Fylde Hawks Coach Steve Gough reports on his side’s 7-64 victory at Blackburn RUFC 2nds. [Please note the final paragraphs]
The first game of the season is always like stepping into the unknown especially with a number of new players and wondering how the cohesion of the team would work.
I need not have worried; the cohesion was evident right form the start, and the credit must go to the boys for working hard through the preseason on fitness and game understanding. The 20 man squad had 7 debutants many of which are under 21. The future looks bright and now we have to work hard to maintain the energy and enthusiasm throughout the senior squad.
Fylde started on the front foot going into an early 14-0 lead, with strong running from the forwards and slick handling from the back line. The Hawks then switched off and lacked the intensity in defence for a 10-minute period and allowed Blackburn to get on the scoreboard. At 14-7 after 15 mins the game could have swayed towards the home side, but the Hawks bounced straight back with 2 quick scores to make the score 28-7 to effectively end Blackburn’s challenge in the first half.
The second half started with all the replacements getting on the pitch and I expected a slight dip in intensity, but that was not the case. The bench came on and seamlessly kept the cohesion and intensity at the right level. 36 unanswered points took the score to 64-7 and completed a totally dominant performance by the Hawks.
There are still areas to work on, especially the ‘switch off’ moments to allow teams back in, but the boys showed great determination, skill and awareness. It was really pleasing to see how the boys played heads up rugby and not necessarily playing by numbers. They were creative and innovative, when things were not working quite right, the leaders facilitated change and really pleased that the whole team found the ability to problem solve.
The debutants made a massive impact and showed that they will be soon pushing for 1st XV places. In particular, John Murray, Charlie Smith, Vincente Da Cunha, Francisco Pissarra, Owen Fisher, supported by the rest of squad, they stepped up to senior rugby with ease.
We look forward to the next challenge v Manchester away next week and also the challenges of the rest of the season. We have a strong squad and keeping the boys together will bring key to the success of the senior playing squad.
On a personal note I am really excited by the talent of Vincente Da Cunha and Francisco Pissarra. I spotted the boys playing in Lisbon and immediately noted the clear talent and ability which has been noted by international honours with Portugal age grade teams.
I spoke to the boys about the potential of playing in the UK and in particular at Fylde which I thought would be a great fit for them and the style of rugby we play. Both were immediately keen to come of the Fylde and experience rugby in the UK. So, we kept talking and worked out how we could facilitate their ambitions and it took some working out but the boys have been here now for just over 2 weeks and are settling in well.
I have to thank Phil Mills from the Community Foundation for his help in getting the boys some work coaching, but they will need additional work to be able to pay for accommodation which they are seeking a more permanent rental as they are currently in Airbnb.
Any members who would be willing to assist with work and/or accommodation please get in touch with Steve on 07747 777963. Any help with the boys would be fantastic. If we cannot find them work and cheaper accommodation they will have to return and that would be really sad.
