With a long break between our last match and next now would appear to be a good time to reflect on the 1st XV first block of National One seven games. All in all the squad and staff are satisfied with 5 wins and 2nd in the table and top of the points for column and points against. In particular, in our last 3 games against we have scored 48, 48 and 53 points bearing the fruits of some hard quality training sessions starting all the way back at our first pre-season session on the 4th July.

One of the big 3 focuses we had on review of last season was our ball handling and especially, taking it to the line with multiple options. Some of our scores are a testament to these being executed exceptionally well under match pressure. Another area where we have improved in is our discipline, especially around the new tackle height law where the refereeing is still proving a challenge at times but we have put a lot of work into effective low tackling. Our penalty count has been in single figures for 3 games now which certainly helps.

I have always been of the belief that the character and attitude of a team is always reflected in their defence, highlighted by high energy and a desire to work hard for each other and the buy-in and trust of those around them. In this area we have been exceptional only conceding a try bonus point on one occasion in a high scoring league.

We are only seven games into the new season and we restart another seven game block leading into Christmas. This will be a tougher period now with the weather turning and sides having sized each other up. We had last week off but we now resume for a two week build to the away match at Taunton on the 4th November, it is so important we rediscover the continuity and cohesion we achieved at the start of this month. Easier said than done but that’s the sort of challenge that makes this role so enjoyable.

Hope to see you at the next home game on the 11th November against a tough Plymouth side.

It's been encouraging to see our young Falcons team establish themselves after a tough start. There's real talent in the side, combined with some experienced coaching, we have high hopes they will build on a positive start. Some of these lads will be playing against the Oxford University Greyhounds next Saturday 28th October at Kingsey Road, 2pm kick off.

Your support is much appreciated, as always.

Nick
Chinnor Director of Rugby