Orkney RFC U18s v Gordonstoun School U18s 20-9-14

Caledonia North U18
Pickaquoy Infield - Saturday, September 20
ORKNEY RFC U18s 17, GORDONDSTOUN SCHOOL U18s 22

On Saturday 20th September, Orkney managed to get the new season underway, other teams in the league having already played two or three games. This was due to a team not travelling and two others dropping out of the league without playing any games.

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Orkney started the game in a very positive manner pinning Gordonstoun back in defence, the forwards competing well and the backs showing good ball retention. After a good handling move the ball was worked to Sam Croy coming up from full back. Sam was not going to waste the opportunity and showing strength and a good turn of speed made it over the try line. Taylor Pilkington Tait kicked the conversion. Orkney kept up the pressure and this led to a mid field penalty kicked by Taylor giving a ten point lead.

As the first half progressed Gordonstoun came more into the game, they were awarded a penalty after 25 minutes that was missed. They eventually scored a converted try just before half time leaving the score 10-7 to Orkney.

The second half started with Gordonstoun exposing Orkneys lack of match practice and had long periods in the Orkney half. Even some very strong defensive work and hard tackling could not prevent them scoring three unconverted tries giving them a 22-10 lead. During this period Orkney had two players sin binned for rule infringements. When back to full strength they came back into the game, a period of good play was rewarded when Argun Pankhania went over for a try converted by Taylor. The last few minutes were played out with Orkney going for the one more try needed to level the scores, unfortunately it was not to be and the game ended 22-17 to Gordonstoun.

After the game coach Adrian Askew impressed on the boys that they could be proud of the performance and go into the next game with confidence. Thanks to James Linklater unable to play for the first team due to injury turning up and giving the boys help and encouragement.  Also Ian Rushbrook for refereeing the game and taking the time later to explain to the players the reasons why he had to show the yellow cards, it was appreciated.

Match Report: L.H.

More photos from this game are available here