Manager

Sally Howells: 029 20625445
sallyjhowells@tiscali.co.uk

Head Coach

Mike McCarthy: 029 20621368 or 07886 911984

Coach

Neil Howells  

Rhiwbina U9’s (2010-11)

Fixtures:  

Contact the U9’s

Reports:  

Cardiff and Vale District Tournament  (Sun 17th April 2011)

A sunny day greeted the District Tournament, held at St. Peter’s ground on this occasion.

The start was a little disjointed, as the organisers established which clubs had turned up, and finalised the arrangements for the day. Eventually, it was discovered that the Squirrels would take their place in a three team pool, with Barry and Dinas Powys – one of four pools, three with three teams and one with two (the latter not surprisingly being quickly completed)! As the other two clubs played the first match in the pool, our boys had to wait a little longer before commencing their day.

Game 1 – Rhiwbina 3 Barry 4  

Team: Aled, George, Adam (1), Tom W, Josh, Tom G, Sam P, Leighton, Joel, Seb.
Substitutes: Joseph (for Josh) (2), Josh (for Adam), Adam (for George).

A Barry kick off was met by a catch and drive from Aled, who set up Leighton for a run, before Barry gained possession. Tackles from Sam and Tom W held them out, before they finally forced their way over for a try. 0-1.

The next restart was caught by Tom W, who set off on a run, before possession was once again turned over. A concerted drive from Barry, was met with determined defence from Rhiwbina, with Leighton particularly to the fore, backed up by Aled, Joel, Josh and Tom G. However, Barry again found their way over the try line eventually. 0-2.

It was now the turn of the Squirrels to enjoy some possession, with a drive from Adam being carried on by Tom G, George and Sam, before possession was lost. Barry’s attack encountered excellent defence from George, supported by Aled, before good pressure from Josh forced the ball loose.

Rhiwbina’s next attack commenced with a break from George, which was built upon by Adam, Tom W, Josh and Leighton before possession was lost on the Barry line. One of the Barry boys then claimed possession and ran the whole length of the pitch, weaving in and out, to score right on the half time whistle. 0-3.

Half time - Rhiwbina 0 Barry 3.

After the lengthy delay at the start of the day, the boys had been caught a little rusty in the first half, and were failing to hold on to possession long enough to apply sufficient pressure on the Barry boys. The hope was that things would turn around in the second half.

The half started with Barry in possession, and encountering outstanding defence from George, backed up by Joel and Leighton, before a tackle from Adam forced the ball into touch. Rhiwbina then took the game back to Barry with a concerted attack. Started by Leighton, the move was carried on with Aled, Seb, Adam, Joel, Tom W and George all involved, before the position was set up for Joseph to make a break and score a try. 1-3.

There then followed a passage of play where the Squirrels picked up some knocks, from concerted defensive efforts, with George, Sam, Adam, Aled and Seb all showing up, whilst Aled, Adam and George also drove the ball forward. Eventually, however, Barry drove over for a further try. 1-4.

The restart was collected by Joseph, who made a break from his own line and progressed towards half way. From there, Aled drove the ball forward, before making a one-handed off-load to Leighton, who drove it on, supported by Josh and then Tom G. An attacking position was set up, from which the ball was worked to Adam, who side-stepped over to score. 2-4.

From the Rhiwbina kick off, the ball was collected by Seb, who made a break, from which the ball found its way to Joseph, who ran in to score a try right on the final whistle. 3-4.  

Final score Rhiwbina 3 Barry 4.

After a slow start to the game in the first period, the boys really came back to their game in the second – their attacking play, handling and off-loading giving Barry little respite. Unfortunately, the clock counted down before they could get level.

Game 2 – Rhiwbina 2 Dinas Powys 4  

Team: Aled, George, Adam, Tom W, Josh, Tom G, Joseph (1), Leighton (1), Joel, Seb.
Substitutes: Sam (for Tom G).

Dinas Powys started the game, which commenced with a catch and drive from George, taken on by Tom G, before possession was lost. Unfortunately, Dinas Powys won the ball and made a break to score. 0-1.

A period of scruffy play followed, with knocks on from both sides, before Joseph made a length of the field break. Brought down deep in Dinas territory, the ball was worked to Seb, who also made a break. Support was good, with runs coming from Josh, Adam, Aled, Tom G and Joel, before possession was spilled. However, good defensive pressure from the Squirrels forced a Dinas mistake, and possession was reclaimed. Joel and Josh set up a position, from which Leighton scored. 1-1.

Dinas Powys returned to the attack from the restart, and despite tackles from Joseph, Seb, George, Tom G and Leighton, they drove over for a try. 1-2.

Rhiwbina showed their determination by responding immediately with a score of their own. It started with a catch and drive from Josh, which was built upon by Tom G. Seb, Joel and Josh then took the ball on, before Seb made a break and was stopped on the line. Adam followed up, before Joseph side-stepped over to score. 2-2.

In keeping with the competitive spirit of the game, Dinas quickly came back with another score of their own – driving over despite good defensive work from the Squirrels. George was particularly prominent, making as many as five tackles during this passage of play, whilst Joseph, Tom G, Tom W and Josh also showed up well. 2-3.

Half time - Rhiwbina 2 Dinas Powys 3.

A competitive first period had seen Rhiwbina continue where they had left off in the second half of the Barry game. A close half time score line augured well for more of the same in the second period.

The second half started with Dinas Powys on the attack. For the Squirrels, Josh and Adam led the defensive effort, supported by Tom W and George, before Dinas were eventually forced into touch. Joseph then made a break, as did Seb, before Josh and George took the ball on. Then, strangely, Adam was penalised for shouting as he drove the ball forward!

