Read Blindside here
Manager: Will Miles
Head Coach: Paul Bailey
Assistant Coaches: Heath Barnes, Jeremy Johnson
First Aid: John Humphries
Contact: gro.sregitmahnetlehc|reganam21u#gro.sregitmahnetlehc|reganam21u
Cheltenham v Thornbury
65-5
Squad: Eric, Charlie M, Charlie N, Toby, Callum, Scott, Ryan, Cameron, Sam J, Sam K, Josh, Conor, Thyrza, Dan, Ross, Jay, Ryan
Thornbury had made the journey down the M5 with a very large squad of 26 players, which meant we had 4 quarters of 15 minutes of play in store to ensure all of their players got a good run out.
As has become customary, Cheltenham got off to a strong start and within the opening moments Eric was in for the first try of the morning. Thornbury came back well and moved the ball around nicely but their kick through was a move too far and once in the hands of Toby the second score was on the board. Shortly after this the Tigers were three tries to the good with Sam J picking up and darting over the line.
The Tigers seemed to have stepped up a level in their line out play this week and it was from a neatly won and swiftly moved line out ball that Dan cruised in for his first and Cheltenham’s fourth try. The quartet of Dan, Ross, Cameron and Josh dominated the line-out all match demonstrating how the Reds can really now use this part of the game as a platform for attacking, creative rugby. Jay also showed his versatility and more than held his own in the lock position as the coaches experimented with positions.
The play was all Cheltenham and Conor was unlucky to be denied a score when he was just held up in the corner. This was shortly followed by the highlight of the game…seeking to avoid/catch a ball that had been punted into touch one of our match reporters lost footing in the treacherous conditions and swallow dived gracefully into the mud. Far too gracious to draw attention to and increase the embarrassment of a fellow spectator the incident passed with little comment. More importantly spurred on by this act of aged athleticism from his father, Charlie Newhall dived in for a fifth score following some fluent, running rugby in the backs.
25-0 at the end of the first period.
The Tigers started the second period by conceding a penalty. Unfortunately, Thornbury were unable to capitalise and gave advantage back to the Tigers by kicking the ball over the dead-ball line. From the resulting scrum Sam J fed Toby who floated down the touchline and scored in the corner. The same partnership combined again within a minute of the restart to take the try tally to 7.
Scott Humpreys was without doubt having his best game of the season and a wonderful piece of play that saw the ball move from Scott to Dan, back to Scott then to Charlie Newhall was deserving of a try, but spoiled by a knock-on. From the resulting scrum it was Scott again who did the hard work and presented the ball to Sam J for try number 8.
With the referee struggling in the mud in a pair of pumps and (perhaps) seeking to even the contest a little Cheltenham were penalised for a series of indiscretions. A courageous tackle from Sam J to stop a Thornbury crash penalty proved effective but also brought about the end of the scrum-half’s contribution to the game with a shoulder injury – another great performance from Sam.
The Tigers conceded a further 3 penalties in their own twenty-two and eventually the inevitable Thornbury try came, much to the noticeable chagrin of Coach Barnes. With this, THornbury became only the second side to score a try against Cheltenham in 2010,
With Sam J substituted Ryan took up duties at number 9 and acquitted himself very well. The next passage of play was perhaps the best in the match, Ross won the line out against the head and the ball was moved sweetly and swiftly to Eric on the right wing. When he was held up the ball was moved equally flowingly back across the width and Sam K was unlucky to be tipped into touch before he could touch down. Great rugby, which was rewarded swiftly when from the resulting line out Dan crashed over for try number nine.
The third period of play began scrappily with the most notable incident being a wonderful take on the touch line by Steve, who this time managed to stay on his feet. Scott Humphreys continued to run hard and distribute the ball well and from another sweet, flowing move he put Thyrza in for a score in the corner. It was a travesty of justice, given his performance, that Scott was not rewarded with a try but he should be very pleased with having played an assisting role in many of the tries today.
After some more solid play by the forwards and some good tidying up from Sam K, Charlie Newhall was presented with the ball a few meters from the line and showed great strength to cross to make it 55-5.
Into the final period of play and more of the same. With the ball again being moved wide Callum saw some action on the right wing and made some good ground before Ryan created a great angle for Eric who easily took the chance for another score. This was swiftly followed by a great, bursting Charlie Miles break from which Sam K was unlucky to be denied in the corner. So ultimately the Tigers were denied their baker’s dozen but a score of twelve tries to one was a just reflection of the dominance they showed.
The statistics for the season now read:
Played 28
Won 22
Lost 3
Drawn 3
Tries Scores 115
Tries Conceded 24
Few teams in the country will have a more impressive set of numbers than these!
County Cup – Group Phase and Quarter-Finals
Group Winners Cheltenham Progress to Semis
Squad: Toby J, Coner, Josh, Charlie N, Cameron, Ross, Dan, Jay, Sam J, Ryan, Henry, Charlie Miles, Eric, Thyrza, Callum, Scott, Toby B.
Game 1
**
Cheltenham 14 Widden Old Boys 0
**
The tent was up, the bacon sandwiches were down and the crowd could still feel their toes (just). With the Widden fixture a victim of last week’s weather there was no form to indicate how this match might go. James and Sam K were injury victims and unfortunately unable to take part.
