15th August 2009:

Under 12s, Tregenza, Old Collegians 0 v Onkaparinga 51

BEST PLAYERS Luke Howes, Alex Kambinaros, Jo Hodgson, Jo Colwell, Nick Litchfield, Rhys Frew, Connor Braidwood, Zack

To have only 11 out of a possible 19 turn out for the game, was very disappointing to those that turn up week in week out for training. It was no surprise that the heads were down and the shoulders slumped as they took the field. The first half was a disaster and the less said about that 20 minute period the better.

What a difference after the break. Old Colls' looked as they did in the latter part of the Brighton game and began to win some valuable ball - something unseen for the whole first half. Ably assisted with 3 Onkas players the forwards came alive. Rhys, Connor and Zack ferreted and fought hard to secure the ball. Luke had a season defining purple patch, showing that he has the ability to mix it with the best. His powerful running, tackling and his work rate in the rucks and malls were truly a treat to watch. Mo Jo again looked dangerous, selling a fine dummy and offloading to Nick, who is also a force to be reckoned with when going forward at pace. In the tackle the usual suspects were there, with Alex again making at least 2 try-saving tackles and Nick having his biggest tackle count of the season, ably backed up by Charlie. Jo Poe made what was not only his best tackle of the season, but also strongly contends with some from Kamikaze Kambinaros for tackle of the year.

After the Onkas full back collected the ball and at pace, breaking through 5 tackles, with only one to beat in open play, all the tackling practice paid off with Joe Poe launching himself sideways in a textbook tackle and he was taken to the floor, knocking the ball on for a fine turnover.

The boys left the field able to hold their heads high after yet another physical battle. I look forward to it all coming together in the final 2 games of the season. The boys owe it to themselves, as they have put in a tremendous amount of work during training. They know they are able to mix it with the best teams, as they did with Brighton - they only have to believe in themselves.

Matt, Stewart and Tim

 

8th August 2009

Under 12s, Tregenza, Old Collegians 10 v Brighton 25

TRY SCORERS: Rhys Frew, Scott Gear

BEST PLAYERS Scott Gear, Nick Litchfield, Rhys Frew, Connor Braidwood, Jo Hodgson, Jo Colwell, Callum Wall, Nathan Ilic

The boys had their best training this season a couple of days before this game and, at the post training debrief a comment from one of the lads "If we play on Saturday like we trained tonight we can win", was absolutely spot on.

A disjointed start to the game however, saw Brighton take opportunities to catch Old Colls players out of position, after having free kicks converted to penalties for unsporting behaviour. Some of the players were caught in confusion and unguarded which saw Brighton go over the line for two early tries.

This clearly fired the boys into action, and from 15 minutes into the first half, we saw Old Colls Under 12s really come together as a team. With hard, aggressive running and clearing out, the forwards secured some good ball at the rucks and malls. Better ball security resulted in Jo Po at scrum half, being able to deliver some swift ball to Mo Jo at 5/8 who, ably supported by Nick and Scott in the centres, put pressure on the Brighton defence with their use of the ball. This paid off as we made ground and camped on the Brighton goal line before a concerted effort involving the whole forward pack saw Rhys cross for a great forward try.

The second half saw Old Colls under 12s produce their best rugby of the season, with an outstanding final 15 minutes. Brighton was made to realize, that if someone would dare go toe to toe with them, that they are vulnerable. This was evidenced with some fine running and support play, generating quick ball to Scott who scored what was his and quite possibly the team's try of the season. This try really did reflect the effort that the boys had put into the season and every one in the team had their part to play in the lead up to it.

Alex again showed why he has become known as Kamikaze, having to leave the field following a crunching tackle on a far bigger opponent, bringing him and a threatening Brighton forward thrust to an early halt.

Although we went down to, yet again, a bigger and more physical side, this performance really did define the team and their outstanding progress across the season.

Fantastic effort guys.

Matt, Stewart and Tim

 

1st August 2009

Under 12 at Parkinson, Old Collegians 0 v Burnside 39

BEST PLAYERS Charlie Pickford, Scott Gear, Callum Wall, Luke Howes P

A disappointing turn out set the scene for a lacklustre first half, which saw the Burnside backs carve through a weak Old Colls' defence after only 30 seconds from the first whistle to go over for the first of many tries.

It was certainly a tough day at the office against considerably bigger opposition and, with Burnside having the luxury of 6 replacements, they were able to bring on fresh legs to continue the hard running.

The second half saw Old Colls' come alive and come together as a team, with good work by the forwards securing good ball. Again there were phases of great play, enabling fine delivery from the base.

The backs however were unable to capitalize mainly due to a speedy and hungry Burnside back line preventing the ball carrier from getting up any pace or penetration. This was probably the strongest side we have come up against this season and the boys showed just how much they have developed, by almost halving the score differential from the previous encounter.

