Cambridge U15s must have wondered what more they needed to do as they dominated a game which left them the losers by 3 tries, a penalty and a conversion to a single Jack Wade penalty goal. However, dominance and territory were scant reward as Cambridge picked up where they had left off 2 weeks previously at Sudbury, producing amuch improved performance, despite the atrocious conditions.
From the kick off Cambridge rucked and mauled with commitment and as an effective forward unit.Back row trio of Ryan Griffiths, Will Wright and George Grimmet scavenged and harassed the opposition and produced a stream of good ball for skipper andscrum half Sam Miller.
Similarly, strong work at the scrummage from front row Tanburn, Jones and Kite produced severalstrikes against the head whilst the lineout was equally profitable for Elliot Fraser and James O’Sullivan.
This hard work was rewarded as Jack Wade kicked Cambridge into a well earned 3 – 0 lead after 10minutes. This was a lead the hosts held until the final play of the half when an offside infringement gave the visitors the chance of parity. This they took with a long distance effort that bounced on the cross bar and over. Half time 3– 3.
Playing with the wind in the second period, Cambridge kicked well – keeping their forwards moving upfield. Tom Sherwin in particular kicked well from hand as well as showing great composure under return kicks from Shelford. He was not alone in having a busy afternoon – Dan Fordham, Devin Barry and George Haworth all made some exciting runs.
Shelfords scores camefrom some determined mid field running as Cambridge on occasion were forced to commit several tacklers to hold up their larger opponents. With ball in handthe pursuing defence stood no chance on the inhospitable surface. So, three breaks and 3 tries, but still Cambridge refused to throw in the towel and onmore than one occasion were held up over the line. All credit to Shelford for superb defence.
Overall an encouraging performance and one that Cambridge can be proud of as they dominated a well organised and drilled Shelford side, in all but the score. Take heart – there will not be many games where this much possession brings defeat.
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