Chariots complete 39-22 win

YOUTH RUGBY: VERULAMIANS Chariots U14s hosted Aylesbury B on Sunday.

Aylesbury arrived with a squad of 20 players and looked impressive in the warm-up, and Vees were low in confidence having lost their first game of the season two weeks previously.

To compound Vees’ concerns, the side were short of two players, but Aylesbury were gracious enough to lend two strong players to even up the numbers. The bright weather heralded renewed vigour in the home side, and in no time at all, the Vees showed they were not going to stand aside and let Aylesbury dominate proceedings.

Josh Lawrence was in ebullient form, and several times managed to steal the ball whilst tackling. His runs led to several tries, although the referee had to penalise him for use of an elbow.

The Vees defended several more penalties by meeting force with force amongst the forwards. Fly-half Tom Croughton put in some great tackles, showed some good running strength and distributed the ball well. Newcomer Morad in the centres was also effective with his running and when caught always managed to lay the ball back his side. Aylesbury must have regretted offering their two useful players, who both enjoyed some good runs and scored a brace of tries.

At half-time the Vees were convincingly in the lead 27-0. In the second half, to help even the game up, the Vees coach Dale Ricketts asked Josh to play for the opposition, and he once again made an impression, managing to get a try for Aylesbury in his first few minutes playing for them, and this gave Aylesbury renewed confidence. However he met his match in Vees No.8 Johnny Townsend and the game became a much more even contest.

Dan Smith also had a good game and put in some good tackles. Full-back, Nick Keohane, playing up an age group from the U13s, showed some excellent jinking running to wrong-foot several defenders and finish off a well-worked move to score Vees’ final try.

The game ended with a comfortable 39-22 Vees victory. More importantly the Vees showed that they could play some pretty decent running rugby and compete against a well organised Aylesbury team.

Vees are keen to build on this success and are having a big recruitment drive, assisted by St Albans Active. Any players wishing to join the U14s in particular, but at any age group up to Under 16 are encouraged to call club chairman Rob Lines on 01727 759613 or go to www.vrugby.com for more details. The senior club also welcomes new players.