Ipswich at Welford Road

Ipswich u10s took to the road on Saturday to head up to Leicester to participate in the next round of the Tigers Prima Cup, supported by an excited and passionate band of parents, grandparents and siblings.

After watching an exhilarating display of attacking rugby from Worcester Warriors, as they dismantled Tigers 31-12 in the Premiership Cup, the Ipswich team readied themselves for a stern test against a big strong Scunthorpe team.

It was a cold and windy evening under the Welford Road lights, but as the Ipswich lads strode onto the turf, it was clear they were up for the challenge and gave a performance of strength, determination and no small amount of skill to match.

Some fierce tackling and defence pressure kept the Scunthorpe threat at bay and at the end of the first half Ipswich’s efforts were rewarded. Jamie Pennington made a half break from a scrum and was supported by Arthur Gaskin who carried the ball forward making some hard yards through the green Scunthorpe wall. A good offload to Tommy Davies created some space which was gratefully accepted as he strode forward up the wing to score a fine try on the stroke of half-time.

Scunthorpe were not out of the game though and the second half saw them strike back after winning the ball several times by forcing Ipswich attacks out into touch. The game was now on a knife-edge.

Riley Thompson had been introduced at the half-way mark and was making his presence felt with some strong runs and some intelligent passing. The tenacity of Kamron Davies in defence was noticeable throughout the game, making several crucial tackles, keeping the score-line tight.

As the clock ran down, Ipswich introduced their finishers from the bench. Frankie Lawson, Isaac Asti and Taylor Scannell all brought fresh legs and impetus onto the pitch to continue to drive Ipswich forward.

Ipswich’s intensity, commitment and passing finally worked an opportunity for Sebastien Beaumont-Hewitt to collect the ball on the wing with some space to run into. As the cover defence drifted to meet him, a fabulous step of his right foot opened the gap through which he burst to cross for the winning score.

The referee blew up and Ipswich had recorded a great win against a strong Scunthorpe team. Beccles then won a close encounter against Market Harborough to set up a final match versus the black and golds.

Another closest of encounters ensued with both teams giving it their all. Again all of the Ipswich players played with passion and belief, trying to pass and move the ball commendably against another big green machine.

Bryn Thomas had another fine first half and twice surprised the crowd with a remarkable turn of foot, hitherto previously unseen on rugby pitches.

Isaac Asti again was introduced and despite being the smallest player on the pitch, was the first to step forward and take the challenge to Scunthorpe calling his props forward to support him hooking in the scrums. William Searle was playing with his usual mixture of assured running and very able defensive work.

Beccles however had the final word in the first half, as their persistence and strong running was rewarded with a try before half-time.
The second half started and back Ipswich came, playing with pride and fearlessness exemplified by Jamie Pennington as he dragged himself and several defenders over the line to level the scores.

Ipswich now were looking the more threatening of the teams as they continued to pass and support well. Isaac John was his usual dangerous elusive self and would have scored if it were not for having the ball dislodged over the line by a last-ditch Beccles tackle.

As Beccles pressed to come back into the match, Ipswich’s tackle discipline marginally worsened, being penalised several times for higher than acceptable challenges. Ultimately the free ball given to Beccles allowed the pressure to build until one final strong run allowed them to just thrust over the Ipswich line to win the game by the narrowest of margins.

As the referee’s whistle blew the Ipswich’s players’ clear disappointment at losing such a tight encounter soon turned to pride in what were two performances of great character. They were cheered off the pitch by an adoring and impressed team of supporters.

The coaches’ pride in the Ipswich play was only enhanced as the Tigers referee came over to congratulate us on our sportsmanship throughout the games the likes of which he said he had rarely seen before.

The squad and their support left Welford Road and headed off into the Leicester evening to celebrate a great day of rugby and further form the bonds upon which future challenges will be built. As for the rest, what goes on tour……..