HULL IONIANS ALLIGATORS BLOG (Ionians U12 2010/2011 season)

Match Report

2011-04-20T10:40:00.000-07:00

Driffield Festival

Ionians Alligators v Sleaford, Old Rishworthians, Driffield, Sandal Bears & York U12’s

17^th April 2011

G1 - Sleaford: Jack Hatfield kicked off and immediately gave chase and tackled Sleaford into touch. With a line-out to the Alligator’s, James Millington gained possession and took the ball into a maul before off-loading back to Jack. The Alligator’s did well to keep the ball contained in the Sleaford half to avoid an early deficit.

Sleaford ploughed their way through and entered Alligator territory for the first time, weaving their way through a lapsed Alligator defence, and crossed the try line to secure the first try.

As Sleaford piled on the pressure, a knock-on gave the Alligator’s a scrum and a chance to regain possession just over the half way line. A great effort was taken by Matty Gill as he took his man into touch and gave his team the line-out.

Sleaford maintained the pressure with some great ball work and tackles that gave them repeat chances to steal the ball. Eventually, they escaped the clasps of the Alligator’s and scored.

The Alligator’s very nearly got free from Sleaford, for a clear path to the try line, but the referee blew for a knock-on, depriving the Alligator’s of a great opportunity to register a try.

Ethan Canet-Baldwin showed no mercy as he charged towards the wing to prevent Sleaford’s wing man from making it to the try line.

As half time approached, the Alligator’s took possession but were soon taken into touch for a Sleaford line-out. Sleaford quickly gained the advantage and made a sudden dash for the try line, scoring right on half time with a 15-0 lead against the Alligator’s.

Sleaford kicked off the second half and thundered forwards to keep the Alligator’s at bay. The Alligator’s returned it with a high kick, but the ball went into touch for a Sleaford line-out.

James Millington showed brute force as he waded through several Sleaford players but was tackled before he could reach the try line.

Sleaford managed to gain possession and outwit the Alligator’s by weaving their way through and over the try line to score.

The Alligator’s tried desperately to regain control and keep play concentrated in Sleaford’s half, and for while, they did and almost crossed the try line but the Sleaford defenders were more aggressive and kept the Alligator’s at bay.

The full-time whistle was now imminent and the Alligator’s had one last chance to make use of a Sleaford kick but, alas, they dropped the ball. Although the referee called for them to play-on, it seemed the momentum had gone and even a last minute scrum to the Alligator’s couldn’t help them gain a try in this game. Sleaford went on to win graciously by 20-0.

G2 - Old Rishworthians: Rishworthian’s kicked off and the ball went straight into a maul and out down the Alligator line to George Boynton who gave one of his brilliant sly little flicks of the ball to Guy Whittaker. Unfortunately, a perfect piece of ball work was intercepted by Rishworthian’s before Guy could lay his hands on it.

The Alligator’s were relieved when a dropped ball went in their favour and gained them a line-out. As the ball fell clear of the line, Ian Shimmells began slinging players aside, like bags of rubbish, in his attempt to help his team mates steal the ball.

Rishworthian’s continued to make mistakes and the Alligator’s were quick to take advantage when a scrum was awarded in their favour. With a swift pass to Michael Walker, the ball was kicked deep into Rishworthian territory and chased well by the Alligator’s.

A Rishworthian scrum later gave them a chance to escape, with ball in hand, and bolt over the try line to score.

The Alligator’s displayed some good ball work with a great pass from George Boynton, perfectly received by Ethan Canet-Baldwin as he balanced precariously near the touch line, and off-loaded to Guy Whittaker who went into the maul for James Millington to lend his hand and help heave the maul forwards.

Guy Whittaker later regained possession and eluded several Rishworthian players, who all failed to hold on to Guy’s forceful presence, and crossed the try line in spectacular style to even the score just as the half time whistle sounded.

A good kick and chase by Jack Hatfield got the second half under way and Charlie Webster got straight to work, entering a maul and trying to steal the ball.

The Alligator’s won the first line-out as the ball made its way across the pitch and cleared touch. It was quickly followed with a scrum to the Alligator’s and a brilliant effort by Ethan Canet-Baldwin to charge down the wing in an attempt to cross the try line before a Rishworthian player caught him up and sent him crashing into touch.

A lovely tackle was made by Jack Green-Morgan to stop a Rishworthian wing man from getting through. Later, a bolt for the try line was made by Jack, as he chased and caught a lovely kick from Michael Walker. Jack almost made it over the try line, but an army of Rishworthian players just managed to catch him up and brought him down a whisker away from scoring.

James Millington, determined to score for the Alligator’s, pushed his way through a maul and exerted all his energy to cross the line and touch down the winning try.

In their attempt at a quick kick-off, Rishworthian's kicked the ball dead and the Alligator’s had a scrum to their advantage and a chance to retain possession until full-time.

A little knock-on by Rishworthian's after they regained possession finally ended the game 10-5 to the Alligator’s.

G3 - Driffield: Driffield kicked off and a keen Ethan Canet-Baldwin tried so hard to catch the ball but could only manage a fingertip stroke as the ball fell into touch, giving Driffield the advantage.

The Alligator’s did all they could to keep Driffield out of their half but a successfully manipulated maul by Driffield gave them possession and with a nice little weave through the Alligator’s, they got the try.

Driffield continued to keep the Alligator’s at bay and took every opportunity to land a penalty. The Alligator’s kept retaliating and with James Millingtons’ and Ian Shimmells’ combined efforts, Driffield were prevented from getting through and the ball went into a maul.

George Boynton made a real effort to cunningly duck and dive his way through Driffield’s excellent defending, but could not steer a clear path to the try line, ending the first half 5-0 to Driffield.

With the Alligator’s kicking off the second half, Driffield were soon to respond and hold the Alligator’s off in a maul. As Driffield gained possession, they kicked high. Jack Hatfield was ready and keen to catch it, brining it straight back into another maul and another half way line challenge for both sides.

Driffield's attempt to sprint down the wing came unstuck when several of the Alligator’s stampeded towards the wing and lunged at the Driffield player, sending him crashing into touch and preventing the escape over the try line. Jack Hatfield also got stuck in with his own forceful approach to knock his player clean off his feet.

A good deep kick up field by Jack Hatfield sent Matty Gill and Guy Whittaker in hot pursuit, ready to intercept the Driffield wing man, before concluding the game 5-0 to Driffield.

G4 - Sandal Bears: Sandal kicked off and with Jack Hatfield under the ball, a pass out to Jack Green-Morgan and and off-load to Charlie Webster on the wing, ended with a little knock-on to give Sandal the advantage.

Sandal demonstrated some great ball work, dodging through the Alligator’s with ease to log the first try directly under the posts. The re-start was caught by Sandal and brought back into Alligator territory where Benji Smales was ready to take his man down.

With Sandal in possession, the ball was kicked into the Alligator half where Matty Gill was ready to reclaim lost ground.

After a successful Sandal line-out, they dropped the ball and lost a chance to nick a quick try. Ethan Canet-Baldwin was quick to grab the ball but a scrum was awarded to the Alligator’s nevertheless. With a quick deployment, the ball was kicked and went into touch.

Sandal, despite Guy Whittaker’s try line tackle, was outplaying the Alligator’s and squeezed across the line for another try. With a quick re-start by the Alligator’s, Sandal immediately hit back with an almost full length pitch sprint to score again. Not content with stopping there, Sandal got the fourth try after a long sprint down the wing to cross the try line. To everyone’s amazement, Sandals’ punishment on the Alligator’s was not yet over as they executed some fantastic passes to successfully register a fifth try just before half time, giving them a comfortable 25-0 lead on the Alligator’s.

The Alligator’s kicked off the second half and Sandal were quick in responding, very nearly penetrating the Alligator defence, but a fortunate tackle by the Alligator’s held them up.

James Millington’s line-out grab of the ball was quickly intercepted by Sandal as they forced him into touch. With Sandal now in possession, they clawed their way through a weakening Alligator side to cross the try line for the sixth time. Just as they did in the first half, Sandal immediately took advantage on the unsuspecting Alligator’s and charged down the wing within seconds of the re-start to record their seventh and final try of the game.

The Alligator’s got the ball out to Jack Green-Morgan who made a concentrated effort to break through the Sandal defence but couldn’t escape their brilliant tackling.

A breath of fresh air came when James Millington gained possession from a penalty and barged his way across the try line to register the Alligator’s one and only try against Sandal.

Ethan Canet-Baldwin, waiting out on the wing, took a great pass and began his sprint down the touch line. Although Ethan bravely managed to keep the ball in play, he had to off-load to Guy Whittaker who succumbed to the might of Sandal with an unorthodox tackle that gained a penalty and ended the game 35-5 to Sandal.

G5 - York: York kicked off and the ball went immediately dead for an Alligator scrum. York soon regained possession and saw a clear run for their wing man and made the pass for him to sail down the wing and log the first try. A sense of déjà vu was felt by the Alligator supporters as York were quick to respond to the re-start with a sudden bolt down the wing to record their second try in less than a minute.

Matty Gill tried his best to make some ground and again passed out to Guy Whittaker, but with a severe lack of support, Guy was taken down by York.

Jack Green-Morgan single handily prevented York from getting through with a great try-saving tackle that kept play in York’s half a little longer.

As the first half drew to a close, a pass from Charlie Webster to Oscar Cavill slipped away and ended the first half 10-0 to York.

The Alligator’s kicked off the second half, immediately giving chase and with a good tackle landed by Charlie Webster.

York didn’t waste time in getting a penalty for a high tackle, and the Alligator’s were just as quick to respond with a penalty to keep play concentrated in York’s half.

A scrum to York gave George Boynton a chance to pounce as soon as the ball came loose. York, however, still managed to get the ball into Alligator territory with some quick thinking and cunning evasion tactics to elude Charlie Webster and score in the top corner.

Another York scrum enabled them to keep possession, maintain momentum and cross the try line for the fourth and final time.

Charlie Cartmell almost came to the rescue with a real effort to reach the try line and ground the ball. He managed the first bit successfully but was held up trying to make the grounding.

An Alligator scrum now gave them a chance to do something positive with the ball. Oscar Cavill grabbed the ball, went into the maul and tried desperately to land it in Alligator hands.

Charlie Cartmell gave a great off-load in his attempt to get the ball moving up field but, alas, it fell into the hands of York who weaved through several Alligator’s before Jack Hatfield stopped them dead with a hard hitting tackle.

A double penalty to the Alligator’s gave James Millington one of the final touches of the game as he held off York in his attempt to off-load the ball.

The final touch of ball came with a great wing pass to Captain George Boynton, who high-tailed it down the wing and over the try line to secure the final try of the season, concluding the game 20-5 in favour of York.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: Jack Green-Morgan for a persistently good performance throughout the day. His tackling was often quite flawless and prevented the opposition from breaking through on several occasions. His courageous attempt to bolt down the wing and elude his captors very nearly secured Jack a stunning try. Jack has always been a valuable member of the Alligator’s and his inclusion in the squad is crucial when faced against some of the more challenging sides.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 0 - 20 Sleaford

Alligators 10 - 5 Old Rishworthians

Alligators 0 - 5 Driffield

Alligators 5 - 35 Sandal Bears

(4^th Place Play Off)

Alligators 5 - 20 York

Try Scorers:

James Millington 2

Guy Whittaker 1

George Boynton 1

Total Alligator Tries: 4

Conversions: None Taken

Attendance: 16/22 - (73%)

Away

Match Report

2011-04-13T04:57:00.000-07:00

York Festival

Ionians Alligators v Otley, York ‘A’ & Selby U12’s

10^th April 2011

G1 - Otley: The Alligator’s got the game underway and soon gained a penalty to keep possession. James Millington and Michael Walker got stuck in straight away with some excellent and forceful tackling to keep Otley at bay.

