1stXV lost to Merchiston

Three tries in it, but a very even and competitive game to start the season against what was a very physical Merchi side. We won a lot of ball and the forwards recycled really well and we had a lot of possession right through the game; however, we perhaps were not as patient and clinical as we could have been when in the red zone and there were times when we took the wrong decision with the try line at our mercy. That will come with experience, but the fact we created so many chances bodes well for the rest of the season and we get to play Merchi twice more later in the term, at home, so we know we shall be guaranteed more close encounters which is the best way to learn and grow as a team.

We were missing Dexter and Tristan today, but others stepped up and it was encouraging to see a few making their debut at this level. Theo had an excellent game behind the forwards, and he took some excellent options, releasing the backs and driving down the sides of the ruck really effectively. Harry was superb up front, running non stop and he scored a fine try from close range which was well deserved – he has been a real leader so far this season and is developing his game really well. Obviously, our centre partnership is strong and powerful, and both Rafa and Jamie made lots of ground and both scored tries; a few times, they lacked the support and were tackled yards from the opposition try line, and then we turned over the ball which was a little disappointing. We need to run those support lines and hit the breakdowns with a little more aggression and in greater numbers on a few occasions. James had an impressive game at stand off and he released his outside backs well and ran some good lines through the opposition defence. Defensively, we were a little quiet and slow coming up as a line: we need to talk much more and close down the space as a unit and not as individuals, which let our wingers a little exposed at times. This is something we need to focus on over the next few days as we build up to our game against Fettes next week.

A very encouraging team effort in many ways. If we had taken our chances and been a bit more clinical, then the result might have been different, but lots of positive learnings and lots to take forward over the coming weeks. We have some very keen and talented rugby players at this level and it is great to see boys stepping up from the U11s last year and showing real improvement as they get to grips with ‘proper rugby’. It is going to be an exciting journey, but to see the boys front up today, being physical and showing lots of skill, bodes well for the rest of the season.

Well played, chaps.

DSW