The most disappointing aspect of the whole day, was listening to one or two our parents bagging the team's efforts, refusing to acknowledge the positives to be taken from the game - shame on you!

Matt, Stewart and Tim

 

25th July 2009

1st XV: Old Collegians 38 v Adelaide University 17
THE GORDON & PETER ALLEN SHIELD

A beautiful sunny day at Tregenza Oval provided near perfect conditions to compete for the Gordon & Peter Allen Shield.

University, who have been struggling all season, were always going to give 100% effort for 80 minutes, letting OC know they were in for a physical match.

Uni started the game well playing a very structured game, putting the OC defence under pressure for the first 15 minutes of the game, prompting budding young #9 Rory Sheppard to call "man up" and "Hit that Shit!". This seemed to wake the boys up, with the OC defence holding up a near try on the line.

A superb against-the-tide try was scored when Rick Czeglik cleverly ripped the ball off a Uni player and set up a free flowing OC back line to put Disco Stew in for a clever try. 5-0 (after 30 min!)

The next try was scored when our scrum was worryingly going backwards. Alex Berce, with a fresh haircut and attitude, skilfully picked the ball up from the base of the scrum and went for a 30m sprint down the blindside, passing the ball to promising youngster Jack Campion who set up a beautiful platform ball for the OC backs to distribute through the hands to give Disco Stew try #2. 12-0

Try number 3 was to come soon after good pressure from the backs (Leigh Rebbeck and Disco Douglas) chasing their own kick and forcing a Uni player to fumble the ball; OC took advantage through Stew, Juan and James Hall combining for an impressive try. 19-0

The fourth try was not far away when Leigh Rebbeck set up a ruck. The ball spilled out and was quickly picked up , chip kicked and regathered by Peter Cross who then set up a ruck on our attacking try line. Great support from James Hall who passed on to Chips Bartlett to score a nice try under the posts. 26-0.

Chips went on to score his second try on the last minute of the first half by breaking the Uni defence and scoring a strong solo try in the corner. 31-0

OC seemed to switch off after half time and Uni straight away took advantage of our poor defence (particularly one on one) and scored a deserved try. 31-5

A lack of A and B posts at a ruck was responsible for Uni's second try after a turnover ball let Uni forward run down the blindside for a second try in a row. 31-10

It was at this stage that Juan's son Lucas decided it was time to run on the field and provide the boys some encouragement and to wake up from their siesta! However, they chose not to and again lack of tackling let us down and Uni composed five phases to break our line and go over for try #3. 31-17

OC had the final say of the game after a Leigh Rebbeck kick and chase set up a maul, which was eventually lost. However Jonny Collins and Tedgie stole back the ball from a later maul and ran down the blindside for a well-earned try.

Special note to Sandy Taylor who played a great game on the flank with his relentless tackling.

Final score - 38-17 OC Tries: Stewart Douglas (2), Chris Bartlett (2), James Hall (1), Christian Tedge (1) Conversions: Juan Pablo Aguiar (4) Best Players: Rory Sheppard, Sandy Taylor, Jack Campion

... Ben Suttell

 

4th July 2009:

Under 10s Onkaparinga, Old Collegians v Onkaparinga

Try Scorers: Harrison Cole 1, Ollie Horne 4, Paddy Barry 1, Nick Barry 1, Charlie Dubois 1, Joe Brotherton 2, Willoughby Clarke 2.

Tacklers of the Week: Magnus Duckett and Willoughby Clarke

The demons needed to be extinguished. Last year Old Colls weren't just beaten but psychologically demolished, some unable to comprehend how the player nicknamed MacDonalds could move so fast and yet be so wide. Could the nightmare be extinguished? Yet again a full compliment turned up, some admin support staff having difficulty finding the ground despite Google!

The sides looked evenly matched. Onkers red in comparison with the cool of the blues. The referee was an old crusty campaigner not going to take any nonsense. Onkers took an almighty hoof and up went the ball. Taken nicely the pack once again protected the ball carrier like a Rubic's cube clicking neatly into its correct sequence. Ball then circulated to the backs and the forwards juggernaut rolled swiftly behind.

Crash, pass, crash pass Ollie, Harrison thundering through, the Terrier in close support and Oscar with Paddy flying off the spinning mauls in tangents like slingshots. Suddenly a break and Paddy powered his way through from inside their own half side stepping once, twice and brushing off the tacklers like flies to get the first try (disclaimer: I am his father). From that moment the demons were cast and further tries flowed quickly with support from all the team. Ollie scored four! Notable moments included the Flying Flynn's premature try score 10 yds out and then he was foiled again as he pushed over the line only to have the ball knocked out of his hands on the final dash. Olli Highlander Horne for his unselfish act of passing to Nick "How many side steps can I make" Barry for his try, thereby encapsulating what has made this team so successful- teamwork and mateship. Willougby came back into the squad, prepared by walking out with a black eye already and the roughing up obviously spurred him to great things. Magnus thoroughly enjoyed his stint at hooker and Andreas was seen experimenting with a run down the left wing and got a good touch of the ball. Maybe a try next time Andreas? Once again smoking Joe and Josh cut, thrust and pummelled their backline with punishing tackles. By the end of the match everyone had played a proper game, Charlie Frenchie and Harry had completed a rout of Onkers and should feel well satisfied.