The Squirrels did well to reclaim possession, and Josh made a break. The ball was carried by a combination of efforts, with Seb, Joseph, Joel, Tom W, Josh and Aled all contributing, before possession was lost. Dinas returned to the attack, and Joseph was prominent in trying to hold them out – also putting in some five tackles during this period of play- succession. George and Josh also helped keep them out, but unfortunately Dinas eventually made a break to score. 2-4.

The game was now heading towards its end, and the Squirrels made a strong effort to try and get back into the match. Adam made a break, and the ball was taken on by Joel, Seb. Tom W, Aled and Joseph. Regrettably, they were beaten by the clock.

Final score Rhiwbina 2 Dinas Powys 4.

The game had continued to be hard fought in the second half, but unfortunately the Squirrels were unable to force their way back into it, spending more time in defence than attack.

At this stage, it was unclear what would happen next. Having lost both our group games, albeit closely, it appeared as though Rhiwbina would be heading home early in the day. A rumour quickly spread that the organisers had decided to institute an unscheduled Plate competition for the group losers. A quick straw poll of the boys revealed that they wanted to carry on, with a view to getting something positive out of the day as far as results were concerned. Initially, it appeared as though Rhiwbina would receive a bye directly into the final. It was then decided that we would play a semi final against CRICC, who had come second in a two team group, before losing their main competition quarter final.

Plate Semi Final – Rhiwbina 4 CRICC 3 (after extra time)  

Team: Aled, George (1), Adam, Tom W, Sam, Tom G, Joseph (1), Leighton, Joel, Seb (2).
Substitutes: Josh (for Aled), Aled (for Joel), Joel (for Tom G), Tom G (for Leighton)

The game began with an attack from Rhiwbina. Started off by a drive from Tom G, it was carried on by Joel, Seb, George and Joseph, before possession was turned over. Good defensive work followed, with George to the fore, backed up by Joseph and Tom W, forcing CRICC to the knock on close to the Squirrels line. From the scrum, Joseph pulled off a switch move with George, who sprinted the length of the field to score. 1-0.

From the restart, tackles from Adam and Seb forced CRICC into losing possession. Joseph capitalised on this with a dummy and break to score. 2-0.

Unfortunately, CRICC hit straight back from the kick off; breaking tackles to open their account with a try. 2-1.

The half ended with a Squirrels attack. Commenced with a catch and drive from Tom G, the ball was driven further by Sam, before Seb made a break. Taking Rhiwbina into opposition territory, the ball was carried on by Leighton, Joel, Seb, Tom W and Sam. Eventually, the ball was driven up to the line by Aled, who slipped it to Joel close in, who was held up on the line, and the half time whistle followed.

Half time - Rhiwbina 2 CRICC 1.

The first half had been well-contested, but just shaded by the Squirrels, with their attacking play particularly notable.

The second half began with good defensive work from George and Josh forcing the knock on from CRICC. A break from George was carried on by Seb and Adam, before possession was lost. CRICC’s next attack was thwarted by a tackle from Adam, forcing the ball into touch, and then Rhiwbina returned to the offensive. A run from Josh was carried on by Joel, Tom G, Seb and Sam, before CRICC forced the Squirrels into touch. Possession ebbed and flowed due to handling errors, with defensive work from Josh, Seb, Joseph, Adam, Tom W and Tom G for Rhiwbina. Finally, however, a CRICC break from a close in scrum resulted in a try. 2-2.

Adam and Tom G quickly drove the ball back at CRICC from the restart, before CRICC regained possession, and made a break to score and take the lead for the first time, with the clock quickly counting down. 2-3.

With time running out, a drive from George was carried on by Tom G, before Seb ran in to score and force the game into extra time. 3-3.

Final score Rhiwbina 3 CRICC 3.

A tense second half had seen CRICC stage a determined come back, but the Squirrels usual ‘never say die’ spirit refused to be quenched and saw them through to a late equaliser. At this point, nobody (including the referee) was quite sure what was supposed to happen next. Eventually, it was established that it would be a case of ‘sudden death’ extra time, with the first try scorers the winners.

The extra time period proved extremely tense. Both teams took their turns to attack, and then dug in to defend with valour. One team threatened to score, and then the other. The atmosphere amongst those watching was edgy, but to their credit none of the boys, from either side, allowed the tension to get them, and gave their all to try and get the result. Considering that this was for the Plate competition, the attitude from all concerned was to be commended. From a Rhiwbina perspective, attacking efforts came from Tom W. Leighton, Joseph, Josh and Tom G, whilst defensively good performances came from George, in particular, as well as Seb, Aled, Tom G, Joel and Adam. Ultimately, though, Joseph made a break and linked with Seb, who sprinted in to score from some way out. 4-3.

Final score (after extra time) Rhiwbina 4 CRICC 3.

What a determined effort from the Squirrels to come out on top in this game! Having started on top, the comeback from CRICC left them up against it with time running out. A strenuous effort to force extra time was replicated in the additional period to gain the victory, which was gained despite a regular turnover on the field as the boys picked up knocks as a result of their efforts. Credit should also go to CRICC for their efforts in this game.

Plate Final – Rhiwbina 6 Llandaff North 4   

Team: Aled, George, Adam (1), Tom W, Josh, Tom G, Joseph (1), Leighton, Joel (1), Seb (3).
Substitutes: Sam (for Tom G).

The game began with Llandaff North attacking, before a tackle from Adam forced a forward pass. A run from Joseph then sparked an attack from Rhiwbina, which was carried on by Leighton, Joel, Tom G and Josh, before Adam was set up to score. 1-0.

An immediate response was forthcoming from Llandaff North, which resulted in a try, despite defensive efforts from Tom W especially, backed up by George, Josh, Joel and Leighton. 1-1.

