Hull Ionians (U14) vs Doncaster (U14) Wednesday 17th December 2008
The result (22-12 to the visitors) is, dare I say, somewhat irrelevant.
What really matters is that at Brantingham Park, on a bitterly cold Wednesday night, over 50 boys turned up to represent their clubs, with another 50 or so supporters cheering them on from the sidelines in a match played under floodlights. And what a night, ending with the clubhouse packed for a pie and peas dinner, Santa Claus outfits, silly noses, and laughter all round as the two teams mingled and played party games in a joyous atmosphere which summed up what the game of rugby union is all about.
Yes..both teams wanted to win , and both played their hearts out, in a hugely competitive game, but it was played as it should be, hard, fair, in great spirit, and with a smile on their faces. Perhaps we all have a little less to be happy about with the credit crunch and all that, but these boys warmed the cockles of your heart and put everyone in the right festive mood for Christmas.
These boys have coaches whose love of the game is clear for all to see. They have instilled in the youngsters all the right values. Play fairly, shake your opponents by the hand at the final whistle, clap and cheer them off, and then enjoy their company in the clubhouse afterwards.
And to sum it all up, every single one of the Doncaster team came with a present for donation to the Viking Radio Cash For Kids appeal..need I say more.
A very Merry Christmas to you all
Thursday, 18 December 2008
Tuesday, 2 December 2008
17th December U14's v Doncaster
The evening fixture against Doncaster is confirmed for Wednesday 17th December.
The club is opening specifically for us that night and laying on a Pie and Pea Supper for all boys and parents/supporters. Cost will be approx. £3.50 per head, we will be providing Doncaster boys with theirs as usual for visiting teams.
Please bring as many friends and family as possible to support and make it a successful night for us and the club – there will be no squad selected all boys will be playing.
In order to know how many to cater for we will be printing tickets for this game. They will be available from Iain Humphreys or me from this Thursday. Tickets are free but giving them out will enable us to know how many are going to attend.
Should be a good night.
Thanks a lot
Peter
Peter Clough
The club is opening specifically for us that night and laying on a Pie and Pea Supper for all boys and parents/supporters. Cost will be approx. £3.50 per head, we will be providing Doncaster boys with theirs as usual for visiting teams.
Please bring as many friends and family as possible to support and make it a successful night for us and the club – there will be no squad selected all boys will be playing.
In order to know how many to cater for we will be printing tickets for this game. They will be available from Iain Humphreys or me from this Thursday. Tickets are free but giving them out will enable us to know how many are going to attend.
Should be a good night.
Thanks a lot
Peter
Peter Clough
Monday, 24 November 2008
Bradford & Bingley (U14) vs Hull Ionians (U14) Sunday 23rd November
Bradford and Bingley (U14) vs Hull Ionians (U14)
Sunday 23rd November
Ionians left the snow and ice of East Yorkshire behind to find sun and perfect rugby playing conditions for their Yorkshire Plate tie at B&B.
Despite a number of players late arrival resulting in some last minute changes to the team sheet the benefit of the strong squad system I’s have been developing was apparent as they started the game in uncharacteristically strong style and swiftly moved into a two try lead. This early boost to their confidence was plain for all to see and the desire and effort from the entire team saw them run out easy winners and keep a clean sheet on a glorious winter’s morning in the Aire Valley.
I’s opened the scoring through a strong burst from James Norton down the left touchline outpacing the covering Bees defence to score the opening try of the game. Pete McGlynn fielded the resultant restart and showed good strength and pace to score again down the right putting I’s two tries up within the first 5 minutes. A brief period of Bees pressure following a break up the middle led to I’s recovery of the ball close to their own try line before the ball was worked to Alex Wilko who scored a long range effort outpacing the Bees defence in typical style. This was followed by yet another strong break only for Wilko to have the ball stripped in an excellent cover tackle just short of the line.
Following a line out, I’s pressure from the quick breaking flanker Joe Barber saw a spilled ball close to the Bees line collected by Jack Stanny to score a short range effort and stretch the lead.
There followed a period of strong rucking and good handling by I’s in which Jack towns several times made good ground as the ball worked it’s way out wide.
Further I’s pressure saw Jack Stanny charge down a Bees kick on half way and from the subsequent ruck I’s worked the ball back well, fly half Olly Martin kept a cool head to draw the defence and spread the ball wide to utilise the overlap and put James Norton in for his second try. Not to be outshone by his brother, Ollie Norton made a strong stepping break through the middle beating half of the Bees side before setting the ball well and linking with the backs for James Norton to score with a flourish in the corner just before half time.
Half time : 36-0.