Finally Onkers had no answer and the game was all over bar the shouting. Good bacon and egg sarnies though Onkers. The question is can we maintain this run? Week off and then back into it.

... Christopher Barry, Assistant Manager

Under 12s, Wilfred Taylor Reserve, 4th July 2009
Old Collegians 0 v Onkaparinga 73

Best Players: Alex Kambanaros, Joseph Hodgson, Nick Litchfield

Once again, had we played the second half first, the final score could have been significantly different. Onkas came out with all guns blazing, catching out a sleepy Old Colls, who appeared as if they wanted to play touch rugby, rather than the real thing, which we have witnessed them do so well at times this season.

Onkas ran in 5 tries in the opening 10 minutes before some of the fellas woke up and started to make tackles stick, which halted the barrage of points, even resulting in a few knock-ons. However, when we packed down for the set pieces, our scrummaging was weak and we were pushed off our ball too easily too often.

After our discussion at half time, a new Old Colls U12 side took to the field, as we witnessed some of the best commitment in the tackle and set piece play for this season. Winning every scrum for the half, including least 5 against the head. With the forwards cleaning out with passion, the delivery from the base was swift and accurate, but the backs were often caught flat footed, resulting in failure to penetrate a solid Onkas defensive line.

We are now half way through the season and have made significant progress, with some outstanding passages of play and a couple of great wins, notably against Vikings. Each individual player however, must be able to come off the field able to look their team mates in the eye, knowing they have "done the job". Too often a tackle may be missed, or we jog to the breakdown, thinking that someone else will make the tackle, or get to the breakdown.

A lot of hard work is required with fitness. This does not only mean at training but during the week as well. We have a break from training and no match this coming Saturday, but we must come out of the blocks the following week. We were given a lesson in hard and committed running play, from which we must learn and adopt.

Notable plays this week.

Alex - again in the tackle (just get the head out of the way sometimes Alex)
Charlie/Luke/Nick - great work in defensive play and cleaning out.

Joseph- Great delivery from the base (due to good work by the above in cleaning out).

Uni at Waite next, so lets get really well prepared for them in this week off

... Matt Hodgson - coach, ...Tim Wall - Manager

 

27th June 2009:

Under 12 Brighton

Old Collegians 0 v Brighton 28

BEST PLAYERS Alex Kambanaros, Charlie Pickford, Scott Gear, Seb Thompson

Overall the team played a really good game. Unfortunately, they were unable to withstand the greater physicality of attack (sometimes aimed more at bodies than ball), by the opposition. Whilst the forwards made a valiant scrummaging effort, they were monstered at times by a bigger pack, although this didn't always work in Brighton's favour as they sometimes lost the ball through over enthusiasm. Some excellent tackling efforts went to waste when the opposition were able to quickly recycle the ball and caught the defenders napping out wide. A few good runs by the backs ended up coming to nothing as they were not allowed time or space to work the ball to better advantage

Definitely plenty for us to work on at training this week as we prepare to travel down south to take on Onkas next.

Special bravery mention to our 'Tackle Maestro' - Alex for his near suicidal attack on a much bigger opponent (preventing a certain try) in the final minutes of the match, but ending up stretchered-off and taken for precautionary evaluation at Flinders Medical Centre. The best news being that he appears to have suffered no more than a bit of bruising, which will be a great relief to those who witnessed the sickening collision and its aftermath. Be ready for a hard week on the track fellas

Tim Wall - team manager

 

20th June 2009

UNDER 12s, TREGENZA, Old Collegians 48 v Vikings 5

TRY SCORERS: Charlie Pickford 2, Nathan Ilic 2, Seb Thompson 1, Rhys Frew 1, Jo Colwell 1, Nick Litchfield 1
CONVERSIONS: Jo Colwell 2, Jo Hodgson 2

