Under 17s (Junior Colts)
4 May 2008
Harpenden 21 Tarleton 8
National Junior Colts Final
On an overcast but thankfully dry afternoon Tarleton kicked off the biggest game of their history against the Saracens feeder club, Harpenden. Straight from the off the North of England champions turned over early ball. James Smith showed his strength by running at the opposition and made it clear that the London and South East champions were in for a hard game of rugby.
Alex Roebuck gave the 200 Northern supporters something early to cheer about by braking through a strong Harpenden defence. Only three minutes played and Harpenden struggled to maintain possession. They also chose to kick early and long, leaving Adam Peacock an easy touch down behind his line.
Play continued as a midfield battle with the Tarleton back row of Skofic, Wareing and Edwards causing problems for Harpenden and winning turnover ball. Suddenly Harpenden full back Tris Francis carved through a mesmerised Tarleton defence to score the first try of the game. The conversion was successfully kicked to lead the game 7 - 0. Tarleton were not going to give up very easily and battled their way up field.
After a sustained period of attack by the Northern side Bushell tried a clever pass only for the ball to land into the hands of the Harpenden full back. Adam Peacock was forced to make a brave tackle and Tarleton diffused a dangerous situation.
Tarleton number 6, Sam Wareing, was forced to leave the pitch after 20 minutes due to a knee injury. He was replaced by second row Sam Marsh who shocked the Harpenden supporters by his size, many comments made about northern feeding habits!
Soon after the substitution, Tarleton earned a penalty 40 metres out. Andrew Bushell, Tarleton’s number 10, looked confident and decided to take the kick for goal. His long range effort initially looked as though it was going to fall short, however, hit the top of the cross bar and secured the three points. The scores stayed the same until the whistle went after the first 35 minutes and Harpenden went in 4 points clear.
The second half saw Tarleton with a determination that would reward them with sustained pressure in the Harpenden 22. Tarleton’s midfield made a clever break and had Harpenden on the back foot. Archie Skofic picked the ball up and was tackled by the Harpenden defence. Louis Gabriella saw the danger and decided to go over the top. (Not for the first time). The referee had already warned the Harpenden centre and sent him into the sin-bin. Tarleton decided to take the scrum and James Smith gave quick ball to Alex Roebuck who scored to put Tarleton 8 – 7 into the lead.
It was obvious this game was going to be a close encounter. Harpenden applied the pressure after the kick-off only for the Tarleton defence to lose focus and make a bad clearance up the field. The Harpenden scrum half chased the ball, looked for his support and took his opportunity to go through a static defence. The London and South East champions were no mugs and scored a killer blow under the sticks. The conversion was easily kicked to take the score to 13 – 8. Tarleton were not out of things by any means and tried to force the play in the Harpenden half. A series of knock-ons and forced play only ended up giving the ball back to the opposition. The final sword of Damocles came from another poor kick by Tarleton and another splitting run through the Tarleton defence.
With only 3 minutes left to play all Tarleton substitutes came onto the field of play and took in the atmosphere of a great final.
Overall there was not much difference between the sides. Up until the last 15 minutes, the game could have gone either way. Fitness and speed were the deciding factors. The final score ended up as Harpenden 21 Tarleton 8.
Congratulations to Harpenden who are now crowned National Under 17’s champions and many thanks to Worcester warriors for their hospitality on the day. Thanks also to the officials Mr Davies and his team.
A special thank you must go to the Bristol supporters who stayed behind after their victory against Midlands side Syston to become honorary "Lancastrians" and founder members of the Tarleton Supporters Club - Bristol branch.
20 April 2008
Old Coventrians 12 Tarleton 26
National Junior Colts cup semi final
Report 1…. Tarleton and Old Coventrians had a lot in common prior to this titanic battle to be fought on the cheshire fields of macclesfield. Both clubs were fairly new to the Colts set up and both entered the game as Divisional champions (Tarleton as Northern Champions and Old Coventrians as Midlands Champions).
After a delayed kick-off the game started at 3:00pm. Old Coventrians took the initiative after losing the toss and dominated the Tarleton pack, pushing them back into their 22. With the wind at their backs they excerted continuous pressure that was bravely soaked up by Tarleton only for the Coventry number 13, Chris Jeffs to finish off a clever move and score under the sticks. The successful conversion was kicked by Dave Sheehan.
Tarleton realised they had a battle on their hands and Jonny Edwards, North of England Flanker, pulled the Tarleton pack together and fired them up to get back into the game. Tarleton gathered their composure and strung together a series of phases to force the play into the Coventry half. After fast ball from tarleton scrum half, James Smith, Alex Roebuck took a delightful pass from Andrew Bushell and sprinted for the line. Coventry’s full back, Oliver Hyves made a fantastic tackle, forced the turn over and Dave Sheehan made the kick to touch and safety.
Tarleton gained confidence from this move and continuously challenged the Coventry mid field. Significant gains were made by Bushell at 10, Roebuck at 12 and the elusive Sean Taylor at 13.
With 25 minutes of the first half played, Tarleton were rewarded with the try they had fully deserved. Bushell again took quick ball from the scrum half James Smith and put Roebuck into space. With his turn of pace, Roebuck exploited the opportunity and passed a clever ball to his winger Sean Murphy who touched down in the corner leaving a difficult kick for Bushell. The latter took his time and booted a fantastic shot that went through the sticks off the post.
The scores remained level at half time, however, Tarleton now had the wind with them and felt that the game was there for the taking. Tactics dictated they would focus on the 12/13 chanel that had so far given them much success. The objective was to force the back row, Skofic and Edwards into this chanel and see what results could be achieved. With five minutes of the second half played Archie Skofic took a fantastic pass from Smith and forced his way over the line and under the sticks. Bushell converted the kick.
Tarleton were bouyed by their success, continued to focus on their strengths and forced the Coventry side to play down the desired chanel. They were again rewarded by two more tries from Murphy and Roebuck to put the game out of reach of the Midlands Champions. In the final 10 minutes the Midlands side made a number of changes and tried to sure up their midfield. Chris Jeffs did manage to get an unconverted try back, however, it was too late.
