Celtic Crusaders vs Hemel Stags

Celtic Crusaders 56 - 4 Hemel Stags
Location: Maesteg RFC

The match was played at a very high pace throughout with both the tempo and the direction of play dictated by the far superior Crusader outfit. Crusaders are quite obviously a very fast, well-drilled, experienced, physically fit and skilful side and apparently well deserving of their “defending league champions” status.

The Crusaders concentrated on both moving the ball rapidly, repeatedly and reliably to both wings (From which the majority of their scores were delivered) and at the same time keeping the plays simple and tight (Making very few errors in the process). Crusader’s running with the ball was fast and decisive, attempting to exploit any available gaps and looking to “off-load” at the point of tackle in order maintain the momentum.
NB1. Crusader’s consistently ran at the gaps, whilst with limited ball that Stags were able to secure the central ball carriers seemed to be determined to run at the opposition (Making tackling much easier for this skilful side).

With a final score of 56:4 and Crusaders scoring 5 Tries in the first half and 6 Tries in the second half, it was indeed often “one way traffic”, but Stags did have their moments and there are a number of positives to take from this match for the future:

1. This is the first match of the season for a mostly young and inexperience side that has never experienced playing at this level. (We were never going to win this match, so it is as well to get it out of the way, but learn from it).
2. Prior to the match, I’m sure that a number of the younger players were rather worried about the encounter from a physicality point of view. (This experience will only build those players confidence).
3. A number of Stags players are very “new” to the sport of Rugby League, having only just joined the club. (These players are to be congratulated for their contributions, as they will undoubtedly improve rapidly with the benefit of increased fitness and experience).
4. A number of the older/ more senior squad members appeared to be rather “Jaded” after a match the previous day (This is not an ideal preparation and should be avoided where possible).
5. Stags enjoyed only limited possession, but did manage to cross the opposition’s line in both halves, although only the first resulted in an actual score. (Both moves came from the wings, with little progress being seen in the centre).
6. At around 60 minutes Stags looked to be deflated and unable to mount a secure defence, with three tries being scored in less than ten minutes. (Things looked very grim at this point).
7. With 10 minutes remaining Stags had a player “Yellow carded” and played the game out with only 12 men. (The remaining Stags pulled together as a team and did not allow any further scores against them).

Conclusion: Stags under 18’s were well beaten by a much better side, but in no way were they disgraced by the occasion. Improved individual strength and fitness coupled with better player affinity within the team, plus a change of mind set that allows Stags to let the ball work for us (Passing the ball wide), should see the side make rapid progress.

Thanks should be extended to the Celtic Crusaders club for having welcomed the team and their travelling army of supporters and providing food for all. (Come and join the bus, if seats are available).