A fine morning greeted the ERGS U13 team as they took to the field against Banbridge Academy for their first away match of the season. A slow start ensued from the travelling squad as we failed to settle into the game. Banbridge kept ERGS camped in their own 22 for the first 10 minutes of battle but solid well organised defence from the boys meant that the home side never really threatened our try line.
A relieving penalty kick saw the ERGS boys make their way out of their own half. From the lineout, great phase play moved up the pitch with the pack running with great intent and making yardage. The pressure built and built and a great storming run saw Aiken touch down under the sticks for the opening score. Hamill added the extras.
From the re-start ERGS set about their task again. But for some handling errors the second score would have come a lot sooner. However when we did eventually link our phase play together the team enjoyed another well worked try touched down by Love. Hamill added the conversion.
The second half was a 1 sided affair. With only 1 more try to show for the lads fantastic efforts both in attack and defence in the second period. A great loop move from Love released Magee to grab the touchdown. Again Hamill added the extras. The lads know that at least another 4 tries went begging due to unforced errors but that is something else to work on at training.Whilst there were some great individual performances.
Every player on this squad added something to today’s win. Keeping the home side scoreless was plain and simple aggressive defence and is testament to the hard work the lads have been putting in. Final score 21-0 the boys left Banbridge with a win in the bag and already thoughts are turning to next week.
