U15 v Otley

Under 15s Review
Ionians win through in Otley contested semi-final

For third time in three years this group will be involved in the Yorkshire Finals’ Day, after successfully overcoming a strong Otley team in the semi-final of the Plate competition 12-5.

It was a monumental effort from all 18 fit and available players to keep the home team at bay, especially during a difficult opening period. The defence was incredible, particularly around the rucks where time and again we brought their strong runners down early, but as the game wore on it was clever play from Ionians that kept Otley pinned in their half.

The support for the lads on the day was great, but particularly pleasing was the support from those who missed out due to injury, another example of the team spirit that exists within the group. We can look forward now to a ‘home’ final on 26th April.

Scorers
Tries – Johnny Phelan-Wild, Robson Jones
Con – Ifan Downey

Moment of the Match
There were definitely two this week!

First was Johnny Phelan-Wild’s chase of a long clearance kick, and exceptional anticipation of just where the ball was going to bounce. Once the ball was in his hands there was only one outcome. The second was Robson Jones’ solo effort, breaking the defensive line on halfway, a quick sprint down the left wing before cutting inside to beat the covering defence.

Sporting Cliché of the Day
Third time lucky?
Having lost out on our two previous finals, it would be nice to finally have winners medals at the end of April. Hopefully the challenge of earning a place in the starting XV (and squad of 22) should be a real incentive for each and every squad member over the next 7 weeks both in games and at training.

Man of the Match
He not only provided one of the moments of the match with his try, but also provided an all-round game. His contributions included strong defence (especially in the first half when Otley were pressing) but covered a number of clearance kicks and returned them all with interest, always beating the first man. This week the Man of the Match award goes to Johnny Phelan-Wild!