The one that got away

This game was one that got away. Chipstead started strongly and dominated the first 10 minutes with a converted try emerging after a sustained, patient seven or eight phases of play. This was the Chipstead from last season, working as a unit and building up the pressure with direct, penetrative Rugby. So far so good.

However rather than capitalising on this pressure, Chipstead allowed Reeds to come back at them with the Home team’s Backs (in particular their Centres) providing pace and awareness of the width afforded by the pitch to continually deliver a series of overlaps that tested the Chipstead defence. Two tries in the top corner were testament to Reeds’ ability to get the ball out fast and wide. Both teams were pretty evenly matched in the pack and this game came down to the potency of the Backs to deliver; and on this occasion the verdict on the Chipstead Back play in terms of key decisions and support was “could do better”. A final Reeds' try saw the hosts go into the break 15-7 up.

A more attritional second half saw Chipstead again apply strong initial pressure in the Reeds’ 22, although this pressure was not converted into points. Both sides traded territory as each sought to break through the defences of the other. Finally Reeds’ worked the overlap allowing their Backs through for a converted try under the posts. This was the only score in the second half .

In summary this was another frustrating episode in the journey of the Exiles from Mini rugby to Juniors and Leagues. The decision making needs to be sharper, play-making needs to be more considered, and the Exiles need to get back to playing as a more cohesive unit – Forwards and Backs. This will all come, but it will require more collective focus and a willingness to convert the effort in training into the match situation.