Cheltenham applied pressure from the whistle and chased down the kick off to gain put in at the first scrum; which they won. A clean ball was presented to Charlie Miles, who duly opened the Tiger’s account. Sam converted to give Cheltenham a 7pt lead. Much of the first half was then spent in Widden territory and a lovely flowing move along the back line nearly saw Toby B in, in the far corner, but momentum carried him just into touch. Luckily he only had to wait a few moments for poetic justice to intervene, when he gathered well from a defensive Widden punt and powered over for another 5 points, which Sam duly turned into seven.
The second half was tighter, but the Tigers were in control and saw out the second seven minutes to take the first match 14-0.
Game 2
Cheltenham 0 Newent 0
This was to be the key game of the pool, with Cheltenham knowing they would have to be strong and fast to deal with Newent’s notorious physicality.
The Tigers started well exerting plenty of their own pressure and Sam J was unlucky to be held up just short of the opposition line.
On a bigger pitch and with the ability to play their naturally expansive game Cheltenham would have had the upper hand, but Newent knew their own strengths and were able to slow the game down, drawing the Tigers into a war of attrition.
Ultimately, this was a very effective performance from the Reds with Charlie Newhall, Josh and Toby J more than holding their own against a front row that might have been twice as heavy. In the line out Ross, Cameron and Josh snuffed out the Forest Thump that had undone other opponents and we were strong on both wings with Eric and Thyrza running and tackling well when call upon.
At the final whistle it was a 0-0 draw, with the moral victory belonging to Cheltenham.
Game 3
Cheltenham 33 Painswick 0
Painswick are not at all a bad team, but against a rampant Tigers they were never looked like they had a sniff in this tie. Once more the Tigers placed their opposition under pressure from the kick off and Sam J showed strength in the face of fierce tackling to wriggle over for the first score. He added 2 further points when he converted his own try to make it 7-0.
Aggressive, fluid running from Ryan and Henry boded well, but some loose play at our own line-out put the Tigers under a brief period of pressure. Good technical ability and determination in defence denied Painswick any return and some trademark ripping from Josh, provided ball for Cameron who made a ranging foray into the Painswick twenty-two. The solid scrum, gave Cheltenham a great platform and when Toby came into the line at speed he was able to use his height, power and telescopic arms to reach in for try number two, which was quickly followed by number three. This was followed by try four, provided by Cameron after great pressure in the line-out from Coner. Cheltenham’s fifth try was a wonderful piece of flowing rugby; good, disruptive forward play from Jay gave ball to Sam who moved it swiftly to Ryan at half back who fed Toby, who drew the last tackle before presenting to Charlie Miles for a score that was wonderful to watch.
The final score was 33-0.
Game 4
Cheltenham 21 Stow 0
The Tigers knew that a good win against the black and whites was needed to guarantee the top spot in the group that they deserved, but with the pitch cutting up and legs tiring, nothing was guaranteed. The Reds took an early lead when Charlie Miles gathered from a 22 drop out and made good ground before releasing Eric, who powered down the touchline and crossed in the corner for try one.
Cheltenham should have shut the game down in the first half, but nerves and a plucky display from Stow kept the score at 7-0 at half time.
On more than one occasion the Tigers’ pack was penalised for getting an early shove on, much to the annoyance of Coach Barnes ( just to clarify: his annoyance was with the decision rather than with his pack).
Early in the second half Charlie Newhall picked the ball out of the air following a line-out won against the head and showed that good scrum halves never die ( they just go to join the front row) when he spun a lovely pass out to open up the field. Ross (The Flash Barnes) made ground before feeding Charlie Miles who straightened the attack and drew the last man before presenting the ball to battering ram Dan, who crossed for a very satisfying score. Sam again added the conversion points and Tigers were 14-0 to the good. More tries in them and when a battered Stow hesitated , Cameron took advantage of the dilatory moment to first smother and then rob the confused fly half of the ball, stealing in the corner for an opportunist try.
The Tigers were now in complete control and Scott H was unlucky to have a try disallowed for a forward pass that could have been allowed on another day. There was still life in Stow but solid defensive covering from the centre backs and Callum made light work of their best efforts.
Ultimately, a 21-0 victory was enough to see Cheltenham progress to the Quarter Finals as Group Winners. A wonderful team performance.
Quarter Final
Cheltenham 7 Longlevens 0
This was the Chris de Burgh quarter final with both teams resplendent in red.
Cheltenham conceded an early penalty and were under pressure but committed defence from Toby in the pack eased the situation. Within seconds the pressure valve was released when Charlie Miles and Eric again combined superbly to produce a winger’s try in the corner. This was the only try in a first half that saw some very tight play and committed contribution from Josh and Sam J.
The second half was a nervy affair with Cheltenham unable to bury the game, much to the detriment of the spectators’’ collective blood pressure. Some gutsy, agricultural defensive play from Josh the Ripper and Charlie Newhall and some intelligent defensive kicking from Ryan helped ensure that the Tigers protected their lead and ran out as deserved winners, securing a place in the Semi-Finals.
This was a truly laudable, whole-team performance. In conditions which favoured the heavier, well-fed teams, Cheltenham proved that it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog that counts ( Mark Twain). The Tigers progressed to the Semi-Finals without conceding a single try.
Coaches and parents were looking forward to a sit down and a nice cup of camomile tea. Semi-Finals in a few weeks.
