Mustangs Vs Sevenoaks II
Lost 39-5
A Mustangs side featuring 10 changes from the previous week set off to Sevenoaks last Saturday, looking to build on their good performance the previous week against Aylesford.
It was clear from the start that Sevenoaks were a very well drilled side, with lots of pace both in the pack and in the backs. Maidstone however proved competitive for much of the first half, but were unable to string any good phases of play together, mainly due to a lack of cohesion and some impressive defense and turnover skills from the home side. Maidstone's cause wasn't helped due to the loss of front row Mark Thurgood after 10 minutes, to be followed shortly after by Eugene Moore, whose elderly calf gave up on him. The enforced changes unsettled the Mustangs. Despite the disruptions, and a 15-0 half time score, the Mustangs coaching staff still felt that the team could launch a comeback.
The reality however was somewhat different. Sevenoaks moved the ball wide quickly and were able to create overlaps and used them to full advantage, and as the Mustangs became more and more tired due to the amount of defending they had to do, the Sevenoaks back line were able to add further tries through some well worked back moves. The catalyst for the home team was undoubtably their fly half, who was elusive and dictated play well.
Maidstone did start to find some momentum, albeit too late, and after a 5 minute period of pressure in the Sevenoaks 22, Maidstone got a well deserved try as Josh Pankhurst forced his way over to score.
Overall, a disappointing result, losing by 39 points to 5, but with the number of changes that had to be made, some of which very last minute, it was a valiant effort and no one can fault the commitment.
There were several new faces on display, who will in time prove to be very good additions, once the players get to know each other better.
Man of the match this week is awarded to skipper for the day, Nick "Donk" Coles, who led from the front in terms of his ball carries and tackling. Andy Bull did a good job at full back and it was great to have Gav Dyke back in the side.
Next week the Mustangs are at home to Beckenham.
Team:-
Steve Coates, Matt Vickers, Mark Thurgood, Paul Glover, Nick Coles, Jacques Vrey, Josh Pankhurst, Chris Francis, Sam McPherson, Tom Searles, Gav Dyke, Duncan McClintock, Eugene Moore, Andy Cairns, Andy Bull, Richard Coles, Brian Strydom
Scorers - Pankhurst (try)
Coaches - Shaun Neaves, Gary Whitehead
Manager - Laurence Waters
