The South Coast Liquid Treatment and 'The Huskisson' Vincentia Van Goghs hosted the Shamrocks at Van Gogh Park in round 2 of the Illawarra district rugby union competition.
After a convincing win in round one the Van Goghs were looking to secure another win and competition points.
In wet, overcast conditions, Vincentia fielded a new look squad to face off against the Shamrocks in their 2012 playing strip.
Shamrocks are never an easy opponent, when playing a forwards dominated game it can be easy to get drawn into their style of play. Through the week at training we focused on effective ball recycling, defence structures and the ability to finish set pieces. The team's hard work and focus on these areas of the game allowed us to prepare well" said coach Andrew Jack.
An all new front row combination led by Nick Williams at hooker supported by props John Walker and Andrew Van Oploo set the tone of the game through dominant srummaging. This combination proved a torment for the Shamrocks.
Shamrocks presented a robust side but within 5 minutes of play Captain, Cam Bendall crossed the line, opening the scoring for the Van Goghs. Bendall's elusive foot work combined with his strength saw him change his running line, leaving the Shamrocks backline in his wake. Bendall's try was converted by Matt Young.
Shamrocks continually raided the Vincentia try line but were nullified by solid defence, led by stalwart Walker, Matt Whalan and Tominiki Taufu. Loose forwards Jordan Robinson and Aaron Turnbull were also effective in shutting down the Shamrocks through aggressively applying pressure at the breakdown.
Vincentia's second try came from a set piece 20 meters out from the Shamrocks try line, allowing the grey ghost, Brett Jones to weave past two defenders and accelerate over the line to score near the posts. Again Young's conversion was successful.
Vincentia went to half time holding the lead 14-3.
During the second half mother nature played it's hand with a heavy downpour that had the boisterous crowd ducking for cover and players feeling 10kgs heavier.
Slippery conditions saw penalties evenly distributed to both sides.Vincentia's third try started from half way through quick ball recycling by
the forwards, tearing the Shamrock defence apart, allowing quick ball to the backs and the eventual try to Matt Young who converted his own try.
The score at the whistle was 21 - 3.
Best on the day was Loosehead prop, John Walker - 3 points for his work in the scrum and defence, Break away, Aaron Turnbull - 2 points for his ball carrying runs and work in the line out and 1 point to outside centre, Tom Bowen for great ball handling and evasive running.
The Van Goghs take on Avondale next Saturday.
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WANT TO PLAY RUGBY? THE VAN GOGHS WANT YOU!
TRAINING: 6PM TUES & THURS
WHERE: Van Goghs Park, located behind the
Bay & Basin Leisure Centre
If you're interested in playing for the
Vincentia Van Goghs
please contact Andrew on 0401 734 712
for more details. |
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