Ethan Canet-Baldwin stepped up to the mark in a concentrated effort to grab the ball and charge down the wing before getting tackled.

A little over a quarter of the game had gone when Otley took advantage of a lapsed opening in the Alligator defence and bolted through to score the first try.

The first line-out went to the Alligator’s and with the ball quickly deployed, it made its way over to Michael Walker, who weaved his way through several Otley players, tugging at his shirt, to cross the line and score.

Oscar cavill made light of catching the high ball and taking it into the maul and placing it out well. Newcomer Benji Smales also made a good first impression with some well thought out tackling, close on the try line to stop Otley from scoring.

As half time approached, a maul close to the try line was held well by the Alligator’s as they prevented Otley from stealing the ball. The half time whistle sounded as the maul broke away, ending the first half in a draw.

Otley kicked the second half off with a long ball, well caught by Benji Smales, blending in well with his new teams mates.

The Alligator’s executed some good line passing and when the ball came back across the line and onto the wing, Matty Gill made every effort to outrun the opposition but was taken into touch for an Otley line out deep in their half.

Jack Hatfield quickly spotted Otley making a clean break for the try line and gave chase, knocking their player into touch and preventing an otherwise try.

A knock-on by Otley gave the Alligator’s a scrum and a chance to keep possession. George Boynton very neatly back flicked the ball out to Michael Walker, who charged forwards and into a maul with a well executed lay-off to get the ball out.

Otley piled on the pressure and challenged the Alligator’s to a sprint down the wing. Unfortunately, Otley just managed to elude the Alligator’s and make it over the try line to score.

Michael Walker gave a good kick and chase in his attempt to recapture the ball, but Otley once again managed to force their way through and scrape over the try line for the third and final time. The game ended soon after with a dormant maul that concluded with a 15-5 win to Otley.

G2 – York ‘A’: The Alligator’s kicked off and although taken well by York, James Millington charged in a snatched the ball and took it straight into a maul.

A good effort was made by Guy Whittaker to keep the ball away from York as he tried to off-load going into a maul.

York’s line-out didn’t go as planned when James Millington leapt high and grabbed the ball and passed out.

York took advantage of a loose ball and weaved their way through to cross the try line and score. Almost straight after securing their first try, York capitalised on their rush of adrenalin with another charge down the full length of the wing to record a second quick try. Fortunately for the Alligator’s, York dropped the ball on the try line and the try was chalked off. However, soon after, a similar and more successful attempt was made by York and this time they touched down the second try without dropping it.

An unfortunate injury to Joseph Bradley right on half time ended the first half 10-0 to York.

York kicked off the second half and chased well, preventing Charlie Cartmell taking, what would have been a lovely catch. As York tried to penetrate the Alligator defence, Benji Smales and Guy Whittaker were immediately on hand to prevent them from getting through. Despite the efforts of both these players, the Alligator’s couldn’t stop York from eventually getting through and cementing another try.

Even with the odds against them, the Alligator’s remained focused and channelled all their energy into executing the perfect mauls. With James Millington’s courageous and forceful approach, the mauls were moving nicely for the Alligator’s. As the ball found its way out of a maul, Oscar Cavill and Ian Shimmels were ready to barge their way through and cross the try line. Eventually it was Guy Whittaker who received an off-load that would allow him to weave nicely through York’s defence and touch down the try.

The Alligator’s maintained the pressure on York with some excellent try-stopping tackles until the full time whistle ended the game 15-5 to York.

G3 - Selby: The Alligator’s kicked off and the ball soon found its way back into Alligator territory for Ethan Canet-Baldwin to take possession. Selby were quick to attack and took Ethan straight into touch for a line-out. Roles were quickly reversed as James Millington’s attempt to grab the ball prevented Selby from keeping it in play and a line-out was awarded to the Alligator’s.

Selby’s ball control was quite a delight to watch, as they managed a succession of perfect passes along the line and out to the wing. Unfortunately for them, Benjamin Smales was also on the wing and pounced as the last man caught the ball, sending him flying into touch. Selby soon regrouped, regained possession and tried another line pass across the wing and this time, succeeded in getting the ball up field and over the try line to score.

Ethan Canet-Baldwin made sure that Selby did not secure a second try this half, with a brilliant try saving tackle that sent Selby crashing into touch and giving the Alligator’s a well deserved line-out. Charlie Cartmell caught the ball and tried desperately to get through the Selby defenders but was nudged into touch before he could get far.

James Millington’s effort to keep momentum in a maul was quite commendable, having lost his boot and going into a maul barefooted. The first half came to a close soon after the maul on the half way line with a 5-0 lead for Selby.

Selby gave a high kick to get the second half under way but Michael Walker made light work of catching the ball and charging forward.

A knock-on on the half way line gave Selby a scrum but then a dropped ball, which didn’t do them any favours, gave a scrum to the Alligator’s.

Selby hit the Alligator defence hard, eventually sneaking through a forced opening to cross the line and pinch a second try.

Not content with a blank score sheet, the Alligator’s hyped up the pressure on Selby, casting aside players, as George Boynton so eloquently did when Selby attempted to pick up a discarded ball. George pounced in an instant and slung the Selby player to one side before grounding the ball for the Alligator’s.

Jack Hatfield’s quick thinking try-stopping tackles paid off once again for the Alligator’s when he prevented Selby from gaining a third try with a lunging tackle near the try line. The Alligator’s were quick to gain possession and it was Guy Whittaker who bolted back into Selby’s half before getting tackled and ending the game 10-5 to Selby.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: James Millington for yet another magnificent performance. The Alligator’s may not have achieved any silverware at York, but the standard of playing was exceptional, especially that of James who never lets the side down and never shy’s away from a tough situation. James’ ability to edge a maul several yards is one of his biggest assets and a real challenge for the opposition to stop him. His contribution in this Festival most certainly helped prevent the Alligator’s from suffering a heavy deficit.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results: Alligators 5 - 15 Otley

Alligators 5 - 15 York ‘A’

Alligators 5 - 10 Selby

Try Scorers:

Michael Walker 1

Guy Whittaker 1

George Boynton 1

Total Alligator Tries: 3

Conversions: None Taken -

Attendance: 16/22 - (73%)

Away

Match Report

2011-03-30T12:44:00.001-07:00

Doncaster Festival

Ionians Alligators v Guisborough, Sheffield Tigers, Selby & York U12’s

27^th March 2011

G1 - Guisborough: Guisborough kicked off and the ball immediately went dead for an Alligator scrum and a chance for George Boynton to pass out wide to Michael Walker.

The Alligator’s were full of enthusiasm and pounded their way through Guisborough’s defence at every turn. The line passing was at its best and a beautiful wing pass to Charlie Webster enabled him to receive it perfectly and touch down the first try.

Guisborough fought well, trying desperately to gain possession, which they did after the Alligator’s knocked-on. Guisborough took the scrum and went into a maul but couldn’t prevent Oscar Cavil ripping the ball away. A quick off-load to James Millington and then out to George Boynton who kicked into touch for a Guisborough line-out.

The Alligator’s quickly gained a scrum deep into Guisborough’s half but after re-starting the scrum four times, the Alligator’s eventually lost the ball, giving Guisborough the advantage. The Alligator’s didn’t let Guisborough keep the ball for long before re-gaining possession and with a stunning array of passes from Michael Walker to Matty Gill to Charlie Webster and back over to the other wing for Ethan Canet-Baldwin to attempt a sprint for the try line. Unfortunately, despite their combined efforts, Ethan was brought down a little over half way, ending the first half 5-0 to the Alligator’s.

The Alligator’s kicked off the second half and immediately gave chase to intercept the ball. Charlie Cartmells’ effortless tackling eventually paid off as he gained possession and passed out to Ethan Canet-Baldwin who bolted across the try line and scored. Guisborough restarted with a kick flawlessly caught by James Millington who off-loaded just before getting tackled.

A scrum to the Alligator’s in their own half was quickly grabbed by Guisborough and instantly knocked-on giving the Alligator’s the advantage. The Alligator’s kick into Guisborough territory was returned and Finlay Hills positioned himself beautifully to receive the high ball before getting tackled.

Oscar Cavill’s steal of the ball enabled him to gain some good ground before passing to Jack Hatfield and over to Michael Walker.

The Alligator’s won a Guisborough line-out and as James Millington entered the maul, he was clearly seen desperately trying to prevent Guisborough from stealing.

As the last play was called, an Alligator scrum gave George Boynton the opportunity to take possession and kick into touch, ending the game 10-0 to the Alligator’s.

G2 - Sheffield Tigers: The Alligator’s kicked off and Sheffield’s biggest player made light work of catching it as he began charging forwards. James Millington rose to the challenge of bringing him down, which he did by lunging him into touch.

Sheffield were brilliant ball handlers and passed with such ease and accuracy that the Alligator’s had to work hard to gain possession. Charlie Webster made a great effort to keep hold of the ball and with help from James Millington, Sheffield worked equally as hard.

Charlie Cartmell’s brave attempt to bolt down the wing very nearly paid off but, alas, he was nudged into touch, giving Sheffield the line-out.

Sheffield were taking and winning line-outs with considerable ease and, although tackled by Michael Walker, safely delivered it across the pitch and over the white wash for their first try of the game.

James Millington’s courageous efforts to force his way through the ‘giants’ of Sheffield, using his muscles to prevent them from edging him into touch was inspirational to watch. James managed to off-load to Oscar Cavill who was ultimately taken into touch close on half time. With a successful line-out, Sheffield managed to cross the try line to make it 10-0 to them at half time.

As Sheffield got the second half going, Charlie Webster caught the ball and off-loaded to Michael Walker who kicked into Sheffield’s half, followed by a good chase and maul by the Alligator’s.

Charlie Webster continued to play a crucial part, even when Sheffield grabbed and dumped him into touch. Sheffield soon sailed through a chance opening, passed out wide and crossed the try line.

Ethan Canet-Baldwin made a great steal after chasing his man but an unfortunate knock into touch denied him what would have been a wonderful try. Charlie Cartmell also made a concentrated effort to clear several Sheffield players when an Alligator penalty went his way.

As an Alligator scrum collapsed, Jack Hatfield gained possession and tried to fight his way through, eventually kicking deep. Sheffield retaliated with a thunderously high kick, wonderfully caught by Finlay Hills at full-back.

Some great tackling by Ethan-Canet-Baldwin and Michael Walker close on the try line gave the Alligator’s a glimmer of hope and another good effort by Jack Hatfield to keep play up field an off-load to Michael that ensured Sheffield didn’t add to their try count.

G3 - Selby: The Alligator’s kicked off and Selby were quick to take the ball. Charlie Cartmell made a good effort to get down the wing and over the try line but was soon taken into touch for a Selby line-out. Oscar Cavil was quick to overpower Selby in the line-out and gain possession.

A penalty awarded to the Alligator’s soon gave Charlie Cartmell the chance to push through Selby’s defence and score the first try for the Alligator’s.

Finlay Hills once again showed that he was not afraid of the high ball and caught another high-flyer but unfortunately just stepped into touch, giving Selby the line-out.