Ionians made a number of changes both individual and positional at half time but this did not seem to affect the performance from the reconfigured team. The second half opened with the fired up Bee’s best period of pressure on the I’s line but strong defence weathered the storm. The solid I’s scrimmaging which was evident throughout the game with the forwards clearly benefitting from working with the 1st team, saw the ball worked out to centre Jack Johnson who went on a typically strong and elusive run down the left before cutting back under the posts to take the I’s score past the decisive 40 point mark and the game, as a contest officially over. The plucky Bees agreed to continue the game and never lacked effort in a game which was played in good spirit despite the mounting score line.
More I’s pressure from Ollie Martin’s fine break up the middle who was unlucky not to break clear saw the ball worked off the ruck to Ryan Courtney who with two side steps, a dummy and a props turn of speed scored under the posts for his first try in I’s colours.
Straight from the restart Jack Stanny entertained the crowd with a spot of juggling as he took the kick before cutting his way through the middle of the Bees defence shrugging off numerous challenges to score next to the posts. The I’s scoring was rounded off with good work from the backs which saw fast hands and good support play release Jack Johnson to score under the posts. This final score was converted by Ryan Courtney to round off an impressive Ionians performance from minute 1 until the final whistle. If the form showed today can be carried forward into the rest of the season the team and supporters can look forward to a fine remainder of the season.
Sunday 23rd November
Ionians left the snow and ice of East Yorkshire behind to find sun and perfect rugby playing conditions for their Yorkshire Plate tie at B&B.
Despite a number of players late arrival resulting in some last minute changes to the team sheet the benefit of the strong squad system I’s have been developing was apparent as they started the game in uncharacteristically strong style and swiftly moved into a two try lead. This early boost to their confidence was plain for all to see and the desire and effort from the entire team saw them run out easy winners and keep a clean sheet on a glorious winter’s morning in the Aire Valley.
I’s opened the scoring through a strong burst from James Norton down the left touchline outpacing the covering Bees defence to score the opening try of the game. Pete McGlynn fielded the resultant restart and showed good strength and pace to score again down the right putting I’s two tries up within the first 5 minutes. A brief period of Bees pressure following a break up the middle led to I’s recovery of the ball close to their own try line before the ball was worked to Alex Wilko who scored a long range effort outpacing the Bees defence in typical style. This was followed by yet another strong break only for Wilko to have the ball stripped in an excellent cover tackle just short of the line.
Following a line out, I’s pressure from the quick breaking flanker Joe Barber saw a spilled ball close to the Bees line collected by Jack Stanny to score a short range effort and stretch the lead.
There followed a period of strong rucking and good handling by I’s in which Jack towns several times made good ground as the ball worked it’s way out wide.
Further I’s pressure saw Jack Stanny charge down a Bees kick on half way and from the subsequent ruck I’s worked the ball back well, fly half Olly Martin kept a cool head to draw the defence and spread the ball wide to utilise the overlap and put James Norton in for his second try. Not to be outshone by his brother, Ollie Norton made a strong stepping break through the middle beating half of the Bees side before setting the ball well and linking with the backs for James Norton to score with a flourish in the corner just before half time.
Half time : 36-0.
Ionians made a number of changes both individual and positional at half time but this did not seem to affect the performance from the reconfigured team. The second half opened with the fired up Bee’s best period of pressure on the I’s line but strong defence weathered the storm. The solid I’s scrimmaging which was evident throughout the game with the forwards clearly benefitting from working with the 1st team, saw the ball worked out to centre Jack Johnson who went on a typically strong and elusive run down the left before cutting back under the posts to take the I’s score past the decisive 40 point mark and the game, as a contest officially over. The plucky Bees agreed to continue the game and never lacked effort in a game which was played in good spirit despite the mounting score line.
More I’s pressure from Ollie Martin’s fine break up the middle who was unlucky not to break clear saw the ball worked off the ruck to Ryan Courtney who with two side steps, a dummy and a props turn of speed scored under the posts for his first try in I’s colours.
Straight from the restart Jack Stanny entertained the crowd with a spot of juggling as he took the kick before cutting his way through the middle of the Bees defence shrugging off numerous challenges to score next to the posts. The I’s scoring was rounded off with good work from the backs which saw fast hands and good support play release Jack Johnson to score under the posts. This final score was converted by Ryan Courtney to round off an impressive Ionians performance from minute 1 until the final whistle. If the form showed today can be carried forward into the rest of the season the team and supporters can look forward to a fine remainder of the season.
Monday, 17 November 2008
HullIonians (U14) vs Thorne (U14) Sunday 16th November
Hull Ionians (U14) vs Thorne (U14) Sunday 16th November
On a perfect day for rugby Ionians under 14’s played some great rugby which culminated in a 19-17 victory against a spirited Thorne side that never gave up.
