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U16 Rugby boys second half fight results in narrow win against Ashford
Gad’s under 16 rugby boys started their game against Ashford School well, but far too many simple handling errors cost them both early territory and possession. This led to Ashford scoring a simple try to establish a five – nil lead.
In response, the Gad’s team mounted several threatening attacks but were let down by a series of unforced errors. In a short-lived period of good and fluid play from the boys, Muhammad Pangarker managed to cross the line thanks to some dynamic running to level the score. However, the Ashford side were quick to gain confidence in the face of a string of errors a lack-lustre tackling from their opposing side, using the opportunity to cross the line twice more, resulting in a half time lead of 17 points to Gad’s five.
A reality check at the break saw the Gad’s squad start the second half with renewed vigour. Ball handling immediately improved and the side were able to dominate possession thanks to some good running by Harry Pattison and Joe Lawrence, linked to impressive rucking by Henry Cavelier-Tej.
This phase of play put pressure on the Ashford side with Harry Pattison finishing off a good running phase to score out wide.
Shortly afterwards, an Ashford scrum near their own line was won - against the head -thanks to some excellent work by the front row of Harry Penman, Henry Cavellier-Tej and James Franklin. Their hard efforts paid off as Joe Craggs, from scrum half, went on the blind side to score near the corner flag but, sadly, the conversion that would have tied the score was missed.
In a frantic last few minutes, Gad’s fortunately won another scrum and Muhammad Pangarker scored an exquisite drop goal to lead the game by a single point. A few last attacks from Ashford came to nothing and the game ended 18 – 17 in Gad’s favour.
Coach and PE Teacher Mr Ray Jelfs said: “There are not many schools in the country that field a rugby team of all of the boys in the whole year group! But here at Gad’s this is often the case, with all 12 boys from year 11 playing in the under 16 squad. The boy’s dedication is a real credit to the school.
“Special mention must go to those boys who joined rugby training late into their schooling, particularly Mark Dwyer and Abdur Rahman who stepped up and have never let the team down. This may be the last school game for this group of boys, they should feel proud to have served Gad’s well. Congratulations and thank you.”