Sat 10 Sep 2022
A huge sigh of relief could be heard across Polson, at the final whistle, as the CABs got over the line for their first win of the season and a welcome try bonus point to boot. The after effects of last week's performance was still in evidence for the first 30 as the CABs made a fairly nervy start; passes being forced, too much intricate play being tried and in all honesty too much unnecessary rugby played between the home side's 22 and half way. One aspect that was pleasing was the much improved physicality, workrate and loudness in defensive communication - this was very much lacking last week. To give yourself a chance of winning any rugby match you've got to fire some shots in anger - this maybe the obvious; a really thumping tackle, a powerful carry or scrum, but it can also be something like a box kick that is won in the air, a 50-22 kick or a snipe from the base of a breakdown - just something that lifts your teammates around you. Set piece was fairly even at scrum time, but one thing that was becoming noticeable was Old Cents' lineout was not functioning as it normally does whereas the CABs was beginning to be regular and consistent source of good ball to play with and it was this where the CABs took the lead (following a couple of penalties from the Old Cents 9) with a driving maul, that was collapsed and deemed cynically, so a penalty try was awarded. By this time, around 30-35 minutes, it was also becoming apparent that the pace of the game, that the CABs were playing, was beginning to take its toll on the heavier Old Cents pack. A defensive set of around 17-18 phases was very telling and gave the CABs an extra fillip and seemed to dispirit the visitors, so much so that the CABs extended their lead with a driven lineout, some close drives from the forwards to enable stand-off, Glen Coles, to side-step in under the posts. Half-time read 17-9 to the home side.
The second half started off exactly how the CABs didn't want - an unnecessary extra phase, trying to exit, resulted in a fumble and some sustained attacking from Old Cents which ended up with the score being brought to within a point. Immediately, the CABs hit back with a super backline score and James Tucker diving over in the corner. The CABs were now edging the scrum and continuing their lineout success. The other aspect that was becoming more apparent was the growing maturity in their play with a good territorial game being mixed up with some direct carrying and close play. Glenn Coles added a second, with a wonderful chip and gather just inside the Old Cents 22 and brilliant counter attack from James Tucker and Dan Pearce ended up with Adam Collings diving over, under the sticks, following his smart supporting line run.
The CABs were worthy winners and managed to get their first win under their belts, much earlier than in previous seasons, which certainly means the players can relax and consolidate on their performance. Next week sees the CABs visit Brixham and their hugely impressive scrum.