Good defensive work from the Squirrels followed, with Tom, Adam, George and Joseph to the fore, with Llandaff North eventually being forced into touch. Rhiwbina having gained possession, Seb made a break, from which Joel was released to run in from his own half for a try. 2-1.

The game continued to see saw back and forth, and now Llandaff North came back again, attacking forcefully and bringing about more determined defence from the Squirrels. George and Tom W were prominent in this passage, supported by Leighton, Joseph and Josh. Ultimately, however, Llandaff North drove over to score a try. 2-2.

As the half came to an end, Rhiwbina finished with a score, to retake the lead. Instigated by a break from Josh, and carried on by Tom W, the move culminated in a sprint down the touchline from Seb for a try. 3-2.

Half time - Rhiwbina 3 Llandaff North 2.

A well-contested first half had seen the scoreboard swing one way, then the other, with the Squirrels just managing to keep the ascendancy. At this point, it appeared that a good start to the second half, by one team or the other, could prove vital.

Rhiwbina started the second period in just the manner that they must have been wishing for, with Seb running back the kick off to score a try. 4-2.

Good tackling from Adam, backed up by George and Josh, thwarted the next attack from Llandaff North, and set the Squirrels back on the attack. Josh made a break, carried on by a drive from Joel, before Seb drove over the line to score. 5-2.

The Rhiwbina boys had achieved just the start to the second half that they were looking for, and had now managed to put some space between themselves and the opposition. However, Llandaff North were not despondent and kept coming back. They forced the Squirrels back on the defensive. In spite of the efforts of Adam and Josh in particular, as well as George, Joseph and Tom W, Llandaff North made a break to score a try. 5-3.

The ebb and flow of the match continued, and back again came Rhiwbina to score again. This time a break from Seb, released Joel to drive forward, carried on by George, before Joseph side-stepped over the line for the try. 6-3.

The game was now drawing to a close, and the Squirrels appeared to have done enough to prevail. So it proved, but not before Llandaff North had once again refused to lie down and scored one final try. Driving over despite the combined efforts of the Rhiwbina team to prevent them. Tom W was at the forefront of these efforts, but George, Adam, Sam, Joseph, Leighton, Josh and Aled all contributed. 6-4.

Final score Rhiwbina 6 Llandaff North 4.

Rhiwbina’s swift start to the second half had, indeed, proved decisive. They opened up a gap that Llandaff North were never able to reel back in. Credit though, to Llandaff North, for their spirited efforts.

For the Squirrels, what had started as a slow and disappointing day, with two close defeats, ended up as a success, with two well-merited victories clinching the Plate competitiion. A good decision by the boys to continue playing after the group stages, and move into the close season on a positive note. Strangely, the day also continued a trend of trophies not being available when the boys had won one, as on this occasion a Plate tournament had not been planned for.   

 

Barry (Sun 27th March 2011 - Away)

Game 1 – Rhiwbina 0 Barry 2  

Team: Leighton, Zac, Isaac, Rhys, Aled, Sam P, Charlie, Harry, Josh, Owen.

Rhiwbina kicked off the game, and Barry started on the attack, despite tackles from Aled, Rhys and Isaac. They were also held out by a good tackle from Josh, before making a break and scoring a try. 0-1.

A knock on from the restart set Barry on the offensive once more. This time a drive for the line resulted in a try, in spite of another tackle from Josh. 0-2.

Now it was time for the Squirrels to respond, and this they did, through a drive from Charlie, supported by breaks from Aled and Josh. This was taken on into Barry territory by further efforts from Isaac, Rhys, Charlie, Josh and Owen, before the move was brought to a halt by a forward pass.  

Good defensive work from Charlie, Sam and Leighton then forced Barry to knock on their next possession, before Rhiwbina finished this game on the attack – a break from Josh was taken on by a drive from Aled, before Josh was released on a run which ended with him being forced into touch.

A slow start proved costly, in a short game. Although the boys came back into the game as time wore on, the clock eventually counted against them.

Game 2 – Rhiwbina 2 Barry 1  

Team: Rhys, Aled, Harry, Joel, Tom G, Joseph (1), Adam, George, Seb (1), Dan Cosslett.

This match started with Dan Cosslett catching the kick off and running it back at Barry. His break set up Seb for a sprint along the touchline, which resulted in a try in the corner. 1-0.

Barry then knocked on the kick off, which set up the Squirrels for a period of pressure. A drive from George was taken on by Adam, Seb, Joel and Harry, before Joseph made a break to score. 2-0.

The next kick off crossed the dead ball line, and resulted in a scrum back, from which Barry attacked. However, good work from Harry, in particular, ably supported by George, Aled and Joel, eventually resulted in their being forced into touch. Whilst Rhiwbina then responded with a break from Adam, driven on by Joseph and Joel, the game moved towards its end with a break from Barry, which resulted in a try. 2-1.

However, there was still sufficient time remaining for Aled to take a catch and drive from the kick off, taken on by Seb and George, before a sprint from Seb ended with his being forced into touch deep in Barry territory.

A reversal of the first game, with the Squirrels this time getting off to the quick start, which was proving crucial in these short games. Although Barry came back into the game, Rhiwbina kept it under control.

Game 3 – Rhiwbina 0 Barry 3  

Team: Sam P, Dan Cosslett, Josh, Charlie, Leighton, Owen, Tom W, Adam, Zac, Isaac.

The next match kicked off with Barry moving forward. Good tackling from Adam and Sam, backed up by Charlie, did its best to thwart them, but Barry ended up scoring. 0-1.

A knock on from the restart set Barry up for another attacking position, from which they drove over for the try. 0-2.

The Squirrels attempted to work their way back into the game, with a drive from Adam being carried on by Isaac and Tom W, before a run from Charlie was forced into touch. Barry came back at Rhiwbina, and scored again, this time despite exceptional defensive work from Sam and Tom W, backed up from Charlie. 0-3.