The referee, Mr. R Phillips kept control of a fantastic game and allowed the play to flow. At 70 minutes he blew his whistle and Tarleton were through to the first National Final in their Club’s history. They are also the first Lancashire side to achieve this feat .
After the game coach Steve Wood was ecstatic. ‘We came here to play rugby and to show people that we are serious about this competition. Because we are a small club a lot of people have questioned whether we can go all the way. I think we have now proved them all wrong. We will now focus on the final hurdle and work hard to bring the trophy back to Tarleton and Lancashire’.
He added ‘These boys are a fantastic bunch of lads who are all prepared to work for one another. Everybody is very proud of what they have achieved and we now look forward to supporting them at the Sixways Stadium in Worcester’.
Report 2 …. In the opening minutes both sides looked nervous, Old Coventrians appearing to have a slight edge in midfield in the opening minutes. The first scrum of the game and the lighter Tarleton front row looked to be struggling, it wasn't for long though as Tom Ball, Oliver Ashley and Darren Boswarva matched OC. The action was from end to end OC having the most breaks though Tarleton number eight Jonathan Edwards and centre Alex Roebuck giving the Tarleton supporters something to cheer about. They were soon silenced however with a superb try from OC centre Carl Jeffs. Dominick Sheean successful with the conversion. Minutes later and Tarleton support silenced once more as OC made it look easy breaking the Tarleton defence to cross. Referee Mr Philips deeming the final pass to have gone forward.
The game continued at its break neck pace Tarleton now having a greater percentage of possession, with OC having the wind advantage seven nil at half time looked to be the best Tarleton could hope for. In the dying minute of the half wing Sean Murphy crossed out in the corner, Andrew Bushell with a superb kick from out wide, half time seven apiece.
The second half and Tarleton with a definite edge Jonathan Edwards and Archie Skofic dominant at the break down assisted by scrum half James Smith showing good strength and a safe pair of hands. Skofic looking dangerous on several occasions eventually breaking free to put Tarleton in the lead, conversion by Bushell once again successful. Next score again to Tarleton James Smith backing his strength to take him over, Bushell adding the extras. Old Coventrians could now have put there heads down, they are obviously made of stern stuff as they carried the game to the end never allowing Tarleton any gaps in the defence. Next score to Bushell himself, bushy unsuccessful with the conversion. Both sides looked jaded and some poor tackling from both teams as the game opened up. Old Coventrians took the fight to the whistle Carl Jeffs once again breaking tackles for another score, conversion missed. Full time and Tarleton the youngsters of the rugby world through to the national final against Harpenden to be played at six ways home of Worcester Warriors on 4th of May.
Many thanks must be expressed to referee Mr Phillips and his team for a superb job and to all the organisers at the Halbro Colts league.
16 March 2008
Altrincham Kersal 10 Tarleton 13
Junior Colts Northern Divisional Semi Final
I would have liked to start this report with a description of a well organised Tarleton playing fast running rugby with the wings running in three or four trys between them, alas this is not the case this victory was down to a pack though far smaller than there opposition holding out against a continued barrage, at one time lasting for over fifteen minutes of continued battering as Kersal went through phase after phase. Kersal also guilty of not utilising the backs as during the continued battering of the Tarleton line in the first half they never once passed the ball out wide! When they utilised the backs in the second half the trys came, the Tarleton lads having zero opportunity of running ball in hand.
From the start both sides made errors as the nerves told, it was the visitors though who looked to have a slight upper hand in the opening minutes. Hutton boys Archie Skofic and Alexander Zavalis Roebuck combining well to take the visitors deep into Kersal territory. Kersal caught offside and Mr Daniels awarding a penalty to the visitors. Andrew Bushell coping with the pressure and Tarleton in the lead. Kersal straight from the restart taking the ball to the Tarleton line, the Kersal forwards setting camp in the corner as they battered Tarleton. The visitors pack defending superbly on there own line and also ensuring any penalties were kept to a minimum, Kersal drove, scrummaged, won line outs every piece of forward play in the book and some that aren't! still the Tarleton pack Tom Ball, (replaced by Tom Potter in 2nd half) Oliver Ashley, Darren Boswarva, Stan Stock, Sam Marsh, Sam Wareing, Archie Skofic and ever reliable Rob Bramhall defended every move. The pressure this pack absorbed was unbelievable and well done to every one of them. It was not only the pack defending as kersal tried to break down the blind side wing Sean Murphy stepping up to the mark driving the Kersal player into touch, pressure of for now! Half time and the visitors three points in front.
At the restart Kersal came out with even more intent turning Tarleton over, the visitors guilty of holding on and chance for Kersal to draw even, penalty missed. Both side were putting in some crunching tackles Tarleton scrum half James Smith leading the way for Tarleton with physical tackles. soon the pressure told as Kersal with the overlap scored in the corner conversion missed. As Tarleton continued to soak up the pressure they appeared to admit defeat as players tired. Suddenly against the flow of play Roebuck broke free utilising his football skills in the kick and chase he was outpaced, the Kersal player unable to secure the ball, Roebuck scoring just outside the posts. Bushell calmly adding the conversion. Tarleton back in front with a five point advantage. Kersal soon countered with a score of there own, conversion missed. Ten points each, not good enough for the visitors as kersal would be awarded the victory on trys scored. A rare piece of attacking Tarleton play as the ball quickly moved into midfield Roebuck in the pocket and sweetly striking the drop goal to give the visitors the lead once more. Both sides were now tiring and the game could still go either way. More Tarleton possession, Roebuck involved again this time winning a penalty for Tarleton.
Rather than take the possible three points and run the clock down with less than two minutes of play left the instruction was to go for the corner. Though Oliver Ashley had been spot on with his throwing and Rob Bramhall and Stan Stock had performed superbly at the line out the ball was soon in Kersals hands, moving it quickly across the line for possibly the last chance of the game. Kersal driven into touch five metres out, still time for the line out and a last attack, Kersal then guilty of holding on five metres out and right in front of the posts, penalty to Tarleton, rather than putting the ball out of play a tap and go by Tarleton! a fumble in the pass and a knock on, as Kersal had not retreated ten metres Mr Daniels ending the game to a huge cheer. Phew!!
