They were up against Ashby, Leicester Forest and Market Bosworth in their initial pool games with an hour and a half between the first and second games and then two back to back matches.

With what appeared to be one of the smallest squads the omens didn't look good when the first referee set about a boot inspection and ruled several South players ineligible due to stud infringements. Some speedy negotiation and consultation with the LRU representative saw the chosen team take to the field against Ashby.

South won the toss and elected to play downhill and started positively before losing possession in a ruck. However, Ashby weren't able to retain possession as South forwards dominated in a subsequent scrum, allowing M.Cooke quick possession and apparently go over the line with several players from both sides on top of him and score. However, the match official had spotted some infringement unobserved by others and pulled South back for an Ashby penalty.

South competed well and were awarded put in at a scrum which they used to put pressure on Ashby who were penalised. M.Cooke took a quick tap and go penalty and was able to elude Ashby defenders to score in the far corner - which ended the half.

In the second half South were playing uphill, but they soaked up Ashby attacks and disrupted their scrum, putting the opposition under pressure. This was sufficient to win the game with a positive start.

Over an hour later the 11's faced up to a Leicester Forest team whom they had not beaten since the Tigers super 8 competition the year before. Again South took the downhill advantage in the first half and made another good start before defending some errors. However, they recovered well and attacked again with positive forwards play which soon lead to a South penalty.

The team then showed the presence of mind to consider their options under the leadership of T.Bone and played one of their set pieces. This saw said player lead by example and crash into Forest defenders and set up a maul supported by fellow forwards who moved forward allowing A.Adams secure possession and force himself over the line for a try. The subsequent kick off was well claimed by T.Rowlands who kicked and chased his own ball - which saw out the half.

Again the second half saw South attacking uphill which initially required some fierce defending as Forest looked to even the score. South won a line out caused through solid defence allowing M.Cooke to link with K.Vann to go forward in space. Forest now defended and had throw in from a line out. However, this wasn't straight. South elected for the scrum, one the ball easily and M.Cooke ran across the line for his second try of the day.

An apparently shell shocked Forest didn't kick the ball 7 metres and M.Cooke took advantage with a quickly taken penalty, running into space to score a third try. The subsequent kick off went into touch and the game ended with South winning three tries to nil.

South then crossed to the furthest pitch to take on an in form Market Bosworth to contest the pool. Bosworth showed their intentions from the off and put South under pressure which they initially were equal to. However, an apparent high tackle which wasn't given appeared to turn the initial tide and give Bosworth momentum close to the South,line and this resulted in them scoring their first try. Once again South stood up for them selves and some strong tackling kept the opposition at bay into half time.

South attacked from the kick off in the second half and put Bosworth under pressure in the scrums but Bosworth were relentless with some excellent passing between their backs which eluded the best South efforts and lead to a second score for the opposition. South then battened the hatches and put in desperate tackles and put Bosworth under pressure, forcing mistakes. However, this was too little too late and Bosworth emerged as winners of the game and pool.

A two hour wait ensued which was difficult for the boys to remain focused. The complicated play off system meant they were now competing for the secondary competition which saw them up against a Hinckley - who were playing from a combined squad. From the kick off South claimed the ball and there was some equally matched attacking and defending with more solid South scrummaging.

However, Hinckley pressure saw them score their first try - much to the disappointment of South spectators and coaches who were firmly of the belief it had been knocked on. Nevertheless the try was given giving Hinckley the advantage.

This score seemed to give Hinckley an advantage in the second half and they began to dominate- although South didn't give up. Hinckley broke away and ran up the furthest wing and appeared to touch down the ball in goal. Again South supporters felt this to be a controversial score as it appeared the Hinckley player had gone into touch under pressure from South defenders. However, the score stood and Hinckley went on to win the fixture. In all fairness, Hinckley appeared to be the stronger team and South never really strung together a meaningful attack - although they continued to compete throughout.

The boys put together some creditable performance, made some of their own luck and had to accept decisions which went against them. However, they performed strongly as a team and came away from the fixture with pride and the knowledge that they had reached a higher stage of the competition than they had the previous year and ran their peers to the wire in all games.

Whilst some silverware would have been nice, the overall performance was more than creditable. Many thanks to the coaches for their patience and persistence during the season, to the parents for their ongoing support and to the 11's who have ridden the peaks and troughs of the season and demonstrated positive personal and team development. If this continues net season will be even more successful.

Jim Holyoak
Home Fixture Vipers and Leicester Lions 29/03/09.

South vs. Vipers

We had only played Vipers once this season and they matched us score for score with outstanding play from one player and some good support.

South took an early advantage as they claimed the kick off and M.Cooke raced through a shell shocked opposition to claim the first try, which K.Vann duly converted.

Whilst a positive, as commented upon later, this allowed some complacency to creep in from the off. South knocked on at the subsequent kick off, reclaiming in a good scrum, but Vipers were up fro a contest and equalised soon after with their own converted try.

From the next kick off South soon applied some improved tackling and put Vipers on the back foot. This pressure couldn't be maintained though, as early positive play in rucks and scrums reduced allowing Vipers back into the game. This pressure soon led to a further Vipers score as Vipers squeezed in a try at the corner which they converted.

South didn't give in and continued to push Vipers back but couldn't equalise before half time with leaving Vipers with a one try lead.

The second half kick off by South allowed them to apply pressure on Vipers and a kick to clear the opposition lines led to an attacking line out. During the game thus far South forwards had to contend with claims their throw in's were not straight. They countered this by calling for a longer throw to allow quick ball to M.Cooke who again set about the opposition defence going over the line.

However this excellent effort was adjudged to have been knocked on cancelling out another strong and thought out effort to make the most of the possession they were being allowed. South didn't concede however, taking forward the lessons from last weeks encounter. Whilst their open play wasn't as good as hoped, their set piece was competitive.

Such a situation arose with a scrum on the opposite line which was quickly won setting a platform for M.Cooke to do his thing and race up the wing to score. K.Vann again converted.

With a few minutes to go either side could take the match but Vipers determination and decisions against the 11's conspired to put them in defensive mode. Despite earlier tackling, Vipers got through round the side to score what turned out to be the final play. Final score South 14 Vipers 21.

South did compete and there was some good play in challenging circumstances, but they didn't, ultimately, make the most of the chances they had as a team.

