Rugby Reports 03
(1957-58)

Rugby, 1957-8

School rugby continues to flourish although the lack of our own field has made practice difficult.

UNDER 15 XV

This season our Senior XV produced a much higher standard of play and every game was closely contested. The defensive weaknesses apparent in previous seasons were, to a large extent, eliminated, although a few members of the team could have been more consistent in their tackling.

Lockyear, Pettit, Worley, Robson and Maddams set a fine example throughout the season by their determined play in both defence and attack. Grove, Spragg, Harris and Burnham improved considerably and added to the strength of the side.

Worley must be congratulated on playing for the Middlesex Colts XV in all its matches.

UNDER 14 XV

Under Gathergood's enthusiastic leadership the Under 14 XV played some excellent rugby which reached a peak in the game, played in pouring rain, against R.G.S. High Wycombe. In previous seasons the forwards have not been strong enough to gain sufficient possession of the ball to allow the strong back division to play an open game. This season, however, the forwards showed remarkable improvement with Gathergood and Baker setting a very high standard.

Morgan was a "discovery" as a scrum-half and his steadily improving service allowed Sanderson, Backshall and Tyler to show their speed and skill in attack.

Gathergood. Baker, Sanderson. Backshall and Tyler were awarded Junior Colours.

UNDER 13 XV

The Under 13 XV although rather small in build was skilful in its play but completely lacking in vigour and determination.

Throughout the season only Wormald and Dean played consistently with the necessary spirit, and consequently as soon as the opposition began to play purposeful rugby the team was quite ready to acknowledge defeat. This attitude will not do and must be eradicated early next season. A team is expected to play to win and to do so with the determination that rugby demands right up to the final whistle.