Tarleton should thank Lady luck and Alexander Zavalis Roebuck (man of the match) for this victory and also the lads who sat on the bench not getting a run out, though they didn't look to down hearted as they ran on the pitch to congratulate there team mates.
Tarleton Squad: 1/Tom Ball. 2/Oliver Ashley. 3/Darren Boswarva. 4/Stan Stock. 5/Sam Marsh. 6/Sam Wareing. 7/Archie Skofic. 8/Rob Bramhall. 9/James Smith. 10/Andrew Bushell. 11/Sean Murphy. 12/Alex Roebuck. 13/Sean Taylor. 14/Andrew Fishwick. 15/Adam Peacock. 16/Tom Potter. 17/Mathew "chippy" Smith. 18/Nick Robinson. 19/James Fay. 20/Sam Stanfield.
Many thanks to Altrincham and to referee Mr Daniels and his two assistants.
9 March 2008
Manchester 12 Tarleton 31
Lancashire Junior Colts Cup Qtr Final
Tarleton Junior Colts made there first ever visit to the friendly and impressive set up at Manchester, the game played predominantly in sunshine on a sandy but superb conditioned pitch. Straight from the visitors kicking of Tarleton made there mark with a superb tackle from Sam Stanfield in his first game back from injury (mountain biking not rugby!!) there then followed quick hands from Scrum half James Fay allowing centre Andrew Fishwick to slice the Manchester defence apart with a score under the posts, conversion by Alex Roebuck with barely three minutes played, the signs looked ominous for Manchester. The home side though had a different view, as they took the game to the cup holders. Tarleton for the next twenty minutes only seeing the ball occasionally as Manchester attacked in midfield the Manchester outside centre Robert Chance looking dangerous every time he got ball in hand. A penalty awarded against the visitors missed but from the twenty two restart Manchester again attacked breaking through some inefficient Tarleton tackling full back James Blacket tackling the man without the ball to give the home team a penalty try, conversion successful. As the midfield battle continued the impressive Sam Wareing at flanker now started to win turn over ball for the visitors. Even with more ball the visitors looked tired and poor decision making frustrated many of the moves, it was down to Rob Bramhall using his strength and hand of to break through and put the visitors back in the lead.
From the restart a solo effort from stand off Alexander Roebuck from half way left not only Manchester mesmerised with his running but also his supporting players who he managed to wrong foot with his deceptive step, Adam Peacock taking over the kicking duties with a successful conversion. Though Tarleton in the lead again Manchester still countered though at times there "basketball" passing while keeping possession lost them ground as Tarleton pushed them back. It was once again Manchester scoring through Robert Chance to put the home side back in the game. The visitors dozing of, though all credit to Manchester who ran some impressive lines giving Tarleton a wake up call. Manchester's Robert Chance breaking free again only to be tackled by Sean Murphy, another break by Chance and I was filling in the score as it appeared he could not be stopped, Alex Roebuck tracking him down and preventing the try. With Manchester struggling for substitutes and Tarleton removing players as requested, then Manchester players returning the game stuttered along never really flowing. At this point Tarleton prop Tom Potter returning from injury joined the field, at one time looking like he was to join the backs!
Tarleton hooker Oliver Ashley showing of his newly improved throwing technique and greatly increasing the Tarleton line out performance. The visitors now having more possession thanks mainly to Sam Wareing and some good interlinking play allowing centre James "chippy" Smith with an impressive score, conversion missed. It was more impressive play involving the backs and number eight Chris Hough allowing Sean Murphy to show his deceptive step to round of the visitors scoring, Adam Peacock successful with the conversion. As no man of the match was awarded the "reporters"!! choice would be flanker Sam Wareing putting in a very impressive performance.
Many thanks to the folk at Manchester for such a warm welcome and to referee Wes Woodward.
Scorers: Andrew Fishwick (1 Try), Rob Bramhall (1 Try), Alex Roebuck (1 Try and 1 Cconversion) James Smith (1 Try), Sean Murphy (1 Try) Adam Peacock (2 Conversions)
2 March 2008
Middlesborough 17 Tarleton 22
Colts National Cup Divisional Qtr Final
Loading the coach for the long haul to Middlesborough a little extra was packed along with the kits by the Tarleton boys, a belief in themselves that they could get the job done and dedication to each other that bonds a special team.
Straight from the kick of Tarleton had boro penned in there own half the visitors having all the possession as they hammered away at boros line. Splendid rock solid tackling by Middlesborough kept the visitors out several times coming close to scoring Alex Roebuck, Darren Boswarva, James Smith and Archie Skofic being stopped inches from the line. Just when you thought boro had to give a penalty in front of the posts was awarded to the visitors, poor decision making and Tarleton attempting to run in for the five pointer a resulting ruck and the ball somehow got hacked down field. with all the backs including full back involved in the ruck the Middlesborough wing made a superb run chased by Tarleton number eight Rob Bramhall. For fifteen minutes boro had barely seen the ball now they were in the lead. Conversion missed.
The second half got under way with Middlesborough for once launching attacks as they tried to put the game out of reach, another break for the speedy boro winger this time no try as he was intercepted by a determined Andrew Fishwick to stop him in the corner.
After the shock of almost conceding another try Tarleton applied the pressure once more fantastic breaks from Roebuck, Fishwick, Skofic & Taylor were all stopped by the skilled boro tacklers. Then once again another boro break against play and another try for boro, conversion successful. Once more Tarleton attacked the continued onslaught had to yield points the supporters may have been down the players definitely weren't as the forwards went through the phases continually driving it was scrum half and Captain James Smith diving over to put Tarleton back with a chance, conversion missed. Flanker Archie Skofic was making spectacular runs to set up the Tarleton attacks though the next try was courtesy of Alex Roebuck breaking through with a well timed of load to wing Sean Murphy to score, conversion missed. The visitors now only two points adrift had now learned how important the three points from a penalty can be. A penalty awarded in front of the posts the full team pointing to the sticks! as Adam Peacock placed the ball centre Andrew Fishwick looked like he was lining up against Linford Christie, Adam unfortunately striking the post with his attempt the quick thinking Fishwick though was out of the blocks leaping and plucking the ball from above the defenders to dive over Tarleton in the lead for the first time, conversion missed.
