Cup exit with lessons to be learned

Wath exited, for the fourth year in succession, the Yorkshire Shield at the first hurdle against newly promoted to Yorkshire 1 side Bradford Salem. However, as all observers would agree, the scoreline flattered the visitors who made best use of any opportunity to score particularly from poor kicking and chasing by Wath. The Salem back three ran riot in open play to score four breakaway tries largely as a result of some inept tackling.
The match as a whole was very evenly contested with Wath gaining at least parity of possession and territory and performing well in the scrummage. Lineouts were however, a big let down leading to Wath giving away some prime possession opportunities. The other major difference between the two sides was in defense where Salem’s midfield was impenetrable and their kick/chase excellent.
Wath were soon 7-0 down as a result of poor blindside defense at a scrum and leaked two further well taken tries, all converted to make the score 0-21 after just 25 minutes play. However, Wath produced a series of fine attacking phases with the backs moving the ball fluently to create a scoring opportunity for Ben Cairns to score out wide, Adam West made the touchline conversion to make the score a more respectable 7-21. Another defensive lapse allowed Salem to score before half time, 7-28
The second half saw Wath completely dominate territory and possession and were able to score tries through catch and drives through James McCarthy and Ben Myers making the score a more respectable 19-28. At a time when Wath now needed to exert pressure with a win on the cards they actually went into defensive meltdown and allowed the Salem wingers and full back freedom of the park embarrassingly leaking two further tries and a penalty to make the final score 19-45.
There were many positives with the pack more than holding their own and the backs using the ball well at times but consistency is the key. Whilst set piece defense is sound broken play defense and particularly the kick/chase needs much work. Too many players lack the fitness levels to compete against sides like Salem. However, let’s not be too negative as many players stood up to the mark today and gave their all. The front row dug in and provided a scrummage base, Joe Earp led the back row well and Ethan Dyson showed great determination at the breakdown. Joey Minshull continues to develop at a pace and in the backs Joe Bartlett led the line well with Colts Ben Cairns and Jacob Mangham showing real promise.
There are some big shoes to fill following retirements and forced unavailability of many key players but on today’s showing we have every reason to remain positive. Well done to Salem who once again proved to be too hot to handle in the backs and we wish them all the best in Yorkshire 1 this season.

ONWARDS and UPWARDS

Tony Price