Burton 71 Eccleshall 0 on   Sept 16th 2007

Eccleshall arrived late at the Croft with only 14 players, however Burton warmed up sensibly and were more than ready for their first game of the season. Slightly unexpected and for a good 20 minutes Burton were forced to compete very hard at Scrums, Rucks and mauls, however as the match progressed the forwards tightened up their game to play as a better more disciplined unit.

The back line were busy from the off, with both of our scrum halfs linking forwards to backs and the whole team looking to create opportunities from first, second and dare i say it third phase rugby. Angelo's  training field work was evident for everyone to see, however he will not mind me saying that it is the attitude and willingness of the players that makes the difference on the day.

Five tries were scored in the first half with three converted and Burton were well ahead at 31 - 0. Burton played the second half with 14 players to even up play and all four replacements were given plenty of time out on the field. Six more tries were scored and five converted during an improved second half performance.

On most occasions Burton players were looking for their team mate to pass or off load to and good support play was evident during most of the game. Credit must go to  a tired and depleted Eccleshall team who tried hard to keep going against the fresher legs of the Burton replacements.

Everyone played really well (back up support from the side lines was top draw also!!), attitude and commitment was excellent so no need to name try scorers, suffice to say 11 tries scored, nine by backs and two by forwards.

Finally at the close of play three players were presented with their U17 white laces, which they are expected to wear with pride over the coming season. All coaches expect every player to earn their laces over the coming weeks, however they will not be given out cheaply!!

Next week sees the U17 team away at Handsworth in the league, where everyone will be hoping for the same level of commitment and attitude shown today.