An inspirational handling display that started with Oscar Cavil and made it way through several Alligator’s before a good drive by Jack Hatfield and an off-load to Oscar secured another try for the Alligator’s as Oscar also completed the move and charged over the try line.

A Selby penalty deep in Alligator territory was soon thwarted as the Alligator’s quickly overturned play and took control with considerable ease.

Close on half time, George Boynton very nearly secured another try for the Alligator’s but unfortunately knocked-on as he attempted a cunning little off-load to Oscar Cavil. The half time whistle then sounded, ending the first half 10-0 to the Alligator’s.

Selby got the second half going with a kick caught by Charlie Cartmell, who unfortunately knocked-on giving Selby the scrum.

The Alligator’s made every effort to keep play in Selby’s half and prevent them from gaining possession with some great ball work. A brilliant pass to Michael Walker secured the Alligator’s final try of the game as Michael weaved his way through the Selby defence and crossed the try line for touch-down number three.

The game soon ended with a scrum to the Alligator’s and a 15-0 win.

G4 - York (Semi-Final): The toughest game of the day and probably against the best prepared team in the festival. York kicked off with a well orchestrated kick, designed to optimise the chase. However, the Alligator’s quickly responded and wasted no time in making the tackle and entering the maul on the half way line.

York hit back with a good kick, well chased and well taken. They passed with complete accuracy to weave through the Alligator’s and glide over the try line to score.

After the re-start, York maintained the pressure as Jack Hatfield gave chase and tackled his man but could do little to stop the off-load. Michael Walker tried intercepting the new carrier but even Michael’s fast legs couldn’t reach the York try scorer as he crossed the line.

Mauling from the Alligator’s was at its best with James Millington gaining momentum, with the added force of Charlie Cartmell, before passing out to Oscar Cavill.

York’s next opportunity to score was thwarted close to the try line as Finlay Hills made the tackle and prevented a sure try by regaining possession and going down into a maul.

York stepped up the pressure on the Alligator’s in the dying minutes of the first half with two try’s in quick succession as they scrapped through weak openings to give a 20-0 half time lead.

The Alligator’s kicked off the second half and Michael Walker immediately followed it up with a great tackle to stop York dead. Although Michael stopped the player, the ball was soon off-loaded and York ran down the wing and scored. Michael gave chase and executed a brilliant try line tackle but just couldn’t prevent the inevitable grounding.

The Alligator’s got a slight break when a dropped ball close to the try line gave them a scrum and a chance to keep possession.

George Boynton, feeling the threat of York closing in, kicked high and into what he thought was relative safety until York got underneath the high ball and thundered back towards the try line and scored.

York weren’t the only ones able to receive high balls, as Matty Gill showed when he mastered catching one with considerable ease, taking it straight into the maul. Charlie Webster also proved that he too wasn’t exempt from the catching the high ball as he grabbed one heading over towards the touch line. He stopped the ball from going out of play really well but York overpowered him, lifting him clean off the ground and dumped him back down.

Just as the last play was given, Kyro Kelly, whose mauling is also becoming quite a welcome force, and Michael Walker tackled York and prevented them from notching any further try’s, ending the game 30-0 to York.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: Charlie Cartmell for an exceptional performance. His devotion throughout the festival was like a breath of fresh air and, at a time when numbers were low, a very welcome and gratifying contribution that ultimately rewarded Charlie with a well deserved try against Sheffield. Charlies’ tackling was also a very pleasant and satisfying improvement and most certainly played a part in helping the Alligator’s make the semi-final stages of the tournament.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 10 - 0 Guisborough

Alligators 0 - 15 Sheffield Tigers

Alligators 15 - 0 Selby

(Semi-Final)

Alligators 0 - 30 York

Try Scorers:

Charlie Webster 1

Ethan Canet-Baldwin 1

Charlie Cartmell 1

Oscar Cavill 1

Michael Walker 1

Total Alligator Tries: 5

Conversions: None Taken

Attendance: 14/21 - (67%)

Away

Match Report

2011-03-23T08:11:00.000-07:00

Ionians Alligators v Malton U12’s

20^th March 2011

The Alligators travelled to Bridlington for an expected game against the home side, but found that Malton would be the only team facing them today as Bridlington couldn’t assemble an U12’s side. The pitch allocation was also less than desirable, only half their usual size.

G1: Malton kicked off and soon gained possession when the Alligator’s failed to catch the ball. However, the Alligator’s soon regained control but knocked-on, giving Malton the first scrum. With the ball out, it was George Boynton who came to the rescue with a great tackle.

A good penalty kick from Michael Walker gave the Alligators a line-out just over half way and although it nudged play well up field, Malton soon took control and kicked back down field.

Malton were quick to win a scrum, but George Boynton was even quicker to steal the ball and pass out to Leon Caplin who made some good ground before getting tackled.

Out from an Alligator scrum, the ball made its way across to Jack Hatfield and then Jack Green-Morgan who bravely weaved his way through several Malton players to almost make the try line before losing the ball.

Some great passing by the Alligator’s eventually saw the ball land in the hands of James Millington, who fought well to claw his way through the maul to keep the ball moving. Eventually he broke free and crossed the line to log the first try. The game restarted with a Malton kick, brilliantly received by Jack Hatfield who immediately drove it forward.

Malton made some good passes, and a great pass down the line was only thwarted when Jack Hatfield and George Boynton intercepted the wing man.

The Alligator’s maul work was certainly showing signs of improvement as they manipulated the ball with considerable ease at times.

Malton very nearly made it to the try line just before half time with some great passing down the line and out for the wing-man to sprint down the right-hand side. Fortunately, Michael Walker was faster, and caught up the wing-man just in time and brought him crashing down, and with a dropped ball in the process. A scrum to the Alligator’s gave them a chance to get the ball out and kicked deep into Malton territory right on half time, ending the first half 7-0 to the Alligator’s.

The Alligator’s got the second half started, followed by an immediate charge forward by Malton and a brilliant tackle by George Boynton. Malton kept the pressure up by forcing their way through using their biggest player, who was then taken down by James Millington and Ian Shimmels.

A scrum close on the Alligator try line gave Jack Hatfield the opportunity to kick deep and allow James Millington to position himself perfectly to take the ball and barge his way through several Malton defenders to cross the try line for the second time.

A great drive by the Alligator’s ended with a knock-on and a scrum to Malton. A deep kick by Malton then landed neatly with Ethan Canet-Baldwin before Malton could make the tackle.

Malton again stepped up the pressure with a well placed ball to one of their fastest players closing in on the try line. Michael Walker and Finlay Hills quickly bolted their way across and brought him down before any damage could be done.

The Alligator’s made some great deep kicks to keep play in Malton’s half and when James Millington gained possession, a quick off-load to Leon Caplin, who struggled with several Malton players in his quest to retain possession and make it over the try line, very nearly paid off but Malton made the tackle and prevented the try.

Finlay Hills proved he could stand his own after catching some lovely high kicks, often with quick thinking off-loads as Malton closed in. Charlie Webster also made light of catching the odd ball or two as he patiently waited out on the wing for the loose ball to come his way. When it did, he caught it perfectly, quickly and accurately passing out.

The last play of the game came from an Alligator line-out in Malton territory. Malton gained possession and soon after, Charlie Cartmell lunged at the player and sent him into touch, ending the game 14-0 to the Alligators.

G2: The second game got under way after a dramatic change in the Malton squad. This time, the Alligator’s were going up against a tougher, more experienced side.

The Alligators’ kicked off and play concentrated around centre pitch for a while before a penalty to Malton moved it up field and gave them the first line-out. A sudden push from Malton edged closer to the try and eventually secured them the first try.

Although Ian Shimmels’ efforts to control a maul and get the ball out was exemplary, Malton still gained the upper hand, got possession and off-loaded to their biggest player who crashed through the Alligator defenders to cross the try line and score.

A Malton pass that went astray gave the Alligator’s a glimmer of hope, but after a successful reprisal, Malton again mastered the off-load and barged through to cross the try line.

Even with Malton notching up the try’s, the Alligator’s kept fighting back and with a great line pass by Malton thwarted by Jack Green-Morgan’s wonderful try-stopping tackle.

A breather came for the Alligator’s when Malton almost made it over the try line again but was prevented from scoring to give the Alligator’s a scrum. Malton’s final attempt to score before half time came when they received the ball and dropped it, giving the Alligator’s a half way line penalty before ending the first half 21-0 in favour of Malton.

Malton restarted the second half with a kick that sent the ball immediately out of play for an Alligator line-out. Malton won the line-out and nearly made a clean break for the try line but a knock-on gave the Alligator’s the advantage with a scrum awarded in their favour.

Malton soon gained a scrum and didn’t waste any time deploying the ball. They passed out well but the Alligator’s soon made the tackle before Malton regained possession and forced their way across the try line to score. The restart was chased well by Malton and tackled equally as well by the Alligator’s to stop another sure try.

The game had its fair share of quality kicks from both sides and when Malton won an Alligator scrum, they kicked deep and chased well, eventually gaining possession and passing with great accuracy that allowed them to cross the try line yet again.

The Alligator’s made a conscious effort to keep the ball away from Malton and passed almost as accurately as Malton. Ethan Canet-Baldwin did his utmost to stop his opponent, clinging on as if his life depended on it and, with the help of Jack Hatfield, the Malton player went down.

A maul well into Alligator territory ended with a scrum to the Alligator’s after becoming lifeless. Even with the Alligator’s winning the scrum, Malton soon regained control and with another push towards the try line, they crossed the white wash to score. Fortunately, the Alligator’s quickly pounced and prevented the grounding.

Malton gave a final burst of energy to claim another try and fought through the tiresome Alligator’s to cross the try line for the final time, ending the game 42-0 to Malton.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: James Millington for another courageous and eventful performance that contributed towards the Alligator’s successful win during their first game. James’ presence on the pitch and his participation in the squad has become a major asset for the Alligator’s. His consistency is a real pleasure and one that is well worth the viewing.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 14 - 0 Malton

Alligators 0 - 42 Malton

Try Scorers:

James Millington 2

Total Alligator Tries: 2

Conversions:

Jack Hatfield 1

Michael Walker 1

Total Alligator Con’s: 2

Attendance:

16/21 - (86%)

Away (Bridlington)

Match Report

2011-03-16T06:41:00.000-07:00

Ionians Alligators v Huddersfield U12’s

13^h March 2011

After three successful wins, today was something of a disappointment for the Alligator’s. However, some carefully executed tackles and ball manipulation certainly prevented a greater onslaught of tries.

The game started with a good kick that Huddersfield struggled to catch. The Alligator’s chased well and went straight into a maul. James Millington tried his best to force through Huddersfield’s defenders which showed promising signs of the Alligator’s breaking away.

A Huddersfield penalty, received rather hastily by Jack Hatfield, was quickly off-loaded to Jack Green-Morgan and over to Matty Gill who got shoved into touch close to the try line. Guy Whittaker came to the rescue, when a large Huddersfield player tried making a break for the try line, and Guy thrust his body around the player to bring him to the ground.

Huddersfield made good use of a line-out with a great catch to bolt down the wing and over the try line. Unfortunately, a double hand-off stopped the try being given and saved the Alligator’s an early deficit. The Alligator’s gave too many clumsy passes and misguided off-loads, allowing Huddersfield to win scrums and line-outs. However, not all passes and off-loads were disastrous. A George Boynton scrum pass to Guy Whittaker, which made its way across to Jack Green-Morgan with a successful off-load to Matty Gill on the wing, was brilliant and would have been spectacular try had Matty not been tackled.

