Don't be fooled by the score. We had the shits all over Belfast from the word go. Except for the couple of times they ran in 70 metre tries because backs can't tackle. Which is the easy version. The real version is much more complicated as always.
Momentary handling errors plus missed zigs (instead of zags) plus mind boggling rule interpretations from the ref plus those lucky breaks some teams just happen to get were what really occurred. We should have won, but didn't. One of those Saturdays when everything and everyone seems to be going right, or at least, in your favour, but quickly slips away out of your control.

I for one was very happy with the manner in which the boys played, the skill set, the commitment and the game plan. No longer do we simply turn up and see what happens on the day. Our new way, will see us to the final, I'm sure of it.

We are still lacking a little bit of depth in the backs. One, followed by two serious injuries and we'd be hard pressed to field a solid backline up to the standard we currently are. Mossie and his ever growing confidence with the ball is helping matters, but we can't rely always on Muzz or Flannel or Rowdy or Tom et al to provide 24 hour a day cover. If you're currently injured, recover fully and get back into it. If you're lazy about turning up, decide one way or t'other.

Backs today though, brought their A- game with Flannel, Rowdy and Muzz carving things up. Jack and Mossie are growing in confidence and that always translates to top performances when it all clicks together. Cam and Tommy played slightly out of position but did so well.

Forwards are dominating numbers wise as they usually do, but Dans broken ribs from last week caused some change ups in the hooking dept. Which made for a HUGE front row towards the end of the match. We really did have it all over them up front, but Dick POWER'S fijian girlfriend had trouble understanding what scrums are all about. Like most refs in fact.
Dene and Dirk locked well with Jezza and Gus on the sides playing exceptionally well. Earning Gus MVP. Tam was a close contender for that award too, in my view. Not necessary to be flashy and fast and jumpy and runny etc. Good solidity and technique with an 80 minute commitment also are criteria for that award.

With a reasonable but still not nearly enough showing back at the clubrooms, we helped Peter CHAPLAN celebrate his 200th Div 1 game. One can only aspire.

Bollocks next week.