Sat 22 Oct 2022
So after a couple of games on the road, the CABs were presented with a home fixture against our closely matched rivals from the Forest of Dean; Drybrook. Over recent years both clubs have built up a very healthy respect for each other both on and off the pitch. The CABs were well aware that the Drybrook team was much changed (& considerably weaker) than their previous outing v Okehampton. However, the key message was don't take anything for granted and make sure that we capitalise on their predicament. This meant lineouts should be played a good tempo (as they will be disorganised) and vary the attack - again to get mismatches and take advantage of regular players not being connected in defence.
It was heartening to see the CABs start off with this in mind and increase the energy levels on getting into shape much quicker. Two tries within the first ten minutes, courtesy of some strong lineout drives gave the CABs a decent 14-0 lead (Lev Bulut and Lloyd Duke being the beneficiaries). The CABs also understood that the ball was very greasy and therefore it would be better to play territory, early, and then defend in/around their 22 and wait for the dropped ball etc. This tactic was working effectively and a few more opportunities arose in the next ten minutes -unfortunately they couldn't be taken and Drybrook were given reprieves. This enabled them to build some confidence and start to get a foothold in the game; particularly through their own effective driving maul. Penalties were also giving Drybrook possession without doing too much to earn it. Eventually, this led to a Dryrbook try and the lead reduced to 14-5. The last 5 minutes of the half were very much a case of the CABs infringing and holding out the Drybrook close game and much to the players relief they managed to succeed. This was a key point of discussion over the past week as previous games the CABs had conceded at the end of the half and beginning of the second half - scores which eventually led to games getting away from us.
Half-time and a chance to re-group and get back to the formula of high tempo lineouts and early kicks for territory that stayed in-field (so as to reduce Drybrook's capacity to slow the game to their tempo). Pressure kept on building up and scores quickly came for Archie Dinnis, Ryan Westren and then Archie Dinnis again to put the game out of sight and a comfortable five points heading to the CABs, with Tom Sandercock and James Tucker running the show at 10 and 15 respectively meant that the attack was flowing really smoothly. A late score by Drybrook close the gap but the win was secure. A couple of injury concerns were the only negative of the afternoon.
Thanks again to all the wonderful CABs supporters that made their way down in the downpours and hopefully we'll see you all again in two weeks time when we host Ivybridge