A depleted Lions side required players from both sides to compete. C.Nixon, S.Hughes, M.Snutch and F.Ashton were given the opportunity for more match time and did their all for their new colleagues - well done all concerned, you acquitted yourselves admirably.

South vs. Leicester Lions

As stated above Lions could only field 8 of their own players so were joined by some Vipers to helped out with some of their players - so Lions were by no means a push over.

This was demonstrated as South were forced to soak up some early pressure. South forwards did not appear to compete as strongly. There was plenty of to and frowing midfield but neither side seemed able to break the stalemate until M.Cooke took the game by the scruff of the neck and took responsibility for a quick tap from K.Vann to race through Lions defence and put the first points on the score sheet. K.Vann added the extra two points as the half ended. The half ended with South just a head.

As the second half started South put Lions under pressure leading to a South penalty close to the Lions line. South took their time and a quick pop pass from K.Vann to S.Holyoak saw him roar over Lions' line applying the coaching he had been given at the interval. K.Vann once again added his two points to complement this effort.

The subsequent kick off clearly did not go the required distance, was knocked on by Lions before being knocked on by South. The referee blew to sort out this mess but not before a Lions player carried on with the ball. This was countered by a challenging tackle which saw the Lions player injured. This demonstrated how hard the game was being played by both sides and the referee took the correct decision to suspend play and award the win to South. Final score - South 14 Lions 0.

Whilst this wasn't the way anyone wishes to end the match, it is pleasing to report that the injured player has only sustained a sore neck, Lions fully accepted the challenge was not malicious and were praiseworthy of the support offered by South players, coaches and physio.

There were positives in both matches but still areas to improve with two training Sundays before the County cup. The 11's need to be consistently positive throughout the next few weeks.

Match report below. I hope it reflects the game from your perspective.

Training 1800 - 1930 this Thursday 26/3/09 - let us know if you can't make it.

Next week, I have secured the services - for free - of a positive thinking consultant to give our boys - and yourselves for that matter - an hour of his time. The coaches are supportive and I don't think we have anything to lose. I will try and finalise the details but at present it looks like Wednesday 1/4/09 - not an April fools joke!

I'll let you know later in the week. See you Thursday all being well.

Jim Holyoak

Away fixture Stewarts and Lloyds 22/3/09

As it was Mothering Sunday it was agreed with our hosts that there would be one 20 minute each way game. It was apparent from the start that the windy conditions would have some part to play in the proceedings.

From the kick off South demonstrated a positive approach with attacks from the off. Stewarts and Lloyds had proved themselves to be a mobile team in previous encounters and they soon put together attacks of their own.

However, South 11's demonstrated much more resilience in tackling their opposition than witnessed in recent weeks which soaked up several attacks. Additionally, the scrums were solid and rucking was not only evident but effective as the forwards worked hard together.

One such encounter saw M.Cooke dart up the wing to be stopped by what appeared to be a dive and a trip - sadly this went unnoticed and Stewarts and Lloyds counter attacked. The windy conditions affected the line out and an opposing player latched onto one such throw and managed to evade tackles on the wing to score a try in what was the only meaningful attack by his team. With the wind behind the kickers, this was easily converted.

South came back, retaining possession in a series of rucks and mauls dominated by South forwards. A. Adams, showing presence of mind, seized the ball and burst through one such ruck to be stopped on the line before his colleagues applied their own pressure to force him over and claim a South equaliser, which was converted by D.Hughes.

With a couple of minutes of the half to go, a South kick was caught by the wind leading to a Stewarts and Lloyds scrum. South lost this scrum but soaked up the pressure with both sides even at half time. South pretty much dominated the half.

In the second half,South were now playing down hill but the strong wind was against them. Unfortunately, the wind allowed the opposition kickoff to hang in the air and it wasn't quickly claimed by the 11's. South managed to claim a scrum but Stewart and Lloyds started to apply pressure. This and several decisions which went very badly against South, added to this pressure and inevitably Stewarts and Lloyds scored.

The game really became something of a farce from here on in. Suffice to say South were starved of possession which made attacking difficult and their hosts were more than happy to take advantage of the opportunities presented to them. Take nothing away from the opposition, they did put away the chances they had and the wind conspired to prevent South clearing their lines on several occasions to relieve pressure created by the way the game was being played.

This is in no way a criticism of the South 11's - in fact their positive composure under such circumstances - with three further converted tries against them - was a model England could have learnt from in recent weeks. Most importantly they never gave up and richly deserved the praise of their coaches for their positive attitude throughout.

The end result was Stewarts and Lloyds 28 South 7.

Whilst our hosts were undoubtedly the numerical victors on the day, those South parents and supporters present could be forgiven for thinking that the manner of that victory made South the moral victors. More of the same please 11's - in different circumstances this could easily have been a win but there was a lot to take away from the competitiveness on show.

Away Fixture 8/3/09 Coalville RFC

The 11â€™s came to Coalville on a bright but breezy day having not played against this team for a couple of seasons due to exceptionally poor weather at last seasonâ€™s fixture. Our numbers matched theirs but with some help from the 12â€™s by mutual consent and with new arrival F. Ashton the game got under way.

Within the first seconds M.Cooke set the agenda, claiming the ball from the kick off and setting off on an individual run to score the first try which K.Vann duly converted. The next kick off wasnâ€™t claimed although any kick was challenging in the wind, and Coalville got put in at the first scrum of the match. However, South forwards easily claimed possession and M.Cooke set off on another run before South knocked on, winning the second scrum and recycling. Coalville then tackled high and gave South a penalty in midfield.

S.Holyoak took this on a run and bounced the first Coalville tackler several feet backwards before setting up a ruck. This set up good quick ball in the opposition half which K.Vann exploited to score the second of the match. In the difficult conditions he wasnâ€™t able to convert.

For the rest of the half, South continued to dominate, although Coalville never gave up â€“ winning several scrums which they couldnâ€™t convert into position or points. When South had possession they made the most of it with good runs from T. Bone and positive play by A.Gill. The forwards in the line out were making good calls and communicating superbly with M.Cooke to make different calls. Such domination lead to another South penalty, which S.Holyoak couldnâ€™t quite break through to score -being held up over the try line.

Coalville couldnâ€™t win the subsequent scrum which set up another frantic South attack moving the ball across the pitch. Only desperate Coalville defence stopped another score. The half ended with South forwards telling themselves they should have got over the line.