Boro were definitely not down or out as they battled there way up field to score there first try that was not from a break out, conversion missed and the home side in front 17-15. Tarleton now fully fired up and once again Andrew Fishwick ball in hand outpacing the boro backs on a curving run to score. Alex Roebuck stepping up and successfully adding the two points. Tarleton now tried to put the game out of boros reach another penalty awarded to the visitors and again missed, boro quickly running the ball out with exceptional interlinking play almost getting the length of the field, the visitors doing just enough and Mr Ramsdon blowing the whistle to end yet another exceptional colts game.
Many thanks to Middlesborough for there hospitality and to Mr Nick Ramsdon who refereed with great composure and skill making the job look easy!!
All the Tarleton boys played brilliantly and all warrant a mention in the report it's just not possible to fit them all in.
Tarleton Squad: 1/Darren Boswarva 2/Oliver Ashley 3/Tom Ball. 4/Stan Stock 5/Sam Marsh 6/Sam Wareing 7/Archie Skofic 8/Rob Bramhall 9/James Smith (Captain) 10/Alexander Zavalis Roebuck 11/Mathew Smith 12/Sean Taylor 13/Andrew Fishwick 14/Sean Murphy 15/Adam Peacock. Forwards Subs Oliver Forbes Shaw, Tom Frankland. Backs Subs James Fay. Coach Steve Wood.
Scorers: James Smith (1 Try), Sean Murphy (1 Try), Andrew Fishwick (2 Tries), Alexander Roebuck (1 Conversion)
24 February 2008
Stockport 15 Tarleton 10 Junior A
The final Tarleton fixture in this fantastic Halbro Colts League got of to a delayed start due to the frozen pitches. This game was viewed as a cup final with the victor likely to take the title. Tarleton made a terrific start putting the pressure onto Stockport. The continued pressure with terrific runs from Alex Roebuck and number eight Chris Hough caused problems for Stockport in the first fifteen minutes, unfortunately all the possession and yards made had yielded no points. The continued battering by Tarleton eventually had to give them some points and it was centre Andrew Fishwick finishing of an excellent backs move to score in the corner. Adam Peacock striking yet another superb conversion. Tarleton now with a narrow lead new what to expect from Stockport there highly skilled and motivated backs performing an incredible spectacle of running rugby. The lines and angles the boys ran at caused Tarleton to cling on defensively and absorb the pressure. A Tarleton counter attack resulted in a penalty Adam Peacock again increasing the lead for Tarleton. The Tarleton ten point lead was soon reduced to five as Stockport scored after some poor Tarleton defence. Half time and Tarleton with a five point lead.
At the restart it was a reversal of the first fifteen minutes Stockport controlling play and making few errors this time it was a matter of Stockport waiting patiently for the points to come. It was soon Stockport crossing to score and with the conversion missed all even.
It was now any body's game though Stockport looked the stronger side by a very slim margin the game could go either way. Stockport pressure eventually telling and a few Tarleton errors allowing Stockport to take the lead for the first time. Tarleton raised there game and the site of flanker Archie Skofic tackling and ripping the ball free always raised Tarleton hopes of pulling the game back. In the dying seconds Andrew Fishwick broke free in his own half down the wing all eyes clamouring to see if Tarleton could pull it back unfortunately the two Stockport defenders were equally motivated bundling Fishwick into touch just short of the line. As the final whistle blew the Tarleton lads may have been down beat and the Stockport lads elated but what was the most heartening site was the comardre between not only both teams but both sets of parents/supporters. All there had witnessed a stunning game of colts rugby that should make the organisers and sponsors Halbro very proud of what they have achieved.
As the other results of the day came through on the Manchester bush telegraph that Broughton Park had deservedly beaten Alt Kersal it was looking that both Stockport and Tarleton were to go through as first and second. Which is amazing when you read kersals report of the game with Stockport! It is now down to Rhyl and Stockport to decide who goes through at the top.
Many thanks to all volunteers/officials, etc. and to the players of the Halbro colts league for making Sunday afternoons so entertaining.
10 February 2008
Tarleton 123 Vale of Lune 0
Even the most optimistic of Vale supporters could not have given them any sort of chance in this encounter. This game was always about Tarleton amassing as many points as possible, this they did with a superb display of running rugby played on a fantastic dry and sunny day (and for Carr Lane wind free!) It is unfortunate that Vale were the only ones not enjoying the day, all credit however has to be paid to the lads from powder house lane it must have been immensely difficult to play and be ripped apart in such a manner and to still retain there composure and even in some cases there sense of humour.
With only three minutes played Andrew Fishwick scored in the corner, Adam Peacock unlucky with the conversion, straight from the restart and it was Fishwick scoring again, Andrew going on to score four trys in this game, joining him with four scored was Sean Taylor, and two for Sean Murphy. Even though under extreme pressure Vale started to absorb the pressure and on several occasions threatened the home teams line. Further scores followed one for Matthew Smith (chippy), one for Alex roebuck, two superb trys for James Fay one the length of the pitch with the Vale defence in hot pursuit, James having the legs to stay in front. one for prop Tom Potter who soon after scoring left the pitch with a dislocated shoulder, two for Rob Bramhall and finally one for Archie Skofic. Showing that it is always important to get the conversions Adam Peacock added twenty eight points with the boot, missing only five conversions.
Many thanks to the referee whose name I forgot to ask and many thanks to Vale for playing in such a sporting manner.
20 January 2008
Tarleton 3 Altrincham Kersal 6
Just as the other teams in contention for the colts league title raise there game the wheels have literally fallen of the Tarleton chariot.
