Chipstead U12s ‘Exiles’ successful at Sutton

A late invite to Chipstead provided the Blues with an opportunity for this contest against some of the top Surrey Teams. The U12s were invited by Sutton & Epsom to replace Reeds who were not able to fulfil the fixture. This was an “A” festival in the truest sense with the opposition consisting of Guildford, the hosts, Effingham & Leatherhead and Cobham; the latter two teams being the joint Surrey “A” winners last year.

Injury and illness deprived the Chipstead squad of some regular players so it was a nervous but excited ‘Exiles’ team that warmed up for a day that would contain no easy games.

First up was Guildford. Chipstead started the game strongly but Guildford’s counter rucking came into the fore as the match went on causing us to lose possession several times. Generally however Chipstead were on the front foot in most facets of play but we only managed the one try. Final score 7-0.

The next match was against Sutton & Epsom. This game never really flowed with numerous necessary stoppages for injuries preventing any real continuity from developing. Although we went very close Chipstead never managed to cross the try line and the final score was 0-0.

Effingham & Leatherhead was the third match. These two teams have had very close games recently and today was no exception. Effingham are a well drilled side who play very good rugby and this was a very physical game with neither defence allowing room for the opposition to get into their stride. Arguably against the run of play Chipstead scored the only try of the game; such is sport. However one of the Surrey “A” winners had been beaten 7-0. The Chipstead win however was marred by an episode of poor discipline by a Chipstead player in this game. He was removed from the game and withheld from playing the final match.

This final game was against Cobham. In earlier games the coaches had noted that Cobham had a large pack and some very pacey backs. The intensity of the day’s competition meant that with further injuries the Blues were down to only their starting 13; with no available substitutes. One player stoically played through pain. If we had had subs available, we would would have enabled him to rest his injury. Perhaps because of, rather than in spite of, this set of circumstances this match saw Chipstead’s best performance of the day. The forwards’ effort was exceptional and the backs moved the ball well putting other players into space. Final score 21-0.

Having played four high intensity matches, winning three and drawing one, Chipstead had won the Festival.

Thanks should go to Sutton & Epsom, firstly for the invitation to play and secondly for running a very smooth and efficient, quality “A” festival. Secondly to the referee who officiated in every game with fair decisions and clear explanations to the players. Thanks also to the players of Guildford, Sutton & Epsom, Effingham & Leatherhead and Cobham for the competition.

Final congratulations though to the players of Chipstead U12s ‘Exiles’. The more observant readers will see that the Blues managed to score 35 points over four games and not concede a try. Given the quality of the opposition this clean sheet was a fantastic achievement. Very well done from the coaches and parents.