Pre-season trial #1: Minety v Cricklade

Tuesday 31 August 2010

Pre-Season Trial

Good evening, Minety

Minety 31 pts – Cricklade 7 pts

Superior pace, power and organisation, not to mention a larger squad of players, were sufficient to see Minety comfortably through this highly competitive pre-season friendly.

Neighbouring rugby clubs Minety and Cricklade prepared for the coming season with an evening trial game on Tuesday night. The aim of the game, which was played in three periods of 20 minutes each, was to give everyone a run out and to let the coaches see how their respective squads were looking before league fixtures start in a week’s time.

Minety drew ahead in the first period thanks to two run-away tries from flying winger Russell Barstow.

The hosts were not to have it all their own way, however. In the second period, despite losing a player to injury, Cricklade steadfastly held Minety at bay. Gaining possession in the home team’s half, they showed excellent handling skills, finally passing the ball to fullback Mike Murray, who skittered in for a try from 25 metres out. A successful goal kick from Gav Russ then reduced the deficit to 10-7.

Having rotated their players again, Minety completely dominated the third and last period of the game. The pack got their rucking sorted and began to provide a steady stream of quick ball for their threequarters. Having retained possession through several phases, Minety cut loose. Cricklade had no answer for their speed and well-timed passes and Andy Brown finished the move by touching down for a try.

A decisive break by Martin Coe set Ryan Dowling away for another score before Minety’s Olivier Brassatt burst over for the final try of the night. Skipper Jack Ward kicked all three conversions, giving the hosts an emphatic win by 31 points to seven.

“It was a fantastic effort,” enthused Minety coach Huw Jones. “There’s lots to work on but I take loads of positives from the game. I was particularly pleased with our continuity and the excellent level of support players gave each other.”

Minety play a second pre-season game away against Tadley this Saturday, 4 September.