World Cup 19th October 2014 - A day out with the big Cats

I don't think I could let the weekend pass without mentioning the Argentine team that Justin and I had the pleasure of assisting with on Sunday at the Ripon u9 World Cup 2014.
>
> The manner in which they played throughout the 4 games was a credit to ALL of them at such an early stage in the new season. This culminating in 'their' final against York, which given the noise of the crowd watching must have been good to watch.
>
> The first game versus Italy (Whitby) was an eye opener!! They had some very big players who were actually U10s but this didn't stop Argentina putting in some tremendous tackling!! Mention must be given to Harry who having collided with Mathew's head continued to play through the pain barrier. Argentina won and we were on to tougher opponents in France (Harrogate).
>
> In our second game I think we were a caught a little bit 'off the pace' and too many tackles were missed early in the game! With some improved handling, good support play and numerous solo tries from Charlie and Harry we still couldn't claw back in what eventually became a narrow defeat to a well organised team.

Our final group game and we really needed the win, England (Wetherby) really took the game to us and we even withstood some handing off in the tackle. This was spotted by the referee and we capitalised with some excellent breaks up the field. There was not a lot between both sides and with William scoring the last try for Argentina a draw was a far result.

In between games the team took on some water and supplies from the cake stall but managed to stay together as a unit and even practiced some defensive plays over on the cricket pitches.

The draw was made and we were to play Canada? (York) on Pitch 3 in our group play-off match. The game just finishing was a 7-7 draw, a win and we could claim the spoils from our group.

Team talks completed from Justin and I and all we wanted the boys to concentrate on was to tackle and pass. To say that everything clicked was an understatement.

Captain little Oliver lead by example, spitting out a tooth in the process by powering through the middle with his 'Braveheart face'. Charlie scoring 5 tries in the first half was a nerve settler. Harry, Archie and Charlie putting in some epic tackles as did all the team to send York backwards. Every tackle and try was met with a great cheer from the spectators pitch-side. Mathew and big Oliver supporting and passing the ball out to our attacking line at every opportunity. A victory to Argentina and a well deserved medal.

It was so pleasing to see all the aspects of what the boys have been practicing so far pay off in this game. Every aspect was there to see and it was a real pleasure to witness!!

Thanks to Dennis for patching up all the players as they needed attention and Charlieboy for subbing at very short notice.

Well done to you ALL!!

Argentina

Archie Hutchinson
Oliver Flintoft
William Hixon
Oliver Bailey
Mathew Ayre
Charlie Lock
Harry Drane

Thanks again Justin & Peter