The remainder of the match saw Rhiwbina spend most of it on the attack. During this period, breaks from Isaac, Sam and Josh were prominent – one of Josh’s runs requiring the combined efforts of five Barry tacklers to bring it to a halt! The game ended with a combined attack from Dan Cosslett, Owen, Tom W and Charlie, which Barry withstood.

Game 4 – Rhiwbina 3 Barry 0  

Team: Tom G, Joseph (2), Rhys, Adam (1), Leighton, Tom W, George, Joel, Aled, Seb.

Straight from the kick off Joseph made a break. From his own half, and sped in for a try. 1-0.

Good defensive work from the Squirrels followed, as Barry’s determined attacking efforts were repulsed. This was a true team effort, with tackles coming in from all quarters. With George and Leighton leading the way, Tom W, Rhys, Joseph, Seb, Aled and Joel all supported. These efforts received their reward, as Barry’s attack broke down, and Joseph broke out. The ball then found its way to Adam, who set off on a mazy run, changing direction and sprinting over to score. 2-0.

The next period of the game followed a similar trend. Another attack from Barry foundered on the rock that was Rhiwbina’s defence in this game. On this occasion, Tom W, Aled, Leighton, Joseph, Joel, Tom G and George all combined. Again this tackling earned its payback, as Barry were forced to knock on. Joseph picked up the loose ball on his own line, and ran the length of the field to score. He even withstood a high tackle, grabbing him by the shirt collar as he crossed. 3-0.

Barry were now desperate to make their mark on this game, and made determined attacking efforts to try and get the score. Despite ‘throwing the kitchen sink’ at Rhiwbina, the boys’ defence held firm. George and Joel were particularly prominent during this period, but were well supported by the rest of the team, including efforts from Tom W, Leighton, Aled, Rhys and Joseph.

As the game moved to its close, Rhiwbina went back on the attack, with runs forthcoming from many quarters, including Rhys, Tom W and Joel, with Joseph and Seb particularly prominent. The game then ended with the Squirrels coming desperately close to adding a final try, thanks to the Aled-Joel double act. A driving break from Aled released Joel, supporting at speed, for a run down the touchline. Unfortunately, a fine try-saving tackle from Barry stopped Joel on the line and forced the ball loose – Joel getting hurt in the process (though ok afterwards).

This game was Rhiwbina at their best – strong defence and quick, incisive attacking combining, producing a positive and comprehensive result, and a particularly pleasing defensive ‘shut out’.

 

Chippenham Tournament (Sun 20th March 2011)

This was a weekend with a difference, as the boys ventured over to England for a tournament, for the first time since embarking on contact. This meant that they encountered line outs and competition at the tackle area for the first time – a distinct disadvantage for them and the other Welsh sides taking part, who were competing against English sides used to playing this format every week. Also a case of 9 a side, rather than 10, with 3 rather than 5 in the scrum, and 5 rather than 10 minutes each way – all very different!

Game 1 – Rhiwbina 0 Cowbridge 3  

Team: Aled, Isaac, George, Adam, Tom W, Charlie, Josh, Liam, Joseph.

Substitutes: Sam P (for Joseph), Joseph (for Sam).

First half: The game began with a drive from Aled, carried on by Liam, Isaac and Charlie, before the Squirrels were forced into touch and possession was lost. Cowbridge used the ball, until a good tackle from Aled, well supported by Tom, resulted in a turn over. Rhiwbina then attacked through George, Charlie and Liam, before a knock on brought an end to it. A Cowbridge break out was halted by an excellent tackle from Adam, but they retained possession, to work their way over for a try. 0-1.

Joseph made a break from the restart, only to be held up near the line, before Adam followed with a run that also ended up with his being stopped on the line.

Cowbridge turned the ball over from the breakdown, and made a break from their own line, only to be stopped by an excellent tackle from Charlie. Cowbridge kept going forward, however, and despite another good tackle from Adam, backed up by Tom and Sam, they scored again. 0-2.

Half time - Rhiwbina 0 Cowbridge 2.

Second Half: The game restarted with possession alternating between the teams. For Rhiwbina, there was good defensive work from Josh, Joseph, Adam and Aled, whilst offensively Tom, Aled, George and Joseph showed up well.  Unfortunately, at the end of this passage of play, Cowbridge turned over possession and ran in a score. 0-3.

The match continued to ebb and flow, with both teams contributing in both attack and defence, in an end to end encounter – though the Squirrels had the majority of the play at this point. Standing out for Rhiwbina, in terms of attacking efforts, were Aled, George, Charlie, Joseph, Adam and Isaac, whilst defensively a good tackle came in from Isaac, and the Squirrels pressed well generally. The game concluded with a fine pass from Aled sending Adam away on a break, carried on by Charlie before the final whistle sounded.

Final score Rhiwbina 0 Cowbridge 3.

Overall a well-contested the game, but one in which Cowbridge adapted better to the unfamiliar rule differences, and dominated the tackle area. The turning point probably came in the first half when good defence from Cowbridge kept out Joseph and Adam, and turned the ball over to score a try from their own line.

Game 2 – Rhiwbina 1 Stow-on-the-Wold 1  

Team: George, Adam, Charlie (1), Josh, Dan Collier, Dan Cosslett, Tom G, Rhys, Sam.

First half: The coaches made a number of changes for this game, ensuring that all of the squad had a run out early in the day. With a long day ahead, it was going to be very much a squad effort.

The match began with Rhiwbina on the attack, and taking the game to Stow. Attacking intent was shown from the outset, with Josh immediately pulling off a switch move with Charlie. This was developed further, with Dan Cosslett, Josh, Tom, George and Dan Collier all making ground, before Stow eventually forced the ball into touch.

