked cohesion, which was surprising as during the week it was exactly the opposite.
The second half started promising but some crucial mistakes let Dara off the hook and again we just could not get any momentum going. Our execution was poor and it appeared we tried to rush our play. The backs were far too flat and easy prey for the Dara defence. Again, in the second half, many close calls seemed to go against us and this proved frustrating for Marist. This frustration reflected how we played and it allowed Dara to close out the game with two more tries in the second half.
While there were a lot of negatives to come out of this game, it must be remembered that it was our first real test and we are a work in progress with many players in positions they are still getting use to. When Jayden and Riley get more game time, they will become a dominant combination in the centres. Ryan at the back was playing only his second game at fullback and in fact was one of our better players, especially in defence. Our forwards are also a new combination and the more game time they get the better, they will become. In particular, at the crucial breakdown, which still needs consistency. Tom and Joel were effective and Ben had an impressive game.
Boys, this was a disappointing start. Your reaction after the game tells me you all believed it as well. However if we learn from this game and build on the good things happening at training I am still very confident that we will have a successful year. We are a team in progress, still working on important aspects of the game. If we cut down our mistakes, control our ball security, work harder at the breakdown and use the ball more creatively in the backs then we will be more than competitive against any opposition. You do not win a premiership in May. You need to learn from these experiences and be prepared to work harder at training to ensure we are ready and confident for the weekend game.
I am confident we will put on a better performance next weekend – I just need to be assured that each member of this squad is also on the same page and willing to put in the hard yards this week and take that effort into the game against Cooma.
3. Ben Smith
2 Tom Seymour
1. Ryan Maguire
What was also very disappointing was the fact that every 50/50 call went against us and while we cannot use this as an excuse, it certainly did not help us. Two tries just before half time saw Dara move ahead but we were well and truly in the contest. We discussed at the break the need to be more consistent at the breakdown, move their forwards around and to be conscious of executing our backline moves with more authority. In fact, the backs in the first half were very hesitant and lacked cohesion, which was surprising as during the week it was exactly the opposite.
The second half started promising but some crucial mistakes let Dara off the hook and again we just could not get any momentum going. Our execution was poor and it appeared we tried to rush our play. The backs were far too flat and easy prey for the Dara defence. Again, in the second half, many close calls seemed to go against us and this proved frustrating for Marist. This frustration reflected how we played and it allowed Dara to close out the game with two more tries in the second half.
While there were a lot of negatives to come out of this game, it must be remembered that it was our first real test and we are a work in progress with many players in positions they are still getting use to. When Jayden and Riley get more game time, they will become a dominant combination in the centres. Ryan at the back was playing only his second game at fullback and in fact was one of our better players, especially in defence. Our forwards are also a new combination and the more game time they get the better, they will become. In particular, at the crucial breakdown, which still needs consistency. Tom and Joel were effective and Ben had an impressive game.
Boys, this was a disappointing start. Your reaction after the game tells me you all believed it as well. However if we learn from this game and build on the good things happening at training I am still very confident that we will have a successful year. We are a team in progress, still working on important aspects of the game. If we cut down our mistakes, control our ball security, work harder at the breakdown and use the ball more creatively in the backs then we will be more than competitive against any opposition. You do not win a premiership in May. You need to learn from these experiences and be prepared to work harder at training to ensure we are ready and confident for the weekend game.
I am confident we will put on a better performance next weekend – I just need to be assured that each member of this squad is also on the same page and willing to put in the hard yards this week and take that effort into the game against Cooma.
3. Ben Smith
2 Tom Seymour
1. Ryan Maguire
Photos courtesy of Tarn Rainey