After an extremely intense training session on Wednesday night, we did not know whether the team was going to bring their intensity and skills to the match on Saturday. However they looked pretty sharp during warm up. As of the first tackle the lads looked great. The retention in the rucks was superb and we recycled well again and again resulting in some great team tries. Including a fantastic push over try to Rhys With our forwards cleaning out strongly, just as they show they can at training, and a few changes of personnel in the centres, the team gained very good penetration up the middle with many line breaks and consistent support at the breakdown. The forwards were fantastic in their efforts in getting themselves to the breakdown on most occasions and retention of the ball. Players rarely found themselves isolated, with support always nearby. Swapping Alex and Nick into the centres was an immediate success with both lads making the advantage line and beyond when choosing to take on the defense. Seb put himself on the score sheet with a fantastic solo try from 55 metres out, and his effort to ground the ball in the corner, whilst being tackled was sensational. One for the memory bank. Harry and George made the most of their positional changes and showed some dash with time and space to use the ball effectively. Scrum half Jo Po Hodgson and Half Back Mo Jo Colwell, put together their best games of the season with all passes hitting the intended targets. Too many good players to list, however Nathan, Luke and MoJo all showed us why they have been picked for the State team or as standby players. Best game by all players by far. All going well we should see our depth improve this week with Paul coming back from injury, Zac and Evan recovering from illness. All parents should be very proud of their lads this week. Warning to players though: "your best game was after your hardest training". Matt, Stewart and Co will be looking for more of the same.

Note for those concerned after the unfortunate injury to the young lady from Vikings at the end of the game - we have had feedback that she is ok and that after scans etc, the injury to her neck was only a soft tissue strain for which we are all grateful and no doubt relieved as none of us would wish serious injury to anyone.

... Tim Wall

U10s

Old Collegians v Brighton

On a sunny day by the seaside Old Colls under 10s took themselves off with their faithful and ever increasing number of loyal partisan fans to the home of the most successful rugger team in SA. Unbeaten, growing at each match a full compliment had overwhelmed the Viking warriors the week before. This was going to be a test however for the young guns. Suspicions were raised when two teams warmed up from the Brighton bench, in different strips. Had they brought reinforcements in because of the fearsome reputation of the boys from Tregenza? It soon became clear this was most definitely going to be a match of two halves.

Kick off went straight to hands and off into the mallee went the ten. This was clearly going to be a physical battle but the practise had paid off and ball started to be recycled at a great rate. Tension in the crowd mounted as no score resulted in the first few minutes. Injuries abounded, Flying Flynn then Liam (one of many) then Oscar who injured himself in the warm up! However they battled uphill and a well worked try resulted to Paddy (I am really a forward) Barry. The visitors settled and another soon came to Smoking Jo and the crowd were able to relax and finally take a sip of their Lattes. The oppo had some big fellas in there and were not taking this lying down. Two tries to them and scores were looking dicey. Suddenly before half time grafting from the smaller but technically and spirit-wise more dedicated Old Colls resulted in 3 further tries to _______. Great credit again to Olli, Harrison, Terrier Thomas, Oscar and Paddy with Jumping Jack and Harry providing core support.

Flying Flynn having adjourned to the bench salivated at the thought of running on again. Surely it was all over? The second half brought some surprises, no less than a whole new team for Brighton! Was this allowed? No matter the tension rose and some truly immense boys came on for the seasiders but this was going to be their sunset. Sadly inexperienced referreeing resulted in some poor decisions leading to frustration and inevitable comments from the touchline. Also to some hand to hand combat, and although never condoned, this tight group watched each others back and stood up to intimidation as a team. Substitutes came and went, tears flowed, mothers cringed as they saw their darlings lock horns like Dear in autumn and men screamed (particularly one) to encourage their team. Off came Liam, Magnus once again committed himself to suicidal runs and tries finally came to _______. Nail biting to the end, the score levelled in the second half to 2-2. Deliberations at the end meant Brighton were convinced they had lost the first match only to draw the second. Sorry, reality check Old Colls win again 5-3. Onward to the valleys of Onkers and the juggernaut rolls on.

Tim Wall - team manager

 

13th June 2009

U 12s Ladywood Reserve, Old Collegians 0 NEDS 53

BEST PLAYERS Alex Kambanaros, Seb Thompson, Charlie Pickford, Rhys Frew

Well, the week off doesn't seem to have done us any favours, with the team starting sluggishly, which allowed NEDs to gain momentum that was then very difficult to halt. Highlight for the first half would have to be the ever reliable Alex (Mr Impassable) Kambanaros at Full Back, whose fearless and ferocious tackling should be the blueprint followed by all. Special mention also to Seb, who despite copping a couple of really heavy knocks, bounced back up to play his usual handy game. Best of the forwards was Rhys and Charlie, who was also swapped into the backs for a while to cover for Seb whilst injured. Lack of time and space to use the ball, due to the opposition's pressure at the rucks and also their physical size and speed, led to a certain lack of cohesion across the ground. Ball security at the breakdown was equally problematic, with turnovers common (more so in the first stanza however)

The second half saw a greatly improved effort, with a couple of attacking thrusts coming agonizingly close to fruition, only to be repelled short of the line. We will need to focus on a more switched-on start in future weeks so that we aren't giving away the sort of head-starts to our opposition that have been seen recently.