Cheltenham 0 Worcester 15
Match report follows underneath photo gallery
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A sunny day and a very keenly anticipated return fixture against Worcester, who were still smarting from the rare home defeat the Tigers inflicted earlier in the season.
Squad: Thyrza, Callum, James, Charlies x 2, Sams x 2, Dan, Eric, Josh, Ross, Ryan, Toby x 2, Cameron, Scott, Coner, Jay, Henry.
The Tigers suffered an early blow with Toby having to withdraw before kick off with a wrist injury sustained in the warm-up ( Toby we hope you are OK.)
On a very heavy pitch Worcester started off strong and put the Tigers under heavy and sustained pressure. The defensive tackling from the reds was outstanding and it needed to be to keep Worcester at bay. Cheltenham withstood wave after wave of attack and spent the majority of the time in their own half, but despite this their defence would not be breached and the half finished with neither side having scored.
The war of attrition was resumed at the beginning of the second half with both sides showing good handling skill in treacherous conditions. Worcester retained the advantage by virtue of being a second faster at the breakdown and this combined with good tactical kicking kept the pressure on the Tigers and eventually resulted in their first score from a 10m line out.
With conditions in the centre of the field similar to those experienced by troops in the Somme, the weightier team were always at an advantage. On several occasions Worcester's man mountains were able to gain significant yardage despite appearing to have half of the Tiger's team attached to their arms and legs. Worcester's second try came from just such a play and concluded with a boy seemingly taller than the match reporter falling over the line to make it 10-0.
At this point and in these conditions the Tigers could have been forgiven for letting their heads drop, but instead they came back fighting and really took the game to Worcester. Sam J made some feisty breaks from the base of the scrum, Ryan eased the pressure with some deep kicking, Charlie Miles hit one of the Worcester centres with a tackle so hard he will still be feeling it next Wednesday and Cameron put on a display of aggressive, but controlled, rugby that Coach Paul, rightfully described as “awesome”. At one point Cameron made about 25 yards seemingly on his belly all the time emitting a low, guttural roar that really did unsettle the opposition. This pressure from the reds resulted in a series of penalties within the opposition twenty-two which brought then achingly close to scoring a richly deserved try. However, it was Worcester's turn to be resolute in defence and they managed to hold the Tigers at bay. In the final minutes a deep kick and fast follow up put Worcester in for a third try and sealed the victory for them 15-0.
In truth this was a fantastic game of rugby which demonstrated the courage and heart that is now at the centre of the Cheltenham team. Worcester deserved their victory but Cheltenham should take more pride and learning from this performance than from some of their easier recent victories over lesser opposition. Parents and coaches were immensely proud of the whole team.
Thought for the day: “ Defeat is like cabbage – you don't have to like it but deep down you know that occassionally it's good for you”.
Home vs. Chosen Hill 17/1/2010
Game 1- Cheltenham 25 Chosen Hill 0.
Squad: Charlie x 2, Jay, Scott, Thyrza, Toby, Callum, Connor, Archie, Ryan, Ross, Dan, Josh, Cameron, Sam K.
After a long lay off due to the weather and the Christmas break it was breath holding time to see if the team had over indulged or forgotten how to play…………
We needn’t have worried because from the start the tigers were on top and moving the ball around. Following a strong run from Toby, Ross scorched in for the opening try. The tigers completely dominated the scrum and turned over the Hill’s ball more than once, which starved them of any meaningful ball and allowed us to continue attacking. It wasn’t long before Dan added a second try and with some judicious kicking from Toby and some strong chasing we continued to dominate. It was only a matter of time before we scored again and Cameron obliged and we led 15-0 at half time. It was decided to widen the pitch as it was a bit on the thin side and wasn’t giving the room for our backs to express themselves. It was a case of two many chiefs and the wobbly line would have tested the most sober of individuals in a breath test. Anyway I digress, back to the rugby.
Chosen Hill started more brightly but were held off by our forwards, who were magnificent all day. After a scrappy passage of play , during which we forgot how to ruck, the tigers reasserted their dominance and Dan went on one of his famous mazy runs and having ran about a mile and a half he crossed for try number four. There was still time for a final sparkling try from Archie and the tigers ran out 25-0 winners.
(Alan)
Game two
Cheltenham 35 Chosen Hill 0
During the interval before the 2nd match we took the opportunity to get a few words from Coach Paul..
“ It’s a very good start to the new year. Gave us a chance to blow away the cobwebs and it’s great to see such enthusiasm from the whole team” he said.
Coach Barnes added, “it is imperative to contest all factions for complete victory, so the army is not garrisoned and the profit can be total. This is the law of strategic siege.”
With these words ringing in their ears Cheltenham took up where they had left off. With the opposition slow at the breakdown the Tigers started popping the ball nicely from the floor gaining ground in a series of fast phases which saw Toby and Josh link fluidly before releasing Dan for a rapid first try.
The Tigers never looked in any trouble against an opposition that was plucky but fast losing self-belief under consistent Cheltenham pressure.
An impressive defensive kick from Ryan saw the ball bobbling within yards of the Chosen Hill try line and effective pressurising from Toby caused the defence to spill the ball allowing Charlie Miles to cross for a 10-0 lead.