Both sides played some open rugby and it was 15 minutes before the deadlock was broken. With the ever improving I’s pack securing clean ball it was left to the backs to execute a sublime move straight from the training pitch. Tyler Heelas called the target ball for Jack Johnson who cut a lovely line through the Thorne defence to score under the posts. Ollie Martin converted to give I’s a 7-0 lead. I’s kept threatening but let a couple of overlaps go begging. However it was not long before the lead was further extended. Elliot Armstrong collected a loose ball on the left wing and rather than driving the ball back into the Thorne forwards he saw space out to the right and delivered a long pass of 20yds to the free backs. Peter Ferguson who found himself in the centres used his speed to out pace the Thorne defence and score under the posts with Ollie Martin converting again. With half time approaching Thorne started to pressurize the I’s line. A series of scrums followed, with I’s just managing to hold out with the whistle going and the line still not breached.
The second half started strongly for I’s and within 2 minutes had scored another try. Good ruck ball set up by the ever improving Jo Barber released Jack Johnson on another break with Peter Ferguson on hand claim his second try and give 19-0 lead. Little did I’s realize how important it was going to be that they had 2 tries under the posts.
A series of injuries to Thorne then saw uncontested scrums become a part of the game which seemed to have a negative impact on I’s. It was from a scrum that the Thorne scrum half picked up the ball and race to the corner for what was a deserved score. Thorne continued to come back into the game and after I’s were penalized several times for not retiring, Thorne eventually scored their 2nd try. With about 6 minutes left I’s supporters were surely thinking they were not going to throw this one away. The tension got even worse when with 1 minute remaining Thorne scored their 3rd try after sustained pressure on the I’s line. This made the score 19-17 and I’s hanging on for victory. From the kick off Thorne’s centre who had been their best player all day set off on another run. It took 3 players to stop him and when the Thorne number 8 knocked the ball on, it was all over and I’s could breathe a sigh of relief, probably the supporters more than the players who had very few nails left.
On a perfect day for rugby Ionians under 14’s played some great rugby which culminated in a 19-17 victory against a spirited Thorne side that never gave up.
Both sides played some open rugby and it was 15 minutes before the deadlock was broken. With the ever improving I’s pack securing clean ball it was left to the backs to execute a sublime move straight from the training pitch. Tyler Heelas called the target ball for Jack Johnson who cut a lovely line through the Thorne defence to score under the posts. Ollie Martin converted to give I’s a 7-0 lead. I’s kept threatening but let a couple of overlaps go begging. However it was not long before the lead was further extended. Elliot Armstrong collected a loose ball on the left wing and rather than driving the ball back into the Thorne forwards he saw space out to the right and delivered a long pass of 20yds to the free backs. Peter Ferguson who found himself in the centres used his speed to out pace the Thorne defence and score under the posts with Ollie Martin converting again. With half time approaching Thorne started to pressurize the I’s line. A series of scrums followed, with I’s just managing to hold out with the whistle going and the line still not breached.
The second half started strongly for I’s and within 2 minutes had scored another try. Good ruck ball set up by the ever improving Jo Barber released Jack Johnson on another break with Peter Ferguson on hand claim his second try and give 19-0 lead. Little did I’s realize how important it was going to be that they had 2 tries under the posts.
A series of injuries to Thorne then saw uncontested scrums become a part of the game which seemed to have a negative impact on I’s. It was from a scrum that the Thorne scrum half picked up the ball and race to the corner for what was a deserved score. Thorne continued to come back into the game and after I’s were penalized several times for not retiring, Thorne eventually scored their 2nd try. With about 6 minutes left I’s supporters were surely thinking they were not going to throw this one away. The tension got even worse when with 1 minute remaining Thorne scored their 3rd try after sustained pressure on the I’s line. This made the score 19-17 and I’s hanging on for victory. From the kick off Thorne’s centre who had been their best player all day set off on another run. It took 3 players to stop him and when the Thorne number 8 knocked the ball on, it was all over and I’s could breathe a sigh of relief, probably the supporters more than the players who had very few nails left.
Sunday, 9 November 2008
Goole (U14) vs Hull Ionians (U14) Sunday 9th November
Goole (U14) vs Hull Ionians (U14) Sunday 9th November
Despite a penetrating, chill-to-your-bones, gale blowing across the pitch and making playing conditions far from ideal, the visitors served up a fine lesson in how to ignore the elements and just get on with game, running out comfortable winners by 20 points to 5.
Once again I’s took to the pitch with a much smaller pack than their opponents, and in the early exchanges realised that this was a day to face up and show commitment from first whistle to last.
No player encapsulated that approach more than prop James Heap who was in the thick of things throughout, making some fearsome tackles and penetrating drives, continually getting his team going forward and on the front foot against a physically superior opposing set of forwards.
I’s opened the scoring after 10 minutes when, from his own 22, Jack Johnson made a superb run almost the entire length of the pitch. As he was brought down just short of the line by a great cover tackle he delivered a one-handed offload inside to James Norton, who cantered in for the remaining 10 yards to touch down in the corner.
