Smiths Rugby welcome Minchinhampton to PoW

Published by %s
April 12, 2017

11th March 2017

Smiths munch Minch in much improved performance

Smiths Rugby beat Minchinhampton RFC 65-7 at the Prince of Wales Stadium.  The near-perfect rugby conditions suited Smiths’ running game and started quickly, winning their own kick off and scoring on the other side of the pitch.

Minch hit back quickly through direct runs from their forwards building on yards gained through penalties.  A couple of picks saw them take the lead briefly at 5-7.

Smiths scored another 4 tries in a half with a combination of some individual brilliance and phase play with forwards and backs linking well.  Half time arrived with Smiths 29-7 In front.

Despite being largely out-played, Minch contributed to the match throughout and gave Smiths’ defence a stern test.  Coming out on top of these battles, Smiths picked off tries regularly through the second half.  With the wind now at their backs, kicks were effective at relieving pressure and gaining territory.

As Minch tired, 6 tries were scored including two for fullback Euan Whitbourne that earned him the match of the match award as part of a strong all-round display.

Scorers were Pete Reed 3, Whitbourne 2, Rowan Gale 2, Wayne Hopson, John Bryant, Joe Hemming, Andrew Hockley with Will Pritchett adding the rest from the tee.

A good final score for Smiths but arguably it was the improved performance that was more important.  A more composed, controlled approach enabled them to build phases and stretch Minchinhampton to help deliver their 11 tries.