The first day of a new autumn brought a crisp and sunlit morning on the battleground of Fortress Headlands. And what a morning it was!
Autumn leaves don’t fall, they fly. They pick their opportunity wisely and wander on this, their only chance to soar and fly high. And with an extra hours sleep in the locker, Spitfires took their opportunities today in a similar vein and soared high in the sky just like autumnal leaves.
Albeit a few players short, Eccles were full of hope & optimism, taking the field with some big lads, and a brace of spitfires in their ranks to make up the numbers. From the whistle they attacked hard, recycling the ball well and giving some pacey backs a chance to stretch their legs out wide. But from the start, there was no way through, Spitfires meeting Eccles attack with strong tackling and closing down the open space and attackers options. It was less an impasse, more a demonstration of Spitfires ability to control the game on their own terms, taking the hits and defending with skill and desire, and yes, … resilience. This was certainly going to be a good match.
For their part Spitfires gave away some silly penalties for not dropping in the tackle which cost them ground, at one point three on the bounce pushing them back deep into their own half. But Eccles were just unable to capitalise on the ground won and some good turnover ball gave Spitfires possession and the flair to attack. The coaches, ably led by the very lovely Dr Kitchen (him of clipboard fame) have worked hard with this team to impress on the team the need to bend at the waist when tackling, and indeed driving forward. This is an area that they are certainly developing in, but more work is needed from the lads to understand the dangers that exist in this area.

That was the negative bit, however the positive play they demonstrated in many areas of their game showed real maturity and was a delight to see. Euan Coveney Winter worked hard at the base of the scrum with some lovely pick and drive’s and was justly rewarded with a brace of well taken tries. In the midfield, TK chose his moments wisely and like a knife through butter sliced through the Eccles defence for a lovely try, whilst Tom Powell took the ball from the kick off and seeing open space went over for another excellent try. All three tries converted from the boot of Oscar Parker.

Eccles responded with a single try, but it was too late in the game to make any impression. This was a very good performance from Spitfires, who continue to impress with their skill and understanding of the game. Not all games will be this easy however, and better sides will capitalise when we infringe.

In the last few years before his untimely death, Vincent Van Gogh only ever painted in autumn opining that this season alone provided the colours befitting his work. He couldn’t be at Headlands today (ear-ache), but had he been, he would undoubtedly have painted Spitfires soaring amongst the autumnal leaves. Well-played lads!

Onwards …….