Match Report

Ionians Alligators v Selby U11’s

13^th December 2009

The Alligators, quite prepared and fully aware of the anticipated tough game that lay ahead, arrived with focused minds and enthusiastic attitudes. They began the day with a brutal and vigorous warm-up, after-which they were fanatically anxious for the challenge to commence.

The game started tough and seemed to concentrate mainly in the centre of the pitch for quite a while before the Alligators managed to gain possession and bolt for the try line. With a quick and devious pass just shy of the try line, their first well-deserved try was acknowledged.

The game saw Selby win several scrums and their natural feisty ability ensured the ball was quickly deployed. Unfortunately, it also meant their chances of losing the ball were greater, which gave the Alligators opportunities they were to take full advantage of. Selby, realising they had underestimated the Alligators, began taking too many chances with knocked on balls and over-zealous tackling. The Alligators kept their cool and played courageously as they entered rucks and mauls, executing them flawlessly.

A careless mistake by the Alligators prompted Selby to take advantage of a penalty that levelled the score. Undeterred by the equalizer and the only possible chance Selby may have had to take charge, the Alligators retaliated with even greater vengeance and tackled like nothing seen before. They almost peeled their opponents away, tossing them aside one by one to gain possession and notch up another try to quickly regain the lead. By now, the Alligators were on fire and desperate for a comfortable lead before the half time whistle. Selby, even more desperate, executed some brilliant passes with the Alligators in hot pursuit and now becoming a real threat. After a fantastic array of ball work and a few shrewd little passes, the Alligators secured their third try before half time, giving them a 15-5 lead going into the break.

Reeling from a first half defeat, Selby re-grouped, changed their squad, and came back with a stronger team in the hope of a reprisal against the Alligators. Sadly for them, the Alligators had already anticipated Selby’s discreet and somewhat unorthodox strategy and adopted another level of skilfully artistic playing.

Selby gained the edge on a number of occasions and could have very nearly scored a few more try’s had it not been for several careless mistakes, often only a yard or two from the try line.

It took a strong dedicated and well motivated team to beat Selby, and the Alligators performance today was a real Christmas treat for the coaches. They watched with delight as the Alligators concentrated on every aspect of the game and delivered a breath taking team performance in their last official game of the year.

MAN OF THE MATCH: Sam Howard for his high octane approach in today’s game. Sam is very often a unique and gifted player. When he is not otherwise gazing into outer space he executes some amazing tackles, quite often gaining possession of the ball and making a bee-line for the try line. Sam’s commitment to the game is further enhanced by his ability to take harsh punishments dealt by the opposition and use it to his advantage. He was determined to securely deliver the ball over the try line and he proved that with the strength of will nothing was going to stop him.

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 25 - 10 Selby

Try Scorers:

Sam Howard 2

George Boynton 1

Oscar Cavill 1

Jack Hatfield 1

Attendance: (Away) 17/22 - (77%)

Match Report

Leeds Carnegie v Sale Sharks Half-Time Match

Ionians Alligators v Harrogate U11’s

22^nd November 2009

The Alligators didn’t disappoint for their half-time game against Harrogate. Although the game was merely a rushed continuous ten minute game, it was a tough and well played game, full of determined and talented players.

Harrogate fought well and defended even better, bringing down a number of Alligators close to grounding the ball. Harrogate scored first but it wasn’t long before the Alligators gave chase and heightened the game to another level. This made way for the equalizer, a tough hard slog to the try line by one limping Alligator who, before tumbling with an injured knee, did the decent thing and scored the try first. Assisted by one of the coaches, he put on a brave face and staggered to the touch line knowing full well he had done his job exquisitely.

With only a few minutes remaining of this short and tight game in front of a 6,000 strong crowd, the Alligators weren’t about to let their guard down and allow Harrogate to walk away victorious. They pushed forward with everything they had left and defended with such zest that when the all important winning try was touched down, it was applauded with such joy and relief that the game was about to draw to a close.

Seconds before the final whistle blew, Harrogate charged their way through the Alligator defence and over the try line. For a brief second they thought the game was going to end in a draw but one quick thinking Alligator ensured they were held up and unable to ground the ball. Another great result for the Alligators and fantastic end to a perfect day.

MAN OF THE MATCH: This was not awarded on account of it being an unscheduled game played for only ten minutes. However, it is worth noting that both try’s were flawlessly scored by two of our new players, Dominic Singh and Oscar Cavill, who as always give an impeccable performance.