Josh, Ross and Cameron were causing havoc in the opposition line out and the next two tries came from throw-ins taken against the head. The first went to Ryan who created a great angle and collected a short pass from Archie at speed, crashing through the opposition for a wonderful score. At the very next line out the Ross gathered from the put-in and made good yards with a powerful run. Archie drew the final tackler beautifully before releasing to Ryan for yet another try and a half-time 20-0 lead.
The second half continued in a similar vein. Fast ball moved wide by Ryan to Thyrza created an overlap which allowed Charlie Newhall to score in the corner.
Things got worse for Chosen Hill (who by this time must have been thinking that the Hill they had Chosen was a little too steep) when from the restart kick Archie gathered and went the length of the pitch with a run that was more mazy than a field of corn: 30-0.
By way of celebration Toby was seen doing a slightly poor rendition of the Peter Crouch robotic dance. There was just time for another try from the prolific Ryan before referee Miles (resplendent in his new green jersey) brought proceedings to a close.
A very comfortable victory and a great way to start 2010.
(Steve)
It's Woe for Stow as Tigers Ho! Ho! Ho!
13th December 2009
This week we had a squad of fifteen and no injuries….although we could have got Ross when he switched sides and played for Stow.
This fixture against Stow is a good marker as to how much we have progressed as a team. The previous seasons’ games with them have been hard fought affairs with Stow narrowly coming out on top.
Game 1
Cheltenham 20 Stow 0
Tigers started strongly with the forwards wresting the early initiative and the backs, well orchestrated by Scott, running the ball at every opportunity. The forwards drove up field and Josh the limpet forced his way through a ruck to score the opening try. Sam K fielded the ball well from Stow Kicks and from one he started a flowing move that went from side to side at pace and led to an overlap that allowed Ross to get on the scoresheet. Again the forwards drove down field and Connor forced his way over for a 15-0 half time lead. The second half started with Stow in the ascendency and only some dogged defence kept them at bay. The tigers gradually started winning back possession and forced Stow into kicking from deep, from which Sam K returned the ball with interest and linked with Charlie M who sprinted clear to score our fourth try, although the dive was a bit theatrical… 5.65 from the sideline judge. There was time for James to set off on a mazy individual run and he was unlucky to be snared close to the line. Throughout the match the Tigers moved the ball at pace, with Sam J and Scott controlling the back line well, and continually pressurised the Stow defence into making mistakes. The scene was set for match number two….over to chief reporter Steve….
Game 2
Cheltenham 15 Stow 0
Thank you Alan..
Cheltenham lent the under strength Stow side a number 8 in the formidable form of Ross Barnes to shore up their pack. But the Tigers were soon in control of the game when Sam J caught the ball confidently from the initial kick off and raced to within a few metres of the opposition line. Fast support play and strong arms lead to Cameron touching down for try one with barely 30 seconds played.
Much of the rest of the first half was untidy, with Cheltenham cruising. When they elected to move the ball down the line they looked very impressive. Scott H had a very strong game, kicking intelligently and demonstrating on numerous occasions a wonderful ability to draw the first tackle and off-load to the man outside. It was following just such a move that he presented the ball to Eric who danced around three despairing Stow tacklers to take a well crafted second try. It did not go unnoticed that Scott’s best performance of the season coincided with the purchase of a particularly swanky new pair of boots – Father Christmas, please put a pair of those on my list.
In the second period Cheltenham again dominated and in truth could have scored three tries in as many minutes. Ryan was unlucky to be denied, having slid into touch on his way over the try line. In defence Cheltenham were fast and in truth snuffed out the majority of Stow’s efforts before they could gain momentum. As the temperature plummeted, the spectators were warmed by a trademark weaving run from Eric which brought his second and Cheltenham’s third try of the game.
Over the two games, Cheltenham were in complete control and scored seven unanswered tries, demonstrating once more the progress they have made as a team since last year.
Dr Kempster in the statistical analysis department informs me that the picture at Christmas 2009 is thus:
Played 19
Won 15
Drawn 2
Lost 2 Bath and Droitwich.
Tries for: 70
Against:20
Way to go Tigers….Keep yourselves fit and don’t have too many pies over the festive period ( that applies to the parents too!).
Squad
Thyrza,Samx2,Josh,Scott,Callum,James, Connor,Ross,Charliex2,Ryan,Cameron,Eric and Jay.
Cheltenham v Chipping Norton
6th December 2009
15-15
"On the 6th day of Christmas the Tigers gave to me…
..a hard fought draw, with a strong team from Chippy"
Due to injuries and illness Cheltenham were down to a squad of 13 which included several inexperienced players and various others playing out of position.
The game started slowly with kicking to the fore, Sam K at fullback handled his duties with the boot very securely. Due to the inexperience of the Tiger’s front row the scrums were uncontested which led to the ball being deployed quickly to the backs. Chipping showed some excellent movement and had some clever interplay between the backs which nearly opened up the Tiger’s defence. Jay put in some good work upfront tackling hard and distributing from the breakdown when it was necessary. The defence of both teams was outstanding leading to numerous steals at the gain line but neither team could break through and at third time it was scoreless.
The Tigers started the second half with the forwards driving up field and putting the Chipping defence under sustained pressure. The Reds were rewarded when Cameron wrestled the ball and dived over for the opening score. Chipping continued to run the ball at every opportunity and came close on many occasions. The turning point was when Cameron got injured and had to leave the field, the team seemed to be distracted by this and Chipping equalled the score. With Archie also hobbling around Chipping scored again to lead 10-5 after two thirds of the match.