The second half started with a kick to touch by K.Vann, which South forwards won, setting up a move which went back into touch closer to the Coalville try line. The Coalville throw wasnâ€™t straight and South forwards played to their strength, electing for a scrum. This was won; M.Cooke claimed and took the ball over for another try, which couldnâ€™t be converted.

The kick off was soaked up by South but minor indiscipline was penalised twice to put themselves under more pressure. Despite this advantage Coalville couldnâ€™t capitalise on gifted possession and were themselves penalised for playing the ball on the floor. K.Vann kicked to touch to set up a line out. Good quick thinking lead to clean ball to M.Cooke who ran into midfield and potential danger before off-loading to A.Gill who played a perfect switch back to M.Cooke, drawing several Coalville defenders. This carved up the opposition and M.Cooke scored a hat trick which K.Vann converted.

The following period of play saw some errors on both sides but South tackled as Coalville attacked aggressively. Further good play between A.Gill and M.Cooke was evident as was good strong running from forward T. Bone who won a penalty. S.Holyoak set up a ruck just short of the Coalville try line but A. Adams was held up as the whistle blew for full time. The final score was Coalville 0 South 24. A massive improvement compared to last week not only in score line but in confidence, communication and commitment.

A second game ensued in worsening weather conditions. Coalville fumbled the K.Vann kick off and knocked on. South won the scrum and Coalville were penalised for their over ambitious tackling. K.Vann kicked to touch and South forwards won another line out. The ball was then quickly circulated through several phases of play up and across the pitch several times, involving forwards and backs before A. Adams scored with a strong barge over the line. K.Vann added the conversion.

D.Hughes claimed the kick off confidently and several passes and charges ensued before a penalty was awarded. S.Holyoak charged and set up a ruck which soaked up Coalville defenders but was quickly cleared out by South forwards allowing M.Cooke to score another try. K.Vann converted.

The kick off was masterfully claimed by T.Bone, who took himself three quarters of the way up the pitch, charging though several ineffectual tackles, before he was denied just short of the try line. However, he had been trailed by fellow forwards and A. Adams cleared out the ruck and went over for his second try of the day. K.Vann, now on a roll duly converted.

The next kick off was claimed by S.Holyoak this time who went on his own run before offloading but South then knocked on. Coalville, never giving in, claimed possession at the scrum and kicked â€“ but too long for any meaningful chase and South touched down in defence.

South then applied more pressure leading to further possession and penalties, which saw C.Nixon, come into the match with a good strong, confident run which saw South claim another scrum. South forwards won possession and M.Cooke made this count with a run to the corner and his final try of the completion. K.Vann added two and half time followed.

The second half by South saw Coalville catch and clear but good pressure by T. Bone one and a pass to D.Hughes who off loaded with skill in the tackle to A.Gill set up an opportunity for a score which wasnâ€™t missed and had been coming for some time. K.Vann kicked another two points.

By rights, the game should have ended here but Coalville coaches and players were determined not to concede and it was agreed by them that the game should continue. The kick off by Coalville saw them knock on with a South scrum allowing quick ball to A.Gill who cleverly kicked into space to add pressure which was claimed by K.Vann who took himself on a jinking run before he passed to T. Bone who used his size and strength to score a try which K.Vann finished off with a conversion.

Once again, South claimed the kick off, this time A. Adams who passed to M.Snutch but Coalville were able to scramble a defence and bundle him to touch. Shortly after this South conceded a penalty but Coalville couldnâ€™t capitalise and South regained possession â€“ having had to switch O. Meddoms to the front row - with a good, determined run by T.Choudry in the centre who off loaded to D.Hughes who went over for the final try of the match. K.Vann, on a potential 100% - claimed the last two points. Final score: Coalville 0 South 49.

Whilst worthy and tough opponents, Coalville didnâ€™t apply the same pressure witnessed at Harborough last week. That said all credit to the 11â€™s who showed they can play with confidence and make their own decisions to get positive results. There were still areas for improvement but the team listened to what the coaches told them, worked out moves and plays for themselves and demonstrated a real team approach which is credit to them all and can still improve. The test against some tough teams in tournament conditions next week will be an interesting one but if they play with the same determination they will have every right to feel proud of themselves and their club.

Away fixture Harborough RFC Sunday 1/3/09

Once again South 11â€™s turned out with minimum numbers against a mighty squad of 30 plus Harborough players who have a reputation for strong forwards play. South were playing experimental positions having trained over the past two weeks.

From the kick off South failed to collect the ball but Harborough knocked on for a South scrum which they easily won. This lead to an early burst of speed from M.Cooke who initially ran into space but found himself taken into touch.

Again South forwards won back possession at the line out which tempted Harborough to illegally use their hands in the ensuing ruck to be penalised. South conceded possession with their own mistake but T. Choudry tackled the attacking player into touch for a further line out to South. This was converted into South possession which M.Cooke took advantage of, passing to A.Gill allowing him to take a line up the wing which Harborough managed to cancel out into touch.

South once again won the line out and set up a maul. A Harborough forward tried to pull this down away from the referee without success and South had another penalty but werenâ€™t able to capitalise with some fierce Harborough tackling leading to a knock on and Harborough scrum which they won.

South now had to defend as both sides moved backwards and forwards across the pitch in attack and defence. This saw South win a further line out and M.Snutch running into the centre of the pitch before K.Vann kicked for position. However, Harborough counter attacked again piling on the pressure and winning rucks to retain possession and build on their position â€“ however, they just couldnâ€™t get over the line as South defended with some excellent kicking from A.Gill and later on a South scrum allowed K.Vann to keep Harborough at bay. In the final moments of this half Harborough sensed a try as South lost possession in a maul, but a strong try saving tackle by K.Vann prevented this as the whistle blew for half time and honours were still even.

After a promising first half South found themselves under pressure immediately as the kick off went into touch, South lost the line out and firstly the forwards and then the backs, failed to stop a virtually single handed effort to score on the far corner for the first try of the match to Harborough which they converted.

This seemed to affect the whole team and concentration waned. Despite getting some possession, South failed to turn opportunity into points, against a fired up Harborough team. M.Cooke tried to break through and succeeded to get into the opposition half following a penalty award. A second penalty ensued but Harborough forwards turned South possession over and with some unpunished handing off succeeded in a counter attack. South were able to slow this down with their own defence but knocked on in doing so leading to a Harborough scrum which they won. Again South defence lead to a penalty, but again they couldnâ€™t take advantage as Harborough stole the ball when South attacks came to nought. Strong Harborough rucking, good passing with a few further hand offs saw South concede a second try which was again converted.