Kersall did just enough to stifle the home side keeping them inside there own half so any infringements were punished. The Tarleton indiscipline once again gifted the game to the opposition, penalties for absolutely no reason! While the penalty count was not high it was enough to put the visitors into a comfortable lead. The only moments of cheer for the Tarleton supporters in the first half was the site of full back Adam Peacock tearing the visitors apart running from deep and beating at least four would be Kersall tackles.
Tarleton struggled at the set piece loosing scrums against the head, Kersal obviously better drilled than the free running Tarleton side which was never allowed to get going. Bringing some structure to the scrum and making his colts debut after twenty minutes of the game under sixteen prop Max Ashcroft performed brilliantly in the scrum and was often the first forward to reach the breakdown. In the second half the home side with the strong wind assisting them clawed there way out of there own half, at last a kickable penalty, Adam Peacock putting Tarleton back in the game.
When the Tarleton threequarters occasionally received quick ball they always looked dangerous, two or three runs in a game though is not enough. As the second half progressed Tarleton continued as though the game was comfortably in the bag! never was there any urgency or spark from the team. The home side failed to utilise the strong wind preferring to try and run the game through the forwards. As the game plodded along Kersal made a break from deep in there twenty two, the kersal fly half leaving the Tarleton defence, a hard charging Archie Skofic having enough pace to just get in the ankle tap and save the home side even more frustration.
Probably a deserved win for Kersal, doing just enough to clinch the points, it's certainly going to be an interesting climax to the season!
13 January 2008
Rhyl 17 Tarleton 11
The league leaders made the trip to Rhyl fully expecting an exceptionally hard game, rescheduled at the last minute due to flooded pitches to Rhyl high school, the pitch was in excellent condition, pity it was only the size of a postage stamp! Straight away Rhyl made there mark with a full on physical attack putting Tarleton under pressure. Once again the Tarleton lads appeared to lack a spark though many of the team played in tough school fixtures on Saturday. Only once or twice during the first half Tarleton made it across half way such was the Rhyl pressure. The high penalty account against Tarleton took its toll and when a penalty was reversed by the referee allowing Rhyl another kick the writing appeared to be on the wall. The first half and the Rhyl fourteen had his kicking boots working well allowing Rhyl a nine point lead at the break.
Tarleton in to great a hurry to turn things around made even more errors, granted a penalty in front of the posts it was a case of "whosoever has the ball makes the decision" a tap and go was attempted rather than taking the three points on offer and the Rhyl defence soon stopped the move, the ball though quickly making its way back to the quick thinking Roebuck waiting in the pocket to kick a drop goal putting Tarleton on the board. This was soon countered with a penalty reversed once again against Tarleton for decent, Rhyl gratefully accepting what could only be deemed a gift. More pressure from Rhyl with Tarleton defending solidly leading the way with exceptional tackles on players of a far greater physical stature Tarletons Sam Stanfield showing that if you tackle the legs they are going no where. Eventually the pressure told with Rhyl crossing in the corner, conversion missed. This appeared to wake up Tarleton the backs now putting together strings of passes rather than just thumping in and going down, benefiting from this Andrew Fishwick had a storming run from deep his pass out of the tackle just not sticking with the supporting runners. It was soon Fishwick crossing to put Tarleton in with a chance of turning the game crossing in the corner, the conversion missed. Tarleton appeared now to have the upper hand with Rhyl losing players to the sin bin Tarleton made head way unfortunately one to many incidents and Mr Owen had enough and blew the whistle still with possibly four / five minutes of play remaining.
On the day the hungrier team came away with the points. Many thanks to Rhyl for finding a playable pitch, and rearranging food, etc. locally. Also thanks to Mr Hayden Owen for refereeing a hard fought encounter.
6 January 2008
Tarleton 48 Caldy O
Caldy arrived at Carr Lane missing several team players, as the home side where also without four players on Lancashire duty players were a valuable commodity. After a quick chat between the coaches caldy sportingly agreed to play the fixture, there ranks bolstered by Oliver Forbes Shaw and Nick Robinson who sportingly volunteered! to play for the visitors. From the start Tarleton attacked though there was no vigour to the home sides play, this being the first fixture of the new year exceptions could be made for a lack of match fitness or was it a lack of drive? Caldy now countered and came close to scoring with continued forwards drives the home side defending solidly. After several failed Tarleton attacks it was number eight Rob Bramhall who settled the nerves finishing of a move and crashing over in the corner. Bramhall soon followed this with a try from a penalty, quick thinking by Roebuck at fly half sending Bramhall crashing over. Half time and the home side with only a ten point lead! Adam Peacock narrowly missing the conversions.
Straight from the restart the home side launched the attack Caldy though carried on defending brilliantly and putting in excellent tackles hardly ever missing there man. Once again it was Rob Bramhall crossing for his third. peacock striking the post with the conversion attempt. Once again it was Rob Bramhall causing problems for the visitors this time though stern defence stopping Bramhall just short of the line, Bramhall with a brilliant of load to chippy for the first of his two trys. The Tarleton backs had been causing problems for Caldy all game, the quality of the Caldy tackles always stopping the moves. Eventually the pressure told and with even less Caldy players on the pitch through injury (Tarleton also removing players) the backs now fond gaps opening centre Andrew Fishwick running in three trys and causing countless problems for Caldy as the tiring players resorted to a kick and chase game.
Many thanks to Caldy for sportingly agreeing to play the fixture in what is becoming a very tight fixture list thanks to additional cup games for the Lancashire teams. Thanks also to referee Mr John Munn.
16 December 2007
Tarleton 27 Stockport 3
Stockport arrived exceptionally early for this eagerly awaited fixture, between two teams who have never met before both sides now looking forward to the rematch at Stockport. Tarleton took the game to Stockport basic errors from the home side allowing the visitors to counter. A quick break from the home side and the visitors were found guilty of conceding a penalty, Adam Peacock putting the home side in front with a three point lead. The visitors now had ball in hand and mounted continued pressure on Tarleton. The home side though defending well and the pack turning over Stockport to relieve the pressure. More points should have come the Tarleton way though once again the errors crept in allowing Stockport to pressurise the home side. Eventually Stockport winning a kickable penalty only to push the kick wide. The next penalty to come Stockport's way beautifully struck and no mistake this time all square at three points each. Most of the play was in the Tarleton half the home side though defending solidly. A line out to the visitors was quickly taken without forming the line only for the receiving player to be flattened by hard charging centre Andrew Fishwick. Half time and the game could go either way both teams highly skilled and looking capable of taking the points, nerve wracking stuff for some of the Tarleton supporters!