Vikings at Tregenza next, bring 'em on

... Tim Wall

2nds

Tregenza, Round 7, Old Collegians 24 v Rams  3

TRY SCORERS (? - manager knows!)

CONVERSIONS (? - manager knows!)

PENALTIES/ FIELD GOALS (? - manager knows!)

BEST PLAYERS 3 - Berce, 2 - Chips, 1 - Darcy

Tale of 2 halves. 1st - frustratingly poor. Allowed time and space for the Rams forwards to continually make easy yards. In attack - dropped ball, poor decision making - kicks went up the middle with no organization with the chase.

2nd half - whew! Rams stopped at the advantage line, we kicked to the corners more, the passes went to hand - tries resulted. A solid effort, in the light of, we found a way to step up another gear. Would prefer not to be stuck in second in the first place!

... Kimon Lycos

 

30th May 2009

U12s

OC 0 V Burnside 38

Best Players: Harry Warner, Nathan Ilic, Jarod Sortini, Lucas Sortini

What was pleasing to see was the team did not give up until the final whistle and some committed tackling kept the score down, against an opposition who were hungry for the ball and the try line. The first 10 minutes saw some great and committed tackling, by two of the smallest players on the side; Alex (as usual) and Joseph, which I though would set the scene, but the opposition were dominant at the breakdown and broke our defensive lines, mainly due to some lacklustre tackling, which opened up gaps for Burnside to run in a couple of easy tries. A poor restart in the second half saw Burnside cross the line, which was again down to the fact that we are not up quick enough, allowing the ball carrier too much time and space. We seemed laboured in defence (definitely something we need to improve on in the forthcoming weeks).

We then turned the corner and players started running with confidence and purpose, taking the opposition on and providing good ball for further phases of play. Harry and George made a good couple of breaks in the middle with Nathan and Jarod making good ground from the breakdowns. With Old Colls going forward Joseph H had decent ball to get out to Joe (Mojo) Colwell who, on occasions, was able to make ground and cross the gain line. At the final whistle the 12s had clearly been in a battle with Rhys and Luke who had a good defensive game having to leave the field with injury, but can hold their heads high with a strong second half performance. Congrats to Lucas who wore the Old Colls Jersey onto the field for the first time

... Tim Wall

2nds

Old Colls 31 Burnside 27

3 - Todd 2 - Berce 1 - Oughton

We needed this game. Burnside did not disappoint, they hit this game like a GF and made this a torrid running game. It was a great game to watch, supporters saw bravery, skill and determination - that was the feedback during and after the game.

It was hard going to get over the advantage line and we made best ground out wide. The real issue we didn't cope with was that under pressure we started to rush things in the ruck and disappointingly continued to do so into the second half. Decision making started to go out the window and we made the game harder than it should have been. It is difficult to adjust for the forwards to go from making a lot of ground to needing to grind. But that is a skill we need to work on and be prepared to use during the tough games that are still to come.

Todd Grant had a fantastic game, steering us around the park without the luxury of a clearly dominant pack. He was also tough in defence and made numerous quality runs.

The good news from this game - Burnside included a couple of A graders, they threw everything they had at us and we came out on top. We still have room for improvement; it was a close call and we must be aware that no matter how lofty our aspirations, nothing but hard work, playing with pain and training together will get us there.

P.S. (Still grinning)

... Kimon

 

23rd May 2009

U12s at Tregenza

Old Collegians v 10 Southern Suburbs 29

TRY SCORERS: Nathan Ilic, Joseph Colwell

BEST PLAYERS Charlie Pickford, Alex Kambanaros, Rhys Frew, Callum Wall, Sebastian Thompson

A bit of a comedown for the team this week. A slow start, and allowing themselves to be rushed into making mistakes in the first half, by an opposition that played with speed, commitment and good ball movement. The guys started to get into the swing of it late in the first half, but by then were playing catch up. The second half was a more even affair, breaking approximately even with Souths, but not being able to make up the half time difference. Top marks for an uncompromising full game effort goes to Charlie Pickford at lock, getting his hands on the ball and driving forward, plus great defensive work. Alex Kambanaros sweeping at half back was his usual reliable self, whilst Rhys Frew (Lock) and Callum Wall (Tight Head) certainly did not disgrace themselves and Seb Thompson was vocal all game, with his customary runs also in evidence. This will prove a great learning experience for the side and provide some points of focus for training. Look out next time Souths, we won't take you lightly again.

2nds at Tregenza

Round 5; Old Collegians 60 v Souths 0

TRY SCORERS (? - manager knows!)

CONVERSIONS (? - manager knows!)

PENALTIES/ FIELD GOALS (? - manager knows!)

