Hitchin v Dunstable

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A good contest between two well-matched teams.

Hitchin 14 – 14 Dunstable
T: Euan Dixon-Earle, Jacob O’Conner
C: Harry Chater (2)

Dunstable are a good, well-drilled side with a number of large, fast ball carriers. We started slowly and struggled to contain them, especially as they re-cycled well and we missed a number of first time tackles which meant that they could build up momentum. It was no great surprise that Dunstable scored first, but this (or maybe the coaches’ words of ‘encouragement’) roused us and the rest of the first half was much tighter.
We started the second half strongly, putting together a series of moves that culminated in Jacob scoring in the corner. Harry added the conversion to level the score. We continued to apply pressure and put in tackles before they travelled too far. Euan gathered a clearance kick and scored after another of his trademark mazey runs. Harry’s kick took us 7 points clear but we relaxed a bit and allowed Dunstable to hit back as more tackles were broken.
In the end the draw was a fair result with both sides attacking well but being a bit lax in defence.

Hitchin 7 – 42 Dunstable
T: Jacob O’Conner
C: Harry Chater

With no training since the Stevenage game, there’s been little opportunity for the newer players to improve their tackling and once again this was the difference between the sides.
We competed well in the first half but a couple of breaks by Dunstable saw us turn round 14 points down.
The opposition exploited some weak tackling and their strong runners took full advantage, but we kept trying and Jacob pulled one back with the last move of the match.

We’ve lots to work on and need another good turnout at training next weekend. Progress at times can be slow – but it is progress! Teamwork is good and, although it’s disappointing to lose, everyone seems to be in good spirits.
Don’t forget training on Thursday evening 6.30pm – 7.30pm

Player of the week: Adrian Hayes