Shield U21s Final

Our 17 were up against a squad of 23 rolling subs.

Started off pretty much head to head, exchanging alternate tries (including
a couple of classic run in's right along the back line from a solid base at the
breakdown) until Matt Shorthose (No10) twisted his knee in a divot and
shortly after we also lost our Scrum Half with a twisted ankle.

Johnny Paddle went to Scum Half, the rest of the backs shuffled up accordingly
and the two subs came on to allow the flankers to fill in at 13 & 14.

Unfortunately Chris Crawford was not fully fit and came off after 10 mins, leaving
us with 14 and a seven man pack at midway through the first half.

We lost the initiative and went two or three tries without reply.

However we managed to stay in touch early in the second half with a couple of
well crafted tries manufactured by the forwards pinning the opposition down in their
own 22, denying them possession for long periods and finally breaking through
for the touchdown.

The numbers told in the end though and with the quality of the opposition it was
a case of chasing the game - and chase it they did!

The effort put in to play to last whistle was heroic and Chipstead were never
allowed more than a couple of scores without a reply of some sort. The dogged
determination shown by the lads was roundly and deservedly applauded by all
at the presentation.

Final score was 31 - 54 (I think?) - some great rugby from both sides and pride
in the shirt that was a privilege to witness.