Their possession was short-lived, however, as Squirrels pressure quickly returned the compliment.

Rhiwbina’s next possession commenced with a run from Adam. George won the ball at the tackle and went on a run himself, which Josh and Charlie built upon, a good clear-out by Dan Cosslett, at the next breakdown, freed the ball for a break from Sam. At this point Stow regained possession, only for good tackles from Tom and Charlie to force the knock on.

As half time approached, Adam made a break, following which Tom drove for the line, as did Josh, but lost possession led to the half time whistle.

Half time - Rhiwbina 0 Stow-on-the-Wold 0.

Second Half: A closely-fought game continued, with a tackle from Josh enabling Rhiwbina to get back on the offensive – this time successfully. A break from Josh was only stopped by a try-saving tackle, but Stow couldn’t keep the Squirrels out for long. Drives from Adam, Sam and Tom set up the position, for Charlie to side-step over for the try. 1-0.

The next stage of the game involved possession transferring back and forth between the teams. For Rhiwbina, tackles came in from Josh, Adam and Sam, whilst Dan Collier, Tom and Adam made breaks. Unfortunately, the passage of play finished with Stow drawing the scores level. 1-1.

From the restart, Josh and Rhys drove the ball at Stow, before the ball was turned over. At this point, George pulled off a succession of good tackles, ably supported by Tom and Adam. Eventually, the Squirrels regained possession and Dan Collier sprinted down the wing in a last gasp effort to get the winning try, before getting forced into touch.

Final score Rhiwbina 1 Stow-on-the-Wold 1.

A good performance from the boys, especially as several were playing their first game of the day, as they generally had the better of the game. However, Stow were a very determined team, even though relatively small in stature, and fought hard to keep the Squirrels out for the majority of the game.

Game 3 – Rhiwbina 3 Marlborough 0.  

Team: George, Charlie, Dan Cosslett, Rhys, Sam (1), Liam, Joseph (2), Aled, Tom W.

Substitutes: Josh (for Joseph).

First half: This game started off with Rhiwbina really taking the game to the opposition. Tackles from Aled and Joseph put pressure on Marlborough, and ended up forcing them into touch. The Squirrels then went on the attack with a run from George, driven on further by Aled. Further drives from Joseph and Aled followed. From the breakdown, Aled won the loose ball, to set up a drive from Sam, who linked with Aled to release Charlie on a run. At the tackle, Aled again won possession and sent out a swift pass to send Sam sprinting in for a try in the corner. 1-0.

Marlborough turned over their next possession, after a tackle from Sam, which set up Tom and Joseph to drive back at them. Although the ball was once more won at the breakdown by Aled, possession was turned over.

The next Marlborough possession, as half time approached, was thwarted by good defensive work from Rhiwbina, with George particularly to the fore, ably supported by Josh.

Half time - Rhiwbina 1 Marlborough 0.

Second Half: The game restarted with Rhiwbina in possession, and a run from George, carried on by a drive from Joseph. This set up a superb driving maul from the Squirrels, which marched Marlborough back some distance, before George drove the ball on once more. Unfortunately, Marlborough turned the ball over at this point, but more good tackling by George forced them into touch. From the resultant line out, the ball found its way to Joseph, who jinked over to score. 2-0.

Marlborough’s next possession foundered on the tackling of Sam and George, which set up another Squirrels offensive – and again a successful one. This time a break from Joseph set up drives from Isaac and George, which took Rhiwbina within striking distance of the Marlborough line. A scrum ensued, from which Joseph broke to score. 3-0.

As the game proceeded to its conclusion, Marlborough kept trying to get a consolation score. This failed when Aled ripped the ball off the largest boy in their team.

Although they subsequently regained possession, a tackle from Joseph forced the turnover, and he then drove the ball back, before the final whistle sounded.

Final score Rhiwbina 3 Marlborough 0.

This display was the real Rhiwbina, as the boys started to get to grips with the different rulings. Solid in defence, dominating the breakdowns and incisive in attack.

A real confidence boost!

Game 4 – Rhiwbina 0 Salisbury 3.  

Team: Sam, Liam, Aled, Joseph, Dan Collier, Tom G, Josh, Isaac, Adam.

Substitutes: Tom W (for Aled), George (for Sam), Dan Cosslett (for Dan Collier), Charlie (for Joseph).

First half: The game commenced with a break from Joseph for Rhiwbina, before he was forced into touch. Having gained possession, Salisbury then broke from their own line to score.  0-1.

The Squirrels next attack was kicked off by a drive from Aled, which was carried on by Josh, Tom G and Adam. Having reclaimed possession, Salisbury took the attack

back to Rhiwbina. Good defensive work from Adam, Tom G, Isaac and Liam held them out, but they eventually forced a five metre scrum, from which they scored, in spite

of the best efforts of Adam to prevent it, as half time arrived. 0-2.

Half time - Rhiwbina 0 Salisbury 2.

Second Half: The second half started with a break from Adam, before possession alternated between the teams. This period was marked by good defensive work from Josh, Adam and Joseph – with one tackle from Joseph particularly outstanding. Ultimately, however, Salisbury forced their way over to score. 0-3.

As the clock counted down, a run from Josh and a tackle from George were the most notable events from a Rhiwbina perspective.

Final score Rhiwbina 0 Salisbury 3.

A very good performance from Salisbury, who dominated the game and went on to win the group, brought the Squirrels back down to earth. However, the boys still stuck well to their tasks and were not daunted.

Game 5 – Rhiwbina 1 Bath 2.  

Team: Sam, Liam, Tom G, Josh, Adam, Tom W, Charlie, George (1), Rhys.

Substitutes: Aled (for Rhys), Isaac (for Tom W), Rhys (for Aled), Sam (for Joseph).

