1st XV advance in the NatWest Vase

The first team travelled to local rivals St Edwards for the first round of the NatWest Vase Competition on Wednesday afternoon. St Edwards took an early 3-0 lead (penalty) against the run of play but Liverpool replied in forceful fashion, driving over a maul from a well-executed line out play. Vice-captain Rhys H (Howson’s) was on hand at the back of the maul to place the ball down over the line. Liverpool dominated the first half and very rarely did St Edwards venture into Liverpool’s half. A second try soon came about, when attacking wide play ended up with Chris F (School) being tackled high, just before he would have touched down for a try, resulting in the referee awarding a penalty try.

Half Time 3-12

It was a similar start with the 2nd half, Liverpool dominating especially at the set piece. Another try soon came about after good handling skills, Pieter B (Brook’s) finishing off in the corner. Credit to St Edwards as they showed lots of determination and started to play some good rugby. Against the run of play, Captain Adam M (Howson’s) found a small gap and capitalised to go over for another try. Tiredness and a change in personnel (due to injury) gave St Edwards confidence to play attacking rugby and they scored two tries in quick succession. Penalties and silly tactical errors from Liverpool, enabled St Edwards the opportunity to camp in Liverpool’s half and another drive over the line put St Edwards within one try, with two minutes to play. Liverpool held out to secure in the end, a narrow 26-32 victory. A very pleasing first half but plenty room for improvement for the boys (including fitness) in the next few weeks.

Man of the match – Michael C (Selwyn’s)

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