Thanet Wanderes U16s (10) v (5) Dover U16s
Played 30th November 2008
The Dover boys eagerly awaited their match against rivals Thanet this weekend. The last encounter saw a heavy defeat for Dover but they had won the previous match. The stakes were high as was adrenaline.
The Thanet pack were much heavier than Dover and won most of the scrums, but Dovers consistent rucking and securing of the ball kept the score line even for the first 20 minutes.
Thanet then took the first try after 5 minutes of repeated pressure in the Dover 22 and although they failed to convert, they were victors of the first half.
The second half took on much the same shape as the first with even pressure from both sides. In the first 5 minutes, Dover equalized with a well worked try from Man of the Match, Steven Ryder, who used his height and long arms to place the ball delicately on the try line. Good enough!
The rest of the match was fought hard by both teams who showed maturity and skill providing some great rugby for the supporters to watch. Thanet again took the lead in the middle of the second half, diving on a loose ball as it bounced over the try line.
The final score of 10 – 5 seemed fair although it really could have been anyone’s game at any stage of the match.
Each and every Dover boy gave 100%. Second row, Steven Ryder was awarded Man of the Match for his exceptional work at the line out and also his commitment to tackling throughout the match.
Ashley Mills, Dover’s newest member, took ‘catch of the match’ and the boys are looking forward to their match at home against Whitstable next Sunday.
Dover Under 16 boys meet for training on Wednesday evenings at 6pm at Crabble. All year 11 boys are welcome. For more details log on to www.doverrfc.co.uk.
Report by: Jill Tipping
