The last block fixture before the weekend exeat saw a mixture of wins and loses against Cokethorpe School. All the boys played with determination and are looking ahead to the rest of the season.
U15A v Cokethorpe School
Shiplake took the initiative in this match from the first whistle with some strong driving play from the forwards leading to an early try, 5-0. Thereafter, it was all Cokethorpe. The opposition made life incredibly difficult for the Shiplake boys, turning over the ball on a regular basis. However, a host of infringements and wrong options kept Shiplake in the game. Cokethorpe scored two converted tries to leave the home side trailing 5-14. A loose clearance kick fell straight into the arms of Tom Carpenter who skipped around six would-be tacklers to score under the sticks, 12-14.
The last five minutes were nip and tuck but a breakdown offence by the Cokethorpe led to a penalty kick at goal and a 15-14 win to Shiplake.
U13A v Cokethorpe School
The U13As started their match against Cokethorpe by getting early possession but losing it after five minutes when Cokethorpe scored their first try of the day. This was due to missed tackles that offered a gap down the opposition’s line, allowing them to run through and score a further three tries.
Our boys came out really well in the second half, but unfortunately Cokethorpe came out a bit better, and scored a further two tries. Every player on the team did really well and the U13As are looking forward to their next game at the Lord Wandsworth tournament.
U13B v Cokethorpe School
The U13Bs entered the match with high hopes and ready to win a game. Cokethorpe kicked the ball to start and Max Gardiner caught it and passed it to Ewan who made a good run but was unfortunately tackled out of touch. They passed the ball to the wing and a missed tackle by Shiplake, meaning Cokethorpe could get their first try. Shiplake were determined not to let that impact morale, however. Cokethorpe got a few more tries despite good play from Shiplake. It was half time and the U13Bs needed to fight back. Max kicked the ball, Cokethorpe caught it and went on to score. Although the boys lost, there were many positives and they are looking forward to the season ahead.
U12A v Cokethorpe School
Shiplake’s U12As played against Cokethorpe School who won the toss, allowing our boys to kick first.
In the first play, Cokethorpe scored almost immediately, leading the Shiplake boys to think they were doomed! Just minutes later, Henry Benton made a spectacular run to level the score. In defence, the U12As had James Coe and Zac Lloyd making brilliant tackles, holding them back. Thanks to their spectacular skills on the pitch, they were both rewarded with tries. Cokethorpe were very good at passing and holding their line and at half time, the score was 3-2 to Shiplake.
Going in to the second half, Shiplake were determined to keep the lead but the opposition fought back and scored two more tries. Shiplake demonstrated some brilliant tackling and rucking and with scores by Alfie Malcolm and Henry Benton, eventually, Shiplake got the win. Overall, it was a great game and a good team performance. Thank you Mr Jones for refereeing.
U12B v Cokethorpe School
Shiplake U12Bs went down to the Riverside pitches on Tuesday afternoon to play against Cokethorpe. Our boys kicked off and Cokethorpe scored a quick try in the first two minutes, and three more throughout the first half. Shiplake kept their heads up and went into the second half feeling anxious to get on the scoreboard and make a few tries. Cokethorpe scored another try, and at this point the U12Bs had a few knocks but still wanted a try. They finally got on the score sheet with a run from Stanley Massie, who was tackled, and Luca Poundall picked up the ball and crashed through their defence to score Shiplake’s first try. The boys wanted another try, and they got it from Stanley Massie with a fabulous run in the last minute to make the score 25-10. Overall, the U12B team were happy to score a couple of tries and are looking forward to the rest of the season.