Goole replied soon after, when a couple of missed tackles allowed them to make sufficient yardage to attack the I’s line and close out with a try by the corner flag, and leave the match tied 5-5 with halftime approaching.
However I‘s were soon back on the attack and took the lead once more with a well worked try. From a position wide out on the right between the 10 metre and 22 metre lines first Peter Stone and then Ben Willingham each picked up and brought the ball back inside to set up a ruck centre field just to the right of the posts inside the Goole 22 . Quick ball to fly half Tyler Heelas, who initially feinted left and then cut back right, seeing the overlap. Two quick passes were enough for winger Ollie Martin to run in unopposed and touch down wide out.
With only a 5 point lead at half time and turning to face the strong wind, the muttering amongst the visitors supporters was whether 5 points would be sufficient to hold out against the home side.
Playing sensible, possession based, rugby, I’s were, however, soon stretching their lead to 15-5 as their forwards worked a series of good field positions, allowing fly half Tyler Heelas to side-step his way past the Goole defence to touch down for I’s third try.
A bad injury to one of the home players meant that the match was held up for 20 minutes whilst he received on field treatment, but on the restart I’s were soon back on the attack. Picking up from the base of the scrum the I’s captain, Rees Middleton, took off like a scalded cat and having outpaced the initial cover defence handed the ball to centre Jack Johnson who stretched away to score unopposed under the sticks.
Despite a penetrating, chill-to-your-bones, gale blowing across the pitch and making playing conditions far from ideal, the visitors served up a fine lesson in how to ignore the elements and just get on with game, running out comfortable winners by 20 points to 5.
Once again I’s took to the pitch with a much smaller pack than their opponents, and in the early exchanges realised that this was a day to face up and show commitment from first whistle to last.
No player encapsulated that approach more than prop James Heap who was in the thick of things throughout, making some fearsome tackles and penetrating drives, continually getting his team going forward and on the front foot against a physically superior opposing set of forwards.
I’s opened the scoring after 10 minutes when, from his own 22, Jack Johnson made a superb run almost the entire length of the pitch. As he was brought down just short of the line by a great cover tackle he delivered a one-handed offload inside to James Norton, who cantered in for the remaining 10 yards to touch down in the corner.
Goole replied soon after, when a couple of missed tackles allowed them to make sufficient yardage to attack the I’s line and close out with a try by the corner flag, and leave the match tied 5-5 with halftime approaching.
However I‘s were soon back on the attack and took the lead once more with a well worked try. From a position wide out on the right between the 10 metre and 22 metre lines first Peter Stone and then Ben Willingham each picked up and brought the ball back inside to set up a ruck centre field just to the right of the posts inside the Goole 22 . Quick ball to fly half Tyler Heelas, who initially feinted left and then cut back right, seeing the overlap. Two quick passes were enough for winger Ollie Martin to run in unopposed and touch down wide out.
With only a 5 point lead at half time and turning to face the strong wind, the muttering amongst the visitors supporters was whether 5 points would be sufficient to hold out against the home side.
Playing sensible, possession based, rugby, I’s were, however, soon stretching their lead to 15-5 as their forwards worked a series of good field positions, allowing fly half Tyler Heelas to side-step his way past the Goole defence to touch down for I’s third try.
A bad injury to one of the home players meant that the match was held up for 20 minutes whilst he received on field treatment, but on the restart I’s were soon back on the attack. Picking up from the base of the scrum the I’s captain, Rees Middleton, took off like a scalded cat and having outpaced the initial cover defence handed the ball to centre Jack Johnson who stretched away to score unopposed under the sticks.
Sunday, 2 November 2008
Hull Ionians (U14) vs Malton and Norton (U14) Sunday 2nd November
Hull Ionians (U14) vs Malton and Norton (U14) Sunday 2nd November
With both sides missing regular first choice players, who were attending East Yorkshire selection trials, this game provided an opportunity for squad members to show what they can do. And on a miserable wet and windy day they put on a feast of rugby for their parents and supporters who had braved the elements.
Given the first team pitch at Brantingham these two sides went at it hammer and tongs from the first whistle to the last, ignoring the dreadful conditions, and serving up 11 tries with I’s eventually running out clear winners by 42-24.
On top in the early exchanges, aided by 3 I’s players on loan for the day, Malton moved into what appeared to be comfortable 10-0 lead. This simply increased the determination of the home side, and with centre Jake Claughton, on his first appearance in an I’s jersey, making some crunching tackles and showing strength and pace on the counter-attack, I’s were soon back on level terms after two solo efforts from fly-half Tyler Heelas. His second try was converted by scrum half Matt Humphreys, and I’s edged into the lead at 12-10.
Back came Malton to lead 17-12 at the break after Jack ( “Stanny”) Stansfield, one of the on loan players, scored a fine try carving his way through the home side’s defence.