Huddersfield were full of confidence and with a great pass across the pitch, they made it over the try line to score. A knock-on by the Alligator’s nearly gave Huddersfield a chance to sneak another quick try when they were awarded scrum. Michael Walker maintained the pressure and tackled ferociously to prevent Huddersfield from getting through again.

A pass from the scrum and out to Michael Walker went a little too far and he tried desperately to rectify the error and regain possession, quickly off-loading to Jack Hatfield. The Alligator’s seemed unable to keep hold of the ball and Huddersfield were quick to take advantage when a knock-on close to the Alligator try line gave them a scrum and a chance to claim another try, which came with relative ease.

When Huddersfield tried to make another clean break down the wing, Michael Walker quickly thwarted their attempts to get through and sent their player crashing into touch.

A penalised Alligator line-out, for not being straight, gave Huddersfield a choice, line-out or scrum. They took the scrum and kept possession for while, but Michael Walker soon pounced as the ball emerged and, with the help of Ian Shimmells’, the Huddersfield player collapsed in a heap under the weight crushing down on him.

Just before half time, Huddersfield made a final attempt to cross the line. Although Guy Whittaker tried desperately to stop them, Huddersfield broke free and made it over the line to make it 21-0 at half-time.

With the second half under way, a scuffle close to the Alligator try line nearly gave Huddersfield the chance of an early try but the ball went out of play for an unsuccessful Alligator line out. James Millington’s efforts to barge his way into a maul and prevent Huddersfield from off-loading was exceptional, as was George Boynton’s efforts to get his man into touch with a fantastic and forceful tackle.

Huddersfield continued to make every effort to get through the Alligator defence; with kicks being well received and delivered down the wing for the Alligator’s to defend. Another great tackle by Guy Whittaker prevented Huddersfield from getting through but didn’t stop the off-load and Michael Walker quickly intercepted and kicked it straight into touch.

Sam Howard bravely took on his opponent when the Alligator’s were in danger of another try against them. Having gained the ball, Sam passed out to Leon Caplin who retained possession until he was taken into touch close to his own try line.

A scrum pass that went astray fell into the hands of Huddersfield and although Guy Whittaker made a great tackle to stop them, the ball was off-loaded and Huddersfield got another try.

The ball eventually made its way ball back up field and into touch for an Alligator line-out. Although passed out well, a lapse in concentration allowed it to go loose and lost Alligator’s a chance to score.

The Alligator’s appeared to lack the required concentration needed to stay in the game and when Huddersfield controlled a maul close to the home try line, it was inevitable they would score after successfully breaking free of a maul and weaving over the try line. Soon after, the ball once again made its way into Alligator territory and a missed kick cost the Alligator’s dearly when Huddersfield bolted down the wing and crossed the try line again.

Although the Alligator’s executed some brilliant tackles and did their best to maintain possession, Huddersfield dominated the game. Even Leon Caplin’s superb grasp of the ball, after a pass from Guy Whittaker, was taken by Huddersfield and George Boynton’s dumping tackle to prevent Huddersfield from getting through didn’t prevent the ball from escaping and making its way over the try line.

As the final minutes approached and with the Alligator’s becoming fatigued, a forward pass gave them a glimmer of hope with a scrum. A late tackle on George Boynton didn’t stop him from off-loading to Jack Hatfield but after a few more wing passes, the ball fell into the hands of Huddersfield and the final play of the game was over, ending 50-0 to Huddersfield.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: Michael Walker for a stunning tackling game that contributed towards the Alligator’s not being completely humiliated. Michael never gave up and carefully positioned himself to execute the perfect tackle that left Huddersfield dazed. His manoeuvrability around the pitch was outstanding and his confidence going into the tackles were second to none.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 0 - 50 Huddersfield

Try Scorers: - -

Total Alligator Tries: -

Conversions: - -

Total Alligator Con’s: -

Attendance: 18/22 - (82%) Home

Match Report

2011-03-08T08:45:00.000-08:00

Ionians Alligators v Selby U12’s

6^th March 2011

The Alligators travelled to Selby today, for an anticipated tough game, but their enthusiastic approach and high self-esteem after beating Driffield last week would give them the confidence boost that would ultimately reap its rewards.

Selby got the game under way, with an immediate taking by Matty Gill who took the ball into a maul along the wing. A great pass by Jack Hatfield down the line and out to the wing landed once again with Matty, but it was slightly knocked-on, giving Selby the first scrum of the game close on the half way line. Almost straight after, a pass by Michael Walker from a maul strayed and made its way into Selby hands but was immediately knocked-on for an Alligator scrum.

Some good ball work by the Alligators seemed a little hasty at times, with a George Boynton pass to Michael Walker and over to Finlay Hills’ pass to Sam Howard, knocked-on first by Finlay for a Selby scrum. For the large part, the Alligators’ ball work was exemplary and when James Millington took possession in a tight maul, he wasn’t about to let Selby grab it, and forced his way through, barging across the try line to secure the first try of the day.

Selby soon gained possession and, for the first time, entered Alligator territory, threatening to score a try. Fortunately, Alligators’ Leon Caplin was on form and not about to let Selby penetrate the Alligator defence and gave a perfect tackle to stop them. The ball ended up on the foot of George Boynton who made sure it was safely kicked well back into Selby’s half and chased up to keep play at the opposing end.

A little knock-on by Jack Green-Morgan deep into Selby’s half gave Selby the scrum but the Alligator’s soon regained possession and Jack was quick in rectifying the error by giving a long wide pass out to wing man Matty Gill who took it down into a maul. A great off-load to James Millington and across to Charlie Cartmell looked like another try was imminent as Charlie made his way past several defenders before finally succumbing to the might of several Selby players.

An attempt by Selby to kick the ball deep into the Alligators’ half went clear into touch for an Alligator line-out. James Millington made light work of getting the ball away from Selby and began his unique and forceful barging technique to edge his way closer to the try line, eventually breaking free and crossing the line for his second try of the day.

A mindful effort was made by Guy Whittaker to keep the ball in play close on the touch line and just as Guy was edging closer towards the line, he managed a successful off-load to Jack Green-Morgan. Unfortunately, play was just too close to the touch line and a slight push by Selby sent Jack over for a Selby line-out.

Selby gained the upper hand when a loose ball was quickly taken and, with a brilliant dash down the wing, Selby’s only try of the game was given.

With the Alligators’ dominance of the game now threatened, George Boynton quickly gained possession and brought the ball sideways across the pitch and, trying desperately to find either an opening or a safe off-load, finally passed out to Michael Walker before getting tackled. Michael then looked quickly for his off-load, which went to Jack Hatfield who tried hard to reach the try line but was brought down before he could reach it and lost the ball.

With only moments to go before the half time whistle, Selby kicked deep into the Alligator’s half for Jack Hatfield to take and bring back to relative safety.

Finlay Hills showed no mercy as he got stuck in and, after receiving the ball out on the wing, tried in vain to bolt for the try line but was knocked hard into touch just yards from touchdown.

As the half time whistle sounded, the Alligators were exceedingly pleased with a 12-7 lead over Selby but remained fully aware that it would be hard to maintain a lead for the rest of the game.

Michael Walker got the second half under way and quickly gave chase to re-capture the ball. After successfully gaining possession, Michael passed out to Ethan Canet-Baldwin who made the dash along the wing, bringing the Alligator’s a little closer to the try line before getting tackled.

A cross pass gave Michael Walker the chance to weave through several Selby players and cross the line to make it 19-7 to the Alligators, after another successful conversion by Jack Hatfield.

A Selby kick saw Guy Whittaker make the catch and off-load for James Millington to push forward, giving the Alligator’s some good ground before passing out to Sam Howard who did pretty much the same before a Selby tackle brought him thumping to the ground.

The Alligator’s, although having a great game, did however drop a few balls, allowing Selby the benefit of repeated scrums. After a ‘double’ knock-on by the Alligator’s, Selby took the scrum and then knocked-on themselves, giving the Alligator’s their own scrum. A magnificent push by the Alligator’s gave James Millington the chance to break away, ball in hand, and charge over the try line for a wonderfully accomplished hat-trick that now gave the Alligators a 26-7 advantage.

Ethan Canet-Baldwin’s maul pass was a fine example of how to execute a maul and with the ball getting across the pitch and a little up field it went into touch for a Selby line-out. Soon after, a scrum awarded to Selby close on their try line was soon deployed and went into a scuffle of a maul to keep play concentrated in Selby’s half for a while.

The first penalty of the game, awarded to Selby, gave them a glimmer of hope and a chance to lessen the deficit, although there seemed little hope of them surpassing the Alligators’ hefty lead. They executed a great kick deep into the Alligator’s half but it was well stopped by Jack Hatfield who brought it back into the safety of Selby’s half.

The Alligator’s were passing with extreme accuracy and, although a brilliant line pass out to Ethan Canet-Baldwin on the wing resulted in him being forcibly taken into touch, it was a great display of team work by the Alligator’s nevertheless.

It was certainly another exciting game for the Alligator’s and their scrum work was a distinct improvement on previous games. Another forceful heave by the Alligator’s enabled Sam Howard to steal the ball and successfully make a clean break for the try line. With several Selby players trying to stop him, Sam escaped the futile attempts, ripping himself away from their clutches and eventually crossing the line to score the final try of the game.

A great kick and chase by Michael Walker was promptly returned when Selby did the same, with Matty Gill waiting to catch the ball for the quick off-load. Guy Whittaker played his part well to keep hold of the ball before passing back to Matty who was unfortunately tackled. Sam Howard and James Millington continued their efforts to cling onto the ball and were fully aware that only minutes of the game remained and all they had to do was maintain possession.

After a Selby line-out and with the last play of the game announced, the game was drawing to its conclusion with a well executed maul by Selby, although it did very little to prevent the Alligator’s from gaining possession and very nearly gave Leon Caplin the chance for a last minute try. Sadly his efforts didn’t pay off and he was tackled, ending the game with a comfortable 33-7 win for the Alligator’s.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: James Millington for yet another fantastically motivated performance, not to mention the highly praised hat trick that came as a result of James’ persistence in the mauls. James is a magnificent pack leader and leads by example, often with amazing results. His commitment to the Alligators and the game of Rugby is abundantly clear, as is his quest for a triumphant season finale. A worthy candidate of this week’s ‘Man of the Match’, without doubt.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 33 - 7 Selby

Try Scorers:

James Millington 3

Michael Walker 1

Sam Howard 1

Total Alligator Tries: 5

Conversions:

Jack Hatfield 3

Michael Walker 1

Total Alligator Con’s: 4

Attendance:

16/22 - (73%)

Home

Match Report

2011-03-01T08:07:00.000-08:00

Ionians Alligators v Driffield U12’s

27^th February 2011

The Alligators turned out in force today, with only a couple of key players missing. With a strong opposition to face, they knew that staying focused and playing with passion and an abundance of willpower would be the only way to claim victory over Driffield.

Driffield kicked-off and the ever vigilant Ellis Rimmington made light work of catching the ball and immediately began making his way forward before getting tackled. The return of Guy Whittaker proved to be a real asset as he wasted no time in getting stuck in, beginning with a great tackle and steal to send the ball straight out to the wing. Unfortunately, it went a little far and just into touch giving Driffield the first line-out.