First half: The Squirrels started this game on the front foot. Although an early drive from Adam was halted, good pressure from Tom W forced Bath into a loose pass, which was intercepted by George, who sped in for a try. 1-0.

Unfortunately, Bath immediately hit back with a break to score a try of their own and equalise the scores. 1-1.

Bath’s offensive continued as, having withstood another drive from Adam, they gained possession and scored again, despite a tackle from Josh. 1-2.

As the half moved towards its end, Rhiwbina regained the initiative and took the attack back to Bath. Aled and George were prominent in these drives, well supported by Adam and Josh, whilst Josh and Adam out in some good defensive work when Bath gained control of the ball.

Half time - Rhiwbina 1 Bath 2.

Second Half: The game restarted with a drive from Bath, repulsed by a tackle from Charlie, before the Squirrels returned to the attack. This was started by a break from Joseph, and carried on by drives from Liam and Tom G, before the teams exchanged possession. During this period a tackle from George stood out, as did a break from Josh, who was forced into touch on the Bath try line.

The next Bath attack drew some good defensive work from Rhiwbina. George particularly stood out during this period, with one tackle especially impressive, but he was ably backed up by the efforts of Rhys, Isaac, Josh, Charlie and Adam. The total of these efforts was to take the ball back from Bath.

The match concluded with the Squirrels back in Bath territory, built upon a drive from Joseph and some excellent ripping work at the breakdown from Tom G. This all set the boys up for a close in scrum, from which Adam made a blind side break for the line, in an attempt to level the scores. Unfortunately, he was forced into touch close to the line.

Final score Rhiwbina 1 Bath 2.

A closely-fought and competitive match, with the boys just missing out against an equally determined Bath side.

Overall the boys came out of the day with one win, one draw and three defeats. Whilst this may appear a disappointing return when written in black and white, the performances certainly weren’t a disappointment – especially when viewed in the light of the boys’ unfamiliarity with many aspects of the day. The highlight of the day was the performance against Marlborough, where the boys showed what they were truly capable off – a standard to aspire to when they move up to the more ‘competitive’ elements of Under 10 rugby next season.
 

St Peters (Sun 13th March 2011 – Home)
 

Acquaintances were renewed with the Rocks, on a sunny day at Caedelyn at last! Strangely the outcomes of the games were identical, though the means of getting there were somewhat different.

Game 1 – Rhiwbina 3 St Peters 6  

Team: Aled, Isaac (1), George, Adam, Sam P, Tom W, Charlie, Dan Cosslett, Josh (2), Liam.

First half:

The game started with a Rhiwbina kick off, which St Peters ran back. A good tackle from Adam temporarily halted them, prior to further good work from Charlie, Sam and Aled. However, the Rocks still forced their way over the line for the score, in spite of the Charlie’s best efforts to stop them.

0-1.

After St Peters had kicked the restart over the dead ball line (a frequent occurrence on their part), the Squirrels launched their response from half way. A run from Liam, carried on by Aled, Isaac and Liam (again), set up Josh for a break, before he was forced into touch by a good tackle. The Rocks launched a break from their next possession, before sprinting in for a try. 0-2.

At this point, Rhiwbina built an attack of their own – a concerted team effort. Launched by a run from Josh, it was built on by Isaac, Aled and George, before Charlie drove through breaking tackles. Sam, Liam, George, Tom, Isaac, Aled, Josh and Adam all handled, in a move which included a try saving tackle on Liam, before St Peters eventually pulled off an interception close to their own line.

Pressure from the Squirrels forced the Rocks to knock on their possession, an error upon which the boys capitalised. Charlie made a break, before Sam and Isaac combined, to send Josh sprinting in for a try. 1-2.

From St Peters’ next possession, another good tackle from Adam forced the ball loose, but they retained the ball, in spite of George’s best efforts to claim it. Good defensive work from George and Adam held up the Rocks, as did Sam, but they still managed to drive over to score, as the interval approached. 1-3.

Half time - Rhiwbina 1 St Peters 3.

Second Half:

The second half started with St Peters back on the attack, which they turned into a try, from a close in scrum. 1-4.

Rhiwbina responded immediately. From another kick off that was too long, Josh was put away from the restart to score. 2-4.

The action-packed start to the second half continued with a quick comeback from the Rocks. Tackles from Isaac, Charlie and Sam held them up, but they eventually drove over for a try. 2-5.

The Squirrels, as usual refused to lie down, and came back at St Peters with another strong team effort, with Aled, Josh and Isaac at its heart – all handling on a number of occasions – supported by good work from George, Sam and Liam. The move resulted in a score for Isaac, from a short range drive, withstanding in vain claims of a foot in touch from St Peters. 3-5.

The Rocks made a great break from the restart, which took them the length of the pitch, before being stopped by an outstanding tackle from Charlie. Unfortunately, they managed to force their way over for the score, in spite of the defensive efforts of Sam. 3-6.

Another over long restart from St Peters led to another Rhiwbina attack, with Aled, Isaac, Sam and George taking the game to them, before the ball was lost forward. As the clock ticked down towards the final whistle, a series of tackles from Aled forced the turn over. From the Squirrels’ final possession of the game, a run from Liam was taken on by Isaac and Josh, before the game ended.

Final score Rhiwbina 3 St Peters 6.

A good effort from Rhiwbina to stay in the game, after a slow start (which is becoming a bit of a habit of late), with their usual dogged determination, to which Dan Cosslett also contributed. The defeat was probably down to the Rocks being a little more clinical in taking their opportunities, and some controversially dangerous defensive work from one of the St Peters boys.

Game 2 – Rhiwbina 3 St Peters 6  

Team: Joel, Rhys, Zac, Harry, Leighton, Seb (2), Tom G, Dan Collier, Sam W (1), Owen.