In the third period Chipping started brightly and were well on top and nearly scored but were denied by a Sam sandwich (thanks to Fiona Humphreys for this editorial input) as the two Sam’s combined with a last ditch try saving tackle. The pressure finally told and Chipping after concerted pressure drove over to open up a 15-5 lead. At this point the Tigers could easily have given up but to their considerable credit they fought back and drove down field and following a ruck Toby Jenkins scored his first try for the club from close in. The Cheltenham back-line dealt well with a free-running Chipping team and Scott ,Thyrza, Callum and Archie all made important tackles to keep the opposition at bay. The Tigers continued to press and after a trademark mazy run from Eric, Charlie N was alert in the ruck and managed to scramble over for the score equalling try. The game finished soon after with the draw a fair result.
This was a great effort by all the players and the defence was superb with the two Charlie’s and Connor having outstanding games and leading the team from the front. This was a superb effort and the full team should be very proud of this performance.
The team was: Charlie N, Charlie M, Toby J, Cameron , Connor, Jay , Archie, Scott ,Sam J, Thyrza , Eric ,Callum and Sam K.
Cheltenham Tournament 2009-11-29
Cheltenham v Malvern
5-0
In a strong looking group Cheltenham kicked-off against Malvern in conditions less than ideal for playing slick, running rugby. Starting down the hill the Tigers soon got on top with the forwards driving well and trying to run the ball at every opportunity. Play got bogged down and scrappy until Charlie Miles ripped the ball in the maul made good ground before releasing to Eric who went over in the corner for a score and a 5-0 half time lead.
In the 2nd half Malvern were coming down the slope and started on top but were unable to break Cheltenham’s defensive line. Cheltenham then came back into the game, started to dominate the possession but were unable to score again and ground out the rest of the game for a hard won first victory.
Cheltenham Old Luxonians
10-5
Old Luxonians had travelled from Hereford to sample the milder, drier climate of glorious Gloucestershire. Cheltenham started in the ascendency despite an enforced change at number nine due to a nasty eye injury to Sam J. Archie deputised very effectively at scrum half and in fact broke away from the base of the scrum to score the first try. Cheltenham continued to dominate; good interplay between forwards and backs enabled Henry to cross for a 10-0 lead at half time.
In the second half, with the wind at their backs, Old Lux were on top for long periods and were soon rewarded with an easy try in the corner. As conditions worsened there were numerous knock ons and errors as the game became very disjointed. Cheltenham held out with a strong defensive rearguard to close the game out 10-5 against good opposition.
Cheltenham v Longlevens
10-0
Cheltenham were in confident mood and were on top from the whistle, playing good hard rugby. With the pack making good ground Sam J broke from the ruck and was driven towards the line managing to smuggle the ball to Dan who burst through for the first try. Cheltenham in their stride produced the best try of the tournament thus far with slick passing through the backs, moving the ball left to right at speed which opened up the field for Toby to make ground and offload to Sam K who showed good strength to push through the final tacklers and ground the ball for try number two.
The 2nd half was a war of attrition, neither team able to hold onto the ball. Cheltenham again showed stoical defensive qualities to keep Longlevens at bay and although attacking was limited they held on for a comfortable 10-0 win to progress to the semi finals as group winners.
Semi-Final
Cheltenham v Ledbury
10-10
The Tigers were clearly up for the fight in what everyone expected to be a tight semi-final and they started strongly. After a nice break from Henry that took Cheltenham to within 5m of the Ledbury line Josh “the Ripper” tore the ball out of the maul and made the necessary ground to cross for an early first try. Buoyed by this, Cheltenham seemed to spend much of the first period camped in the Ledbury half. After some powerful ball carrying and rucking from the pack, hooker Charlie Newhall smashed through the Ledbury defensive line and Cheltenham were 10 points to the good.
In the second half Ledbury had the advantage of the slope and the wind and they used it well. A lovely inside step from the Ledbury fly-half fooled the Tiger’s line and the resulting try narrowed the gap to just 1 score.
Much of the remainder of the game was played in the Cheltenham half and the Tiger’s defence was little short of heroic, soaking up wave after wave of Ledbury attacks. However, with the very last play of the game Ledbury got the ball to their big impact player and he managed to power over for a try to bring the scores level at 10-10.
In a cruel twist of fate the Tigers were denied a truly deserved place in the final because of a try count back rule which meant Ledbury progressed.
To be fair to team they were more unlucky than the unluckiest man in the world on national bad luck day but they can be very proud of their performance. Ultimately they were unbeaten, up to and including the semi-finals. Ledbury went on to become tournament champions with a win over Rwibina.
Cheltenham v Droitwich
10-20
Common sense would have seen the 3rd/4th place play off cancelled and declared a tie, but as some of the Cheltenham spectators began to build an ark, Droitwich were keen to go ahead with the final game.
Droitwich proved more durable than the pen and paper of the match reporter rendering details of the final mud-slog patchy.
Cheltenham did score two tries courtesy of Sam K and Thyrza but as the injuries mounted and the puddles got deeper Droitwich ran out victors.
