Kendal U17 v Tarleton Rugby

Match Report by Guest Reporter Mark Singleton (parent)

After a comfortable win and good team performance last week, Kendal faced a tougher test today welcoming Tarleton to Mintbridge. Second-placed Tarleton carried a 2 point league advantage into today's match, but having played a game more. Today was Kendal's chance to leapfrog them and regain the 2nd spot.

Kendal welcomed back Captain Alex Ryder from County duties (playing up an age group in the U18's) and Owen Singleton returned to the back row, with Casey Morris retaining the scrum-half role after a fine performance last week.

Kendal kicked-off towards the river, with good follow-up play rewarding them with an early line-out, ultimately resulting in a Kendal penalty. A quick tap-and-go saw Alex Ryder power over for a Will Coxon converted try.
7v0.

Both teams tested each other for the next 10 minutes, but a crunching tackle from Sam Coleman rewarded Kendal with turnover ball. This advantage was then lost, giving Tarleton a great chance down the wing. Fortunately, a great covering tackle from Casey Morris forced Tarleton into touch.

A penalty was awarded to Tarleton offering them a chance to secure 3 points, but the effort went wide of the post. Tarleton were then awarded another penalty on the 10m line and with the quick tap-and-go forced themselves over the line.
7v5.

A heavy fall from the line-out saw Kendal Captain Alex Ryder forced off the field and Tarleton down to 14 men by virtue of a yellow card. Just before half-time, a pick up from a loose ball gave Owen singleton a chance to run from just inside his own half to the try line for another converted try.
14v5.

From a second-half kick-off, Kendal recycled the ball well and great forward play gave Will Coxon a try in the corner 19v5.

Good, consistent forward play from Tarleton saw Kendal coming under pressure with last ditch defensive tackling. A quick tap-and-go penalty saw Tarleton over the line for an unconverted try.
19v10.

After another break, Tarleton were awarded a penalty try for a high tackle, which saw Kendal reduced to 14 players. Further pressure from both teams brought the final whistle, with a deserved Kendal win!

A great effort from all the players and coaching staff and thanks to all the spectators who turned out :)

Full -Time: Kendal 19 - 17 Tarleton