Melbourne Away

Treated to a milder morning for their road trip to Melbourne, the dominant refrain for the match ahead was to get right into the game from the kick-off. How, then, to motivate the team to fire on all cylinders right away? The answer to that would remain elusive for this week at least.

Working with a diminished squad, it was clear right away that this would be a battle demanding grit and stamina. As in previous weeks, the Casuals would eventually relax into the game and ultimately give Melbourne a real test. Unfortunately, the first quarter would see them still blowing away the cobwebs and they found themselves with a 5 try deficit before they really found a foothold in the game.

One turning point saw debutant Ted making a textbook tackle on one of Melbourne’s more intimidating ball carriers. Morale appeared to improve and, finding themselves with the ball, the Casuals began to work their way into Melbourne territory. Once again it was Ted making a mark on the game, as he broke away on a big run to secure the Casuals’ first try.

Patchy defence would see Melbourne find the try line again, but the game was beginning to even out. A positive drive with the ball from Rupert made some important yards, before Spencer was able to continue the play and battle his way across the line for a second Casuals score.

The third quarter of the game marked its peak, with each team giving just about as good as they got. The Casuals were at their most organised in defence, whilst Melbourne continued to show their speed and consistency at the breakdown. Each team secured only a single try in a real tug-of-war period.

Although some great vision would unleash Ted once more for his second try of the game, ultimately the balance of play tipped back in Melbourne’s favour. Their combination of passing and power saw them get the better of the Casuals for a handful of tries to wrap up the game.

And so it was not to be. The Casuals proved that they had what it takes to give Melbourne a good game, but today they just didn’t do it consistently enough to keep the scoreline in check.

Final score: Casuals 3 - 13 Melbourne.

A lot of teams become disheartened when a scoreline is not going their way, with heads going down as a match approaches its final whistle. It is commendable, then, for a group of under-11s that the Casuals resolve often seems to increase over the course of a match. Without doubt they have the guts to give any team a good game, and it seems the key will be to unlock that determination from the very first whistle.

As the crew gathered in the clubhouse, it was testament to the team effort that there were a number of honourable mentions. Ted, Liam, Nathan, and Rupert were all praised for their determination and work rate throughout a real battle of a game. Such were the numerous plaudits that I may have missed somebody off that list, and if I have: my apologies.

Ultimately Player of the Week went to Oscar W for contributions that, to quote him directly, made Rex’s “heart sing”. High praise indeed after a spirited team effort, well done Oscar!