At the restart Tarleton looked re energised and more organised the visitors now struggling to get out of there half, second row Sam Marsh newly selected for England colleges showing that he is not only a set piece player and starting to run ball in hand making good yards each time. Always looking dangerous and making several good breaks Alexander Roebuck taking the ball deep into the visitors twenty two. The Tarleton backs now started to open up Stockport Sean Murphy going over in the corner for the first try. Further pressure and Stockport with a scrum in the twenty two brilliantly disrupted by the pack and scrum half James Smith allowing Roebuck to collect and score. The backs could not have had ball in hand without the hard working pack Tom Potter, Tom Ball and Darren Boswarva not only scrummaging well but turning ball over giving Tarleton a sound attacking base with plenty of possession. Sam Wareing now looking fully fit well matched with fellow flanker Archie Skofic both players winning ball and making the breaks. Out on the wing chippy who usually plays second row/ flanker commenting that it made a change to have nothing to do! Chippy coping well with his new position. Ensuring plenty of home side possession Adam Peacock performed brilliantly on several occasions not allowing Stockport penalty kicks to find touch and launching counter attacks.
Another scrum and this time scrum half James Smith backing himself not quite reaching the line before being intercepted. The next move Tarleton backing the flyers Andrew Fishwick showing his pace down the wing the Stockport defence just intercepting him at the line for Fishwick to offload out of the tackle to the supporting Sean Murphy to score. The final try to fly half Sean Taylor as the gaps opened up in front of him Taylor still with plenty to do stretching for the line. A solid team performance from all the Tarleton squad playing another well organised side, well done both teams and there supporters for another display of colts rugby as it should be. Apologies to the referee whose name I forgot to ask.
9 December 2007
Tarleton 10 Penrith 6
On a fine settled day when even the sun shone it was a pleasure to once again watch play on a decent pitch after some of the recent mud baths. The home side were soon into there stride in open play though there were worrying signs of what was to come as the Tarleton scrum failed to function. Showing signs of the strength and determination of the team Sean Murphy collecting a high ball and staying on his feet despite the attentions of the Penrith pack until the home side support arrived. Tarleton won a penalty just inside the Penrith half and with no wind to contend with (a rare occurrence at Carr Lane) Andrew Bushell elected to take the three points, a superb strike from forty plus metres and bushy put the home side into the lead. .
The score did no more than to wake a sleeping lion as Penrith went on the attack. The home side struggling for long periods to make it out of there own half though defending well, in frustration the visitors through fly half James Ellar attempted a drop goal without success. If the visitors elected to kick, the high ball was comfortably taken care of by full back Adam Peacock providing a safe pair of hands and a wicked step to beat the first tackler, Adam certainly making fullback his position this season. The home side absorbed the pressure well defending valiantly the only score for the visitors by way of a penalty this time Penriths James Ellar punishing the home sides errors.
At last Tarleton started to use the backs the ball quickly out to wing Andrew Fishwick showing the danger if the Tarleton backs are allowed to run. Unfortunately in defending this move Penriths number eight Scott Davidson sustained an injury which resulted in the first half being cut short and as a result of the assembled first aiders deciding Scott should not be moved a quick switch to the spare pitch was required. As the paramedics were awaited Scott never once complained always with a smile on his face, even as he was lifted into the ambulance, a sure testimony to the strength of character rugby builds into these young men the wendy ball brigade should take note! All at Tarleton RUFC wish Scott a speedy recovery. Half time and all even at three points apiece..
The second half proved to be real end to end play as the game opened up the two longest serving Tarleton players Archie Skoffic and Andrew Fishwick demonstrating that the forwards do all the work as flanker Skofic made the break and did most of the running unselfishly of loading to wing Fishwick to take the glory scoring the only try of the game, Bushell adding the two. The play continued in the same way either side still capable of taking the points. As play opened up Roebuck kicked loose ball and chased towards the Penrith line diving on the ball to what all concerned thought was a score the referee though deeming no score as roebuck had crossed the dead ball line. Penrith were awarded a penalty which was scored with ease, putting the pressure back on the home side. More open play continued until game over to sighs of relief from the home side supporters. Once again Carr Lane has witnessed another fine game of Colts rugby played by two sides who are both skilled and physical, well played both teams.
2 December 2007
Birkenhead Park 12 Tarleton 20
In a game played in atrocious conditions the only limiting factor to the amount of mud was the small size of the pitch. Straight from the start the visitors attacked Park the home side giving away a penalty allowing flanker Archie Skofic on a deceptive run Archie providing the offload and allowing Alexander Zavalis Roebuck to slide in with barely two minutes played. Andrew Bushell adding the conversion. A few silly mistakes by Tarleton allowed a moment of attack by park, Tarleton turning over the ball and sending Sean Murphy of down the wing. It was soon time for Roebuck to attack again this time with a chip and chase and a bit of footballing Roebuck picking the ball up of his boot laces to be stopped five metres short. From a line out five metres out Archie Skofic got hand on ball again and broke through a sleeping defence to score. The game was still in its early stages as Tarleton played a running game in the atrocious conditions, fantastic backs handling was easily finished of by wing Andrew Fishwick. Park though failed to be intimidated and mounted the pressure the pack keeping tight and driving. Continued pressure by Park had Tarleton defending sturdily as most play was made in the Tarleton twenty two. Several Tarleton break always looked dangerous though Park soon won possession each time. Eventually the Tarleton defence creaked as Park drove over, half time Tarleton with a ten point lead.