In the second half, with the strong wind at I’s backs Matt Humphreys consistently put the visitors on the back foot with some telling box kicks, and I’s soon moved into a 24-17 lead as first Ollie Norton and then his twin James scored tries for the home side.
Once again Malton forced their way back in to the reckoning with another try to level the scores at 24-24. With only 10 minutes to go, I’s now upped the pace and first Ollie Norton, then Jake Claughton , and finally Sammy Clough crossed the Malton line to see the home side move past 40 points.
The lengthy applause given to both sides at the final whistle was more than well deserved
With both sides missing regular first choice players, who were attending East Yorkshire selection trials, this game provided an opportunity for squad members to show what they can do. And on a miserable wet and windy day they put on a feast of rugby for their parents and supporters who had braved the elements.
Given the first team pitch at Brantingham these two sides went at it hammer and tongs from the first whistle to the last, ignoring the dreadful conditions, and serving up 11 tries with I’s eventually running out clear winners by 42-24.
On top in the early exchanges, aided by 3 I’s players on loan for the day, Malton moved into what appeared to be comfortable 10-0 lead. This simply increased the determination of the home side, and with centre Jake Claughton, on his first appearance in an I’s jersey, making some crunching tackles and showing strength and pace on the counter-attack, I’s were soon back on level terms after two solo efforts from fly-half Tyler Heelas. His second try was converted by scrum half Matt Humphreys, and I’s edged into the lead at 12-10.
Back came Malton to lead 17-12 at the break after Jack ( “Stanny”) Stansfield, one of the on loan players, scored a fine try carving his way through the home side’s defence.
In the second half, with the strong wind at I’s backs Matt Humphreys consistently put the visitors on the back foot with some telling box kicks, and I’s soon moved into a 24-17 lead as first Ollie Norton and then his twin James scored tries for the home side.
Once again Malton forced their way back in to the reckoning with another try to level the scores at 24-24. With only 10 minutes to go, I’s now upped the pace and first Ollie Norton, then Jake Claughton , and finally Sammy Clough crossed the Malton line to see the home side move past 40 points.
The lengthy applause given to both sides at the final whistle was more than well deserved
Sunday, 26 October 2008
Driffield (U14) vs Hull Ionians (U14) Sunday 26th October
Driffield (U14) vs Hull Ionians (U14) Sunday 26th October
Despite a plucky effort from the visitors, the superior forward play of the home side enabled them to come out on top with a winning score of 36-5.
Once again the I’s forwards found themselves up against a bigger and more physical pack, which denied them possession and meant that their pacy backs had little opportunity to show what they can do.
In this age group one or two more physically mature players can have a disproportionate effect on the outcome of a game. This certainly proved to be the case on this occasion as the home side were, more often that not, able to dominate in the loose with a stand out performance coming from their number 8.
That said, the smaller I’s players never let their heads drop and, encouraged by another inspirational effort from captain Rees Middleton, I’s scored the last try of the match, as they battled all the way to the final whistle.
The sight of I’s scrum half Matt Humphreys, hanging on for all his life to a rampaging opposition forward at least a foot taller and several stones heavier than himself, encapsulated the true spirit which permeates this team.
Despite a plucky effort from the visitors, the superior forward play of the home side enabled them to come out on top with a winning score of 36-5.
Once again the I’s forwards found themselves up against a bigger and more physical pack, which denied them possession and meant that their pacy backs had little opportunity to show what they can do.
In this age group one or two more physically mature players can have a disproportionate effect on the outcome of a game. This certainly proved to be the case on this occasion as the home side were, more often that not, able to dominate in the loose with a stand out performance coming from their number 8.
That said, the smaller I’s players never let their heads drop and, encouraged by another inspirational effort from captain Rees Middleton, I’s scored the last try of the match, as they battled all the way to the final whistle.
The sight of I’s scrum half Matt Humphreys, hanging on for all his life to a rampaging opposition forward at least a foot taller and several stones heavier than himself, encapsulated the true spirit which permeates this team.
Monday, 20 October 2008
Hull Ionians (U14) vs Doncaster (U14) Sunday 19th October
Hull Ionians (U14) vs Doncaster (U14) Sunday 19th October
A fine game of rugby, played in great spirit by both sides, saw the visitors ease away in the second half to a 24-7 victory.
During the first half I’s forwards matched the well organised Doncaster pack, as both sides fought to dominate the other at the breakdown and in the tight. The visitors’ game plan, to compensate for perhaps a lack of out and out speed in the back line, was to keep things tight. With outside half Joe Shakespeare putting in some fine kicks with both feet, I’s found themselves turning and defending on several occasions.
Once again I’s had cause to thank full back Alex Wilkinson’s blistering pace as he picked up a rare loose Doncaster kick just outside his 22, broke left, and accelerated away to score under the posts without a finger laid on him. With the conversion I’s edged into a 7-0 lead.
