Catch and drive

Another afternoon spent watching the older boys playing rugby. Although the forecast was for rain it was mild and clear and at one point very sunny. I even saw a hot air balloon drifting over the town, looking lovely in the blue sky. Adam, who plays for the 3rd team, played the 2nd team of the opposition school which was perhaps a mistake as the 3rd team were outclassed. As their school is a strong rugby school they often play up, but today it did not go their way. Luke, in the 1st team, had a very exciting match - though long as there were many injuries and consequently breaks while the medics attended - one boy got carried off on a stretcher :( Luke's team were winning 17-5 at half time and ended winning 29-20.

Here we can see a maul after a line-out. For those who don't follow rugby, this is a clever technique whereby after a line-out, and the ball has been caught by the big lad standing, somehow they move the ball backwards to the guy at the end of the line, driving forwards all the time to gain ground. The guy who caught the ball binds onto as many players on his team as he can to keep the maul tight and thus prevent any opposition from ripping the ball from the carrier. They will continue to drive until the maul slows down, at which point the lad at the back will peel off with the ball, often on the blind side. It is a good manoeuvre if it can be executed properly. For those who do understand rugby (Steve Hughes) please forgive my rubbish explanation! For Paula Banks, here are some great legs for you to enjoy....