Match Report

Ionians Alligators v Malton U12’s

3^rd October 2010

G1: The predictably bad weather, constant rain throughout the day, didn’t deter the Alligators from getting stuck in for what would be an extremely tough start to the season, Malton away.

Malton kicked off and straight into the hands of the extra vigilant Alligators, who passed out wide and immediately tried penetrating their opponents’ defence. Unfortunately, Malton were as keen and eager to please as the Alligators and immediately intercepted a loose ball and soon controlled the game, notching up the first try against the Alligators within seconds of getting the ball. The Alligators were fully aware that Malton were historically the stronger side and defended with some brave and courageous tackling which saw Malton brought down shy of the try line on a number of occasions.

Although they fought well and never gave up, Malton’s ability to outwit the Alligators and execute some quick thinking and often brilliantly sneaky off-loads ensured them a comfortable 28-0 half time lead.

The Alligators, not yet showing any signs of tiring or giving up hope, maintained a strong defence and although the occasional lapse in concentration edged Malton’s chances of repeat scoring, the Alligators hung on and began off-loading with greater accuracy. After much perseverance, a brilliant pass out to the wing gave the Alligators their first try of the season, perfectly delivered by Captain George Boynton. Although this was to be their only try of the game, it gave the Alligators a glimmer of hope and further motivated them for a second game and the opportunity to demonstrate how good they are at re-grouping and fighting back.

G2: After a very short break, both sides re-grouped and it was now a chance for the Alligators to make their brave and daring comeback.

The Alligators seemed to peak during this game and showed no signs of despair as Malton once again took the lead and scored after sneaking through a lapse in the Alligator defence line. However, the Alligators retaliated with another brilliant wing pass, well caught and bravely scrambled over the line in the top corner by Kryo Kelly. The Alligators were not about to be beaten easily and stepped up their game with some great ball work and try-stopping tackles that meant Malton, a side with players dwarfing the Alligators, had to work even harder to outsmart the Alligators.

Malton quickly came back and secured another well placed try, soon followed with their last try of the day and an unsuccessful conversion. The Alligators were about to push themselves to the limit now and with another great wing pass, Michael Walker pounded his way through a heavy Malton defence to place another try over the line for the Alligators.

With Malton missing one of their conversions, the Alligators now only need a single try to even the score. It very nearly came when Kyro Kelly’s attempt to barge through a number of Malton players right in the top corner was sadly brough into touch inches from the try line. The game ended five points clear in favour of Malton.

The Alligators were applauded for their brilliant efforts and reminded that although they lost, it was against one of the toughest teams on the circuit, and their courageous efforts and team work can serve as a clear indication that only good times lay ahead for the Alligators.

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MAN OF THE MATCH: Sam Howard for his persistently brilliant work through both games. Sam can always step up to the mark when called upon, and today was no exception. His enthusiasm and concentration for today’s fixture was beyond reproach and his ability to stop his opponent dead has always been inspirational to watch.

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MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 7 - 35 Malton

Alligators 14 - 19 Malton

Try Scorers:

George Boynton 1

Kyro Kelly 1

Michael Walker 1

Total Alligator Tries: 3

Conversions:

Michael Walker 2

Jack Hatfield 1

Total Alligator Con’s: 3

Attendance: 17/21 - (81%) Away