The kick off saw the game end in a slightly disappointing result â€“ Harborough 14 South 0.

A second game was forthcoming, with South players being asked to concentrate and up their work rate against a fresh team with equally strong forwards of old. T. Choudry claimed the kick off confidently, but Harborough rucked equally confidently to claim the ball and force South into conceding a penalty. Their forward claimed the ball, ran at South defenders who failed to meet him or try and get under him and he easily scored an early try â€“ which was converted.

The South kick off set up a Harborough maul but they were penalised for coming in from the side which M.Cooke exploited to run, but Harborough regained possession having been awarded a penalty which they chose to kick. South reclaimed possession but strong Harborough rucking by their forwards lead South to concede another penalty. South won back possession in the line out as Harborough knocked on but couldnâ€™t retain the ball. However, some solid tackling contained any damage done and some Harborough mistakes allowed K.Vann to clear South lines.

The subsequent Harborough throw wasnâ€™t straight and South elected for a scrum, which they won, allowing A.Gill a solid run to set up a ruck which A.Adams took on with his own strong charge before Harborough regained possession with a penalty award. Some further backwards and forwards kicking and scrums going either way lead to half time with Harborough one converted try to nil up.

The kick off saw Harborough claim the ball but they were immediately penalised for an obvious fend off. South took a quick tap and go penalty but Harborough were onto this and quickly regained possession and a Harborough player took on the role of individual attacker to score a try which was converted â€“ leaving South two tries down.

After the first game, it could have been expected that South might cave in and concede. However, they seemed to have found some of their normal spirit from the kick off. Harborough caught the ball but strong tackling saw then concede a scrum to South. South forwards now began to better their previously confident opposition in the scrum and M.Cooke claimed quick ball to link superbly with A.Gill at fly half who redistributed back to M.Cooke who ran into the corner for a try with several South backs in support. K.Vann converted.

Harborough now kicked off downhill and South claimed again and this time forward M.Snutch went on a run, having won the resultant ruck, before off loading to T.Choudry who ran strongly and confidently through several tackles, well into Harborough territory before being halted. A.Gill was able to recycle the ball and passed to K.Vann who fully exploited the gaps in the Harborough defence to dodge and jink past several tackles to score an excellent try. Unfortunately, he wasnâ€™t able to convert in his normal fashion.

South didnâ€™t claim the following kick off but with renewed confidence defended stoutly and claimed a scrum. They won possession which A.Gill kicked for defensive territory. Harborough came back strongly but were subject to spirited South defence which prevented them being able to ground the ball despite going over. K.Vann made another strong run but was bundled into touch. Harborough won a penalty which again South defended before South claimed a penalty of their own. S.Holyoak couldnâ€™t break through the Harborough defence and shortly after time was called with the final score Harborough 14 South 12.

Initially, the assessment of the morningâ€™s events was, understandably, disappointment. However, the 11â€™s played two superb halves â€“ one in defence the other in attack â€“ they just werenâ€™t in the same game! However, having read my notes, there were also some creditable performances from several players who appeared to have responded well to recent coaching and position decisions and new opportunities were exploited. Defence was stronger with try saving tackles coming from numerous players.

Whilst the forwards needed to impose themselves in open play, generally their set pieces in line out and scrum were good enough to keep South in the game. There were some players, who didnâ€™t display their normal confidence but this happens from time to time and with such a small squad tactical changes are limited. There are still games to play to build up this confidence over the coming weeks.

Conversations with Harborough coaches after the games suggested they felt extremely lucky to have won both matches and they felt our small squad did themselves huge credit â€“ let your boy know this!

South Home fixture â€“ Syston, Melton and Jimmies â€“ 25/1/09

After two hard fought but deserved victories against tough opposition, the 11â€™s entered a four way contest against teams who were known to perform well. Added to this the quagmire-like pitches and it was clearly any teams game. South, yet again were down to limited numbers as Syston and Melton displayed much larger squads.

First game â€“ South vs. Syston

The initial encounters saw Syston strong in attack but South demonstrated some equally strong tackling to hold them at bay. The first scrum was easily won by South forwards and K.Vann was able to try an offensive kicking game to win territory. Syston knocked on again for a further scrum which South once again exploited for another kick which Syston took into touch for a South line out.

This was lost to a competitive Syston team who again attacked as a defence but knocked on in the sticky conditions for another scrum. K.Vann got a third kick away â€“ hotly chased by M.Cooke which forced a penalty to South. However, Syston were able to reclaim possession in the ensuing maul and made good ground with a fine display of running and well executed passes.

M.Snutch regained advantage and had a strong run against Syston defenders, but passes not making their mark allowed Syston to turn over before knocking on. A series of kicks and knock forwards saw several scrums â€“ all going to South â€“ but neither team were able to take advantage and the half finished equal on nil points apiece.

The Syston kick off saw a strong catch from A.Gill but Syston were quickly up to rip the ball free and commence an attack before going into touch. South won the ball but a knock on saw the first scrum of the half to Syston. Some smart feeding of the ball allowed Syston to gain advantage in the scrum â€“ apparently unwilling or able to take on the South forwards. However, they couldnâ€™t exploit this possession and conceded a penalty to South.

Sadly, the resulting kick was claimed by Syston and one of their players, in a strong individual run shrugged off ineffective South tackles to score a try, which wasnâ€™t converted. The remainder of the game saw a strong M.Cooke run, which Syston managed to contain just as he looked close to breaking through and determination by C.Nixon to hang onto a Syston shirt to slow down one of their relentless attacks. Whilst Southâ€™s scrum remained strong, they couldn't capitalise on this form and the game ended with a 5 to nil defeat.

Second game â€“ South vs. Melton Mowbray.

Very early on into the game South conceded a penalty which Melton exploited to the full scoring an early converted try. South forwards continued their efforts with a strong run from T.Bone which allowed for a kick in an effort to regain territory, however, it was easily captured by a Melton player who ran virtually unopposed up the wing for a second Melton score, again converted. Whilst South desperately defended, the kicking tactics went awry as almost every kick was fielded with some ease by Melton, cancelling out any advantage the forwards may have gained. However, with dogged determination with key decisions going against them, the 11s continued to defend, with S.Hughes slowing down one attack and South winning scrum and line out.