A fantastic team performance in appalling conditions. On another day, with a little more luck Cheltenham could easily have gone all the way and taken the title.
Cheltenham U12’s vs Bredon Away
15/11/2009
Bredon 20 Cheltenham 25
Squad: Josh, Charlie N, Connor, Ross, Cameron, Jay, Sam J, Sam K, Ryan, Archie, Scott, Henry, Eric, Charlie M, James, Thyrza, Callum
The good Lord took pity on the parent-spectators and blessed them with a sunny morning that made the spirits on the touchline soar. Clearly conscious that he was being overly generous to the heathen crowd he balanced the account by ensuring that there was no tea, coffee or hard liquour available at the Bredon club house.
To the game – and against a strong looking Bredon team Cheltenham were immediately under pressure on their own line and were being pushed around in the scrum. However, it didn’t take long for Ross, Connor and Jay in the pack to get into their stride and even up the possession. Archie relieved the pressure with some intelligent punts up field and soon the Tigers started to dominate in all aspects of play and with the forwards battering away at the line Archie crossed for a great try on his return to the team. The half finished with a breakout by Bredon and Sam K as the last line of defence pulled off a wonderful, try saving tackle.
The second half started with a quick try from a breakout by Sam J . The Tigers continued to dominate when suddenly from a ruck emerged Cameron charging down the field like a bull with his tail on fire and resisting the temptation to hand off the fullback he crossed the line for try number three. A fine try and a sight to behold. The back line started to move the ball more freely as they gained in confidence and there was some slick interplay between Ryan, Scott, James and Henry. But Bredon were scrapping well and disrupting Cheltenham ball, until after more good forward play, during which Josh was outstanding, Sam J dove down the blind-side and crossed for try number four.
The agreed format was three periods and the Tigers were starting to run out of steam and coherence and Bredon got well on top in the third period and showed some fine running skills to score three unanswered tries. Finally the Tigers got hold of the ball and Eric showed his strength by charging up the wing and taking the play to within 5m of the Bredon line. Bredon had the put-in at the line out, but the ball came back untidily and Charlie N showed good awareness to pounce on the loose ball to score. Bredon came straight back to score again but the Tigers held on to win by 5 tries to four.
Another good team performance on the road and we have now won the last 11 games on the trot, well done all.
PS. Apologies to Thyrza for the spelling mistake last week, it’s not just Gordon Brown who can’t spell.
1st of November 2009
+ Cheltenham U12’s away vs Witney
Squad: Dan, Scott,Eric,Callum,Samx2,Charliex2,Thurza,Connor,Ross,Toby,Ryan,Josh and Cameron.
Firstly, well done on your normal scribe, Steve Newhall, being away on the windiest and wettest day we have had for a long time.
Cheltenham 40 Witney 0
This away fixture, against a usually strong Witney , started in the foulest conditions imaginable. Cheltenham started against the wind and from the start Eric set the tone by very nearly scoring in the first minute having run the length of the field. The forwards were on top from the start and forged an opening that Sam J capitalised on to score the first try of the morning. The tigers were completely dominant in the breakdown and held onto and snaffled possession to such an extent that Witney never had the ball. The ball was kept alive very impressively and Dan tiptoed over for try number two. Another sweeping move started by Sam Kempster from his own line saw Toby in at the corner and Connor rounded off the half by scoring his debut try to leave the tigers 20-0 to the good. The second half continued with the tigers strong up front and the backs running the ball at every opportunity and Dan and Toby crossed to lead 30-0. Witney were pegged back and in desperation they opted to kick, unfortunately Sam J anticipated this and charged it down to score. Cheltenham continued to dominate and Thurza finished off the scoring to leave the score 40-0 at the whistle.
Game two.
Cheltenham 25 Witney 0
A few positional changes were made to test the players in different positions and you wouldn’t have noticed because Cheltenham carried on from where they left off in game one. Sam Kempster at scrum half started with a strong run from the scrum and passed to Ross, on the wing, for him to score in the corner. Again the forwards were on top and Dan scored twice in quick succession to give us a 15-0 lead. There then followed the try of the day with Dan, Ryan and Charlie Miles combining in a sweeping move and with some beautifully timed passes Charlie Miles had the room to sprint away and score. The half time score 20-0.
The second half was a messy affair with both teams tiring in the boggy conditions and neither able to keep the ball in hand. The half was enlivened by a fine bit of teamwork with Sam J kicking down field and him and Scott jumping on the poor lad and passing out to Toby who finished the scoring to leave Cheltenham 25-0 winners. A further 10 minutes was played to allow Witney to try out some new players and too be honest my brain was numb and I think Eric scored twice and Charlie Newhall (Steve I got him mentioned!) scored another.
I have to mention the coaching lapse of the day by allowing Toby to kick off. He hit it sweetly , unfortunately it landed in the next field.
Overall Cheltenham were outstanding all over the field, even when positions were switched. The ball was kept alive and recycled quickly and Witney never had a sniff of a try all morning. Given the conditions the level of skill shown was top notch, well done all and hopefully all the hardy parents dried out ok.
U12s Triumph at Worcester
Cheltenham v Bromyard
45-0
Worcester v Cheltenham
12-14
The sun shone (briefly) but there was a stiff wind ripping across the park at the beginning of this tri-team tournament.
