OPM 12 - 50 DSRFC u16s

Games previously have not gone well for us against OPMs who are always a tough side to beat. We were 1 each going into this weekend and definitely had something to prove.
The first 15 minutes were close, with us having several phases of attack but OPMs defending well to hold us out.
After 19 mins, Cosmo crossed for the opening try after 12 phases of play had broken the defence down. 0 - 5.
A few minutes later, Kassim bundled over from close range after another multi phase attack. Joss added the extras, 0 - 12.

OPMs started to use the wind at their backs and soon benefited from a speculative kick forward which took a ridiculous bounce away from our defenders straight into OPMs hands for an easy 5-pointer. 5 - 12.
This good fortune sparked them into life and they managed to drive over our line soon after to add another converted try. 12 - 12.
At this point, the coaches were thinking, “Here we go again”, but the lads had other ideas.
We attacked relentlessly for the rest of the half putting phase after phase together with accurate passing, quick rucks and good support play. 3 further first-half tries were added by Joss, Cosmo and Harris, Joss converting twice to make it 12 - 31 at the break.

In the second half, we now had a strong wind at our backs, which we used to fairly good effect. Harris scored early in the half to stretch the lead to 12 - 36.
The next 10 minutes were a bit stale really with both sides unable to get out of the middle third, but eventually we managed to send the ball wide to Bayley who finished well in the corner past 3 defenders with Joss adding the extras from the touchline. 12 - 43.
Harris had the final say, capping a fine individual performance with a hat trick, this one off a superb catch and drive lineout, Joss again adding from the touchline to make the final score 12 -50.

A fantastic team performance but credit to the forwards today who were outstanding at lineout, scrum and defence. There were several candidates for MOTM with all the forwards deserving recognition but today’s award went to Charlie Craven. A great day for him with some strong carries and effective tackles.
DOTD was an OPMs player who, at 12 - 43 down and 5 mins to play shouted, “We’ve got them lads, we’re in their heads”?.
We did mention it after the game and he saw the funny side!!!
Onwards……..