BEST PLAYERS 3 - Ashwin T, 2 - Sean K, 1 - Wayne P

A wonderful experience to see Rugby played like that. The forwards did the business and backs put Souths to the sword. The pace of running and precision passing was completely beyond what Souths could cope with. Great courage shown by everyone, with desperation to get to the ball. With three new combinations (2nd row, haves and centres) the team didn't miss a trick.

 

16th May 2009:

U12s, Waite

Old Collegians v 20 Adelaide Uni 0 (Forfeit)

Despite Uni having to forfeit the match due to lack of numbers, we were able to play anyway, through the willingness and generosity of Paul T, Harry C and Callum W, all agreeing to help make up numbers for the opposition.

Nor did any of the 3 put in anything less than a committed effort whilst playing for an adoptive team. For this we offer them our sincere thanks and well done.

For OC, we saw some good individual efforts at times, but the team cohesion that had been so evident last week suffered a bit by comparison. There being nothing other than pride on the line, we had the opportunity to give alternative key position players match experience, especially in the scrum. This proved valuable as it gives us important feedback for follow up at training this week.

Highlights for the game came from Jarod playing in his first ever game and crossing for a try. Rhys played well at lock and also crossed under the posts. Nathan playing at #8 scored twice, with other scores coming from Luke and the 2 Josephs. Some excellent tackling efforts once again, with Alex K, Seb, Evan and co in the backs denying Uni on numerous occasions, ably assisted of course by the forwards who generally got to the breakdowns well, and once again exerted their authority, to gain/maintain possession.

... Tim Wall

U10s

Waite Oval, Old Collegians v University

TRY SCORERS Harrison Cole (1), Oliver Horne (2), Liam Westirik (1) and Charlie Dubois (1)

BEST Tackler Ollie Highlander Horne

As the winter season starts to bite, with cold wind bringing rains over Adelaide, the Under 10s ventured to Waite Reserve for their next encounter with University. Traditionally, this has been a reasonably soft fixture and after two solid performances and overwhelming victories, I suspect that some of the players thought this would be a walkover. However, it proved to be a test of their mettle and resolve of these youngsters as they strode out onto a shrunken pitch (presumably the rains had done so), and a stern old-timer of a referee. Again, 15 players turned out for Old Collegians, a magnificent squad effort, while University took the field with just the right complement of 10 players.

As the whistle blew, the birds scattered, and the ball was kicked into the fray, followed by a huge charge from University. The boys in black overwhelmed their opposition with the gusto of their enthusiasm and picked up the ball to power their way through the central Old Collegians' defence. Brave tackling from Charlie and Ollie stopped that encounter, but a wake-up call had come to the boys. After much battling in the ruck and maul, and continual education over the rules of the ruck and maul from the enlightened referee, the team withstood some heavy barrage from their oppo. Coming close to Old Collegians' lines, they managed to stave them off for a while before Harrison broke free from halfway, careering towards the right hand side of the pitch, and managing to touch down, just in front of the chasing pack. The first score to Old Col's, but, clearly, the game was going to be very balanced. Suddenly, University came back following a kick and their two powerful players interacted with some of their backs and after several rucks and mauls, penalties and scrums, charged over the line for an excellent try.

The Old Collegians knew they had a battle on their hands and, again, Liam proved his mettle, along with powerful runs from Ollie, Jack, Harrison, together with some fantastic mauling from "Terrier Thomas", brought the visitors back into the game and two tries followed from Liam and Charlie Dubois. Joe put some fantastic tackles in, just managing to keep his head out the way, as did Liam, who shot in at one point, requiring him to be lifted off the pitch for urgent medical attention to his right arm.

Again, the core team was substituted with enthusiastic members of the squad, including Andreas, Magnus; Will put in a fine performance with both tackling and rucking, Jack and Harry. Always a difficult decision who to rotate round, as this was a tight game throughout. At half-time the score was 3:1, with everything to play for, but the weather Gods had smiled on us with the rain stopping for the duration of the match. Ian, as stand in coach for Peter, was ever-present as he cajoled his players to withstand the battering and put their bodies once more on the line. Tackles from Paddy Barry, together with solid lynchpin of the back, Charlie Dubois, kept the home team at bay until two quick tries from 50/50 ball, despite the rucking and mauling of the boys, knocked the visitors back to make it a close and fraught match. There was a magnificent crowd from both teams and certainly some of the older parents may require Aspirin next week for their coronary arteries, due to the frenetic pace at which the game was played.

With just a couple of minutes to go, University came close to scoring several times but players, such as Oscar, and the two new recruits on their debut game, "Hit man Henshaw" and "Whippet Will", together with the indomitable performance from Flynn, drove them back and resulted in two quick tries at the end of the game, with the advantage of the slope, and the game ended five tries to three. The squad held up well, but their nose had been bloodied, which resulted in a true test for them. We look forward to next week's game with South's at Tregenza, with a degree of confidence, but tempered with nervous expectation.