An excellent scrum pass from George Boynton to Michael Walker and across to Guy Whittaker then James Millington who quickly off-loaded to Sam Howard was a brilliant array of ball passes that very nearly gave Sam the chance to bolt for the try line. Although Sam did well to keep hold of the ball, he was dragged into touch well into Driffields’ half.

Ian Shimmells showed no mercy as he too got stuck in and began wading his way through several opposing defenders to edge his team forward. Seeing Driffield closing in on the try line was enough to bring Ellis Rimmington and Sam Howard quickly to the rescue as they lunged at the Driffield player, sending him flying into touch and preventing a try against the Alligators.

Driffield, realising the Alligators were out to win at all costs, forced their way through a lapsed opening and very nearly gained a try but gave a little knock-on that saved the Alligators once again. The Alligator scrum gave George Boynton the chance to pass out to Michael Walker who kicked the ball deep into Driffields’ half, into touch and clear of danger. Driffield got the line-out and passed with equal precision to that of the Alligators. However, their long high kick was well caught by Jack Hatfield and passed out onto the wing.

Just when you thought Driffield was going to steal the first try with a sudden burst through another weak Alligator opening. Michael Walker came to the rescue with a fast sprint and a lovely soaring tackle to send the Driffield player flying into touch just shy of the try line.

The Alligator’s were also having a great kicking game and when George Boynton kicked deep into a Driffield defence, the ball was knocked-on, giving the Alligator’s a well placed scrum. After a second scrum restart, George once again got the ball out to Michael Walker for another long and accurate kick up field. After regaining possession, the Alligator’s didn’t waste the accurate kicks, chased well and with a neat little pass from Michael Walker to Guy Whittaker, the Alligator’s were now shining with confidence.

A long pass from George Boynton to Ethan Canet-Baldwin played out well for Ethan as he tried desperately to exert enough energy to elude his opposition with a dynamic dash down the wing. Fortunately, Ethan’s hard work didn’t go without its rewards as the Alligators soon gained a penalty to keep play concentrated in Driffield’s half until the half time whistle blew.

Going into half time with a 0-0 score was surely a first for both sides, and with everything to play for, the second half was going to be equally as exciting.

The Alligators got the second half under way and with a few short kicks back and forth it almost seemed like a game of, dare I say it, football for a minute. The Alligator’s quickly gained the upper hand and very nearly penetrated Driffield’s defence, but alas, Driffield were just too punishing for the brave little Alligator’s on this occasion. Eventually, the hard work paid off when a maul close to the try line saw a brilliant pass that started with Charlie Cartmell’s pass to Michael Walker who drew his man in perfectly with a neat little off-load to send Jack Green-Morgan, who was suitably positioned, to quickly charge over the try line and touch down the all important, superbly placed try.

The Alligators now had the edge they so deserved and weren’t about to let their rivals take it away from them. Some brilliant and accurate passing down the wing meant that Driffield would have to force the error to be in with any chance of reclaiming the game. Even the hardest of passes were being caught well by the Alligators, as Matty Gill’s pass from Michael Walker showed. Unfortunately, although Matty managed to keep hold of the ball, he was ultimately nudged into touch for his efforts.

Driffield maintained their strong defence and tackled fearsomely, trying desperately to outplay and outwit the Alligators. Their desperate measures very nearly gained them a late equaliser but the Alligators were just as fearsome and just as ruthless in defending their ground and quickly took their opponent into touch before he do any harm. The Alligator’s knew that keeping possession would be hard and with play concentrated mainly in their half, it was a real task to cling on to the ball and prevent Driffield from scoring.

Guy Whittaker gave a great performance and made a concentrated effort to barge his way through Driffield’s defence, but the strength of Driffield proved too much for Guy and he was taken into touch just over the half way line.

The Alligators, not exempt from desperation, made an unfortunate but slight forward pass in their attempt to secure another try. It was, however, quickly spotted and gave Driffield a glimmer of hope. Luckily for the Alligators, Driffield did very little with their last chance to turn the game around and now appeared to be accepting the inevitable. Driffield’s last kick of the game was effortlessly caught by Matty Gill, who knew all he had to do was keep hold of the ball.

A late penalty to the Alligators gave Michael Walker the chance to kick the ball deep into relative safety. Driffield, having gained possession, brought the ball back up field but was quickly forced into touch by several Alligator’s close to the home try line. When the final play of the game was announced, an Alligator line-out was won and the ball was passed out to Michael Walker who attempted a long kick into touch, but didn’t quite make it. It was caught by a Driffield attacker, who ran the ball back into a barrage of Alligator defenders, ultimately knocking-on and ending the game 7-0 to the Alligators.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: Sam Howard for his outstanding contribution in preventing Driffield from touching down a single try. When Sam is enthusiastically charged and ultimately focused he is without doubt a formidable force, relentlessly punishing the opposition at every opportunity. His efforts in tackling the opposition and preventing the inevitable try coupled with his ball skills was exemplary and most certainly played a significant part in today’s outcome.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 7 - 0 Driffield

Try Scorers:

Jack Green-Morgan 1

Total Alligator Tries: 1

Conversions:

Jack Hatfield 1

Total Alligator Con’s: 1

Attendance: 17/22 - (77%)

Home

Match Report

2011-02-23T01:03:00.000-08:00

Ionians Alligators v Bridlington U12’s

20^th February 2011

The Alligators broke several records today, the quickest try, the highest half time and full time score, the highest winning margin and the greatest number of try scorers. It was a well deserved, well played and dominant game that gave the Alligators a much needed boost in confidence.

The Alligators kicked off and with an immediate chase, James Millington took possession and charged across the try line within seconds, giving the Alligators a record for the quickest try.

Bridlington quickly gained a scrum and, with a bit of a scuffle, the ball escaped and was bravely snatched by George Boynton who quickly passed to Michael Walker and ended with a pass out wide to Sam Howard who made the dash down the wing to score.

Although the Alligators for the most part maintained control, a sudden lapse in concentration gave Bridlington the chance to steal the ball and bolt through a careless opening towards the try line. A quick thinking Michael Walker gave chase and intercepted his opponent just a few yards from the try line and brought him down. Bridlington saw this as their best chance to score a try and soon regained possession, crossing the line moments later.

The Alligators re-started the game and immediately gave chase. Kyro Kelly, running down the wing, placed himself in a good position to receive the ball before getting tackled. A quick pass from Kyro gave Charlie Cartmell the chance to make a break for the try line and score.

It was all steam ahead for the Alligators as their ball handling became more accurate as the game went on. A lovely little neat pass from the scrum by George Boynton saw Michael Walker receive it perfectly before passing out to Ellis Rimmington on the wing. Ellis caught the ball beautifully and eluded several players before getting tackled, but not before passing to James Millington who was patiently waiting close by for the quick off-load so he could thunder his way over the try line for the Alligators’ fourth try of the day.

The Alligators controlled the mauls with fierce aggression and considerable ease. Oscar Cavil held onto the ball for quite some time before the referee decided the ball was going nowhere and awarded a penalty to the Alligators in their own half. Kyro Kelly found it seemingly easy to grab a loose ball from beneath a maul but was quickly taken into touch for his efforts, giving Bridlington the line-out.

Following a wrestle just over the half way line, a ball pass to George Boynton glided its way across to Michael Walker, who instead of touching down the try himself, as George could have also done, slipped the ball out to Matty Gill who crossed the line and scored the fifth try.

Sam Howard played his part very well when he made a great catch and sent the ball flying over to Ellis Rimmington on the wing, who sprinted down the touch line and secured the sixth try for the Alligators.

A tremendous effort by Charlie Cartmell very nearly notched up another try just before half time but unfortunately Charlie was nudged into touch, ending the first half 42-5 to the Alligators and cementing another record for the highest half-time result.

As the second half got under way, Bridlington quickly gained a scrum but lost the ball to George Boynton who passed out wide for Ethan Canet-Baldwin to sprint down the wing. Unfortunately, Ethan was caught and taken into touch. However, it wasn’t long before the Alligators regained control, systematically passing the ball with careful thought. Once more, Ethan was on hand and running down the wing waiting for the loose ball. It came when a long pass headed his way and although valiantly evading several Bridlington players, Ethan was taken into touch.

James Millington showed no mercy as he struggled away at a maul to steal the ball and quickly off-loaded to Oscar Cavil who just managed to tip over the line for try number seven.

Bridlington re-started with a kick that landed straight into the hands of George Boynton who went into a maul just over the half way line. The ball came out pretty quick but landed into touch for a Bridlington line-out. Although the Alligators managed to win the line-out, the ball was knocked-on and Bridlington won the scrum.

George Boynton made another fantastic pass across to Michael Walker who charged down the wing, with Bridlington in hot pursuit and closing in, and straight over the try line to score the Alligators’ eighth try of the day.

Oscar Cavill also made some terrific catches and went into the mauls hard and fast, enabling his team mates to get the ball out to George Boynton for yet another lovely pass, this time to Leon Caplin who also charged down the wing and across the line for the ninth try for the Alligators.

A great kick and chase by George Boynton, caught well by the man himself and safely off-loaded to Michael Walker who made his way over the try line to secure the tenth and final try of the day.

During the closing few minutes, Michael Walker passed out wide to Matty Gill who, although tackled, successfully managed to off-load to George Boynton who also succumbed to Bridlington’s desperate tackling. Another pass by Michael, hastily but successfully caught by Sam Howard, seemed like a juggling act for Sam to keep hold of the ball before he also off-loaded to Matty Gill. However, Bridlington soon intercepted and gained possession, although they could do little to prevent the Alligators from winning the final scrum of the day deep in Bridlington’s half.

The game ended in favour of the Alligators and broke all previous records with a fantastic 70-5 result, after successfully converting all ten try’s.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: Michael Walker for his unique passing and tackling skills and his immense contribution in today’s game. Michael always gives a stunning performance and usually passes the ball with great accuracy. His ability to receive the ball is equally as impressive and very seldom does he miss the quick off-load or the long wide pass. Michael doesn’t possess to be the ultimate try scorer, but today gave him the chance to prove that he has the ability to equal his talented team mates.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results: Alligators 70 - 5 Bridlington

Try Scorers:

Michael Walker 2

James Millington 2

Sam Howard 1

Charlie Cartmell 1

Matthew Gill 1

Ellis Rimmington 1

Oscar Cavill 1

Leon Caplin 1

Total Alligator Tries: 10

Conversions:

Michael Walker 8

George Boynton 2

Total Alligator Con’s: 10

Attendance: 15/22 - (68%)

Home

Match Report

2011-01-26T03:05:00.000-08:00

Ionians Alligators v Cleethorpes & Huddersfield U12’s

23^rd January 2011

G1 - Cleethorpes: The Alligators kicked off and with a glancing touch of the ball by Cleethorpes, it went straight into touch for an Alligator line-out. Put neatly in by Max Smeaton, the ball quickly found its way across to George Boynton after James Millington’s high line-out jump gave them immediate possession.

A penalty to Cleethorpes didn’t go as planned as Jack Green-Morgan responded with a brilliant catch and off-load to Charlie Webster who unfortunately soon got tackled. It wasn’t long though, before a maul broke out just a few yards from the try line and James Millington grabbed the ball and crushingly forced his way through a barrage of Cleethorpes defenders to lunge over the try line and score the first try of the day, soon after kick-off.

