MATCH REPORT
Berkshire U17 54 -19 Oxfordshire U17
PLAYED AT: Maidenhead RFC
DATE: Sun 22nd April 2022
Berkshire U17 played a rousing display of rugby to end this seasons U17 county fixtures against a spirited Oxfordshire U17s in match that demonstrated the values of development and pathway as the Berkshire performance team.
The game was played at an intensity level that instantly set a tempo and a level of focus enjoyed by both set of supporters. Berkshire set their stall out early when fast ball was quickly recycled and a cross kick was almost gathered to score the first try.
Berkshire continued with a dominant start in the lineout but the scrum took a while with the Oxfordshire pack doing well in the opening engagements. Although Berkshire had the territory and possession it was a surprise break when a ball was lost in the tackle within the Oxfordshire half that led to a barnstorming run by the Oxfordshire #5 lock who beat several tackles to run the length of the field to score and put Oxfordshire up 0-5.
However, Berkshire then came right back and undeniable try of the match was scored when a quick chip by Berkshire centre Tom David from just outside his 22 was regathered by him and he then added another one to beat the approaching fullback with the bounce going into the arms of his fellow centre James Palmer-Owen to gather and cross the line for the try with the extras added.
Berkshire continued to press and a line-out catch and drive led by Will Morris created the momentum for Issy Suleman to drive over.
This pressure continued and with a kick from their goal area the ball was returned with interest from George Shakespeare (15) who connected with Oscar Busby (11) who went on a wandering run before popping up down the left wing to pop the ball outside to Jonny Sharp who round med the last player to score under the posts. Oxfordshire were still not ready for half time and great tap penalty and recycle gave them the opportunity to kick for the corner which they took superbly to score.
HALFTIME Berkshire U17 21 – 12 Oxfordshire U17
The second half stated with both teams maintaining the tempo but with several changes the initial few minutes resulted in several turnovers. Eventually a fast break and endeavour by Berkshire was targeted by the Oxon #13 and he intercepted a launched pass to go in under the posts and make the score now 21-19.
After pressure in the early part of the second half Berkshire continued to press and after and right hand wing break by Essie Ledua was recycled Berkshire were able to through a few phases, get the ball wide and then set up a a pick n go for Mitch Fisher (#1) to move the score to 28-12.
Fast ball became the order of the day with the Berkshire team with refreshed players on the pitch continuing the “Relentless” theme and after several phases took them into the Oxon 22 with Hayden Wheeler (#9) getting in on the act setting the defence in order to create a sniping opportunity to help himself to the try line . A further try by Issy Suleman after an 8 phased attack moved Berkshire up the field to increase their lead.
In the final few minutes yet another turnover resulted in a multi phase attack and who should pop up to finish it up for his hatrick but Issy Suleman and a deserved win for Berkshire.
MATCH HIGHLIGHTS
(No Sound)
THANKS once again from all at Berkshire RFU to Gary English (Videography & Analysis: 07455 005194) for the highlights
Well played to both teams for a thoroughly entertaining match. We look forward to seeing more of the boys as they progressing the U18 squad for the 2022/23 season.
CONTACT DETAILS
For more details on the fixtures and honours players that have come through the U17 programme go to the Berkshire U17/U18 County Page (link at the bottom).
Berkshire RFU would like to extend our gratitude to all the clubs, coaches, referees and supporting volunteers across the county who have developed and inspired these young players during their formative years to reach this highly respected honour in representing the county – You make a difference!
Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship.
SEE THE COUNTY UNDER 17 PAGE TO SEE THE FULL SEASONS FIXTURES AND HONOURS
