Sarries2009 U15s Match Report

U15's - Match Report (20/09/09)
Barnstaple - Home (Lost 14-57)

Saracens suffered a second successive heavy defeat of the season at the hands of a well-drilled Barnstaple side. The home side learned the hard way that, in rugby, individual effort and ability is no match for teamwork. Although there was little difference in the abilities of the individuals on the two sides, the visitors did the basics well: recycling possession at the breakdowns then drawing opponents before passing wide to set up their wingers with one on ones. This tactic proved to be brutally effective and by half time Barum had wracked up 33 points in comparison to Sarries' single try from Ben Warren which was converted from distance by James Slater.

Sarries rallied a little in the second half and the introduction of Theo Miller, returning from injury, injected some menace to their backline. The forwards worked themselves to a standstill in the heat but again their efforts were largely wasted by a lack of support.
Although possession was more evenly split, basic lapses in concentration and missed tackles throughout the home side gave Barnstaple plenty of opportunities to add to their score. They showed composure and vision to run in a further four tries, two of which were converted. Sarries sole response came when Miller bypassed the Barnstaple defence with a long quick line out to Ryan Jenner. He sprinted through a large gap before forcing his way through the last defender to score. Miller added the extras giving a final score of Sarries 14, Barnstaple 57.

Greg Willmington was selected as Sarries Man of the Match for his tireless work combined with tactical awareness.