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 10 - 5 Harrogate

Try Scorers:

Dominic Singh 1

Oscar Cavill 1

Match Report

Ionians Alligators v Scunthorpe U11’s

22^nd November 2009

The unfortunate outcome the Alligators suffered at last week’s festival certainly didn’t encumber their fantastic performance against Scunthorpe. After only five minutes of play, the Alligators had already taken control and comfortably netted two wonderfully executed try's. Even with the first conversion being forgotten by the overzealous referee and, unlucky for the Alligators, the second just hitting the cross-bar, the Alligators still managed a 10-0 lead only five minutes into the game. It was an incredible start that gave the Alligators the edge and the confidence they desperately sought after.

After a great start for the Alligators, Scunthorpe began realising a weak defence was thwarting their chances, and stepped up their performance with some imposing tackles and ball work. A long and perfect kick very nearly gave them the opportunity but, alas, they hadn’t counted on the fast paced tackling skills of the Alligators and their ability to stop an opponent in full sprint.

A penalty kick awarded to Scunthorpe nearly gave them another chance, but a quick thinking Alligator quickly intercepted the ball and high tailed it towards the try line. After covering fantastic ground he was brought down just shy of the try line, but not before a discreet and sly offload to his backup who elegantly dived over the white wash to secure another five points, quickly followed by the perfect conversion, making it 17-0 at half time.

After a quick succession of try's in the first quarter, both sides upheld a good defence, with neither side getting close to the try line. Scunthorpe, however, struggled to maintain their defence against the Alligators for long. After another pass out onto the wing and a mad dash along the touch line, the inevitable try touched down with pride and much applaud.

Throughout the game, the Alligators executed their moves with precision, working together with phenomenal results. The team simply gelled as one and moved forward with unequivocal strength, a strength they had in abundance. Sadly, Scunthorpe only came close to scoring on a couple of occasions when the Alligators’ defence slipped. Apart from that, they had little hope of even seeing the Alligator try line, let alone crossing it.

MAN OF THE MATCH: Jack Hatfield for yet another dazzling performance. Jacks’ tackling skills are somewhat breathtaking to watch and usually executed with such finesse. Jack has several attributes to his credit, his ability to kick the perfect conversion or the long ball downfield and his unique barge and dive over the try line for the ultimate effect when grounding the ball. A true asset to his team, Jack very seldom disappoints and very often plays his part to great acclaim.

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 52 - 0 Scunthorpe

Try Scorers:

Elliot Adamson 3

George Boynton 2

Robert Davies 1

Dominic Singh 1

Sam Howard 1

Conversions:

Elliot Adamson 3

Jack Hatfield 1

Michael Walker 1

Attendance: (Away) 19/22 - (86%)

Match Report

East Yorkshire Festival

Ionians Alligators v Hull, Goole, Pocklington, Driffield & Malton U11’s

15^th November 2009

Given the time of year and the predictably appalling weather usually associated with such, we were extremely lucky to have been blessed with a gloriously sunny and dry day from start to finish. This made for a very pleasurable festival that was enjoyed by everyone.

G1 - v Hull: The Alligators started the day full of rousing energy, grasping every opportunity to win the ball and vigorously pushing forward as a well formed team. Unfortunately, for Hull, the Alligators took charge of the game and remained in control throughout, gaining a 10-0 lead at half time. The most impressive try came right on the try line when the ball was almost handed to the Alligator, who then simply turn round and grounded the ball. It was an impressive start to the day and a great first game to warm up the Alligators.

G2 - v Goole: Another impressive game by the Alligators, this time with an array of perfectly executed tackles. By now, the Alligators were on form and out to prove a point. A fantastic kick down field with a brilliant follow through ensured their first try was a marvel to watch. This was quickly followed with some cunning little dummy weaves and turns designed to outwit the opposition and resulting in a well deserved second try to end the game.

G3 - v Pocklington: The Alligators were starting to show signs of fatigue by now and a lapse in concentration gave Pocklington the edge, an edge they were to hold on to. The Alligators desperately tried to overturn the game and although their enthusiasm was quite apparent, their energy levels were just too drained. Too many openings in our defence constantly gave Pocklington opportunities that eventually allowed them to win the game.

G4 - v Driffield: The day was now getting pretty tough for the Alligators, as Driffield overpowered them at every opportunity. Several games in succession meant that the Alligators were tiring quickly, an observation that Driffield knew and even counted on. There wasn’t much fight from the Alligators during the first half and even a stern talking to by the Head Coach didn’t help them claw back any more than two tries. They lifted their game a little for the second half but, alas, it was too late.

