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A slightly depleted squad this week with several players out
through injury travelled to Aldershot Park, nevertheless still buoyant
following four wins from the first four games.
The Norfolk started the game at a ferocious pace applying pressure from the
kick off and forcing mistakes and penalties, Aldershot hung on though and
tackled superbly on their own try line. Despite the early onslaught though, it
was the home team who struck first by pouncing on a loose ball and running in a
try in what was regularly repeated occurrence. Aldershot scored again when the
Norfolk failed to chase down a missed clearance kick and Aldershot again
capitalised on mistakes. The only difference between the two teams in the early
exchanges seemed to be our opponent's ability to react and adapt to changes in
the game, both teams played with a similar intensity and neither set of players
shirked any of the physical demands of rugby.
The Norfolk refused to accept defeat at such an early stage of the game though,
and several phases of play promised to yield before eventually a try was worked
in the corner with the full back both scoring and converting. Simple mistakes
and concentration cost again though when Aldershot pressured the re-start and
again stole the ball to score another try. Both props went down on the 30
minute mark leaving a very inexperienced front row for the rest of the game but
both players acquitted themselves honourably.
The second half was action packed and unfortunately riddled with costly
mistakes which served to keep the game just out of reach although at one point
only 3 points separated the two teams. Aldershot scored early in the second
half following a defensive error but the Norfolk replied immediately with a try
of their own. Another try came quickly and the pack began to reassert a brief
period of dominance on the game until the worst thing happened, a well read
pass lead to an interception try under the posts to leave the score 25-17. The
Norfolk still refused to lie down though and another try left only three points
difference. Aldershot were able to calm things down and get back down to their
game plan, eventually punishing further mistakes with further tries.
It was a difficult afternoon with a lot of players out of position but the
opposition were clearly better at picking up fifty-fifty ball and capitalising
on mistakes, they also finished clinically when in the danger areas of the
pitch. Thanks to our hosts who gave us a very exciting game and great
hospitality back at the clubhouse.
The Norfolk face Plumpton at home in the league this week and hope to make it 3
from 3. |
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