Middle School Exiles - Good performance as we played Arden 12 on 12. Here are some notes so that you can continue to improve:

Running - We had good runs down the sideline; ball carriers generally running to open space. One area to improve is when running on the outside. If defenders are closing in on you, look to cut inside or pass toward center of field. If necessary go to ground to be tackled on the pitch so that we can ruck the ball and keep possession. Several times the runner allowed themselves to be pushed out of bounds which means the other team gets to throw the ball in on the line out.

Passing - Good communications and lots of passing which is good. Be careful of floating the ball high - this gives the defender time to blast the guy catching the ball - "hospital" or "buddy" passes are a big no, no. Worst case, we get a player hurt or the defender has a chance to intercept the ball. Also, supporting players need to play steeper, if you are too flat you are forced to slow down to catch the ball; you want to be accelerating into the pass.

Tackling - Mostly positive here; but as we got tired some players were hitting chest high or just grabbing for the Arden ball carrier. Keep your tackles low and remember cheek to cheek.

Rucking - tackled player presenting the ball; first player generally protecting the ball allowing scrumhalf to get clean pass out.

Scrums - we did not have back rows since playing 12 on 12. Need to work on positioning here; we were himp backed versus having flat backs parallel to ground. Need more players at practice so we can work on these things.

Overall, very good game. Do not expect every game to be this easy. We will be getting stiffer competition in the next few weeks.Very proud of you guys.