South werenâ€™t able to build on this in the first half, with further kicks putting themselves rather than the opposition under pressure. The half ended: South 7 and Melton 14.

The second half South kick off gave Melton an early advantage, but there were mistakes on both sides, some which were penalised â€“ but it looked pretty messy with kicks not finding touch and runs being cancelled out â€“ as much by the muddy conditions as any individual effort.

However, bit by bit South began to turn the screw as the won line outs, scrums and competed at rucks. For several minutes they forced Melton to defend and were camped on the opposition try line with several forward runs as some decisions went in Southâ€™s favour. One such decision led to a scrum, which South won cleanly with quick ball to M.Cooke, who used combined speed and power to go over the line, surrounded by several Melton defenders to score a try which K.Vann duly converted.

Sadly, this improved performance was too little too late and South conceded again by one score, in difficult conditions against some tight decisions against a good opposition.

Third game South vs. Jimmies

From the Jimmies kick off South were under pressure with an unfortunate knock on and Jimmies scrum. Due to Southâ€™s initial dominance in this area, possession was reclaimed and a maul was formed which allowed M.Cooke to break away before being tackled and Jimmies claiming a second scrum which was turned over by South. This was repeated several times, but eventually Jimmies broke free with a run into Southâ€™s half and a penalty being awarded.

Jimmies chose to run this penalty but knocked on. For the first time that day, the South scrum failed to operate thanks to some accurate Jimmies hooking â€“ but not power. Jimmies were then given a penalty which, being so close to the try line they ran â€“ but desperate South defence held this up. Another penalty was awarded, but again South defence cancelled this out.

T.Bone ran from the South line making good ground before being bundled into touch. Jimmies won the following line out but good South tackling prevented further progress. Jimmies rucked quickly but knocked on. South won this scrum but conceded a penalty which Jimmies took quickly but couldnâ€™t capitalise upon with good South defence holding up the opposition effort. Half time followed with honours even.

Jimmies claimed the kick off with a strong attack but conceded a scrum which South won and forced Jimmieâ€™s scrum half into an offside position to also conceded a penalty which K.Vann duly kicked. South won the line out â€“ which had been pretty good all day- for K.Vann to make a darting run up the wing before being tackled into touch.

Jimmies werenâ€™t able to claim the ball with a throw which wasnâ€™t straight. South chose to scrimmage which they lost but a strong K.Vann tackle reciprocated possession allowing M.Cooke to claim the ball with a fast run into plenty of space for the far corner â€“ and after a short wait â€“ this was adjudged a good try. A decision was made not to play conversions and the game resumed.

Whilst South knocked on from the kick off, they won the following scrum but Jimmies were penalised for a high tackle allowing K.Vann to kick for touch successfully. South forwards won the line out but not the ensuing maul and in doing so conceded a penalty. Jimmies showed great determination with a tap and go but resilient South defence pushed the attacker into touch.

Again, South won the penalty, got it away, albeit across their own line, but apparently not quickly enough to clear as Jimmies put defenders under pressure, exploited this situation and claimed a try which was given to even the score.

South tried to get a further score and there was activity on the furthest touch line with forwards on both sides - notably S.Holyoak from Southâ€™s perspective- unwilling to give any ground in either defence or attack. Before the atmosphere became too frayed, full time came and both sides left the pitch having competed well in difficult conditions. Final score: South 5, Jimmies 5.

The score lines â€“ two defeats and a draw suggest a bad day at the office for South who had not lost any game since early November. However, only losing by one score to Syston was exemplary, following recent competitions and coming back against Melton in the second half was creditable. Drawing against Jimmies and not conceding under considerable pressure in the first half was also a positive. It should also be remembered that apart from Jimmies, The 11â€™s are small in number compared to their counterparts.

There are lessons to be learnt in terms of tackling, kicking tactics, positions and competitiveness in ruck situations but on the whole, the team spirit held true and this reality check can be built on over the remaining weeks towards the end of the season. This is certainly something the coaches will be working towards.

Away fixture Oadby Wyggs Sunday 18/1/09

Due to a variety of factors the 11â€™s could only muster 11 players for this local derby. Wyggs agreed to play 11 a side (to be sporting) and the game kicked off to a frenetic start. For this reason the report will pick out the most significant points â€“ you will understand why later.

South didnâ€™t get off to a favourable start as Wyggs attacked quickly. There were initial mistakes on both sides but South suffered two early penalties which, perhaps, put them on the back foot. Wyggs capitalised on this - and some missed tackles - to score the first try, which was converted.

However, South came back with a strong M.Cooke run and the South forwards also showed character in the scrums and mauls. Despite this positive response, South were penalised again, which combined with excellent passing and ball handling skills from Wyggâ€™s backs, successfully allowed the home side to dodge desperate South tackles to put a second converted try on their score sheet.

As we have come to expect, the 11â€™s didnâ€™t give in and continued to counter attack as the forwards looked strong against a slighter but more mobile opposition. Wyggs were relentless in attack, but continued to be harried by South defence. At this point South suffered a further set back as M.Cooke suffered an injury which meant he couldnâ€™t continue to play â€“ despite his protestations.

Again, Wyggs were gracious in their response and having been unable to come up with a volunteer, agreed to 10 aside. Perhaps with a squad of 20 plus this wasnâ€™t such a hardship but was appreciated. South forwards now began to dominate play, with some good attacks against a quick defence, winning several rucks and mauls and maintaining possession.

This possession was creditable after the first 10 minutes performance and brought South backs into the fray. A.Gill and T.Chauhan took on the Wyggs defence with some powerful running which lead directly to a South penalty 5 metres from Wyggâ€™s try line. The resulting S.Holyoak charge took him over the line but his effort was adjudged to have been held up.

The South scrum continued to perform well and K.Vann ran from the base but knocked on in the resulting tackle. Wyggs now won a precious scrum and kicked for territory with a long chase to put S.Hughes under pressure. Their over enthusiasm by way of a high tackle gave South an opportunity to kick the ball to touch from the penalty but Wyggs won the line out to charge forward, only to be stopped by determined tackling leading to another line out this time to South. This throw was adjudged less than straight and the throw turned over. Amazingly Wyggs did the same and a scrum to South ensued.

The ball was quick to come out and A.Gill kicked for a chase only for the ball to go to touch. South forwards won back possession and forced a penalty but it was the last play of the half. Wyggs 14 :South 0.

