With Half Term out of the way Plymouth College rugby teams reflect on the busy first half involving all age ranges.
First XV
The First XV had a good start to the season, winning 7 of their first 9 fixtures. Victories over QEH, Exeter School and Queen's Taunton feature as highlights of the season so far. All games have been tight and the margin of victory over Exeter (one point), QEH (two points) and Queen's (five points) are testament to the battling qualities of a young and emerging side. The victory over Exeter was a particularly satisfying performance as they were unbeaten and strongly fancied as the form side of the region for this season.
Of the two defeats, the 8-3 loss to King's Taunton was particularly disappointing as it brought to an end the College's regular fixture unbeaten record of nearly two years. The match was a scrappy affair, further disrupted by King's informing us on Friday night that the game would have to be played with uncontested scrums as they did not have any senior props! Their pack of back row forwards adapted well to the unorthodox format and seemed to have a clear game plan to execute, which they did admirably. They were clearly delighted at the final whistle and relieved that they were not on the end of an unprecedented third consecutive loss. We look forward to next season when we entertain King's in what will hopefully be a more conventional format.
The First XV have a very busy last five weeks to the season and still remain involved in the Daily Mail and County Cup, having reached the third round and semi-final respectively of those two competitions..
Second XV
The Seconds (below) are enjoying yet another successful season with their only defeat being a one point reverse against King's Taunton. That game was very tight the College led up to the 7th minute of injury time before a succession of penalties and a last minute score resulted in King's stealing victory with the final play of the game. QEH, Truro, Exeter and Shebbear have all been beaten, with a Truro College Rugby Academy 3rd XV also being accounted for in a thrilling 27-22 win. Credit should go to many players with Captain Joe Marshall and Vice-Captain Jake Luffman leading by example.
Third XV
The Thirds have had a busy schedule, most notable for the large number of away games! Apologies are due here from the fixture secretary and are duly offered. Although victories have been thin on the ground, the team have been enthusiastic and well supported. Tom Owlett continues to thrive under the experienced tutelage of the wizened Adrian Lewis and but for injuries would surely be knocking on the door of second team selection. His desire to play at scrum-half, though, may be a little misguided!
Under 15s
The 15s (above, right) are the team of the season thus far and going strong in all competitions. The 15s have built on their potential of last season and are currently unbeaten. A good balance of mobile and energetic forwards allied to good skills behind has proved too much for all opposition so far. The arrival of Joe Martyn has added cutting edge behind and the strong 'spine' in this team means that they are versatile and adaptable. The victory of the season has to be the 8-7 win against King's Taunton. King's, unbeaten as a year group since their inception last year at Under 14s, clearly believed they were good enough to roll Plymouth over. However, steely resolve, calm under pressure and collective will saw the boys home to a most memorable win, to the delight of the home support and considerable consternation of the opposition coach. This team has considerable potential and if they keep their feet on the ground, don't get ahead of themselves and continue to work hard, they could well continue to make an impact in the Daily Mail Cup.
Under 14s
The Under 14s have had a difficult season and have been unfortunate to come up against some very talented and athletic sides. They have persevered, though, and this endeavour was rewarded with a most welcome victory against Shebbear in their most recent fixture. Credit needs to go to the core of boys who have kept their heads up, worked hard to develop and who have focused on improving their fitness and skill levels.
Under 13s
The Under 13s have had a mixed season, but can reflect on some pleasing performances. Victories have come against Tavistock College and Kingsley, but injuries to key personnel have often meant that the team have been under strength for key matches. They should look forward to the second half of the season with optimism and with clear targets to achieve as a squad.
Under 12s
The Under 12s have worked well as a squad during training and are starting to gel well as a squad. Although they have lost their opening two encounters, they have been competitive and with a bit more cohesion should go on to be successful. The second half of the season should be very interesting and if key leading players, such as Jack Brazier, Tom Dinnis, Miles Pillage and Freddie Thompson continue to make good progress, the long term prognosis is positive.