Cleethorpes restarted the game with a rather sloppy kick that was inevitably well taken by George Boynton who ran clear down the right-hand wing and, even with Cleethorpes close behind, managed to secure the Alligators’ second try in the top corner.

The Alligators gave a stunning display of accurate passing skills and even though Cleethorpes managed to steal once such ball close on half way, Jack Hatfield’s brilliant tackling ensured they didn’t have it for long. He quickly grabbed the ball and passed out wide to Charlie Cartmell on the left wing who successfully made it over the try line, only to be denied the try for ambiguously dropping the ball.

A great effort by Jack Hatfield to bulldoze his way through was quickly thwarted when Cleethorpes took control and escaped the clutches of the Alligators to make their own way over the try line and score.

As half time approached, the Alligators took the ball into a wrestle of a maul close to the try line, which very nearly saw them rewarded for their efforts. Ultimately it ended in a scrum to Cleethorpes, soon followed by the whistle, ending the first half 14-7 to the Alligators.

Cleethorpes got the second half under way and with a little but unfortunate knock-on by George Boynton, a scrum was given to Cleethorpes and they took full advantage, penetrating the Alligator defence to touch down their second try.

The Alligators tried desperately to regain and hold possession as Cleethorpes stepped up the pressure. A great effort by Jack Green-Morgan and Ethan Canet-Baldwin to reach the try line very nearly succeeded, but Cleethorpes managed to intercept and gain possession to kick the ball back down field. Their high kick didn’t stop Finlay Hills from catching it with considerable ease and making his way back up field.

Jack Hatfield, once again, made a courageous effort to get over the try line but was prevented from doing so when Cleethorpes managed to retake the ball and kick it into touch for an Alligator line-out on the half way line. It was James Millington who tightly held the ball and began lunging forwards before managing to off-load to Sam Howard, who was then tackled.

There was no letting up for Jack Hatfield as he successfully managed to prevent a sure try against the Alligators as he kept up the pressure with some magnificent tackling.

With just minutes to go before full-time and the score level, the Alligators made one last attempt to triumph over Cleethorpes, and this time it was Henry Harman who caught a loose ball and passed out wide to Charlie Webster in the hope he would make it down the wing and score, but sadly it wasn’t to be and Cleethorpes made the tackle and ended the game 14-14.

G2 - Huddersfield: The game against Huddersfield didn’t go quite as well as one would have hoped. Jack Hatfield got the game under way and the ball was immediately taken into touch by Huddersfield for an Alligator line-out.

Huddersfield didn’t waste any time in showing the Alligators what they were up against and, after only a minute or so of play, magnificently weaved their way through the helpless Alligators to touch down the first of several try’s against the home side.

Jack Green-Morgan stepped up to the mark and successfully prevented Huddersfield from gaining another early try by bringing his man crashing to the ground. Soon after, Huddersfield managed to regain control and made another dash for the try line, only to ground the ball several yards short. They then got up, crossed the try line but was held up.

Huddersfield did everything in their power to keep up the pressure on the Alligators and passed with considerable ease and accuracy, outwitting the Alligators at every turn. It wasn’t long before they notched up an abundance of try’s against the Alligators and were finding it surprisingly effortless to control the game.

The Alligators did, however, show some signs of skilful playing, especially in the line-outs and with James Millington’s natural ability to pluck the ball from mid air, he was able to slip it out to Sam Howard who managed to keep possession for a while before Huddersfield intercepted an unlucky pass and took control again. The Alligators soon retaliated and sent their opponent spiralling into touch for his efforts.

The first half now drawing to a close, it was Sam Howard who bravely and very nearly made a clear break for the try line, but was stopped short before he could reach it. The first ended with an embarrassing 26-0 lead to Huddersfield.

Huddersfield got the second half under way and soon began pressurising the Alligators with above average tackling and ball skills, enabling them to soon notch up another try moments after kick-off.

A glimmer of hope now faced the Alligators as Jack Hatfield restarted the game with an excellent volley up field which just glanced off a Huddersfield player close to the try line and sending the ball straight into touch for an Alligator line-out.

Matthew Gill was on form again as he successfully caught a long high ball, preventing Huddersfield from giving much of a chase.

Huddersfield’s relentless work kept the Alligators under constant threat and desperate to prevent an onslaught of try’s. One of which was masterfully thwarted by Jack Hatfield and his persistent tackling skills.

New to the Alligators, Ian Shimells showed positive signs of becoming a real danger to opposing sides as he waded his way in and brought his man thundering down with no difficulty at all.

Even heavily down on points, the Alligators kept up the spectacular tackling and most certainly prevented an over-abundance of try’s against them. Jack Hatfield and Ethan Canet-Baldwin made sure their man went safely into touch with a double barrel tackle.

Although the Alligators had moments of sheer brilliance, overall, their defence seemed to lack solidity, which left too many openings for Huddersfield to take advantage of. If the Alligators could have shown the same enthusiastic prowess in defence as they did in ball manipulation and some of the more challenging tackles, then Huddersfield would have experienced a far tougher game that could have so easily had a different outcome. Unfortunately for the Alligators, the game was to end 33-0 in favour of a well deserved Huddersfield side.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: Leon Caplin for his no-nonsense attitude. Leon never seems to give up when trying to bring the opposition to their knees, never shying away and never too afraid to get stuck in. His penetrable ability to force his way through and take down the opponent has been evident throughout Leon’s ‘come-back’ season so far and there appears to be no sign of him slowing down. He has become quite a delight to watch and a most worthwhile asset to the team.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 14 - 14 Cleethorpes

Alligators 0 - 33 Huddersfield

Try Scorers:

James Millington 1

George Boynton 1

Total Alligator Tries: 2

Conversions:

Jack Hatfield 2

Total Alligator Con’s: 2

Attendance: 21/24 - (88%)

Home

Match Report

2011-01-13T02:43:00.000-08:00

Ionians Alligators v Goole & Hull U12’s

9^thJanuary 2011

G1 - Goole: Playing on a half size pitch, Goole got the game under way with a hefty kick caught by Oscar Cavill who went neatly into a maul with Kyro Kelly and James Millington immediately exerting pressure on Goole as they entered the maul. It was then George Boynton who tried to regain possession but unfortunately Goole were delighting in the pressure and retaliated with a well deserved try in the first five minutes.

A volley well up field by Jack Hatfield gave George Boynton the opportunity to thunder deep into Goole’s half. An Alligator scrum just a few yards from Goole’s try line gave them a chance, with a great tackle by James Millington, virtually on the try line, and a well placed pass by George Boynton to Jack Green-Morgan, on to Jack Hatfield then back to Jack Green-Morgan to eloquently deposit on the try line.

The Alligators had to fight hard to prevent Goole’s penetration, and with play close to the Alligator try line; George Boynton came to the rescue and took his opponent crashing into touch before Goole almost sneaked a try in the top corner. Just as George had done in one corner, when Goole pressurised, Jack Hatfield rescued the Alligators and sent his man flying into touch.

An Alligator line-out, neatly put in by Max Smeaton, made its way to George Boynton who wellied it up field and straight into touch for a Goole line-out just beyond half-way. Now in Goole’s half, Jack Green-Morgan and Leon Caplin maintained pressure with instant and effective tackling that nearly gave Jack Hatfield a clear run through having successfully gained possession.

Goole hastily began kicking at every opportunity, but fortunately for the Alligators, Matty Gill played his full-back position brilliantly as Goole desperately tried to get the ball back up field with a high kick. He homed in and caught the ball flawlessly, instantly charging forwards.

The Alligators’ ball manipulation was excellent and a great pass from George Boynton to Jack Hatfield and across to Sam Howard very nearly gave them another try but alas, Sam was taken down before he could reach the try line ending the first half 7-7.

Jack Hatfield got the second half under way and the Alligators gave immediate chase and tackled Goole but they still managed to get the ball out. James Millington and Jack Hatfield quickly responded, pounced and sent Goole into touch.

A Goole penalty very nearly cost the Alligators a try, and things didn’t improve when a scrum was lost to Goole’s swift intercepting skills. Luckily, the scrum was restarted and George Boynton wasn’t about to let them get the upper hand again as he ran to safety.

A little knock-on by Goole on the half-way line gave the Alligators an opportunity to take the lead. It was unfortunate that an otherwise lovely diving pass by George Boynton to Jack Green-Morgan went slightly forwards as it made its way across to Charlie Webster, giving Goole an opportunity to thunder towards the try line before crashing into a wall of Alligator defenders.

An unfortunate line-out for the Alligators on the half way line bounced back and was tapped into touch giving Goole the advantage with a line-out. The Alligators exerted a mass of energy putting up a tough defence against an eager Goole side as they came close to securing a winning try after a tense and aggressive maul in which James Millington, Leon Caplin and Oscar Cavill displayed immense stamina trying to retain possession. Eventually, the ball came loose and made its way across to Jack Hatfield who impulsively began barging his way through several Goole players before succumbing to their tough defenders.

With minutes to go, the Alligators, trying desperately to win a Goole line-out, got a break when the ball went straight back out for an Alligator line-out. A sneaky pass by George Boynton to Leon Caplin was enough to end the game in a draw, with neither side scoring in the second half.

G2 - Hull: A Hull kick-off saw the ball go immediately dead, giving the first scrum to the Alligators. Some accurate and well placed passing kept Hull at bay for a while but a sudden lapse in concentration meant that Hull very nearly made the try line first. Fortunately for the Alligators, a held-up call was given and spared them an early deficit. However, it wasn’t long before Hull gained the advantage, with a scrum just five yards out enabling them to quickly deploy the ball and charge over the Alligator try line to score.

High kicks seemed to be the order of the day, and Hull made no exception with their high volley deep into Alligator territory. It was newcomer, Finlay Hills who bravely called for the ball and made a concentrated and successful effort to grab it from the air and immediately off-load it to Ethan Canet-Baldwin to make an audacious attempt at scoring. The ball went wide and was quickly taken by Jack Hatfield who made the stunning dive across the try line to score.

Following a Hull scrum where George Boynton managed to steal the ball, a maul gave Sam Howard the chance to rip the ball away from his opponents, get it out to Oscar Cavill and back to George for a magnificent try in the top corner. The first half ended with a scramble of a maul and a scrum to Hull with no real threat to the Alligators.

The second half got under way with several long and high kicks from both sides. However, the Alligators had now mastered the art of receiving the high kick, and when Hull tried to outplay them with one such kick, an optimistic Sam Howard, whilst galloping up field, caught it perfectly. Although tackled, Sam was still able to off-load to Charlie Webster who took it into the maul.

The Alligators managed to keep play within Hull’s half for quite a while before another of Hull’s high kicks headed directly towards Sam Howard again. He wasn’t as lucky this time and the ball escaped his grasp but still went safely backwards.

Hull maintained a strong kicking game and their next volley went clean into touch for an Alligator line-out. Put in by Max Smeaton and taken by James Millington, the ball was taken straight into a maul and the Alligators tried frantically to cling on to it, but unfortunately Hull eventually gained possession and, following a penalty, immediately secured their final try.