First half:

St Peters kicked off the game, and the early exchanges involved possession being turned over between the teams, with Sam, Tom and Seb being prominent in attack for Rhiwbina. Eventually, runs from Leighton and Seb took the Squirrels close to the line, where Harry drove for the line. Unfortunately, the ball was lost in the act of trying to score.

The Rocks then broke out, only to be halted by a good tackle from Seb, but retained possession, and ultimately forced their way over for a try. This was in spite of good defensive work from Seb, Rhys, Leighton, Owen, Joel and Harry. 0-1.

Rhiwbina, in their inimitable fashion, bounced straight back with a score of their own. Seb was particularly prominent in the attack, as was a mazy run from Leighton, whilst Tom was also closely involved. Ultimately, the ball was worked to Sam, who made a break to score. 1-1.

From the restart St Peters knocked on and the Squirrels went back on the attack. A break from Seb was driven on by Joel, before Sam made a run. He was halted by a strong tackle, and possession passed to the Rocks. Despite a good tackle from Joel, they made a break for the line, and scored a try. 1-2.

The half finished with Sam collecting the kick off on his own line, to go on a sweeping run to half way, from where Rhys drove the ball on, before the interval whistle sounded.

Half time - Rhiwbina 1 St Peters 2.

Second Half:

St Peters restarted the game on the attack, but a tackle from Seb forced them into touch, to turn over possession. Harry took the ball on, before a strong, driving run from Tom took the ball deep into Rocks territory, and set up Seb to sprint in for a try. 2-2.

A moment of opportunism from the Squirrels then put them into the lead for the first time. St Peters allowed the kick off to bounce, and whilst their players left the ball to each other, Seb pounced on it to score. 3-2.

The restart saw good defensive work from Owen and Rhys, but the Rocks still managed to make ground. They then proceeded to break for the line, controversially handing off an attempted tackle from Dan Collier in the process, before scoring in the corner. 3-3.

A knock on from the restart set St Peters up for a close in scrum, from which they broke for a try.

3-4.

The Rocks were now on a bit of a roll, and their next score was not long in coming, despite runs from Leighton and Tom. The Squirrels lead had quickly been turned around. 3-5.

Harry made a strong run from the restart, and was stopped within sight of the line, before being the subject of a late and high tackle as he got back to his feet. St Peters subsequently forced the turn over, before a good tackle from Rhys applied pressure to force the Rocks into a forward pass. The game finally came to an end with a devastating St Peters run from their own line, which resulted in the final score of the match. 3-6.

Final score Rhiwbina 3 St Peters 6.

Another good effort from Rhiwbina, with Dan Collier and Zac also contributing, which promised much early in the second half, before St Peters clinched the game with three tries in rapid succession.

Overall, the games were evenly contested, with the Rocks proving slightly more clinical and maybe more cynical. This was ably demonstrated by one of their players in particular. A strong runner, he was behind many of their scores. However, he was also responsible for the hand off on Dan, the late high tackle on Harry, and a succession of dangerous tackles on Aled, Isaac, Sam and Josh.  

 

Cowbridge (Sun 6th March 2011 - Home)

A day on which the boys started slowly, but eventually found their feet and turned things round, finishing the second game in the ascendancy.

Game 1 – Rhiwbina 2 Cowbridge 7  

Team: Aled, Isaac, George, Joel (1), Adam, Sam P, Seb, Rhys, Tom W, Leighton (1).

Subs: Tom G (for George), Harry (for Aled), Dan Collier (for Tom G).

First half: A Rhiwbina kick-off led to Cowbridge possession, from which they worked their way downfield to score a try, withstanding defensive work from Joel, Adam and Sam, as well as an effective tap tackle from Tom W. 0-1.

From the restart, George drove the ball forward, but Cowbridge eventually regained possession. They strove to cross the line, but a tackle from Isaac forced their player off balance, and he fell and lost the ball as he was about to score. Leighton and Adam made runs for the Squirrels, as they moved out of defence, before Cowbridge knocked the ball out of Rhiwbina hands, and used the possession to create a try, in spite of tackles from George and Rhys. 0-2.

Seb next made a break for Rhiwbina, before a loose ball was picked up by Aled, to keep the boys moving forward. Tom G, Sam and Rhys were all prominent in driving the ball forward, before runs from Leighton, Joel and Seb developed the attack further. However, Cowbridge managed to resist the attack and, having turned the ball over, launched a break from their own half which resulted in a try. 0-3.

To their credit, the Squirrels continued coming back, in spite of the one-sided look to the scoreboard. A run from Leighton was built upon by Tom W and Isaac, before a break from Seb ended up in touch. However, a tackle from Adam forced a turnover, and this time Rhiwbina used the possession to create a try. A run from Seb, and drive from Tom G, provided the opportunity for Joel to break through the Cowbridge defence to score. 1-3.

Cowbridge responded swiftly to this first setback, and although Sam and Joel tackled well, they re-opened the gap once more. 1-4.

Again the Squirrels responded, as Aled collected the ball from the Cowbridge restart, and released Leighton, who sprinted through the defence to score, just as half time arrived. 2-4.

Half time - Rhiwbina 2 Cowbridge 4.

Second Half: Unfortunately, Cowbridge’s supremacy was to continue on the scoreboard throughout the second half, although Rhiwbina held on to possession for longer periods, and generated a greater territorial advantage than they had experienced thus far.

The Squirrels started the half in determined fashion, with a concerted team effort. Started by a drive from Rhys (who also featured later in the move), possession was retained, with Joel particularly prominent, but Isaac, Harry, Tom W, Seb, Adam and Leighton also featuring. However, strong defence from Cowbridge enabled them to regain possession close to their own line, leading to a break halted by a strong tackle from Sam. A run from Leighton took the game to Cowbridge once more, but when they managed to regain the ball they used it to create a try. 2-5.