The second half saw Wyggs make several substitutions from their comfortable squad and South kick off. The subsequent chase put Wyggs under pressure and a maul was formed before T.Bone emerged with a powerful run to score Southâ€™s first try which was easily converted by K.Vann.

The Wyggs kick off was securely claimed by South and T.Bone was dominant in the maul once again to pass the ball to K.Vann who, supported by colleagues including S.Hughes, scampered up the pith avoiding tackles to score a try which he duly converted to even the score at 14 each. Game on!

Wyggs kicked off and the resulting knock on gave them the put in at the scrum but South forwards dominated winning the ball for T.Chauhan to make a strong run and create a maul which S.Holyoak exploited to charge through defending Wyggs players before being held a couple of metres from their try line. He set up an undefended ruck which fellow forward M.Snutch claimed with his own strong run to go over for a third try â€“ again converted by K.Vann. South were now in the lead for the first time.

Wyggs subsequent kick off was again cleanly claimed, this time by O.Meddoms, who set up further dominant forward play, releasing the ball for T.Chauhan to exploit and set up a maul close to the Wyggs try line. This time A.Adams broke free with several defenders around him grounding another try which allowed K.Vann to convert once more.

Another Wyggs kick off was claimed by S.Holyoak who set up a ruck and a knock on by Wyggs leading to a South scrum. Forwards and backs linked superbly and S.Holyoak was involved again as he crashed through the Wyggs defence with three players hanging off him to score his own try. K.Vann did the honours to convert.

This time Wyggs, under considerable pressure, kicked too long and South had a 22 drop out awarded. S.Hughes chased the kick and Wyggs were forced into touch. South won the line out and forwards continued their domination in the mauls to give T.Chauhan a chance to go over, unfortunately being held up. Wyggs won the scrum but kicked to touch which was won by South which gave A.Dellapina an opportunity on the far wing to run over against several opposing players to score his first try of the season â€“ again converted by K.Vann.

Wyggs targeted S.Hughes on the near wing who was able to offload despite pressure from Wyggs to T.Chauhan who claimed the ball and ran forward on a charge. A ruck was formed South forwards cleared Wyggs defenders out and K.Vann took an individual run up the wing, closely followed by S.Hughes into Wyggs territory before dodging some desperate tackles to score a second of the day. Not wanting to relinquish his 100% record, he duly converted.

At this point, Wyggs saw the writing on the wall it seems â€“ although notes taken were limited as so much had taken place so quickly there was limited time (and paper) to record it all â€“ or so it seemed! Wyggs then took their time to replace virtually the whole team with players who had had enjoyed about half an hour to rest.

The official was politely questioned about time remaining. Without recourse to any manmade time recording instrumentation or colleagues, an answer of 7 minutes was offered. It is fair to say that this calculation appeared somewhat generous, but it went unchallenged. By this time the plucky South 11â€™s had worked hard and gaps immediately appeared which were exploited by the fresh Wyggs players with, it has to be said, a superb display of drawing defenders and passing to score four tries in almost as many minutes â€“ although it seemed longer.

One of those tries went unconverted but South made some last minute â€“ or however long it was â€“ mistakes. However, when time was eventually called, South remained the victors with a superb display under challenging conditions and a much weakened squad.

Whilst all of the tries were scored in the second half, South had regained their composure mid way through the first half for an exciting game against worthy opponents. If South forwards could dominate so ruthlessly every week they would be unbeatable.

The final score â€“ Oadby Wyggestonians 40 : South Leicester 49

Away fixture Jimmies 14/12/08

The Under 11's were the only team to play this Sunday due to a specially arranged away fixture at Jimmies where conditions were boggy but playable. A healthy turnout more or less on time commenced pre-match training a good half hour before their hosts.

When play commenced our boys had a clear understanding of what their coaches required. The uphill kick by Jimmies wasn't secured by South leading to a home side put in at the scrum. It became clear from the outset that South forwards were well organised and this was demonstrated by winning the ball, allowing C.Whitmore to quickly pass to M.Cooke for a defensive kick to be launched which he followed up to tackle the opposing player and take him into touch.

the resulting line out was lost - but S.Holyoak put in a heavy tackle but not before his counterpart off loaded. Jimmies set up a maul in the centre of the pitch but S.Holyoak had managed to steal the ball and emerge on a charge only to be brought back having been adjudged offside.

Jimmies couldn't transfer the penalty advantage to points and soon South were counter attacking with a strong run by T.Bone up the centre of the pitch before Jimmies could stop him. The game continued with strong attack and counter attack on by both sides, in challenging conditions contributing to mistakes. Such a mistake lead to a scrum just inside Jimmies half where South forwards squeezed over the ball to allow quick ball to be launched by C.Whitmore to M.Cooke who put on a burst of speed to run across the defensive line and break through in the far corner to score the first try of the game. K.Vann converted cleanly. This was a creditworthy example of forwards and backs working together.

The kick off put South under pressure but Jimmies knocked on. Unfortunately some infringement was noted in the subsequent scrum and South were penalised. South took this in their stride and regained possession and cooly kicked to safety and T.Chauhan regained possession but was thwarted in his strong run by the conditions as much as the opposition to be adjudged offside. The penalty kick lead to a line out which Jimmies claimed to be pushed back by strong South defence. One of Jimmies props attacked again with his free arm warding off tackles but was once again pushed back.

Unfortunately, during this encounter, South were adjudged to have transgressed and were penalised. Despite committed attempts to prevent a score Jimmies were able to touch the ball down for a score which they couldn't convert.

K.Vann kicked off as Jimmies claimed the ball but an excellent tackle on the nearside wing by A.Dellapina slowed down this advance - although Jimmies once again managed to offload. South dominated the next period of play with strong forwards and back play combining and assertive displays at rucks which were formed along with good solid scrummaging. This lead to Jimmies making mistakes and on occasions running into each other, but they never gave up and intelligently cleared their lines with useful kicks on several occasions.

One such clearance went to A.Gill who claimed the ball and ran two thirds of the pitch before he was stopped, but the resulting infringement by Jimmies lead to a South penalty. S.Holyoak took ownership with A.Adams and T.Bone in support. Jimmies were heard to shout "stop him" which they momentarily did before a further shove from the supporting players took him over the line on top of several Jimmies defenders. However, this effort was in vain as an infringement had been spotted leading to a Jimmies penalty which went to touch as the half ended with South just two points ahead but with perhaps greater possession and territory.