With only two points in it and only a few minutes of play left, Charlie Cartmell hit a maul and made a sudden grab for the ball, passing it out to Sam Howard who made a quick bolt for the try line. Although Sam made the try line he was unlucky to have dropped the ball, but a great effort nevertheless. Seconds later, with no second half try’s, the game ended 14-12 to the Alligators.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: Jack Hatfield for his magnificent and courageous effort throughout both games. Jacks’ enthused attitude and his commitment to the game is a constant reminder why he is regarded as a high calibre player. Jacks’ tackling ability and his kicking skills have always been tremendously impressive. Against Hull in particular, he ensured the Alligators had maximum points to win the game by successfully converting all the Alligator try’s.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 7 - 7 Goole

Alligators 14 - 12 Hull

Try Scorers:

Jack Green-Morgan 1

Jack Hatfield 1

George Boynton 1

Total Alligator Tries: 3

Conversions:

Jack Hatfield 3

Total Alligator Con’s: 3

Attendance: 19/22 - (86%)

Home

Sunday 16th Jan

2011-01-13T01:57:00.000-08:00

To All

This sunday the U12's are training at Ionians, 10.30am start

We are not at Doncaster as the fixture book states, due to their Yorkshire cup committements

Hope to see all on Sunday

Regards

Tony Walker

2011-01-05T13:04:00.000-08:00

Ionians Alligators v York U12’s

2^nd January 2011

After a long spell of bad weather preventing play, the Alligators took to the pitch full of enthusiasm and anxious to be unleashed. York kicked off and the ball landed comfortably with Henry Harman, who immediately charged forwards and began the punishing fight through a well prepared York defence. After being brought to the ground, York finally gained possession and, with a quick scrum deployment, kept up pressure and crossed the line to score the first try.

The Alligators retaliated with some positive tackling and when they very nearly penetrated York’s defence, York kicked a long ball, which although well chased by Matthew Gill, went straight over the dead ball line.

A high tackle on James Millington close to the half way line appeared to give the Alligators a slight advantage for a while and the efforts of Leon Caplin to prevent York from getting through for another certain try was quite exemplary, making two very courageous tackles in quick succession.

An Alligator line-out saw play concentrate in one area for a while before they won a scrum and nudged play closer towards York’s try line. The next Alligator line-out was less than successful, as York bravely gained immediate possession and raced down the wing and over the try line.

After successfully notching up two try’s in the first half, York went into the break with a 14 point lead and the Alligators now had their work cut out for them.

After an exceptionally long half-time break, while officials disputed the games’ continuation due to inclement weather conditions, the decision to continue was made and Jack Hatfield got the game underway. An unfortunate return kick by York bounced awkwardly and graciously intercepted by George Boynton who kept possession.

After restarting several scrums, the ball eventually made its way across the pitch to Ethan Canet-Baldwin, who although missed a crucial pass, soon rectified the situation with a stunning tackle that prevented York from gaining anything other than a scrum.

The Alligators fought hard and showed more aggression as James Millington penetrated York’s defence but was brought down and temporarily lost the ball. York then kicked it straight into touch for an Alligator line-out, which York soon intercepted. It was then down to James Millington to once again regain possession and go straight into a maul.

With the pressure mounting, some great passing by Jack Green-Morgan across to Henry Harman and over to Ethan Canet-Baldwin was a sure sign that the Alligators were now quite focused and determined to make the score sheet. A strong hold in the top corner ensured James Millington kept possession and barged his way across the try line to score the first Alligator try of 2011.

York hit straight back with some equally as good ball work and managed to successfully weave their way through several Alligators to cross the try line at the other end. With the Alligators taken by surprise, York made another daring attempt to dash the full length of the pitch to notch up their fourth and final try of the day.

Angered by their poor defending, the Alligators made one final attempt to make it over the try line themselves. It came when George Boynton masterfully grabbed the ball from a maul and weaved his way through several York defenders to score the final try of the day.

With only minutes to go, the Alligators maintained a strong defence and prevented York from notching up any further try’s, ending the game 28-14 in favour of York.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: Ethan Canet Baldwin for his enthusiasm and shining determination in today’s game. Ethan’s continued improvement in his playing ability and his passion for the game is abundantly clear. Often seen out on the wing, he gets stuck in at every opportunity and never shy’s away from a difficult situation. He remained confident throughout the game and played his part exceptionally well.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 14 - 28 York

Try Scorers:

James Millington 1

George Boynton 1

Total Alligator Tries: 2

Conversions:

Jack Hatfield 2

Total Alligator Con’s: 2

Attendance:

18/25 - (86%)

Home

2010-12-02T02:04:00.000-08:00

Ionians Alligators U12's 2010/2011 season

Match Report

2010-11-22T10:26:00.000-08:00

Ionians Alligators v Scunthorpe U12’s

21^st November 2010

Scunthorpe kicked off and a well taken ball by Oscar Cavill ensured it went down the line to Henry Harmon, who cleared quite a distance before being nudged into touch.

After an Alligator knock-on, a scrum to Scunthorpe deep in their own half still managed to give the Alligator’s an advantage with a quick drive forwards. Captain of the day, James Millington, took possession and forced his way through and barged over the try line to score the first try.

Scunthorpe, feeling the pressure, tried for a quick scrum but a dropped ball cost them and the Alligator’s took control with a great pass to Ethan Canet-Baldwin who made his way past several players before getting tackled. Michael Walker made another great tackle on one of Scunthorpe’s biggest players to see him into touch just over the half way line. Although it was put neatly in by Kyro Kelly and taken well by James Millington, the line-out was re-started for not being straight. A second go saw the ball land in the hands of Sam Howard who immediately off-loaded to Jack Green-Morgan to take out wide.

The Alligators’ mauling was getting constructively aggressive and a brilliant exertion to reach the try line was only thwarted by a chance loose ball being grabbed up by Scunthorpe and prevented the Alligator’s from scoring. Although the ball was successfully passed out, it didn’t prevent Michael Walker from giving chase and stopping the Scunthorpe hopeful from scoring by pushing him into touch for an Alligator line-out and a chance to re-group.

Passing out wide seemed to be a favourable choice for the Alligator’s, as Michael Walker’s pass to Jack Green-Morgan and across to Max Smeaton clearly demonstrated. Max’s attempt to reach and cross the try line was exemplary and only with the realisation that he would fall short did he have the intuition to give a sneaky little off-load to our eagerly awaited scrum half, Harry Wells, who was waiting close by for the anticipated off-load, which he got and magnificently tipped it over the try line and scored.

James Millington’s effort to once again barge his way through Scunthorpe’s defence enabled Jack Green-Morgan to take a lovely pass, dart for the try line and score. After a wonderful try, the Alligator’s seemed to relax a little too much and a couple of stray balls eluded them before a bad pass onto the wing had to be intercepted by Henry Harmon, who tried desperately to grab the ball but was forced to kick it up field and into touch.

Oscar Cavill made a daring bolt for the try line and very nearly succeeded but was taken into touch just a couple of yards from the try line. A quick line-out by Scunthorpe saw Oscar get straight back to work with an intercepted tackle and steal which saw Charlie Cartmell take possession and cross the try line. Sadly his try was ruled out for knocking-on. Scunthorpe, now quite frustrated, made a daring attempt to gain possession and run clear, almost out of reach, but an extra vigilant Jack Hatfield wasn’t about to let his man get away and gave chase and brought him to the ground.

The combined effort of Jack Green-Morgan and Michael Walker to ground their opponent before he could slip past was shear brilliance and resulted in them gaining possession to keep play at a comfortable distance from their own try line. Jack’s continuous pounding of Scunthorpe’s defence very nearly secured him another try, but unfortunately he was sent into touch.

A last ditch try-line struggle right on half time gave the Alligators a 17-0 lead.

The second half got under way with the kick hastily received by Scunthorpe, who soon lost control. Oscar Cavil regained possession for the Alligators before going into touch.

Jack Green-Morgan, yet again, got stuck in and made a terrific weave through several Scunthorpe players to score his second try of the day. Hitting straight back with diligence, James Millington, Oscar Cavil and Charlie Cartmell made a combined effort to keep the ball from going out of play, but alas, a forward pass almost on the try line prevented them from scoring.

The Alligators were fighting hard and hitting mauls with intensified aggression in their quest to notch up more try’s. Scunthorpe could do little to prevent them from getting through and a well educated pass from James Millington saw to it that Kyro Kelly finally made the assault over the try line to score.

Scunthorpe, after being awarded a penalty, kicked high and deep into Alligator territory. After a bit of a scuffle to keep possession, Ethan Canet-Baldwin gave a conscious pass to Michael Walker who off-loaded to Jack Hatfield for a quick kick up field before getting tackled.

Good communication certainly played its part in today’s game. James Millington controlled his team with clear and constructive comments. James’ ball out to Michael Walker for his sly deployment to Jack Green-Morgan was a great attempt to outwit Scunthorpe. Unfortunately, the ball went slightly short for Jack to take and Henry Harmon stepped in to rescue it and pass out to Sam Howard. Although Sam was taken into touch, it was a great display of teamwork.

The Alligators seemed to be in full control of their mauling and paid greater attention to getting the ball out and from harm’s way. An eager Matthew Gill paid particular attention when one such ball came out of a maul and straight into his hands. He then weaved his way through and over the try line for his first try with the Alligators. Matthew spared no energy as he cleared good ground after Scunthorpe re-started the game and the ball landed back with him. Worried that he would fall at the hands of Scunthorpe, Matthew quickly off-loaded to Michael Walker who desperately tried to keep possession. In full support out on the wing was Ellis Rimmington, ready to back up his team mates and help defend his line, a role that Ellis has adapted to very well. Scunthorpe tried hopelessly to penetrate the bravely defended Alligator’s, but just couldn’t get through. Even the maul near the end of the game became a struggle for Scunthorpe to contend with and the game finished 38-0 to the Alligators.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: James Millington for his outstanding contribution in today’s game. James had his first outing as Captain today and mastered the position flawlessly. His control of the team was commendable and his authority during the game quite evident. He managed the team from start to finish and boldly demonstrated how the game should be played.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 38 - 0 Scunthorpe

Try Scorers:

Jack Green-Morgan 2

James Millington 1

Kyro Kelly 1

Matthew Gill 1

Harry Wells 1

Total Alligator Tries: 6

Conversions:

Michael Walker 3

Jack Hatfield 1

Total Alligator Con’s: 4

Attendance: 14/25 - (56%) Away

Match Report

2010-11-18T05:19:00.000-08:00

East Yorkshire Festival

Ionians Alligators v Pocklington, Malton, Driffield & Hullensians U12’s

14^th November 2010

It was a hard day for the Alligators, facing some tough competition whilst still gelling as a team. It is, however, quite evident that the Alligators have great potential, and once gelled, will be a formidable force against any team.

G1 - Pocklington: A Pocklington kick-off didn’t go well for the Alligators and a dropped ball had to be quickly picked up by Charlie Webster. A Pocklington interception very nearly cost the Alligators an early try. No sooner had the Alligators prevented the try when a quick scrum enabled Pocklington to get the ball out and over the try line.

A great kick, deep into Pocklington’s half, was quickly returned and caught by Charlie Cartmell who tried frantically to get through a heavy defence but just couldn’t. Undeterred with being tackled, Charlie was again on hand to receive a carefully delivered ball from James Millington before tapping it out to Sam Howard who grabbed it by the tip of his fingers before succumbing to Pocklington’s might. Another chance eluded George Boynton as he off-loaded the perfect ball to Michael Walker, only for Michael to hit a wall of Pocklington defenders. Oscar Cavill also had his chance to get through Pocklington’s defence and, for a while, made some good ground with Sam Howard close by to receive a potential loose ball. In the end it was Jack Hatfield who gained possession and charged forward, very nearly making the try line.