Cheltenham were up first against an under-strength Bromyard side and wasted little time putting their numerical advantage to good use. Dan Bailey ripped the ball from a Bromyard player in the tackle and showed great strength to power over for an early and easy try which was to prove a sign of things to come.
By the time four minutes had been played in the first half Dan had completed perhaps the fastest hat-trick of the season. He went over once after a neat offload from Sam and then capitalised on a great piece of play from Charlie Miles who gathered the ball from the restart and ran with strength up to the opposition twenty-two, before presenting Dan with a clinical pass to allow him in for try number three.
There was little that Bromyard could do to complete with Cheltenham who scored again from the restart when Eric took the ball close to the touchline and went on a destructive run, beating at least six tackles before crossing for a fourth Cheltenham try.
Aggressive defensive play was a hallmark of the first half and committed ball ripping from hooker Charlie Newhall created possession for Cameron who clearly had his running boots on as he covered three-quarters of the pitch, leaving despairing Bromyard tacklers in his wake to score a great solo try.
There was little time left in the first period, but in this mood Cheltenham did not need much time and when Dan caught the ball from the kick-off he skipped through the defence as if they were not there and sealed a superb first half performance with yet another try.
With Sam converting four of the six tries Cheltenham finished the first half with a lead of 38-0.
Bromyard came out in the second half with more fighting spirit (not all of it legal) but, with the game already won, Cheltenham were content with holding their defensive line and taking their chances as they came. Callum, playing in his fist game on the wing acquitted himself well with some good defensive work. Eventually Cheltenham took possession and created some space for yet another score from one-man try-machine Bailey. As the match drew towards a close James broke through the centre and showed what he can do with his pace, he was unlucky to be held up just short of the opposition line. This was to be the last play of a game in which Cheltenham had been completely dominant running out winners by 45 points to nil.
The coaches, the players and the watching parents knew that the match against Worcester would be a different proposition. With a large squad, a formidable reputation and home advantage all expected this to be a stern test. Things seemed to be weighted further in Worcester’s favour when Bromyard, fresh from their mauling by Cheltenham, elected to withdraw from their game against the blue and yellows. This meant that all the Worcester legs were fresh as they took the field against Cheltenham.
Worcester are a classy side and showed this within two minutes when, after a good period of forward pressure and plenty of possession, they crossed for their first score. It went unconverted - a factor that was to play a significant part in the final result.
The strong winds subsided to be replaced by a persistent rain and Worcester turned to a long kicking game. An offside offense by Cheltenham from a well returned kick by full-back Toby gave Worcester a penalty which they took quickly and used well to cross for a second try; this time converted. At this point Cheltenham were on the wrong side of a 12 point deficit.
In previous seasons heads would have dropped and hearts would have sunk, but winning has become a habit for the Reds this season and with determination flowing through their veins and the bellowing of Coach Barnes ringing in their ears, they set about mounting a comeback.
In the last minutes before half-time Cheltenham started to show what they are made of and some great determination by debutant Connor, provided ball which Cameron took forward and Charlie Newhall picked up well from the loose before offloading perfectly to Sam who drove over for a technically wonderful and well deserved score. Sam added the conversion to his own try to reduce the half time deficit to 12-7.
The second half saw some of the most impressive rugby of the season so far, with two talented sides giving it all they had. Cheltenham were strong in the tackle and superb in the ruck and most of the second half was played in Worcester territory.
Strong play in the line-out from Ross and Josh gave the reds a platform from which to attack. Under pressure from great running Worcester conceded a penalty which was taken swiftly. Henry and Charlie Miles combined beautifully with Henry finally breeching the Worcester defence to bring the try tally level. Sam kept his cool to slot the conversion over and give Cheltenham a 14-12 lead.
The Reds kept the pressure on Worcester and were camped in the opposition twenty-two for the final three minutes of the game. Thyrza made a speedy break down the right wing and when she popped up an inside pass Henry came close to opening the defence one more time but the ball spilled in the tackle.
The final few minutes were a tense affair. Strong play in the forwards, including some great tackling and driving from Josh kept it tight and when Jay delivered a perfect ball into the last-play line-out Cheltenham easily gathered and cleared the ball to touch to seal a great victory.
This was an excellent performance and a memorable win for Cheltenham against a quality Worcester side.
** Cheltenham Give No Inch to Minch
Cheltenham v Minchinhampton
October 11th 2009
Result 60-0
Following the previous week's triumphs at Clifton, Cheltenham were looking forward to their home fixture against Minchinhampton.
The parents on the sidelines were delighted that in terms of the weather normal service had been resumed; always much happier to have the opportunity to stand stoically in the rain and wind than to burn in the sun, they thoroughly enjoyed the soaking as well as the display of rugby.
With Will Davis and Sam Kempster sidelined with injuries the coaches took the opportunity to ask players to step into different positions.
In truth, Cheltenham dominated from the start and the end result was never in doubt. The quality of some of the running rubgy that Cheltenham played brought a warm glow to the dampest of the spectators. The Reds dominated all areas of the game, scrummaging tightly, controlling the line out and being fierce in defence. There were countless flowing moves which saw the ball passed swifly and smoothly down the line creating width and a flurry of tries. This was a very, very classy display from the whole of the backline.