... Chris Barry

16th May 2009: 2nds:

Adelaide University 7 v Old Collegians 53

This game was like watching a big kid beat up a puppy. Every now and then the puppy would yelp or try to bite back, but that would only lead to getting another smack across the chops.

Our forwards as a unit simply powered over them. We decimated their pack. It honestly was hard to pick out one stand-out player from the back, because everyone surged, tackled and kept Uni far away from even thinking of launching an attack. Our fitness worked wonders - we'll never bitch about preseason again. Special mention to Leon Bowley who stepped up into a tight-five role strongly.

This generated a law of nature in Rugby - the backs had vast space to play with. Again, who do you pick as a stand-out? The halves as a new combination moved the ball when needed, and demonstrated some real moments of genuine skill. Not missing a class player like Boof, is testimony to Todd's decision making. Ashwin, had the jet shoes on; very nice.

Pete and Andrew in the centres have got a great partnership, and have been very consistent every game - we should not take this for granted, because they deliver great go forward, and make life easier for everyone.

The back three played smart. We only need to look at that last pass, think of setting up the next phase. That said - everyone was having a lot of fun out there, and tries were in the air.

Our goal for the next five games is to stay true to ourselves and the benchmark - there is something special on offer. There is another level we can go to. Next week - we have Souths again. Let's introduce ourselves properly this time.

... Kimon

 

9th May 2009:

U12s:

At Tregenza, Old Collegians 30 v Vikings 15

Try Scorers: Nathan Ilic (2), Scott Gear, Nick Litchfield, Joseph Colwell, Alex Kambanaros (1 each)

Best Players: The whole team

What a start to the season for OC U/12. Every player in the side can justifiably hold their head high this week, after a match in which virtually everything practised at training was executed to near perfection, by a team committed to winning the ball, but more importantly, committed to the team and each other.

Every player in the squad featured in at least one or more key passages of play and, as such, it was a total team effort.

With the forwards winning the rucks and mauls as well as the majority of scrums and line outs even against the feed, our backs were fed a consistent supply of ball, allowing the natural flair and speed of playmakers like Nick, Joseph C, Jo H, Alex, Seb, George and Co to be put on show.

The backs were not the only ones showing flair and dash, with the forwards showing that they can also carry the attack. Callum, Rhys, Luke and Charlie all made several raids with pick and drive plays that worked very effectively. To see first gamers Paul and Connor doing likewise was awesome.

The communication from all players was fantastic, especially from those that have been a bit quieter at training.

The marshalling of team plays by Jo H at half back and Jo C at 5/8 added that extra level of cohesion, which completed the package for a total team effort.

The coaching staff congratulates the team as a whole for an exceptional start to the season and look forward with anticipation to the rest of the season.

FANTASTIC EFFORT GUYS
..... Tim Wall (Team Manager, Assistant Coach)

Under 10s

Tregenza Oval 09/05/2009, Old Collegians v Port Adelaide Vikings

TRY SCORERS Oscar 1, Harrison Cole 1, Ollie 2, Liam 3, Paddy 2, Joe 3, Josh 1

BEST Tackler Oscar

First home game of the season and Dubois's Dynamic Dozen had swelled to fifteen. This was going to be an exciting season. The starting line-up was the same as last week, the whistle blew, the crowd roared and at once Old Colls' were over the oppo like flies on a dung heap. The ball flew and stirling runs from Ollie and Oscar brought recycled ball into the backs, Paddy dodged and with a clean break run down the touchline for the first try. Again some of the oppo were pretty big, and all credit to the players for tackling with vigour and enthusiasm. Charlie in particular launched himself like an Exocet at his target. The game progressed Flynn ripped, Joe zipped, Harrison nipped noteworthy for his red hot boots. Scores to Ollie followed, with the game settling into somewhat of a pickup and dash affair, individual efforts rewarded with multiple ties. In the process however the team structure became disorganized with the backs left to fight off the cold waiting in anticipation for the elusive oval prize. At half time they thought it was all over and it nearly was as scrummaging proved technically a bit of a learning lesson for the front five. Notable substitutions came from Hitman Josh who had an outstanding game along with Will ____, who run hard at the oppo setting and scoring with aplomb. Andreas and Magnus came on enthusiastic again, Andreas moving into all sorts of positions in the line, Magnus once again tackling above his weight. Welcome to Harry and Jack as well the newcomers for bustling down into the forwards embracing the oppo in boy to boy tussles. Nick was unlucky not to get his side step going while Liam as always in the thick of it. The final whistle blew to signal the end of the game and the management face a good dilemma of substotutions who should be on and who needs a rest.