From the restart Park once again had all the possession the visitors left to defend there line, a penalty awarded to Tarleton being reversed by the referee allowing park once again to drive over. Tarleton now started to grind down the home side and had more possession Andrew Bushell using the high ball to allow the backs to run one such kick saw Sean Murphy using his football skills to good effect and touching down witnessed by many including the reaction of the Park players the referee not awarding the try. As the Tarleton line out was not functioning any chance had to be taken for points a penalty to Tarleton and captain James Smith instructed Andrew Bushell to take the three points possibly for the first time putting the game out of Parks reach. As the mud bath continued it was just a matter of waiting for the whistle and deciding who was on kit washing duty!
25 November 2007
Tarleton 22 Leigh 10
Lancashire Cup - Round 1
Leigh arrived at Carr lane full of expectation after losing out to Tarleton in cup games over the last two years this was always going to be a hard fought game. An early try from centre Alex Roebuck settled the Tarleton nerves. This opening score only managed to focus Leigh spurred on by there vocal support they took the game to Tarleton. Both packs fighting a midfield duel neither side giving an inch. Leigh obviously high on pies urged each other on, clawing there way into the Tarleton twenty two. The home side defending well several times it looked as though Leigh should score but a superb defence held Leigh out. Eventually Leigh found gaps in Tarletons three quarter line and some fine direct running from Leigh allowed a score under the posts. The Leigh celebrations just showed how much this meant to them, an easy conversion and Leigh in the lead seven to five. Half time Tarleton 5 Leigh 7.
In the second half Leigh again mounted the pressure, Tarleton struggling to hold on to the ball which had strangely been provided by Leigh! The number of spilled balls and handling errors out of character for Tarleton. Leigh once again started to find the gaps this time though defensive cover provided by full Back Adam Peacock, not only making the tackles but winning the ball and starting the counter attack. Leigh were given the opportunity of a penalty for the tackler not rolling away, a superb kick and leigh with a five point lead.
Tarleton now started to grind down Leigh eventually fly half Sean Taylor being driven over the line to equalise the score. More Tarleton pressure and this time again from close range scrum half James Smith crossing with support from his pack. This time bushy adding the two with the conversion. Leigh now started to open up the Tarleton backs now with ball in hand Zav winning the ball on half way and making what appears to have become a speciality of his with another long range try.
Though once again the trys were scored by the backs and half backs they should thank the pack for all the effort that they put in to control Leigh. A huge effort by the front row of Tom Potter Oliver Ashley and Darren Boswarva dominated at the scrum, while at the line out the high flying Rob Bramhall and Stan Stock were superb.
Once again Carr Lane witnessed another fine game of Colts rugby well done both teams and thank you to referee Mr Colin Kershaw of Liverpool society.
11 November 2007
Vale Of Lune 0 Tarleton 73 (Junior A)
Tarleton made the familiar trip to Powderhouse Lane to play a team that over the years as minis and juniors have provided the spectators with many memorable encounters including four cup finals. Vale this season are obviously struggling all we can hope is that the lads do not lose heart and somehow they manage to salvage something from there season.
In the opening encounters it looked as though Vale were going to give Tarleton a real game. Vale being led by Stuart Hesketh who appeared to be playing a multi positional role trying to lead his team on. The Tarleton moves weren't quite coming of in the early stages and as it was looking like an early score misplaced or over run passes deprived the Tarleton wings. Several penalties against Vale gave Tarleton an excellent field position number eight Rob Bramhall trying to force his way through, the first score though was down to Sean Murphy playing at centre crossing out wide. Alexander Zavalis Roebuck (Zav) soon had his name on the score sheet. This turned out to be the first of four trys that Zav would run, including one after Vale had attacked the Tarleton line Zav collecting the ball in his own dead ball area beating the Vale players and running the length of the pitch. James Fay in support of Zav just in case Zav couldn't quite make it, Zavs dad shouting for him to put more effort in next time!
Tarleton now started to put the game out of Vales reach. Tarleton wing Andrew Fishwick having been held by the Vale defence on several runs adding his name to the scoring list. Half time and Tarleton with a comfortable 24 nil lead.
In the second half all the Tarleton squad got a run out one of which was Andrew Bushell back from playing with round balls for a while and straight away scoring in the corner, missing his own conversion. Bushy though slotting over the next six conversions with ease. Tarletons forwards had the upper hand in the set piece and all there hard work paid of with plenty of possession for the backs to utilise, the backs showing the ball handling skills they are capable of when they are allowed. Darren Boswarva today playing at flanker instead of his usual prop position showing the turn of speed he has developed and quite often involved in the scoring moves. Sean Taylor opened his scoring after quick hands from Bushy and Andrew Fishwick allowed Sean to finish the move with ease. Seans next try not so easy as he collected the interception in his own half and outpacing Vale to the line for a superb individual effort.
This was a cracking team performance from Tarleton led by the hard work of the pack who really all deserve a mention in the match report but space is limited after the glory boys have all had a mention for scoring trys! Forwards Tom Potter, Oliver Ashley Tom Ball, Sam Marsh, Matthew Smith, Sam Wareing (returning for first game after a lengthy injury) Stan Stock, Daren Boswarva, Rob Bramhall, Nick Robinson, Oliver Forbes Shaw. Scrum half James Smith also doing his bit as he managed to provide the backs with quick ball!
Many thanks to Vale and Ref Mr Paul Macalister.
14 October 2007
Tarleton 22 Birkenhead Park 14
A very warm day welcomed Birkenhead Park to Carr Lane for what was a nail biting game of rugby played by two totally dedicated teams. Park had nearly called of the fixture after struggling to put together a team due to other commitments. When they took the lead I would bet they were glad they turned up! Tarletons Oliver Forbes Shaw sportingly agreeing to play for Park (well done.)
From an early Tarleton penalty the home side took the game to Park, solid Park defence kept the home side at bay, though Tarleton didn't help themselves with many basic errors. It took the Tarleton forwards sometime to realise that they were being turned over by Park who appeared to have a much greater commitment, eventually the Tarleton pack rose to the occasion, starting to keep possession and win there own turnovers. Tom Ball, Tom Potter and Oliver Ashley all putting in good work to retain or win the ball. Twenty minutes had gone before Ollie Ashley with a spot on throw enabled (can't remember if it was Stan Stock or Rob Bramhall?) to give quick ball to Johnny Edwards to drive over and open the scoring.