G5 - v Malton: Without doubt the toughest game of the day and one that the Alligators were certainly not looking forward to. It was game expected to go Malton’s’ way and they didn’t disappoint. Malton penetrated the Alligator defence with such defiance; it was virtually impossible for the Alligators to prevent the inevitable and ultimately succumbed to the might of Malton. The only consolation being the fantastic push through a strong Malton defence and a dive over the white wash for a, nil avoiding, try.

Even though the Alligators didn’t quite make the final, and lost three of the five games played, they still managed to show their rivals a thing or two, especially when tackling. The pleasant comments passed by some of the other coaches are a constant reminder just how talented the Alligators are, and to beat them takes strength, willpower and a focused mind. I have no doubt that our next festival will have an altogether different and more gratifying outcome.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: Oscar Cavill for yet another outstanding performance. Oscar quite often seems unstoppable and can usually be called upon to deliver the goods when faced with the very probable and daunting prospect of defeat. His natural ability to force his way through and penetrate the opposition is an incredible asset and a talent much welcomed by the Alligators. His pitch presence today was prominent and often invigorating to watch.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 20 - 0 Hull

Alligators 10 - 5 Goole

Alligators 0 - 10 Pocklington

Alligators 10 - 20 Driffield

Alligators 5 - 20 Malton

Try Scorers:

Elliot Adamson 4

George Boynton 2

Kobe Allenby 1

Jack Hatfield 1

Sam Howard 1 Total Alligator Tries: 9

Attendance: (Home) 17/22 - (77%)

Sunday 22nd Nov Scunthorpe away + Leeds

Dear all

Please find below the two teams for the scunthorpe fixture and the Leeds fixture

Scunthorpe:

James Millington, Joesph Bradley, Tom Pullen, Tracey Fofie, Oscar Cavill, Tom Rivers, George Boynton, Elliot Adamson, Michael Walker, Kobe Allenby, Ethan Canet Baldwin, Alex Turner, Jack Hatfield, Max Smeaton, Tyler Precious, Dominic Singh, Robert Davies, Kyro Kelly

Leeds Carnegie:

James Millington, Oscar Cavill, George Boynton, Elliot Adamson, Michael Walker, Kobe Allenby, Ethan Canet Baldwin, Alex Turner, Jack Hatfield, Max Smeaton, Tyler Precious, Dominic Singh, Kyro Kelly

Directions for Scunthorpe you will find as a link on this web page

All players to be at Scunthorpe, no later than 10.15am please

It is the intention to go direct to Leeds from Scunthorpe, so a tracksuit and warm clothing needed
If anybody has any queries, feel free to contact me

Regards
Tony Walker
Head Coach
Ionians U11's

East Yorkshire festival Sunday 15th November

Dear all

This weekend we have the East Yorkshire festival at Ionians

The squad for the festival is as follows:

Charlie Webster,Michael Walker,Elliot Adamson,George Boynton,Dominic Singh,
Oscar Cavill,Kyro Kelly,Joesph Bradley,Sam Howard,Alex Turner,James Millington,
Jack Green Morgan,Jack Hatfield,Tom Rivers,Robert Davies,Kobe Allenby,Max Smeaton

Total 17

Those not selected, please come along and support your team mates

Please can all players be at the club,09.45 -10.00, but NO later than 10.00am as we start the first game at 10.30 we should be finished around 3.00-3.30pm
Lunch will be provided for all players
Many Thanks
Regards
Tony Walker
Head Coach
I's U11's

Match Report

Ionians Alligators v Doncaster & Old Brods U11’s

1st November 2009

Weather wise, this was the Alligators worst day of the season so far, blustery cold winds and constant rain. However, this did not deter our intrepid Alligators from bravely battling the elements and giving a couple of strong, twenty minute, performances.

The Alligators went up against Doncaster for their first game of the day. Although neither side were able to score during the first half, it was full of determined players hell-bent on defending their territory. Some good positive thinking coupled with clever tackling from both sides made for an impressive game. It wasn’t until the second half that Alligators raised the bar and started playing at a whole new level. A clever pass to a fast paced player ensured the Alligators secured their first try. Not long after, a mass surge through a strong defence was needed, and when it happened, there was no stopping the second try after a bulldozing gallop down the wing.

After securing a comfortable win in their first game, the Alligators were revved up, raring to go and desperate to retain their undefeated record by claiming victory over a tough Old Brods side. Unfortunately they had to witness Doncaster’s heavy 57-0 defeat at the hands of Old Brods first. This did not dampen the Alligators’ enthusiasm one little bit. They knew that in order to stand a chance, they would have to keep on their feet and fight with all their might. Sadly, it was Old Brods that would take the lead, and after only a few minutes of play. However, the Alligators were not about to let their rivals walk all over them, and vigorously defended their half while constantly pushing forward. A few carefully placed kicks and some quick thinking passes out on the wing very nearly gave the Alligators a fighting chance, but alas, they were brought down virtually on the try line on more than one occasion.

