A Saturday of team building exercises and lazer obliteration, followed by Wales victory over England (more obliteration) set the Sharks up nicely for a much anticipated game against the Welsh teams of Mumbles and Morriston.

The two sides had decided to combine due to the Rossyln Park 7s which took several of their players away. Rather than weaken the sides this strengthened them, and they were soon on the score sheet against a Sharks side who had given them a little too much respect.

That was soon remedied when Jacob Evans, hit the ball at pace, took advantage of the parting defence to score a fine try, converted by Huw Evans – another two Welsh boys on the score sheet but for the English team this time. This lifted the team who then showed their true potential.

Mumbles scored once more, but again failed to convert. By now the game had developed into a real tussle, with both teams prepared to throw the ball around. This suited outside half, Ben Critchley, who had one of his finest games in a Sharks shirt. Not only were there deft touches, sharp passes and snipe with ball in hand, but also resolute defence which was example to the rest of the team.

The game continued to cut & thrust – with the referee from Mumbles having an excellent game – not only very fair but also real empathy for the game and the players. Mumbles scored a couple of really fine tries with Sharks returning the favour with further fine tries from Jordan Shaddick and Josh Porter, with Ben Critchley also going close. All the squad members did themselves credit with some excellent off-loading, support and strong running.

A fine game of rugby with both teams contributing equally. With neither the referee or coaches knowing the score at the end of the game, it was down to the parents to inform us that the final score was 20 (4 tries) to 19 (3 tries, 2 conversions) to the Welsh.

An excellent game of rugby from two expansive teams, a superb Sharks performance and a great end to an excellent tour.

Final Score: Mumbles/Morriston 20 Gordano Sharks 19

Match report by Gary Townsend (Coach)

Match details

Match date

Sun 17 Mar 2013

Kickoff

12:15

Team overview