Tough trip to the seaside

There was a typically fresh sea breeze to greet the U10s to the Coronation Recreation Ground but things soon warmed up. Somewhat unusually, the Felixstowe ref got the match started with a kick off leaving the bemused U10s having to deal with the incoming kick, not something they had trained for! Unfortunately, Felixstowe managed to quickly regain possession and a quick break saw them in for the first score of the match.

From the next restart, Freddie made one of his trademark runs up the left wing but was brought down by some determined Felixstowe tackling. Felixstowe almost turned over the ball but some strong counter rucking from Fin secured possession again before the ball was moved across to Tommy who crossed for Ipswich’s first score.

Taylor found himself on the end of the next restart and made a determined run up midfield. Unfortunately, the attack ended up being shunted into touch, handing possession back to Felixstowe who then ran in their second try. Despite some determined tackling from Tommy, Fin, Freddie and Riley, Felixstowe soon added to their score, finishing the half with five tries to Ipswich’s one.

During half time, Ipswich regrouped and identified the need to speed up their work at the break down. Working hard to retain possession, Ipswich were first to score with Luca crossing after a run almost from his own try line. From the next restart Felixstowe were straight back into the attack but their initial run was cut short by a great steal from Daniel. However, Felixstowe managed to turn the ball over again and despite some strong tackles from Fergus, Cameron, Tommy and Freddie they crossed again for three further tries, including one from a fantastic offload.

Ipswich refused to drop heads and were straight back into the attack with great runs from Fin, Cameron,Frankie and Isaac getting close to the Felixstowe line. Felixstowe managed to hold out but it was not long until Ipswich regained possession and got the ball out wide to Luca who crossed for his second. The next score came from Riley with a great run breaking a number of tackles on the way.

Felixstowe were straight back into attack and nearly crossed again but for a great try saving tackle from Fin which saw Felixstowe held up over the line. Fin had a hand snuffing out the next Felixstowe attack, pouncing on the ball after a strong tackle from Daniel. The ball ultimately ended up with Cameron, who ran through the Felixstowe defence to cross for Ipswich’s final score. Felixstowe were however good for another try before the final whistle ended a tough morning for Ipswich.

The squad will be back into training over the next few weekends so will have an opportunity to work on the breakdown where Felixstowe were stronger today. We did however see some great running, passing and tackling, so plenty of positives to take. The parents’ player of the match went to Cameron who had a great game both in defence and attack – well done Cameron!