Against opposition that was clearly inferior there may have been a temptation for players to look for individual glory, but to the immense credit of the team this did not happen. In fact the team used the opportunity to practice some of the basics and showed just how much progress they have made since last season. Even when the ball got slippy as the weather worsened the reds continued to play controlled and clean rugby.
The total try tally was 12 and the Cheltenham defence was not breached.
A comprehensive victory, in which there were too many try scorers to mention* and a performance for which the whole team should take great credit and feel very proud.
*( the other reason for this is that I forgot to take a note of everyone who scored…you know who you are, sorry - well done!)
U12s Shine and Take the Shield
Clifton Tournament Match Reports
**Cheltenham v Bath
Result 5-15**
The Reds started slowly, with the Bath forwards on top. Cheltenham failed to hang onto the ball in the forwards and only a last minute tackle from Eric saved an early try.
Bath’s pack continued to dominate and were rewarded when they drove over for the opening score. The fist half continued in a similar same vein with the Bath forwards dominating which eventually led to a 2nd try , driven over from close range and giving the Blues a 10-0 half time lead.
Cheltenham started better in the second half, retaining the ball and running it well through the backs. The scrums were much more keenly contested and when Cheltenham won the ball against the head a flowing running move in the backs was finished of by Henry to pull back one try.
The game remained tight until the final seconds when a clearance kick was intercepted by the Bath forwards who drove over once more from close range to close the game out 15-5-1. Overall Bath were the better side and deserved their victory. They proved their class by going on to win the group without losing a game.
**Cheltenham v Cleve
Result 20-0**
Stung from the loss in the first game Cheltenham started this game in a much more focussed frame of mind. Cleve put some high balls into the Cheltenham twenty-two, which were dealt with very confidently by Toby. Under pressure from the Reds forwards Cleve conceded several penalties and from the resulting crash balls Cameron made great ground. From the breakdown Cheltenham showed what they can do when they move the ball and a great run from Henry saw Eric score a classy first try.
Prop Will was injured as a result of some committed play in the build up to the try and had to come off which led to some changes in the pack. Cameron went to prop and Jay went into the 2nd row. This did not seem to upset Cheltenham at all and some great controlled aggression from the forwards, in particular Ross, ensured that they kept the pressure on.
Some tenacious ripping from Charlie Newhall in gave Cheltenham possession from the loose and great movement of the ball from Ryan gave Henry an opening from which he beat two players to score.
The second half started in much the same way . A nice breakaway from Sam fed Thyrza who almost put Henry in for a try , but a foot in touch prevented this.
Ryan was unlucky to be denied a try when he seemed top have grounded the ball, but
a great scrum won against the head, followed by some sweet passing down the line saw Henry again score in the corner.
Cleve reverted to the high ball tactics but Toby dealt with it well and from the counter attack put over a kick which almost lead to a try. Cheltenham did not have long to wait for a nicely worked try for Dan which was the icing on the cake in a game they dominated.
**Cheltenham v Clifton
Result 10-5**
Cheltenham got off to the perfect start when scrum-half Sam scored from the breakdown within the first minute.
The reds had plenty of possession and a lovely switch pass from Ryan saw Scott feed Eric who made 25 yards before being held up. Cheltenham were awarded a 5 m scrum which they won with ease and Charlie Miles crashed through the Clifton defence to make it 10-0.
Things looked easy at this point but when Clifton won a penalty that they kicked well to gain ground the resulting line out gave them good ball which they used well and they scored in the corner just on the touch of half time.
This set up a tense second half which could have gone either way. Solid defence from the backs ( including a great tackle from James on the wing) put pressure on Clifton and they conceded several penalties. The last one, a result of ill-discipline, allowed Sam to fire a kick into the corner to relieve the pressure and was enough for Cheltenham to see out the game. A dogged performance, but a deserved victory.
**Cheltenham v Hucclecote
Result 15-0**
A slow start by Cheltenham, but eventually strong forward play and good running and movement from the backs with a strong individual run from Eric took him close to the line and a short pass to Charlie Miles provided the first try in the corner. The Cheltenham forwards continued to dominate and after some good work from Jay they created an easy overlap and Henry was over for another try.
The bellowing Heath Barnes spurred his forwards to even greater heights and some superb handling and an over the top pass from Sam saw another try for Eric in the corner.
The second half was a scrappy affair and coaches Paul and Jeremy were not pleased. But the Reds had already done enough to win the game when Sam picked up from a scrum won against the head and took it on the blind side to run a third of the length of the pitch for a great try in the corner. An easy win for Cheltenham that saw them finish runners up in the group and through to the final of the Shield.
**Shield Final
Cheltenham v Barnstable
Result 10-0**
Cheltenham started well and were on top from beginning. Good passing movements by the backs led to Toby getting close before being nudged out. The pack continued its good work driving forwards at every opportunity all the hard work paid off when Josh ripped well and was then driven over for first try. Good interplay from the backs, particularly between Henry and Eric and strong tackling by all backs kept Cheltenham on top till half time.
Barnstable started the 2nd half better and only a last ditch tackle from Toby stopped them scoring in the corner. The game became scrappy at the end until an outstanding bit of individual skill from Henry; chipping over the top, chasing, catching and crossing for a try to seal the game two tries to none.
A well deserved win and first silverware of the season – testament to all the hard work put in by the team and the coaches since the start of the new campaign.
Sam and Alan Kempster took some excellent photos which can be seen below.