There then followed a repeat of the action from the start of the half. Another concerted interchange from the Squirrels took play the length of the field. Within this possession, there were contributions from Harry, Adam, Sam, Isaac, Joel, Tom W (who pulled off a switch move with Sam), Rhys, Seb and Leighton. Unfortunately, strong defence from Cowbridge once more enabled them to reclaim possession, which they used to create a break that led to a try. 2-6.

Rhiwbina still refused to give in, and a drive from Tom W took the game back to Cowbridge, but on this occasion an interception enabled the visitors to conclude the game with its final try. 2-7.

Final score Rhiwbina 2 Cowbridge 7.

A one-sided score line, which didn’t give sufficient credit to the efforts of the Squirrels, who never threw in the towel. However, these efforts were frequently undermined by handling and tackling from the boys that didn’t live up to their usual standards.

Game 2 – Rhiwbina 5 Cowbridge 5.  

Team: Sam P, Adam (2), Harry, Tom W, Tom G (1), Aled, Leighton, Joel (1), Seb, Dan Collier (1).

Subs: Rhys (for Tom W), Isaac (for Seb), Seb (for Harry), Harry (for Tom G).

First half: This game commenced with a catch and drive from Sam. However, Cowbridge regained possession and made a break to score. 0-1.

A knock on from the kick off meant that control of the ball quickly returned to Cowbridge, who then ran in their next try. 0-2.

After this rapid start from Cowbridge, Rhiwbina had been put on the back foot, as the trends of the first game continued. However, they dug in and started to claim a foothold in the match. A tackle from Adam forced Cowbridge into touch, and the Squirrels forced their way into the visitors’ territory. The attack was built on drives, in turn, from Sam, Leighton, Adam, Aled, Tom G, Tom W and Joel. Eventually, however, a forward pass resulted in a Cowbridge scrum, from which they broke to score. 0-3.

A catch and drive by Aled, from the restart, set up Leighton, who returned possession to Aled to open the ball up along the line. Unfortunately, a knock on brought this enterprising approach to a halt, and Cowbridge used the possession to create a try. 0-4.

At this point, the scoreboard once more had a lopsided look, and the boys’ confidence was taking something of a hit. The outcome was looking predictable. However, at this point a remarkable transformation in Rhiwbina’s performance and fortunes occurred. The remainder of the match saw the Squirrels very much on top, monopolising possession, and rarely allowing Cowbridge a look in.

The restart saw Harry respond to the score line with a length of the field run. Although stopped just short of the Cowbridge line, good support work led to Tom G crashing over for a try. 1-4.

The change round in fortunes was reflected in Cowbridge now knocking on the kick off, following good pressure from the Squirrels. A drive from Tom G, following the scrum, set up the position for Joel to power over for the score. 2-4.

The run up to the interval was then marked by some determined defence from Rhiwbina, to keep their line intact, with Aled, Leighton and Joel all putting in effective tackles. Most notable, however, was a tackle from Aled right on the whistle. Halting a Cowbridge boy in his tracks, just short of the Rhiwbina line, he then proceeded to drive him all the way back to his own half, at a rate of knots! This summed up the whole approach now coming from the Squirrels.

Half time - Rhiwbina 2 Cowbridge 4.

The game restarted with Cowbridge on the attack, which was met with good defensive work by Rhiwbina, with Aled to the fore, well supported by Joel and Sam. This eventually resulted in the Squirrels resuming possession. A drive from Aled instigated Rhiwbina’s first attack of the half, which was subsequently carried on by Leighton, Isaac and Rhys. The ball then found its way to Dan, who made a good break to score in the corner. 3-4.

The next Cowbridge possession was once again met by solid defensive work from Rhiwbina, with Joel and Leighton prominent in forcing a turnover. From the resultant scrum, Adam made a fine blind side break, from his own half, to sprint over for a corner try. 4-4.

At this point, the boys had done a tremendous job in turning around a slow start to draw level. With the momentum now firmly in Rhiwbina’s favour, credit must be given to Cowbridge for responding to the Squirrels’ comeback with a try of their own. This was in spite of more fierce defence from Rhiwbina, with contributions forthcoming from Harry, Adam, Seb, Dan, Aled, Rhys, Leighton and Isaac. 4-5.

However, Rhiwbina were not to be denied, and once more came back at Cowbridge. A run from Harry was carried on by a drive from Sam, and built upon by a break from Seb. Further runs followed from Leighton, Isaac and Joel, before Adam was released to break through tackles to score. 5-5.

As the clock counted down to the final whistle, Cowbridge tried to reclaim the lead once more, only to be met by an excellent tackle from Sam. This was followed up by more good defence from Isaac, Seb and Joel, as the game was eventually brought to a halt.

Final score Rhiwbina 5 Cowbridge 5.

A hard-fought game, of deep contrasts, with both teams refusing to give in when the other got on top. The comeback from Rhiwbina was remarkable. As confidence and performance improved, missed tackles and dropped passes gave way to aggressive defence and pressure, good handling and elusive running. In this regard, a particular mention should be made of David Thomas (George’s dad) for his role in assisting Neil during this second game, and helping provide the boys with some focus and guidance that got them back into the game, allowing their natural abilities to flourish.

All in all, not one of the boys’ better days for the most part, but memorable for the comeback that they launched in the second game, with all boys contributing.
 

 

U9’s Reports Sept 2010 to Feb 2011

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Rhiwbina U9’s 2010-11

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As U8's (2009-10)

As U7's (2008-09)

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As U8's (2009-10)

Half-time at Cardiff City Stadium
 

U9s Reports Sept 2010 to Feb 2011