16 Feb 2008 - Wiveliscombe 15 Nailsea and Backwell 14

A close game and one which was nearly won with a tremendous last minute 50m penalty effort from Natahan Dowling. However the story really was one of immaturity and opportunities missed.

 

The first half saw Nailsea and Backwells scrummage under perform and be dominated by a Wiveliscombe pack who showed far more desire on the day generally. Kemp worked hard and showed the commitment he has all season; Palmer asked again to play in the second row really showed how much he has come on as a player this season and the work in the engine room was unquestionable. Seidle looked strong when he carried ball.

 

The early stages and times when Nailsea got the ball away from breakdowns and into the outside channels Trinick, who was a constant threat to the opposition caused problems and often gained yards however he found himself isolated on to many occasions as did Seidle.

 

Morris came into the line occasionally and again caused a positive threat. These younger players do challenge themselves to perform and although Morris still gets some basics wrong he has a desire to do well and improve. He now needs to learn the basics are so important first. I’m sure he will mature into a quality player assuming he has that desire.

 

Two first half tries came, one when a ball was ripped at the side of a ruck only for Tom Crossman to pounce on the ball and run in under the posts from the half way line. Crossman starting for the first time for a couple of weeks appears to be struggling to find his early season form but this performance will help him find his way back . The other try came from good hands and a Trinick break which saw him score a very good try. It started from a rare forward platform and some good clean quick ball.

 

A couple of simple penalties missed that would of taken the score to twenty points to three at half time would have made things harder for Wivey  The second half saw them come out play down the hill and perform better overall. The restart for the second half said everything about the game. A high ball, no call, a poor pass no ownership and turnover for a Wivey Try.

 

The second half, when the home side changed the front row, was a little better in the scrummage. An opportunity for Mickey Watkins came but again he was in isolation and didn’t have the strength to finish. Some poor defending allowed Wivey to score those important points in the second half which is a shame as the defnce has been something to be proud of from this side so far this season.

 

There are questions being asked by the coach over the maturity of players and understanding of a simple game. This is extremely uncomfortable for some of the squad.  Some have never been asked those questions. Maturity means the ability to play rugby in the right areas of the pitch.  Good clear decision making by key players who should accept responsibility on the pitch and off it when things go wrong.

 

I suppose the response is to ask questions and rise to the challenge.  It was not clear why Nailsea decided to put themselves continually under pressure by trying to run the ball from their own 22 on nearly every occasion Wivey got into their 22. A real lack of ability to make a decision or ability to understand what was needed never surfaced. The ball must be put off the park when in doubt and when you are struggling to get out of the 22. Touches must be found. Even when told what to do the decision makers did not have the ability or discipline to play the game that was needed.

 

Nailsea have not got themselves into the position of table toppers and a threat to any team they play by underperforming ! The same players have played some tremendous rugby, some good rugby was evident on Saturday on occasions. But the learning to lose is a lesson some are finding very hard. Winning is easy and everybody feels good and every body plays their part. Losing is not easy and apparently no one plays their part. It just happens !

 

Yes we can make excuses two first choice half backs not playing was a blow however there was no reason why the two players asked to play in those positions could not perform. That is all part of the challenge. Dowling did a job and in his baptism of fire. He did all he could. Goodall struggled and is a player who has much to offer but the maturity issue of how to play and when was difficult for him. He was not on his own though. A massive game now awaits us against North Petherton in two weeks. Preparation and team mentality is now the key.

 

There is no room for disruption or lethargy.  Stop whining and challenge yourself gentlemen. Its your season !