Regrettably, the Alligators faced their first loss of the season as they were unable, despite great effort and indisputably courageous tackling, to claim victory against the incredibly talented Old Brods.

MAN OF THE MATCH: Oscar Cavill for his outstanding contribution in today’s games. Oscar only joined the Alligators at the start of the season and his presence has already strengthened the already impressive array of talent within the Alligators. His strong posture and commitment to the game is a valued and much welcome asset. Today, he clearly demonstrated just how important it is to remain focused and concentrate on the job in hand.

MATCH SUMMARY

Results:

Alligators 14 - 0 Doncaster

Alligators 0 - 19 Old Brods

Try Scorers:

Elliot Adamson 1

Oscar Cavill 1

Conversions:

Elliot Adamson 2

Attendance: (Home)

18/22 - (82%)

Sunday 1st Nov, Home V Old Brods / Doncaster

Team selection for this weekends game is as follows

James Millington, Kyro Kelly, Max Smeaton, Tom Rivers, Sam Howard, Oscar Cavill, George Boynton, Elliot Adamson, Michael Walker, Jack Hatfield, Kobe Allenby, Dominic Singh, Jack Green Morgan, Tyler Precious, Robert Davies, Charlie Webster, Alex Turner

Total 17

Those not listed, please come along a show your support

Players please arrive at club by 10.15am

Regards Tony Walker
Ionians U11's Head Coach

Match Report

Ionians Alligators v Goole U11’s 18th October 2009

The Alligators started the game full of energy and determination, and with one thing on their minds, to maintain their undefeated record.

Goole played hard and fought well, thoroughly deserving the first try of the game, which came from a line-out deep into Alligator territory. There was an element of doubt as to which side would gain possession following a desperate bid to secure the ball, but it was Goole that took control and touched down the all-important first try. It wasn’t long before they penetrated the Alligator defence with another dash for the try line and, with both tries converted, giving them a 14 point lead.

The Alligators had a huge task on their hands if they wanted to balance the score sheet. Just before half time, their pray’s were answered with some carefully thought out manoeuvres and a brilliant pass out to the wing. Their first try was just waiting to be had and could have so easily been placed anywhere over the try line.

Some good strong defence and excellent tackling skills enabled the Alligators to largely keep possession, hold Goole at bay in their own half, and meticulously plot their next try. It came after shear persistence and much physical exertion. It was a hard call but after nearly getting on his knees to see who had possession. the referee gave the try. After a successful conversion it was 14 points each and only five minutes of play left.

The last few minutes of the game was quite tense as the Alligators held Goole off with shear brute force and willpower. Several close shaves with the try line very nearly put the Alligators ahead and it was only a few minor errors that finally dictated the end result.

MAN OF THE MATCH: James Millington for his courageous and unprecedented effort during today’s game. James continually impresses onlookers with his shear might and strength when rucking and mauling. He can so effortlessly hold off his attackers and give the Alligators a welcome advantage. His persistence during this game most certainly contributed to a more than acceptable draw against a team that would have beaten us last season.

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results

Alligators 14 - 14 Goole

Try Scorers

Dominic Singh 1

George Boynton 1

Conversions

Elliot Adamson 2

Attendance (Home) 16/22 - (73%)

Squad for Sunday 18th Oct at Hullensians

To all

Please note the following squad selection for this sundays games at Hullensians:

James Millington,Max Smeaton,Tom Pullen,Sam Howard,Tom Rivers,George Boynton,Elliot Adamson,Michael Walker,Kobe Allenby,Charlie Webster,Dominic Singh,Alex Turner,Jack Hatfield,Harry Wells,Joesph Bradley,Ethan Canet Baldwin,Tyler Precious

Total 17 Players

10.15am at Hullensians

Regards

Tony Walker
Head Coach

Match Report

Ionians Alligators v Hull U11’s - 11th October 2009

The Alligators came out feeling extremely positive and confident today, bursting with energy and full of passion. They gave an exhilarating performance, full of enthusiasm and intrepid playing skills throughout the game.

Our first try of the day, setting an all-time record for the Alligators, came within the first few seconds of play after a magnificent pass out to the wing resulting in a rapid sprint down the touch line and over the try line. This set the pace for what became a torrent of tries by the Alligators, all executed with precision. An amazingly fast dash down the opposite wing, a sly and clever weave through an oblivious Hull defence, last minutes ditches and dives over the white line and an even more impressive kick with a clever follow through provided the Alligators with an array of equally as impressive tries.

