We were slightly down on numbers so it was agreed we would play one match of three periods with rolling substitutes. This worked well with plenty of game time for our players with intermittent periods of rest during the action.

Gateshead were good opponents. Very physical, organised in defence, and competitive at the ruck. Our team competed well but we need to keep working on our defensive line instead of bunching and at times we were out competed at the ruck. However, there were a great many positives. Our passing intent and go forward worked well. All of our players fought hard and continually forged their way forward. The tackling technique was very good from everyone.

Unfortunately the recent cancelled outdoor training sessions due to the weather has possibly impacted our intensity in defence and the ruck. Gateshead’s counter ruck was good which resulted in a few turnovers, but this is something we can definitely work on and improve in the new year. We need to continue with the hard work we’re doing in training on ripping the ball and making sure that we don’t lose it in the contact area, as well as continuing with the passing and catching skills that we have been practicing. There’s been a noticeable improvement in our handling skills recently, which is definitely improving our team performance.

The first two periods of today’s game were challenging but it was great to see our players continue to stay in the game and continue to compete, and work hard against a good team.

After a really good team talk it was very pleasing that our team worked hard in the final period of the game and dominated the Gateshead team. This was a really good effort from every player. They worked hard and stuck together as a team and increased the intensity levels on their opponents to finish on a high. Great stuff from everyone.

Well done to all of our players. This was a challenging fixture that we can all learn a lot from that will strengthen and benefit our team and every player as we move into 2025.

Players of the week.
Hylton Millward Brearley. Hylton showed great leadership qualities as he organised his team and lead the charge forward. He made some good tackles and his support play was very good. He had a very positive attitude throughout which really helped his team. Well played Hylton.

Jacob Robinson. Jacob played very well both in attack and defence. His tackling was effective and he scored a couple of good tries at crucial times to put the pressure back on our opponents. Well done Jacob.

We have one more indoor training session in 2024 on Wednesday at 6pm. There’s plenty to keep working on. Hopefully all our players can attend.

Thank you to the commitment of the players and the support of their families throughout 2024. It is greatly appreciated.

Merry Christmas from the U10 Team.