15th February 2014

Congleton 5 Prenton 15

Cheshire and South Lancs 3

PRENTON EDGE FORWARD BATTLE

This was a tough match which Congleton were sure they could win. It wasn't to be as Prenton’s intensity in the contact area proved too much in the end. Without any opportunities to do contact training in the past month due to the disgust muddy conditions may have contributed to a possible lack of sharpness in the home team. That said Congleton's fitness was good and may have played a part in the home side’s try 10 minutes from time.
Unusually for Congleton the scrum failed to dominate as it has in recent weeks although the lineout was much improved and certainly more dynamic. King at centre was particularly impressive both going forward and in wrapping up Prenton's attackers whenever they dare step into his centre channel.
Prenton, with their aggression, athleticism and offload game, deserved their win; however, there was little refereeing of the offside line around the rucks or the backline creeping offside throughout the match and this became increasingly frustrating for the home team.
Conditions didn't help either side with a very slippery pitch and heavy wind. Congleton were 8 -0 down in 15 minutes but held out well until the 70th minute when an excellent counter attack from a defensive kick took Prenton to 15-0. This was disappointing as it came after Congleton had worked their way deep into the oppositions half. Credit to Congleton though who struck back right on full time when they span the ball through several pairs of hands into Space where no8 Somers lay in wait to smash his way over.
In windy conditions the backs did still move the ball down the line and manufacture several half chances. They will need to have some of the runners hitting straighter lines if they are to achieve their undoubted high potential and be able to mix it with the very best in the league. In the forwards, whilst they held their won, there are a number of players that need to get their body positions stronger to ensure all that size and power is utilised effectively. Do that and they will dominate every week.
Defensively there were a few soft tackles missed early on, but overall the defensive structure held out well. There are some tough games to come but with each game comes confidence that the team can compete with anyone in the league. Today, Congleton were narrowly beaten by a more aggressive side but their stock in terms of skillage and belief is on the rise. As with any developing team, consistency can be a challenge early on in their development. As they have in previous victories, Congleton need to return to supporting the ball carrier more sharply into and through contact. Then they will once again provide the strong attacking platform required for the backs.
Credit to the opposition on Saturday who were very good at slowing and disrupting Congleton's possession allowing them to realign their defence and reduce Congleton's attacking options. Coach Burkard said afterwards “we wanted to win but we should not get too disheartened. I am pretty pleased because this group of players are learning and developing together and are delivering solid baseline performances which are superior to last season. We have higher expectations both individually and collectively and that is why the future looks good”