Cooke 3XV 33 – 0 Holywood 2XV
Ignoring the dismal score line, the match against Cooke 3XV was possibly one of the best games for the Holywood seconds. Unable to secure ball from our own line outs and get any real phases together, the majority of the first half was played in Holywood territory, defending the strong Cooke forward play. For 35 minutes, the whole team put their bodies on the line, repelling every opposition incursion close to the try line. Unfortunately an unconverted try close to 40 minutes meant Holywood went into half-time trailing 5-0.
In the opening minutes of the second half, Cooke secured an early try and as Holywood heads dropped, the floodgates opened. Unable to compete in Cooke’s superior lineout, the opposite team were able to take advantage of their secure lead and play a more expansive game leading to a depressing score line, at least from a Holywood perspective.
In truth, Holywood played a very good game against Cooke. Forwards and backs were equally matched and an impressive Holywood scrum bodes well for the future. The only lacking element was the lineout, both in defence and attack. Winning only two balls on their own throw meant Holywood was never able to capitalise from territory gaining kicks and really get some phases together. The 2XV will be a superior team this year, provided they can train together, sort out their moves and play with the kind of heart shown on Saturday.
Notable mention must go to Nick Patterson for playing the whole match in a South African top. Due to excellent planning, only 14 HRFC shirts were brought to Cooke. Nick proceeded to take heart from his adopted nation and tried to emulate Bryan Habana by attempting a few cheeky chips over his opposite number in the centre and charge ahead. It generally didn’t work the way it was supposed to.
Holywood face Coleraine 4XV on Saturday at home and we all look forward to a good game and hopeful victory.