Another well placed kick down the right touchline from Shakespeare had I’s defending once more under real pressure just short of their line and from the resulting scrum a pick up and drive saw the visitors over just to the right of the posts, and the game evenly matched 7-5 at halftime.
During the second half the Doncaster forwards began to turn the screw slowly but surely, and with Shakespeare using the wind at his back to pin I’s back with a series of well placed corner kicks, the constant pressure saw them cross the I’s line from close range on three further occasions to run out well deserved winners.
Every defeat, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve performance the next time so if the I’s forwards can learn to get to the breakdown more quickly, and secure good quality ball, their very pacy backs can run in many tries this season.
A fine game of rugby, played in great spirit by both sides, saw the visitors ease away in the second half to a 24-7 victory.
During the first half I’s forwards matched the well organised Doncaster pack, as both sides fought to dominate the other at the breakdown and in the tight. The visitors’ game plan, to compensate for perhaps a lack of out and out speed in the back line, was to keep things tight. With outside half Joe Shakespeare putting in some fine kicks with both feet, I’s found themselves turning and defending on several occasions.
Once again I’s had cause to thank full back Alex Wilkinson’s blistering pace as he picked up a rare loose Doncaster kick just outside his 22, broke left, and accelerated away to score under the posts without a finger laid on him. With the conversion I’s edged into a 7-0 lead.
Another well placed kick down the right touchline from Shakespeare had I’s defending once more under real pressure just short of their line and from the resulting scrum a pick up and drive saw the visitors over just to the right of the posts, and the game evenly matched 7-5 at halftime.
During the second half the Doncaster forwards began to turn the screw slowly but surely, and with Shakespeare using the wind at his back to pin I’s back with a series of well placed corner kicks, the constant pressure saw them cross the I’s line from close range on three further occasions to run out well deserved winners.
Every defeat, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve performance the next time so if the I’s forwards can learn to get to the breakdown more quickly, and secure good quality ball, their very pacy backs can run in many tries this season.
Monday, 13 October 2008
Beverley (U14) vs Hull Ionians (U14) Sunday 12th October
Beverley (U14) vs Hull Ionians (U14) Sunday 12th October
A never-say-die attitude from Ionians saw them come back from 10-nil down and run out 17-10 winners, with three classic wingers tries.
The bigger Beverley pack initially outfought the lighter I’s forwards, and set up numerous good field positions for their backs. That said, a taste of what was to come later occurred when, with the score still nil-nil, I’s counterattacked from deep, and explosive pace from centre Jack Johnson saw him burst down the left wing from his own 22, only to be bundled into touch inches from the Beverley line.
Beverley’s constant forward pressure saw them create two successive overlaps in I’s 22 and centre Brandon Faulkner crossing the I’s line each time to take his team into a 10-nil lead.
This only increased I’s resolve, and with captain Rees Middleton showing his pack the way with tackle after tackle dumping Beverley’s bigger forwards on their backsides, the tide began to turn swing slowly but surely in I’s favour.
Quick release ball in their own half set James Norton off on a steaming run down the right, touching down in the corner for the first of his two tries, and I’s firmly back in the match at half time.
Initial pressure in the second half saw I’s camped on the Beverley line with only dogged defence keeping them out. Then a moment of pure class from tighthead Ryan Courtney, whose quick offload at halfway set James Norton off once more with the line at his mercy, and the match tied at 10-10.
As the match wore on I’s felt the benefit of their Thursday night training sessions, and they could sense that the Beverley pack was now beginning to tire.
If there was a try of the season award then I’s match winning effort would already be inked in. From a defensive position close to their own line by the right touchflag, the ball was swung left and into the hands of Alex Wilkinson. A quick look up and “goodbye” as he scorched down the left wing for fully 80 yards to touch down under the posts with the whole Beverley team (and the ref!) trailing in his wake. A straight forward conversion and the comeback was complete.
A never-say-die attitude from Ionians saw them come back from 10-nil down and run out 17-10 winners, with three classic wingers tries.
The bigger Beverley pack initially outfought the lighter I’s forwards, and set up numerous good field positions for their backs. That said, a taste of what was to come later occurred when, with the score still nil-nil, I’s counterattacked from deep, and explosive pace from centre Jack Johnson saw him burst down the left wing from his own 22, only to be bundled into touch inches from the Beverley line.
Beverley’s constant forward pressure saw them create two successive overlaps in I’s 22 and centre Brandon Faulkner crossing the I’s line each time to take his team into a 10-nil lead.
This only increased I’s resolve, and with captain Rees Middleton showing his pack the way with tackle after tackle dumping Beverley’s bigger forwards on their backsides, the tide began to turn swing slowly but surely in I’s favour.
Quick release ball in their own half set James Norton off on a steaming run down the right, touching down in the corner for the first of his two tries, and I’s firmly back in the match at half time.
