Royston win in close battle

Away friendly to Royston, Hertfordshire last night. Firstly massive thanks to Royston who are a really hospitable bunch of guys. They will come to Stortford for a rematch in a couple of weeks (date to be confirmed).

We started around 7.30 and played until dark. There were 4 teams on two pitches, then ended up with a full size pitch Stortford Vs Royston.

The games were played in a really good spirit, and we were impressed that Royston had the full remit of players from youth, ladies, senior players and the club president who managed to score a breakaway try near the end.

As the evening went on and the surface became greasy some handling errors came into the game. Both teams rushed the 4th and 5th phase when it wasn't necessary giving easy turnover. As the game wasn't refereed strictly lots of play began over the mark, Royston informed us in the club house that the last tournament they played they were constantly pinged for this. They also gave us some tactical advice on how to play this - basically dummy half should remain close to attacking player at all times.

Well done to Royston, their slight more experience, strong Dummy half play and quick recycling of ball meant lots of pressure on the Stortford defence. Stortford tired legs coupled with quick restarts meant that Royston ended up a few tries ahead.

Many thanks to Hugh, Lee, Adam, Jamie and all at Royston for a great fun night.

As mentioned I'm focusing on a few Rules each week:

If the attacking player, when making a quick start, is touched by an off-side defender, play is allowed to continue - ADVANTAGE. If the attacking side gains no advantage, a penalty tap from point of infringement will be given.

All players MUST retreat 5M from mark before taking part in the game.

Restarting the game over the mark = turnover and penatly restart from mark.
Clarification: Penalty tap is taken at the point of infringement, defence must be 10M back. Player who takes penalty can run and if touched, then fist down, roll ball restart.

Touch back at BSRFC next week.

Kenny

Bishops Stortford Rugby Club
Silver Leys
Hadham Road
Bishop's Stortford
Hertfordshire
CM23 2QE