Sunday saw us travel up the A41 to visit Hemel Hempstead. The morning was cold but the sun was out and we had a really good turn-out. Both Harrow and Hemel were able to field two teams and we were soon putting the players through their paces against strong opposition.
I think it's safe to say that the players found it hard going. Tackles were being missed and there was a lack of coordination in the teams! In some ways it was the basics of the game that seemed to have been forgotten! The initial games played were really one sided and Hemel really showed what a strong opposition they were by winning them all.
A shuffle around of some of the players and a mid-way team talk did have some impact and the play did improve. Once the Harrow players communicated better with each other and committed to tackles and rucks, the games were more even. Hemel really showed our lads the importance of at least two players being ready to tackle the player with the ball and backing each other up. If we can get our players working together in pairs to bring the ball carrier down, we will see a real improvement in the defensive play. Tackles are going to have to continue to be a focus as will be clearing the ball quickly out to the free players in space.
Oh well, days like this are bound to happen from time to time and Sunday's frustrations will be a good lesson for the players. Next week is a new day as they say and we can forget about the disappointments - things can only get better!!
Thanks again for coming all the way the Hemel and we look forward to seeing you all again next Sunday back home. Tabards are visiting and we are on kitchen duty!