Initial pressure in the second half saw I’s camped on the Beverley line with only dogged defence keeping them out. Then a moment of pure class from tighthead Ryan Courtney, whose quick offload at halfway set James Norton off once more with the line at his mercy, and the match tied at 10-10.
As the match wore on I’s felt the benefit of their Thursday night training sessions, and they could sense that the Beverley pack was now beginning to tire.
If there was a try of the season award then I’s match winning effort would already be inked in. From a defensive position close to their own line by the right touchflag, the ball was swung left and into the hands of Alex Wilkinson. A quick look up and “goodbye” as he scorched down the left wing for fully 80 yards to touch down under the posts with the whole Beverley team (and the ref!) trailing in his wake. A straight forward conversion and the comeback was complete.
Monday, 6 October 2008
Match report U14 v Keighley 5th October 2008
Hull Ionians (U14) vs Keighley (U14) Sunday 5th October
The saying goes that rugby and soccer are both games played with the head; soccer with the outside of the head and rugby with the inside.
That is a lesson which Ionians learned harshly today as they crashed 5-60 to Keighley in the first round of the Yorkshire Cup at Brantingham Park.
For the first 20 minutes this was a match which could have gone either way, but thereafter Ionians switched off, missed too many tackles, and as a consequence paid a very severe penalty as they allowed Keighley to run away with a match which should have been far more closely contested .
Even though they were without some first choice players, those who are selected still owe it to their coaches and their club to switch on from the first whistle, and stay switched on for the whole game.
On the positive side,the season is only just under way. There is plenty of time to turn things around, and this team has an abundance of talent in both forwards and backs. However talent without cool heads will not win matches, so they need to tackle, deny the opposition the ball, get on the front foot, and begin to take the right options in attack.
There is no bigger incentive than the next match against local rivals Beverley, so heads up and “lights on”.
The saying goes that rugby and soccer are both games played with the head; soccer with the outside of the head and rugby with the inside.
That is a lesson which Ionians learned harshly today as they crashed 5-60 to Keighley in the first round of the Yorkshire Cup at Brantingham Park.
For the first 20 minutes this was a match which could have gone either way, but thereafter Ionians switched off, missed too many tackles, and as a consequence paid a very severe penalty as they allowed Keighley to run away with a match which should have been far more closely contested .
Even though they were without some first choice players, those who are selected still owe it to their coaches and their club to switch on from the first whistle, and stay switched on for the whole game.
On the positive side,the season is only just under way. There is plenty of time to turn things around, and this team has an abundance of talent in both forwards and backs. However talent without cool heads will not win matches, so they need to tackle, deny the opposition the ball, get on the front foot, and begin to take the right options in attack.
There is no bigger incentive than the next match against local rivals Beverley, so heads up and “lights on”.
Tuesday, 23 September 2008
Yorkshire cup U14 draw
2008/2009 Season
Under 14’s 1st round Cup Draw to be played by 5th October 2008
HOME AWAY
Scarborough Middlesboro
Pocklington Doncaster
Beverley Hull FC
Guisborough Thornensians
West Park Leeds Malton & Norton
Ilkley Moortown
York Wetherby
Acklam Pontefract
Rotherham Titans Morley
North Ribblesdale Huddersfield
Bradford & Bingley Otley
Harrogate Bridlington
Roundhegians Dinnington
Sheffield Driffield
Hull Ionians Keighley
Wharfedale Ripon
Heath Goole
Sandal Selby
Old Brods Barnsley
Remember the home team is responsible for the appointment via Sunday Appointments Secretary in the home area for the match official.
Please EMAIL team sheets, in Word format.
Under 14’s 1st round Cup Draw to be played by 5th October 2008
HOME AWAY
Scarborough Middlesboro
Pocklington Doncaster
Beverley Hull FC
Guisborough Thornensians
West Park Leeds Malton & Norton
Ilkley Moortown
York Wetherby
Acklam Pontefract
Rotherham Titans Morley
North Ribblesdale Huddersfield
Bradford & Bingley Otley
Harrogate Bridlington
Roundhegians Dinnington
Sheffield Driffield
Hull Ionians Keighley
Wharfedale Ripon
Heath Goole
Sandal Selby
Old Brods Barnsley
Remember the home team is responsible for the appointment via Sunday Appointments Secretary in the home area for the match official.
Please EMAIL team sheets, in Word format.
Sunday, 21 September 2008
Ionians U14 Lexus tournament report
Hull Ionians (U14) Lexus North of England festival
Sunday 21st September
Sunday saw Ionians U-14s travel to Sheffield for the prestigious Lexus festival featuring teams from across north and central England.
Their first two games against Lutterworth and Nottingham resulted in heavy defeats in part due to the strength of the opposition but contributed to in no small measure by poor tackling and uncharacteristically sloppy handling by Ionians. One of the few bright points was the solitary try scored by Alex Wilkinson using his pace to go round the Lutterworth defence.