Fresh legs to assist the attack up hill saw the ball being kicked to apply immediate pressure to Jimmies who knocked on. However, the next few minutes saw both sides make mistakes in the difficult conditions which allowed Jimmies back into the game. South soaked up this pressure and it was soon Jimmies who conceded a penalty. A soft pass from C.Whitmore to M.Cooke saw him whiz up the opposite wing to out pace his initial opponents as Jimmies defence drifted across. With a superb hitch kick on the half way line M.Cooke powered past defenders to score a brace in the far corner. K.Vann continued his confident kicking with a conversion.

The next period of played comprised of good tackling, good scrummaging and strong running. T.Chauhan put in a customary strong tackle to force Jimmies mistakes and C.Whitmore made a darting run to be repulsed just before the Jimmies line along with tackling with strong tackling and harrying when Jimmies did have the ball. All of this kept Jimmies in their own half.

Such play and dominance in the scrum lead to quick ball and passing between C.Whitmore and M.Cooke for a virtual repeat of South's first try - only uphill! - by M.Cooke for his hat trick. This was converted by K.Vann to make it three out of three himself.

As the minutes ticked by the ensuing kick off from Jimmies went deep and South struggled to secure it before D.Hughes showed confidence to run out of defence into attack. Although he was tackled and South rucked to reclaim it a penalty was awarded to Jimmies who lined up their biggest player to charge forward.

Whether it was the conditions, tiredness, the prospect of South forwards charging at him or not, sadly for Jimmies the ball carrier ran into his own scrum half and was adjudged to have been accidentally offside. The resulting penalty kick to touch was effectively the last positive play of the game and the visitors emerged victors against their hosts in what was a hard fought out contest by both teams.

The final score was - Jimmies 5 : South Leicester 21.

This was a good way to finish the year. As we had seen at Vipers, every single player contributed positively and everyone want to own the ball and play positively with improved tackling, rucking, scrummaging and considered passing between backs and forwards who supported each other. This collaborative pressure and improved fitness wore Jimmies down in my view. This is a positive position to be in on the basis there is still a lot more this team can do to improve. The commitment was, however, 100% throughout and one of the best overall performances all season.

Whilst several players have been highlighted above the remaining team members deserve their names to be mentioned here as a result, they were:S.Hughes, O.Meddoms, C.Nixon and M.Snutch.

Well done boys a creditworthy result, enjoy Christmas and then we can look forward to some hard work and games in the New Year.

Jim Holyoak

Vipers away fixture 30/11/08
All bar two players turned out today and as well as the cold weather, niggling coughs and colds, they had a Vipers squad which looked substantially larger than last season!

After warming up - there was a lot of this needed - both teams lined up for a 20 minute each way game to test skills and fitness. Vipers kicked off but D.Hughes took the ball cleanly and ran back at Vipers with some passion - this was to be repeated several times during the morning. Early positive scrums and well defended rucks showed gave South a positive start and for the first 10 minutes there was no advantage on either side with some strong tackling stopping attacks on either side. There were several kicks to touch but the South line out held firm. A good start or so it seemed.

However, Vipers were awarded a 5 metre penalty and although some excellent tackling prevented an immediate score, Vipers maintained the pressure and were rewarded with a try by their most prolific player soon after. The try was duly converted.

South kicked off but Vipers secured the ball and a series of missed tackles placed them back on South's try line but luckily Vipers knocked on. The ball was collected and kicked to ease pressure but went straight to a Vipers back who eased into space on the left wing and despite being harried, carried on running to offload superbly to the scorer of the first try who was the only Vipers player to have followed him. This offload, superb Vipers passing skill and an inability for South players to tackle an exceptionally strong, fast player lead to a second Vipers score - the first 10 minutes seemed to be a life time away following a second conversion.

With only a minute or so to go and after a bruising encounter, the 11's of old may have crumbled at this point. However, a scrum shortly after the kick off was easily secured by South forwards once more, the ball was efficiently collected by M.Cooke, who turned on the speed for a searing run up the right wing, stepping through Vipers tackles to score in the corner. K.Vann kicked the conversion and at halt time South were only one converted try down.

Coach Cooke maintained South had the advantage of a slight downhill in the second half - if so it was very slight but the boys took him at his word and after another bright start with some solid rucking T.Bone delivered on what he has been promising all season thus far, a strong run through the ruck shaking players off on both sides to run straight for the try line and score the first try of his playing career - and undoubtedly the first of many. This try, converted by K.Vann, demonstrated individual hard work but also the commitment of several forwards in the ruck.

However, after the kick off Vipers were awarded a penalty and chose not to use route one and this along with some further missed tackles lead to another score for a hat trick by their previous try scorer. Vipers coaches perhaps misinterpreted a call for South players to tackle this player but South certainly rose to the challenge.

From the kick off South defended a Vipers attack putting up a solid defence and securing possession. This lead to M.Cooke taking charge of the ball and once again finding space on the right wing. However, Vipers seemed wise to this and their defence tracked him across the pitch to the half way line and a tackle seemed imminent. However, M.Cooke had other ideas and a superbly executed hitch kick saw him step out of a tackle, accelerate and outpace the opposition to score his second, which K.Vann efficiently converted to even the scores.

Several minutes of attrition ensued with no let up in commitment, although tinged with a little fatigue perhaps. However neither side gave up and several South players, notably C.Whitmore made strong runs to test the Vipers defence. Equally, South defenders remained solid using tackles and kicks to good effect to see out the game with a well deserved draw by both sides. This was probably the hardest fought but honestly played game I have seen so far this season.

Final score - Vipers 21; South 21.

As it was so cold a second reduced time, no conversion game was convened to see if either side could claim bragging rights. Some of the earlier niggles and injuries were also playing their part and the teams were reduced to playing without a full back. South coaches took the opportunity to play players in different positions and gain more experience.

Vipers were awarded a penalty near to the South try line early on and one of their forwards managed to run a superb diagonal line from one touch line to the other without a single South player hampering his journey - he could have been invisible!

As stated earlier, on other occasions this disappointing start may have encouraged heads to drop. Not today though! South spent the next few minutes camped on Vipers try line following two offside infringements but two valiant efforts by S.Holyoak to crash through the line were thwarted by some strong Vipers tackling 30 cm's from the try line. South didn't give up and C.Whitmore now playing at scrum half made another darting run to be tackled himself to halt another South attack.

