Harpenden U17 72 v Hitchin U17 0

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The first cup game of the season saw us travel to Harpenden. Harpenden’s pitches were heavy under foot, but it was a bright day and only a slight wind.

All the talk before the game was about the next league game on the 3rd of Feb against Cheshunt, and I for one was slightly concerned that we were not ready for the task in hand.
Harps started the game as they finished it, they made the ball do the work by spreading it wide early. There was good communication between the 10 and 12 and they cut neat angles. Harpenden scored all of their first half trys in the left hand corner, exploiting the overlap and flooding that area with attackers. Hitchin were struggling to count defenders and were leaving the last line of defence with too much to do.
Will J, Dave, Elliot and Will A were constantly having to play catch-up in defence. Hitchin struggled to win ball in the line-out and when we did it was a bit scrappy and led to rushed kicking.
Harps had a strong bench and were able to make changes early and these changes did not upset their scoring pattern. Again the Hitchin forwards worked well, Jo and George working hard with ball in hand. Callum and Robbie were working their legs off making tackles and Duane was able to put some good hits in.
Late in the game we were forced to change Steve for Christie and Tom Mercer came on for Tank. Daniel (U16’s) came on into the back row and put himself about.
In the end Hitchin were taught a lesson in support and backs play, Harps moved the ball very well and every attacker had two supporting players to choose from.

For me Dave and Will J were superb in defence and they deserve a mention. Yes a poor result but I echo a lot of the players when I say we left our desire for this game in the changing room.

I will say that this Hitchin team never gave up and fought till the end. They impress me every week, even in defeat.

Final score 72 - 0

Lets see everyone at training Tuesday, Jo has requested a tackling session !!!!