U14s dominated

On a bright sunny day for rugby Gravesend were taught a lesson by a quicker thinking Sevenoaks team.

Matters didn't get off to a great start when due to a late change of plan the match was moved from Oaks' Paddock ground to the nearby Sevenoaks school. A lot of faffing about and the planned minutes siles meant that the U14s only had 10 minutes to get switched on and prepared for the game.

On what could only be described as a sorry example of a pitch Gs played with the elements in the first half and had the North face of the Eiger in their favour. When George B was putting the ball in at the scrum he described Jonny H as looking like he was over 6 foot tall at centre which can only give you a feel for the size of the slope.

From the KO Gs did not make 10 yards and were pulled back for the scrum. What set the scene for the afternoon was Gs scrrummaging really well only to be caught napping, or having their pockets picked by a much sharper Sevenoaks front eight. That said there were some noticeable efforts from Samraj and Harry "Gusher" Knapp who picked and drove on time and time again.

The backs were having little joy and the threat of what was to come materialised as Sevenoaks spread the ball and used their pace to devastating effect running in two unconverted tries before half-time.

Uphill and playing against the elements the second half was always going to be a struggle but Gs kept trying and plugging away. Too often though a lack of composure when laying the ball back and some errant passing allowed Seveoaks to capitalise and score a number of tries all bar wone which was unconverted.

All in all wasn;t a great day for Gs and the topsy turvy season continues. We have a chance to put it right next week against Park House but must really start standing up to be counted otherwise we continue letting teams dominate us on the field.

At least in the bar our record continues as Harry Knapp, today's man of the match saw off the opposition front row player who was doing his best to pour most of the drink down himself. Also fair to say Harry was explosive off teh field as he was on it judging by the requirement for mop and bucket!!