The trip to Berkshires
didn’t start well, with, as usual, people rolling up at the last minute
despite your captains requests. Only Jake and Slasher really looked
like they had valid excuses from the night before….. In the end 16
people made the trek out to the Berkshires, which meant few reserves,
and people playing out of position against a big heavy Berkshire team.
Kudos to CJ for stepping up and hooking, and to Wiggie for playing
fullback. For the first time this season, MIT came out strongly and put
their stamp on the game very quickly with Cody and Jake scoring in the
first 10 minutes. The platform that the forwards and in-field were
building through direct running and tackling the snot out of the
opposition was largely responsible for giving our backs space despite
the narrow field. Some of the best tight phase play I have seen this
season with the back row having a blast, but every single forward taking
the ball forward. Particular mention should go to Greg for great
support work, he always seemed to be at the break down and supporting
the runner (and talking). My personal man-of-the-match was Nick who
played a blinder, with great support and direct running – I honestly
think he turned a corner during this game. Also a good game from
little-Gavin I meant what I said at the game, you clearly have the
attitude and natural ball skills, now you need training and playing time
– please come out!
The only down-sides I
saw were still a tendency to run across field in the backs, and poor
control once the ruck was won – we’ll try to work on that this week.
Also when you are two tries up and you are in the last few minutes (and
knackered), why would you keep running fast penalties – use your noggins
people!
Final score: MIT 27 to
Berkshire 16 scores from Cody, Jake, Wiggie, CJ, Brock plus a conversion
from Evan.
