18/10/09 AWAY FIXTURE V Rhiwbina U16

This was probably the most dreadful game of rugby that CRICC have been involved in during their senior years in the Junior ranks.

Rhiwbina’s negative tactics frustrated and intimidated the opposition and together with an error strewn passing game, the match spiralled into an abrasive game of trench warfare, not helped by some very dubious refereeing decisions in the first half.

There was very little evidence of the fluent, creative and often breathtaking rugby that graced the same ground late last season. In March, both sides produced a feast of 84 points with Will Singer (Rhiwbina) producing one of the best individual displays at this level keeping Rhiwbina in the game with a hat-trick of tries.

Even Singer couldn’t get on the score sheet today as he was well marshalled by superb defensive work by Josh Bowen and some pretty heroic tackling from Robby Glastonbury.

CRICC started the game very positively with open side flanker Ellis Westren in inspired form, raiding the home side defensive line time and time again.

CRICC were guilty on a few occasions of indiscipline and poor decision making which gave the incentive back to the home side.

Following several phases of play, CRICC were finally given the opportunity to attack fron centre field. From a ruck the ball was spread wide. Quick hands enabled the ball to travel quickly along the backline. Emyr Davies eventually found Robbie Glastonbury who cleverly managed to cut inside and straighten up before sending Dewi Roblin over for a well worked backs try.

The missed conversion gave CRICC a half time lead of 5 - 0.

The second half was strewn with further errors and was a half to forget. Passing errors, disrupted lineouts and a series of knock–ons broke the game up.

There was no pattern or fluency to the game despite CRICC’s attempts to play rugby.

Rhiwbina relied on individual counter attacks from Wil Singer and were frequently involved in a few ‘off the ball’ incidents which nullified the game as an interest.

Let’s hope the return game provides the spectators with more entertainment later in the season. A deserved win by CRICC, but as a game, one for the recycle bin!!!

FINAL SCORE: RHIWBINA U16 0 - 5 CRICC