Horsham U16s secure second league win

To be fair to Heathfield they started much the better of the two sides in the first 10 minutes, winning some good ball and threatening out wide. However, the first try came from good lineout possession when Aled Price chipped wide and Jerome Downey gathered the ball to finish off from 30m. A well-constructed try which seemed to settle the lads as they then went on to score another four tries in the first half from Michael Turner, Robin Holt and Jerry who completed his hat-trick on the stroke of half time.

Horsham quickly got into their stride in the second half with tries from Harry Nelder and Michael. After this Heathfield decided that they could not continue and the match ended disappointingly though understandably. Heathfield had tried their best but with injuries and lack of players they had done all they could.

Horsham played some good rugby today. The lineout went well with the two pods and accurate throwing providing a good stream of quality possession which the backs used well. There were too many unforced errors and passes were put down at crucial times which broke up the continuity of play and was frustrating for all. But, trying to complete moves at pace, on the gain line, is a difficult skill and when the passes did stick the team moved fluently and with purpose.

The discipline was much improved with only a few penalties being conceded. As a result, we did not give away field position and Heathfield had to play their way up the field and through our defense which they were not able to do.

The service to Aled was good and there was a good mix of driving forward play and good delivery to the backs. Blaisé Salle and Robin both went well at No8 and this option is something that I’m sure the coaches will explore further.

Also Cameron Allan made a few good breaks from full back, joining the attack with good effect.

Great to see Kyle Fairs on the charge from 40m only to be hauled down at the last and Jerry to finish off the move. Also, Cam put Robin clear and he dutifully galloped in like a thoroughbred donkey from 30m for what I believe is his first try, EVER !!!!!! One for the Holt family album.

Some good things today, and progress, but also lots to work on.