The Alligators were executing some great ball work and a pass from Jack Hatfield to Michael Walker and out for Charlie Webster to make the last attempt before half time to reach the try line was unfortunately halted as he was brought to the ground.

The second half started with a deep kick by Michael Walker which landed straight into Pocklington hands, who immediately gave a forward pass. A quick George Boynton, after putting the ball into the scrum, instantly followed it through and regained possession for a swift pass to Sam Howard, which ended in a bit of a grapple before Pocklington gained control. A push by James Millington helped gain a few yards for the Alligators but it was Leon Caplin’s effort to reach the try line that nearly secured an equaliser.

Pocklington took many chances when kicking and often kicked too hard, even costing them an Alligator lineout when they kicked the ball right out of play. Their exerted effort to reach the try line was defended well by the Alligators, but a slight lapse in concentration enabled Pocklington to sneak through and touch down the crucial try that sealed the game. The Alligators continued to push forwards and had several chances to reach the try line but Pocklington were simply too quick in defending and the game ended 10-0 to Pocklington.

G2 - Malton: Although taken well by Sam Howard, as Malton kicked off, it wasn’t long before a scrum saw Malton take control. A well placed penalty quickly followed with a try, which gave Malton an immediate advantage. The Alligators tried desperately not to let another early try get to them, but with all the frustration they bumbled a scrum and Malton managed to grab the ball and thrust it up field. Although Ethan Canet-Baldwin was on hand to receive it, it slipped out of his grasp and Malton regained possession.

Oscar Cavill made a real impact with his attempt to keep hold of the ball and made sure he covered several yards before being tackled into touch. A quick Malton lineout, which landed perfectly after going high and far, was abruptly stopped from going any further as Michael Walker made a daring and immediate tackle.

An interception by Jack Hatfield nearly paid off as he thundered through several Malton players to almost reach the try line, yet despite his gallant effort and being spurred on by touchline enthusiasts, he was prevented from crossing the line. A Malton penalty got the ball back up field and after an impressive weave; they got through the Alligator defence and scored.

With an increasing level of anxiety amongst the Alligators, an overzealous Oscar Cavill, courageously trying to prevent another try against the Alligators, made a high tackle and was penalised.

Malton were leading 5-0 at half time and with a high kick from Michael Walker, the ball went deep into Malton’s half. Although well caught by one of their biggest players, it didn’t deter James Millington from bringing him down. Malton quickly regained possession and passed out too wide and into touch for an Alligator lineout. Unfortunately, for the Alligators, Malton once again took control and made a break for the try line, successfully crossing it to score. Jack Hatfield restarted the game and with a return kick by Malton, it was Ethan Canet-Baldwin who caught and ran with the ball. Malton continued to threaten the Alligators and not all their attempts to reach the try line were successful as Oscar Cavill’s try-stopping tackle showed.

An Alligator scrum just over the half way line gave them a chance to regain control of the game, but after the referee had to restart the scrum no less than three times, Malton eventually won the ball and made the Alligators fight harder to prevent another try against them. Finally, it was a scrum awarded to Malton that concluded the game with a great drive forwards and a daring bid to cross the try line for the third and final time.

G3 - Driffield: As Driffield kicked off, newcomer Ellis Rimmington immediately clasped the ball from the air and charged forwards to clear good ground before succumbing to an oncoming Driffield defence. Driffield eventually gained possession to keep the ball in the Alligator half and a little too close to the try line.

The Alligators defended well against Driffield and even after a successful Driffield scrum, their efforts to charge towards the try line were quickly thwarted as George Boynton came to the rescue and nudged his man into touch for an Alligator lineout.

Driffield kept up the pressure and, with some clever ball work, managed to penetrate the Alligator defence and get the first try. The Alligators tried desperately to prevent Driffield from getting more try’s, executing every move as quickly as possible. A handing off by Driffield gave the Alligators a fighting chance to do something with the ball but alas they could not hang on to it for long.

A scrum for the Alligators just a few yards from Driffield’s try line was encouraging and they made a concentrated effort to keep play at that end. Driffield soon intercepted a loose ball and kicked it back up field, only for Ethan Canet-Baldwin to grab and bring back just before half time.

A second half kick by the Alligators allowed Jack Hatfield the opportunity to chase and retake the ball before getting tackled. Driffield kept up the pressure on the Alligator defence and eventually broke through and scored their second try.

Unfazed by Driffield’s persistent pounding, the Alligators retaliated with some pounding of their own by Ethan Canet-Baldwin and Sam Howard, who shared a joint effort to stop a definite try by pushing their opponent into touch. Driffield’s final assault came when Michael Walker executed a thunderous tackle to prevent any further try’s being scored.

G4 - Hullensians: The final game of the day, against Hullensians, proved to be a little more rewarding for the Alligators. Hullensians kicked off and the ball went straight into touch for an Alligator lineout. The Alligators immediately went on the attack, with a concentrated effort close to the try line. Unfortunately, a knock on prevented an early try for the Alligators.

The Alligators were feeling really confident and fancied their chances against Hullensians. Some great ball work with clear and focused minds finally paid off for the Alligators as Henry Harman took a great pass and charged over the try line to ground the first try of the day. Just before the half time whistle, the Alligators very nearly secured their second try, but sadly it was not awarded and they went into half time 5-0 up.

With the second half now under way, the Alligators were not about to let the game slip away from them and continued with their aggressive and much improved performance. However, a slight mishap nearly cost them as two Alligators decided to attempt to catch a high ball delivered by Hullensians, and in the scuffle, neither of them managed to keep hold of it.

A quick tap by George Boynton got the ball out to James Millington who stampeded through a wall of Hullensians to spectacularly slide over the try line and score. Not Content with just two try’s, the Alligators continued to hit hard and pass with greater accuracy in their bid to keep possession. A ball out to Correy Bennett and again to Oscar Cavill close to the Alligator try line saw a little scuffle develop as they tried frantically to reach the try line. Eventually it was Sam Howard’s quick thinking and taking of the ball that secured the third and final try of the day.

One final attempt to reach the other end came when Hullensians re-started the game with a high kick, brilliantly caught by Charlie Webster who immediately carried it as far as he could before being tackled. Hullensians attempts to take charge didn’t happen and they were forced to accept a 15-0 win to the Alligators.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: Jack Green-Morgan for his commitment in today’s event. Jack continues to impress with lifted enthusiasm and a dedicated attitude. His tackling was feisty and well executed and his ball work seemingly fine tuned and precise. Jack’s presence on the pitch and his role within the Alligators has always been a valuable asset and this season is by far no exception.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 0 - 10 Pocklington

Alligators 0 - 15 Malton

Alligators 0 - 10 Driffield

Alligators 15 - 0 Hull Ensians

Try Scorers:

Henry Harman 1

James Millington 1

Sam Howard 1

Total Alligator Tries: 3

Conversions: - - Total Alligator Con’s: -

Attendance: 19/25 - (76%) Away

Match Report

2010-11-10T11:11:00.000-08:00

Ionians Alligators v Bridlington U12’s

7^th November 2010

It was a disappointing start to the day, three pitch changes, one 24 minute game, a ‘tag size’ pitch, and to cap it all off, no meal vouchers.

After a late start, Bridlington got the game underway with a short kick and a slow start. With an immediate taking by George Boynton, he got the ball back near Bridlington’s try line but was tackled and prevented from crossing the line. The Alligators, not feeling remotely threatened, kept up the pressure with a great effort by Charlie Cartmell to cross the line and ground the ball. Unfortunately it was ruled out for being held up, a ruling that seemed to crop up several times.

The game appeared to have an extraordinary amount of scrum restarts, enabling the Alligators to keep possession and concentrate play well within Bridlington’s half. A challenging attempt by Harry Wells to get the ball out to Jack Green-Morgan and across for Michael Walker to chase down the touch line and over the try line was thwarted at the last hurdle for giving a forward pass. Soon after, the newly charged Ethan Canet-Baldwin, waiting on the wing, grabbed a high pass and made his way down the touch line to successfully ground the ball in the top corner for the Alligators first try.

A skilfully placed dummy pass executed by George Boynton to Jack Green-Morgan, ending with an unfortunate knock-on, was a great attempt to gain distance, not that the pitch had much distance, a few strides and the full length was covered.

A no-nonsense James Millington came to the rescue of team mate Joseph Bradley when Bridlington’s largest player cast Joseph aside as he tried to stop him. James, protecting his team mate, bravely and spectacularly bulldozed his way through and took several players out with him. Amid a constant onslaught of Alligators, it was only a matter of time before their tactical ball skills came to fruition, with an effortless surge ahead by Oscar Cavil to cross the line for the Alligators’ second try.

Starting the second half 15-0 up was quite reassuring for the Alligators as Michael Walker got the game started with a good kick into Bridlington’s half. A quick chase and snatch by Oscar Cavill ensured another easy and rapid try for the Alligators.

Newcomer Matthew Gill once again gave a stunning display as he weaved his way past several unsuspecting Bridlington players to gain ground before passing out wide for James Millington to quickly off-load to Oscar Cavill, who delighted us all with a well deserved hat-trick.

A centre-pitch wrestle kept the ball relatively dormant for a while, with neither side really taking charge. Once again, Oscar Cavill made a daring attempt to get yet another try. Sadly, he was brought down just shy of the try line. With the pressure on, Matthew Gill off-loaded brilliantly to George Boynton, who crossed the try line, but another ‘held-up’ ruling prevented the try from counting. Undeterred by the disallowed try, George re-grouped and came back with a vengeance and an even more spectacular try as he intercepted a loose ball and slid graciously over the line.

Now well into the second half, the Alligator’s won the first line-out of the game. With a brilliant tap from James Millington, the ball went skilfully out to Sam Howard who passed out wide to Jack Green-Morgan who then made a ‘full pitch’ sprint before off-loading to Oscar Cavill to touch down his fourth try of the day and making it six for the Alligators.

Although the Alligators’ game against Bridlington was an overwhelming success, it was a short game, played on a short pitch, didn’t really give the Alligators the challenge they came for, and seldom caused them to break a sweat.

The Alligators went on to play a second game, against the Ionians U11’s, which proved to be a more exhilarating game and played with greater passion. It is fair to say that the U11’s excelled in all aspects of the game and certainly gave the Alligators a run for their money. Their tackling was executed daringly and courageously and very often with positive results. Although the Alligators won the game, it was a tough and compelling game and very pleasurable to watch.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MAN OF THE MATCH: Oscar Cavill for an outstanding performance. Oscar kept up the pressure, constantly forcing his way through Bridlington’s defence. His quest to notch up the try’s didn’t prevent him from maintaining his positional play and using his skills to outwit the opposition on several occasions. His try count is testament to Oscars’ unique ability to outshine his adversary with considerable ease.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MATCH SUMMARY:

Results:

Alligators 30 - 0 Bridlington

Alligators 25 - 0 Ionians U11’s

Try Scorers:

Oscar Cavill 4

George Boynton 2

James Millington 2

Ethan Canet-Baldwin 1

Kyro Kelly 1

Michael Walker 1

Total Alligator Tries: 11

Conversions: - - Total Alligator Con’s: -

Attendance: 15/22 - (68%) Away

Sunday 7th November v Bridlington Away

2010-11-04T04:52:00.000-07:00

This sunday we are away at Bridlington, players to arrive 10.00 - 10.15 latest please

Bridlington Rugby Union Football Club
Dukes Park
Queensgate
Bridlington
East Yorks
YO16 7LN

Regards

Tony Walker
Head Coach