Only a few dropped balls occasionally hindered the Alligators but, everything considered, the passing skills, whether offloading or receiving, were impeccable and somewhat awe-aspiring to watch.

The Alligators assumed their positional play without too much trouble, with each player scrupulously aware of their options before carefully executing each manoeuvre with fine accuracy. Some amazing and well thought-out tackles certainly prevented Hull from securing any tries; especially those close to the Alligators’ try line.

Positive thinking, a well balanced team, and some exquisite teamwork ensured the Alligators finished the day with a breath-taking and thoroughly well deserved victory.

MAN OF THE MATCH: Alex Turner for his fantastic and audacious contribution throughout the game. Placed in a position new to Alex, he took on the task of full-back and played it to perfection. Only one ball managed to escape the grasps of this determined player and after catching some amazingly high and long balls, we can surely forgive him the one that got away. Alex’s ability to be a good all-round versatile player has made him a welcome asset to the Alligators.

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 52 - 0 Hull

Try Scorers:

George Boynton 2

Elliot Adamson 2

Dominic Singh 1

Kobe Allenby 1

Oscar Cavill 1

Thomas Rivers 1

Conversions:

Elliot Adamson 6

Attendance: (Home) 19/22 - (86%)

Sunday 11th October V Hull at home

Dear all

This sunday we have an additional game to the schedule at home versus Hull RUFC

All players to advise on availabilty please

All players at club no later than 10.15am please

Regards

Tony Walker
head Coach

Match Report

Ionians Alligators v Huddersfield U11’s 4th October 2009

What a great start to the season, a home draw against a well drilled and well organised Huddersfield side. The daunting prospect of suddenly finding themselves on a much bigger pitch, and with 40 minutes of play ahead of them, didn’t deter the Alligators from putting on a fantastic display, full of enthusiasm and commitment.

Although the Alligators fought on and pushed forward vigorously during the first half, it was Huddersfield that were to take the lead and force their way through some weak openings left by the Alligators to secure a 14 point lead at half time.

The Alligators kept faith in themselves and demonstrated their expertise with some brilliant passing and amazing tackling skills, and it was that level of dedication that prevented Huddersfield from touching down anymore try’s.

The second half was a whole new ball game. The Alligators entered this half knowing that should their rivals secure another try, it would all be over for them. Some quick thinking manoeuvres and some equally striking tackles saw to it that Huddersfield were kept at bay.

Some impressive quick thinking and a thundering charge through a stockade of Huddersfield players gave the Alligators their first well deserved try. After a successful conversion, the Alligators new they only required one more try to even the score. It came well into the last quarter with a fantastic pass followed by an almost full length pitch sprint on the wing (not forgetting it was their first time on a ¾ pitch). Only a conversion now stood in the way of levelling the score, which was executed to perfection.

The day ended in draw and the Alligators were left feeling extremely pleased with themselves, having come back from 14-0 at half time.

Both sides played a thoroughly enjoyable and clean game of rugby and it was a pleasure to witness the level of playing skills these boys have achieved.

MAN OF THE MATCH: George Boynton for his amazing and courageous effort throughout the whole 40 minutes. Not once did George appear to slow down and not once did he shy away from getting stuck in and playing his part with excellence. His cunning weaving, as always, played a vital role in securing a draw for the Alligators.

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 14 - 14 Huddersfield

Try Scorers:

George Boynton 1

Elliot Adamson 1

Conversions:

Elliot Adamson 2

Attendance: (Home) 19/23 - (83%)

Sunday 4th October v Huddersfield Home

The squad of 17 has now been picked for this coming sunday at home to Huddersfield, it is as follows:

James Millington,Kyro Kelly,Tom Pullen,Sam Howard,Oscar Cavill,George Boynton,Elliot Adamson,Michael Walker,Jack Green Morgan,Max Smeaton,Charlie Webster,Jack Hatfield,Robert Davies,Alex Turner,Ethan Canet Baldwin,Harry Wells,Dominic Singh

Please be at the club for between 10-10.15am

All non picked players please come along and support the team

Many Thanks
Tony Walker
Head Coach

Sunday 4th October, Huddersfield Home

To all

This coming Sunday, 4th October, we have our first home game of the season V Huddersfield

All players need to be at the club for between 10-10.15am please

please advise availability or not as soon as possible

Thanks & Regards

Tony Walker
Head Coach

September Training

Dear all

Throughout September the Alligators will be training on Sundays from 10.30am - 12.00pm and on Tuesday evenings from 6.30pm - 8.00pm

Hope to see all there and any newcomers are very welcome

regards

Tony Walker
HC