The first home game for the U13s was against a strong Woodbridge side. The game was played in 4 quarters to allow the coaches to rotate the players on a cold wet day. Woodbridge came flying out of the blocks and had Ipswich on the back foot defending their own line desperately in the opening minutes. However, two quick Ipswich tries, breaking the defensive line from deep in their own 22, gave the match a false score line. Woodbridge replied to end the first quarter at 10-10

The second quarter saw Ipswich reshuffle and many players tried different positions. With Woodbridge making less changes they took control and some good passing moves resulted in them taking a half time lead. Half time Ipswich 15 – 20 Woodbridge

Initially the third quarter followed a similar pattern as the second, Ipswich looking strangely subdued, being slower to the ruck and passive in defence. Woodbridge took advantage and scored 2 more tries to lead by 3 scores with the score now 15-30. To go from 10-0 up to 30-10 behind may have made Ipswich heads drop but to their credit they kept on battling. A great interception try sparked some life back into Ipswich and from this point on they began to play with a determination we have become accustomed to.

The end of the third and the entire fourth quarter saw Ipswich camped in the Woodbridge 22. Another Ipswich try reduced the deficit further to one score in a pulsating finish. With the wind and driving rain at their backs Ipswich came so close to equalling the scores but brilliant defence from Woodbridge kept them out. On reflection an excellent game with Woodbridge deserving the victory on the day.

Final score Ipswich 25 – 30 Woodbridge

Well done to all who played. The Coaches were pleased with the way the players kept trying and encouraging each other, especially when things were not going to plan, a sign of a good team. Special mention to Harry Chapman and Harrison Mann on great performances

Brothers