What a lucky position Old Colls' is in to have back up for the players and such a well balanced squad. We shall continue to blood new players while building on the experience of the old lags. Roll on University, surely a walk in the park?

... Chris Barry

2nds:, 9th May - Old Collegians 15 v Southern Suburbs 19

We allowed complacency to creep in. Our excellent performance of a week ago suckered us into mediocrity. We simply did not do ourselves justice. We lost this game 60 minutes prior to kick-off.

The drop in attitude cost us dearly. The forwards, did make good ground, did counter ruck, did try, but... late to the ball, turnovers, lapses turned into panic play, loose ball and undoing good work.

The backs - some slick moves, hard running, good defence against some well executed set plays from Souths, but then... dropped ball, not enough depth, running sideways and undoing good work.

In the last 10 minutes, jeeze we got the feeling back, talk increased 100%, people started thinking harder, scheming and we moved into a much greater position mentally - and that translated into field position.

... Kimon

 

2nd May 2009

UNDER 10s:

The first game of the season is always a nervous occasion for any player but with rugby at this level more so as they have their first taste of physical contact, a shock to any youngster.

The conditions were as near perfect as anyone could wish for with the team playing away in their first game at Elizabeth. Expectations were high with sound commitment at pre-season training, cementing a drilled team approach helped by a large gaggle of enthusiastic players propelled from last year's under 8s. The long journey to the North did not dampen their enthusiasm and the smell of the turf caused a great stir in the squad.

Twelve players were available and from the kick off Old Colls' sprinted to the loose ball headed by Charlie, Liam, and Ollie. The rest of the forwards followed but as the ball came loose Charlie le Charger Dubois sprinted through, ducking and weaving to probe, then penetrate the much larger but less agile Elizabethans in white. Nothing was going to stop him after last year's hard season as he dived over the line for the first of a number of well-orchestrated team tries.

Tries soon followed from Nicky Wiz Barry, Smoking Joe Brotherton and Lightfoot Liam Westerik who controlled the base of the scrum cajolling his forwards to steel any loose balls. He harried the oppo constantly with his change of pace.

The first half all went the way of Old Colls' as they quickly figured they had faster turnover, quicker hands and were fleet of foot in comparison to their oppo. Grafting by the forwards Loosehead Oscar Armstrong, Flying Flynn Rogers , Oliver Highlander Horne and Speedy Harrison Cole, got close support at the breakdown from the backs especially Charlie and Joe which resulted in tries for a number of the players (listed below). Terrier Thomas Copson at hooker worked hard in the maul, forever setting up good ball and placing his body on the line. Reserves Andreas Swifty Siblesz, Magnus "let me at 'em" Duckett provided respite for weary players and showed determination and courage in the face of the huge weight difference they gave away. Magnus ran straight in but was stopped midway by the sheer number of bodies around him. A try from Paddy Barry (John) at fly-half, after several close calls and jinking side-steps on the line was disallowed. By the end of the first half there were only a couple of injuries but these the young guns were only temporarily sidelined and desperate to do their bit returned to the pitch. The score sat at 40-nil. The team thought it was all over bar the shouting.

The second half, as has oft happened last season was the wake up call. Two tries to Elizabeth, and loose tackling marred an otherwise exemplary performance. The Achilles heel of Old Colls' was exposed but reminders of the importance of commitment from the dedicated but wiley coach Peter Dubois, focused the players to steel their resolve and hats off to the forwards in particular for standing up to the towering forwards of the oppo. A number of players stood up and were counted but particular credit to Flying Flynn Rogers who got tackler of the week for steering Old Colls' back on the right path. Following the wobble, further tries came from Oliver with a powerful run through the middle brushing off tacklers followed by the consolation try from Paddy, a searing run up the wing after some classic fast passing through the backs and forwards (disclaimer: I am his father). Some of the footwork was outstanding with Nicky on one occasion being caught twice before wriggling loose like an eel and leaping over the try line like a salmon to put down his second try (declaration of interest: I am his father). Again Joe and Charlie linked well and covered each other throughout and very few dropped passes from the whole of the back line. The whole game was played in a good spirit, the refereeing was excellent and the coffee van very popular.

We are indebted to the superb coaching of the under 8s in their previous year and the great enthusiasm and bonhommie it has engendered in the new breed. Everyone is looking forward to a fun season of rugby with thanks to the coaching staff of Peter Dubois, Ian Horne and Mike Westerik, and managerial support from Graham Copson. Could Burnside and Onkers be in trouble this year!

Next week we take on the marauding Vikings from Port-way at home. Bring them on!

TRY COUNT
Flynn 3
Liam 3
Nicky 2
Paddy 1
Charlie 1
Oliver 1
Joe 1

.... Chris Barry (assistant manager and team medic)