Coulson's Chatter - Worthing College Performance XV vs. Oaklands College XV

A cooler day than in previous weeks and a light wind to greet the the Worthing side in
Hertford at the Oaklands campus. A large squad consisting of experienced players and
freshers alike went into battle with a competitive and competent Oaklands team.
The first half started with Worthing playing uphill into a light to fair breeze which made
possession key and a good kicking game vital. In the early exchanges the visitors
struggled and conceded first to a good score from the home side. This was converted and
Oaklands took an early 7-0 lead.

Worthing got their hands on the ball and played some good rugby, Cook and Watts made
metres working in the middle part of the field and were supported by Roberts making his
return to the college side. Although no end result was forthcoming due to a poor kicking
game, Worthing not able to get into position to build pressure as good relieving kicks made
yardage down field for the home side at all the right times.

The line out functioned well with stand in Hooker Luke hitting his mark more often than not
and Watts and Reed doing good work. The scrum was solid and provided an attacking
platform for the backs to run from.

A great break in mid field by Fastnedge (A) beating the centre defence stepping from his
left foot (a real collectors item) and drawing the fullback delightfully to put Lyons (T) in for
the five. Parker converted (C) to make it 7-7. Worthing then went on the offensive again
building pressure the result of which was a strong carry on the right hand side of the field
and Luke (T) pumping the legs to cross with a good finish, Parker (C) again converting.
Just before the half Worthing conceded a try which was not converted 14-12 Worthing at
the half.

Changes at the half and a message of ʻGo Forwardʼ took Worthing in to the second period.
A strong start from Worthing playing some excellent rugby using the conditions to their
advantage. Birch (T) benefiting from a good catch and drive Parker hitting the post from
the conversion. Worthing up 19-12 and with the big ʻMoʼ on the team it was really game
on.

Sam bath fielded a high ball and made a strong run into midfield, from this point Pat White
(T) ran a delightful line to score under the posts and Parker added the extras (C). Worthing
up 26-12.

The pressure was now beginning to show and good direction from Leeming at half and
Parker at first five was leading to opportunities across the field.
Lyons (T) completed a good move with the assist from Baker (A). Worthing 31-12 Josh
Bath (T) managed to finish a good team try with the assist from Fastnedge. Unconverted
by Parker Worthing 36-12.

A good effort from the entire squad. Looking forward to reviewing the game on Friday at
7.30am.

Trys: Lyons 2, Birch, Bath J, White P, Luke
Cons: Parker 3
MOM: Cook