Month of rest does the Saints the power of good

I have missed over 9,000 shots, lost over 300 games. I have been trusted to take the game-winning shot 26 times, and missed. And that is why I succeed.- -Michael Jordan

This quote kinda of sums up many of the Anselmians lads. In past seasons wins have not come easy, and despite hard work they have often come up short. At times the lads have not enjoyed things, but with effort, application and team work they are growing in skill at a team and individual level. Knowing how to lose has made this group of lads work harder and go further, and they are now starting to win games and the ones where they fall short the opposition are often shocked at the intensity and skill they to overcome to claim a hard fought victory.

Considering we were coming back from a month-long lay off the performance of the whole team was very impressive. 23 lads turned up and we played one half and two quarters in order to give every one a chance to get some game time. Wed have played longer but the pitch was needed by Lymm Colts.

The first half started very evenly with both sides pressing hard but no decisive break throughs by either side but it was Lymm who broke the deadlock. Saints came straight back and began to get the better of the first half.

We changed eight players at half time and the disruption meant that we stuttered in the first few minutes of the second period before things began to gel. Once they did the performance level improved and we began to dominate.

Tries were coming from all parts of the team with a notable breakaway try form Matty Mc(sporting his natty new scrum cap) who ran 80 yards and managed to switch on his turbo charger in the last 20 yards to stay clear of the pursuing Lymm defenders.

New boy Elston made a good impression at No 9. Alex Y (slightly reluctantly) switched from centre to full back and proceeded to score one of the tries of the game from that position.The other Alex was on fine scoring form and lead by example from the centre and later from No 8.George Mally finished with a well worked team try in the corner.

Mossy had some challenging conversion attempts from either wing but still managed his trademark cross-bar challenge again (I'm sure there's a malaysian business syndicate making a fortune out of him).

There were no passengers and at all stages of the game in attack and defence the lads stepped up to the mark. It was one of the best all round performances of the season so far and shows how much the lads have progressed as a team this year.

Lymm were ideal hosts and the game was played in the right spirit, their new facilities were matched in the professional way their young schoolboy ref managed the game, and the positive vibe from supporters of both teams on the side line. Saints have always enjoyed playing Lymm through the age groups (it was a chance meeting at a schoolboy game that got this fixture jacked up, thanks Brian) cos they are a good team playing for the right reasons in the true spirit of the game.

Thought for the week (no training on Tues but we are investigating Tues nights at Anselms College)

Just because you play a sport doesn't mean you deserve to win. You have to fight with all your heart and take things as far as your body lets you. (said by someone who seems to understand sport but for the life I me I cant find out who said it!!!)

Next week Parkonians AWAY – details to follow