Results and Reports 27th January 2008
Oundle under-17s 27 points, St Ives 0
St Ives travelled to Oundle, for what is always a tough encounter, shorn of some regulars, but all the more determined for that. Oundle's pitch was in remarkably good condition considering the recent weather, which allowed for a fast and open game.
The first half was a difficult one for St Ives, defending for long periods. After only 4 minutes, the Oundle man-of-the-match Rob Shingles broke blind and a poor defensive attempt allowed him to scuttle over for a try in the corner.
Oundle's efficient pack and more strong running from Shingles kept St Ives pinned in their own half. But, St Ives scrum was holding its own and welcomed new prop Adam Isaacs to the fray. The line out functioned well, with the understanding between Dan Geoghegan and jumpers David Baker and Mark Dominy improving. An unfortunate pulled hamstring for second row Andrew Punter ended his very promising start to the game. But it allowed the energetic Ronan Delany to join the battle in an unaccustomed position. St Ives back row was in outstanding form, with Simon Dunn and friends scything down many attacks. Ultimately the pressure told and Oundle once again moved the ball wide to score.
Just before half time St ives sniffed the opportunity for a break out. Doug Wilson, pressed into service in the centre, breached the gain line, but a neck high tackle polaxed him, the ball spilling free for Oundle to gather and score a converted try.
The second half also began with St Ives under pressure, and a missed tackle again allowed a soft try for Oundle.
However, St Ives upped their effort significantly with a stirring series of phases and their spirit shone through. St Ives man-of-the-match Dan Breed kicked from hand superbly. His own magnificent break through the Oundle back line should have brought greater reward. Unfortunately, the inability of the supporting players to release the overlap cost dear and Oundle recovered.
The pack found fire in their bellies, but the posssession gained could not be turned into points.
St Ives found themselves defending again, but the back three of Greg Thurston, Steve Hehir and Tom Brown tackled as if the match was still winnable. The team's efforts were thwarted when Oundle broke through for a final score, but they left the pitch with heads high after a strong second half performance.