Ionians restored some pride in their final game against Lincoln rugby club. In an evenly balanced, hard fought game and with captain Rees Middleton and breakaway forward Pete McGlynn leading by example they were unlucky to lose by one try to nil.
After starting the season with two losing Sundays Ionians will be looking to improve. Their next competitive fixture in two weeks time, the first round of the Yorkshire Cup, would be a good time start.
Sunday 21st September
Sunday saw Ionians U-14s travel to Sheffield for the prestigious Lexus festival featuring teams from across north and central England.
Their first two games against Lutterworth and Nottingham resulted in heavy defeats in part due to the strength of the opposition but contributed to in no small measure by poor tackling and uncharacteristically sloppy handling by Ionians. One of the few bright points was the solitary try scored by Alex Wilkinson using his pace to go round the Lutterworth defence.
Ionians restored some pride in their final game against Lincoln rugby club. In an evenly balanced, hard fought game and with captain Rees Middleton and breakaway forward Pete McGlynn leading by example they were unlucky to lose by one try to nil.
After starting the season with two losing Sundays Ionians will be looking to improve. Their next competitive fixture in two weeks time, the first round of the Yorkshire Cup, would be a good time start.
Friday, 19 September 2008
Hull Ionians U14 v Bridlington Match report 14/9/08
Hull Ionians (U14) vs Bridlington (U14) Sunday 14th September
Perfect conditions for running rugby saw a close, and fiercely contested, game at Brantingham with Bridlington just edging Ionians by 40 points to 34.
The early stages saw Bridlington dominating at the breakdown and in the tight, driving Ionians off their own ball at the set scrum, and taking an early lead with a fine try under the posts.
With real pace out wide Ionians were looking to play to their strengths, and a quick hands through the back line saw winger Luke Johnstone released from halfway only to be hauled down just short of the line.
A series of try stopping tackles by Alexander Wilkinson, who had one of his best games in an Ionians shirt, inspired his team to contest more fiercely for the ball and work their way back into the game.
However, a series of missed tackles and dropped passes enabled Bridlington to wrest back the advantage and ease their way into a 24-12 lead early in the second half, with their stand out players Jamie Martin, Elliot Backhouse, and full back Spencer Day well to the fore in both attack and defence.
Far from letting their heads drop Ionians continued to work hard for the ball, and despite losing Luke Johnstone with a fractured collarbone, they showed real grit with Alexander Wilkinson, Jack Johnson and Peter Oughtred all crossing the line .
With only seconds remaining an individual break from halfway with a sidestep past the last Bridlington defender saw Peter Oughtred over the line for a second time take Ionians into a 34-33 lead.
That was time enough though for the versatile Spencer Day to open up the Ionians defence one last time, and cap an all round performance with the match winning try to see Bridlington home.
Perfect conditions for running rugby saw a close, and fiercely contested, game at Brantingham with Bridlington just edging Ionians by 40 points to 34.
The early stages saw Bridlington dominating at the breakdown and in the tight, driving Ionians off their own ball at the set scrum, and taking an early lead with a fine try under the posts.
With real pace out wide Ionians were looking to play to their strengths, and a quick hands through the back line saw winger Luke Johnstone released from halfway only to be hauled down just short of the line.
A series of try stopping tackles by Alexander Wilkinson, who had one of his best games in an Ionians shirt, inspired his team to contest more fiercely for the ball and work their way back into the game.
However, a series of missed tackles and dropped passes enabled Bridlington to wrest back the advantage and ease their way into a 24-12 lead early in the second half, with their stand out players Jamie Martin, Elliot Backhouse, and full back Spencer Day well to the fore in both attack and defence.
Far from letting their heads drop Ionians continued to work hard for the ball, and despite losing Luke Johnstone with a fractured collarbone, they showed real grit with Alexander Wilkinson, Jack Johnson and Peter Oughtred all crossing the line .
With only seconds remaining an individual break from halfway with a sidestep past the last Bridlington defender saw Peter Oughtred over the line for a second time take Ionians into a 34-33 lead.
That was time enough though for the versatile Spencer Day to open up the Ionians defence one last time, and cap an all round performance with the match winning try to see Bridlington home.
Saturday, 3 May 2008
Wednesday, 30 April 2008
Photos Spring Tour 2008 (photos coming shortly)
April 2008 the Under 13's enjoyed a weekend tour to Northumberland.
In addition to two excellent games of rugby against North Shields RUFC and Morpeth RUFC the boys enjoyed Wet n Wild Waterpark, dinner in Newcastle's China town, and the Newcastle Falcons v London Irish game.
Many thanks to both North Shields and Morpeth for their hospitality.
Enjoy attached photos which hopefully capture all those that played.
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