Ipswich hosted a very strong Woodbridge squad in the latest Cup round robin game. The game started off in a very scrappy fashion, both teams spoiling each other’s ball on the ground, leading to multiple infringements at the ruck. This clearly played more into the visitors’ hands and the free flowing rugby we usually play was absent for long periods.

After a period of possession in their half we had a lineout 5 meters out and a clever worked move off the top allowed Olly a bit of space on the blind side wing to muscle over in the corner snapping the post in the process! 5 – 0.

Woodbridge responded virtually straight away and some passive defending gave their backs too much space and they beat us out wide to score near the posts to make the score 5 – 7.

There was a lack of quality to the play in general for some reason, which is unusual for these two teams, but one genuine bit of good quality phase play and passing resulted in the ball being moved to the left wing, enabling Olly to beat their cover for pace to score.

Half time: Ipswich 12 – Woodbridge 7

The second half was a similar affair to the first. Both teams turning over opposition ball and giving away too many penalties. The game was brutal at times, both teams putting in good defensive sets so there were not many clear-cut chances, although the Ipswich forwards did well to repel a driving maul from a 5 metre lineout, holding them up over the line. This proved to be a turning point.

After this Ipswich played most of the game in the Woodbridge half, who with the wind in their favour, were opting to kick possession back to us. With five minutes or so left on the clock Ipswich finally had some breathing space. A period of sustained pressure and calmer approach work led to a decent multi-phase move releasing Kyle to show a clean pair of heels to score in the left corner.

Final score: Ipswich 17 – Woodbridge 7

Although it was not the greatest display, it must be said the effort the boys put in, especially the forwards, was a sign of their determination and will to win when things were clearly not going to plan. To win when not playing well is a sign of a good team. Well done lads.

Brothers