This should have settled the nerves of the home side, Park though had other ideas and had it not been for the soccer skills of Adam Peacock Park would have levelled the score fairly instantly. As it was Park didn't have long to wait, sloppy Tarleton passing allowed Park to kick and chase. Parks ben hughes winning the race to level the scores, with a neat conversion Park took the lead. At half time Tarleton 5 Birkenhead Park 7.
A mistake at the restart Park kicking out on the full gave Tarleton the scrum on half way, the home side now appeared sharper than had been seen for some weeks Zav (Alex Roebuck) taking a fantastic line to tear the Park defence open support from Andrew Fishwick and Sean Murphy eventually being halted by a hard working Park defence. Just as it looked as though the home side were going to close the game down another Park interception for Ben Hughes shocked Tarleton and gave Park a confidence that was easily noticeable in there game. The home side now started to play the game on there terms second row Sam Marsh winning good ball and nearly driving over in the corner. Captain James Smith as usual leading by example and taking the ball to places a normal scrum half! would fear to tread?. The Tarleton forwards retained possession well before releasing the backs Andrew Fishwick making an angled run to collect at pace only to somehow collect the ball behind him on his back before transferring the ball to the more usual ball carrying position, out pacing Parks defence to score in the corner and put the home side back in contention. A missed conversion and Tarleton still behind with twelve minutes to go. More solid work from the Tarleton pack allowing the backs to perform Andrew Fishwick crossing again to give the home side a one point lead, Adam Peacock adding the extra two. Everything was now going to plan! and Park were unable to break away from there half. Wing Sean Murphy making a deceptive run down the wing for a score on his return from injury. Adam Peacock striking the post to give a final result of Tarleton 22 Birkenhead Park 14.
A cracking game played in glorious weather well refereed by Mr Peter Houghton.
23 September 2007
Caldy 0 Tarleton 24 (Junior A)
The soccer pundits usually say "its a game of two halves" this was more a game of a great beginning and end with a lot of frustration in-between. All credit though must go to Caldy who obviously short staffed in the from t row (uncontested scrums!) put on a sterling performance to hold Tarleton back who easily had the majority of possession though failed to utilise it to put points on the board.
From the kick of Caldy were under pressure conceding an early penalty, Tarleton electing to run number eight Rob Bramhall forcing his way over for a spectacular Tarleton start less than two minutes played, Alex Roebuck adding the two. Tarleton now applied more pressure and it looked as though it could be over for Caldy. However after wasting a great deal of possession and giving away silly penalties Caldy reversed the tables and the pressure was on Tarleton to defend. Caldy had all the possession for a good fifteen minutes the Tarleton defence holding. Only once during this period Tarleton sparked into life full back Adam Peacock making the break to set Sean Murphy away only for Sean to run out of pitch. Just before the break Sean was of again this time going over in the corner. Half time Caldy 0 Tarleton 12.
The second half proved equally frustrating Tarleton not utilising all fifteen players and refusing to push the ball wide, a complete lack of spatial awareness from Tarleton, wing Sean Murphy screaming at his pack as they tried to batter away and not spotting the three on one overlap. The frustrations continued as Tarleton committed far to many players to the ruck preventing the ball from coming out at any kind of speed. At last a better performance from Tarleton as Adam Peacock charged over cleverly turning onto his back stretching and arcing his body to prevent the Caldy defenders from holding him up. Adam was soon to cross again the ref spotting Adams double movement, no try. At least things looked better from a Tarleton perspective the lads now starting to play as a Team. Wing James Fay came close to adding his name to the score sheet, frustrated at not seeing the ball James went in and won the ball more like a flanker than a wing and set of on a jinking run being pushed into touch just short of the line.
The dying seconds of the game and Zav set of from midfield on a arcing run that Caldy could do little to defend crossing in the corner to seal the game. The referee deeming the conversion to be the last move of the game Adam Peacock finishing his fantastic personal performance with the kick of the game.
Many thanks to Caldy for the usual sporting Caldy welcome and to the Referee whose name I forgot to ask.
16 September 2007
Tarleton 35 Rhyl 7
Personally after missing the opening fixture against Altrincham Kersal it was back to the usual Sunday fix of junior rugby. This was a fixture the Tarleton lads had looked forward to and straight from the start the lads took the game to Rhyl.
Rhyl conceding an early penalty, Bushy now playing centre proved his kicking is as effective as ever, three nil Tarleton. More pressure on Rhyl and another penalty this time Bushy electing for the corner. Much to the annoyance of the supporters who would normally applaud such a decision, everyone expected a tight game and wanted points on the board. Unfortunately the lads lost the ball!
There then followed a period of stalemate with both sides holding on, Tarleton enjoying the majority of possession though not able to finish moves of. A clearance kick from Rhyl allowed Alex Roebuck (Zav) to collect in his own twenty two and run at Rhyl just crossing half way before the Rhyl defence closed him down, a beautiful offload from Zav to wing Sean Murphy set Sean away, before Rhyl forced Sean into touch he of loaded for Sean Taylor to collect and power over. A try of this quality is going to be hard to beat this season.
The Tarleton pack hammered away at Rhyl, though at times the lads didn't work out that the way through could have been to utilise the backs more. It wasn't long before Rhyl came back showing slick hands for Sam Renshaw to go over Rhyl quickly adding the two. Ten seven to Tarleton when it appeared it was game on Rhyl faded though they had lost several key players to injury. The Tarleton lads then showing quick hands to allow Sean Murphy over out wide.
The second half was all Tarleton with a brace of trys for Archie Skofic and another for Sean Taylor. During the second half Prop Tom Potter and number eight Rob Bramhall made powerful runs testing the Rhyl defence.
Final score Tarleton 35 Rhyl 7
Many Thanks to referee Mr Gary Spengler
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