For some time the game continued in this vein until another solid South scrum won possession with quick ball from the base to K.Vann playing in the centre who steered an excellent lengthy kick up the middle of the pitch well into the Vipers half. This alone was worthy of mention, but T.Rowlands superb chase and tackle of the Vipers defender lead to D.Hughes picking up the ball and running further into Vipers territory, hotly followed by the South forwards. M.Snutch took possession near to the Vipers touch line and using his strength, and with a shove from S.Holyoak to clear the last line of defence, he dived over the line to score his first try of the season and to even the score line at half time.

The second half got off to a bristling start and once again for much of the time South were in Vipers territory. K.Vann was using the freedom of his new position to run into space and also using his kicking skills. A.Dellapina had a good run up the right wing but got barged into touch. T.Bone had another solid run but was tackled just before the line.

The scrum was solid and quick ball was liberally distributed with further commitment and hard running by several players - notably C.Whitmore and D.Hughes combining several times but just getting thwarted at the last moment. South crossed the Vipers line but the score was disallowed for an infringement. O.Meddoms now out of the scrum had his own solid run up the right wing.

Frankly, all of the South players on the pitch wanted the ball and were supporting each other with good tackling, rucking and a scrum operating successfully. It was therefore, a nerve wracking moment when a penalty was awarded to Vipers with a minute to go. However, K.Vann secured the ball and calmly kicked to touch to end the game. Once again honours even. Final score Vipers - 5 ; South 5.

Both games were played with passion. In the first Vipers had the edge and in the second South looked stronger. In South's case this is testament to a lot of commitment, confidence and hard work to improve fitness. After being down twice in two games South 11's demonstrated they wont give up. This was a good mornings rugby and the results on the day were a fair reflection of two teams who were trying their hardest but are still striving to improve. Hopefully there are more games like this to come!

Home Fixture 9/11/08
Against Leicester Forest and Stewarts and Lloyds

A full turn out for the 11's with the whole team on time saw them meet two teams who have provided healthy competition in recent seasons. Other than the Tigers super 8 victory last season we hadn't beaten Forest for some time and had never beaten Stewarts and Lloyds who we had played earlier this season.

The first game was against Forest. Initial accurate penalty kicking from K.Vann and some far better tackling combined with efficient rucking saw some early South possession and position on the pitch. Forest though adopted the same tactics they had employed against us before - disrupting our own possession and fiercely defending until a mistake was made before counter attacking. It hasn't made for entertaining rugby before and it didn't this time round either, but it was effective.

Despite the improvement in the boys' defence, Forest put them under huge pressure and when a penalty was awarded close to the South try line a score looked inevitable but a penalty was awarded to South which K.Vann kicked to touch to relieve pressure.

However, soon after this Forest came back with one of their forwards running at South defenders on their own try line. The initial tackle looked to have stopped the Forest player just before the line but it was adjudged that he had in fact managed to place the ball over the line in the course of being tackled and a try was awarded to Forest. This score wasn't converted gave Forest the edge going into the second half.

Despite words of guidance and support from the coaches, this score seemed to give Forest a psychological advantage, as the normally solid scrum lost some of it's effectiveness. Forest seemed able to cross the gain line with impunity and disrupt any South back play. Sadly, this continued pressure lead to mistakes. South seemed unable to get out of their own half for much of this time.

It was almost inevitable that this lead to a second Forest try as South countered attack after attack. When the try was scored the reaction of the Forest players (less than magnanimous) showed how much it meant to them. The try was converted.

This lead though to a revival of South forwards and the scrum began to operate successfully and possession was regained. However, despite South forwards going over the line they couldn't ground the ball and Forest's determination, disruptive tactics and doggedness won the day. The final score South 0 Forest 12.

The second game, immediately after the first was against Stewarts and Lloyds who had already beaten South this season. It became clear almost from the kick off that South had listened to the coaches and didn't want to return to the clubhouse with out something to show for their endeavours.

The first positive was that the scrum remained solid and focused from beginning to end. This platform delivered quick ball via K.Vann to M.Cooke who as able to outpace the defenders on the right wing to score a try which K.Vann duly converted.

This score gave South the confidence to run at S+L with forwards S.Holyoak and M.Snutch breaking though in the centre of the field. Soon after this, despite further accurate kicking towards the S+L line chased up by A.Gill and M.Cooke, S+L were able to exploit a maul involving too many South players too near to their own line and complete a try to even the score.

However, the subsequent kick off by K.Vann took the ball to S+L's try line and excellent chasing by South backs caused confusion amongst the defenders which S.Hughes, first to the ball, exploited to full effect by taking ownership and touching down for his first try of the season, showing excellent presence of mind. K.Vann duly converted. The half time score being South 14, S+L 7.

The second half saw a rejuvenated S+L side but they failed to make any impact in the scrum whatsoever and South tackling remained much improved over recent weeks. Both sides had opportunities A.Dellapina had a good run up the left wing and K.Vann had a run of his own and South came close with another forwards attempt adjudged to have been held up. S+L never gave up until the dying minutes but South remained strong to the end as well and came out victors the final score remaining South 14, Stewarts and Lloyds 7.

In conditions resembling a Flanders battlefield - this was Remembrance Sunday and the boys smartly observed a two minute silence at 1100 - the results above continue to show an improvement. The last game we played against Forest (who used virtually the same tactics) was a 5 try to 1 defeat and we have never previously beaten Stewarts and Lloyds. Every player in the squad got the opportunity to play and hopefully confidence will continue to improve incrementally as the season progresses. There is still work to do to prevent opposing teams dictating play but there was plenty of evidence in the last game to demonstrate South can do this to other teams when required.

Parents will send out a further e-mail later this week with a reminder. However, at present time it is 0945 at South for training only.

I will take time on Sunday to check out any problems which might have arisen to feed back to the coaches. Can I also ask that you let us know if your boy can't make it so we don't wait for them. The coaches would ask that you try and get your boys to whichever ground we are playing at in plenty of time to prevent them not getting messages, reporting any injuries and not having to repeat any tactics or team information.

On to the match report.

Sunday 26/10/08 Away fixture Syston.
South 11's haven't beaten Syston for some time and as pointed out last week we knew from last seasons county cup competition we were in fo