What a difference a week makes

What a difference a week makes. Having beaten Birkenhead Park in a mighty forward dominated battle the previous week The Mavericks were obviously of the opinion that they didn’t need to do anything else for the rest of the season. Or, rather that’s how it appeared this week against an Ellesmere Port outfit set for a game.
The Mavs turned up with a strong side of 17 again, welcoming new players to the fold once again and building on the skills and confidence of others. The core of the team remained and what looked on paper like a strong team appeared to wilt and fade as soon as boot was put to ball at the start of the first half.
The final score of 27-10 was a fair reflection of the game with Ellesmere Port well deserving of the dominant victory. As a spectator I was grateful for the Port ill discipline as a saving grace, for I thought the score could have been a lot higher if they’d continued to play their running and supporting game.
The main criticism from me this week was plain and simple. Laziness cost us this game. With some noticeable exceptions in Andy Thompson, Tom Redfearn, Andy Smith, Nev Pickard and Neil Brookes I was generally disappointed in the level of commitment and heart from the players on the pitch this week. The post match team talk was open, honest and frank and whilst I will never criticise individual players I’m certain that most will reflect on their performances and ask themselves “what could I have done better”.
The forwards made very little contribution to the game and were constantly relying on the backs to do the hard work in rucks and mauls.
On a number of occasions I observed backs and forwards change roles completely, with 5 forwards standing in the back line. And backs driving into rucks. The only reason this occurs is because forwards are slow to the breakdown.
If we are to compete at all in this league we cannot afford any more performances like this. I’ve always said I don’t mind losing to better teams as long as we take pride in our performance . Not only was there no pride on display, there was little commitment, little support, little desire and very little heart. We all know how Maverick rugby can be played when it’s played well and we need to press the reset button for next week and return to our confident and competent selves.
I take no satisfaction in this review and I’m sure you will all agree yesterday was not a good day.
Despite all of the above I do have a man of the match from yesterday. The reason for the award is down solely to his pure frustration at the performance. I could see how passionately angry this player became with what he could see happening in front of him. He made the breaks (with no support) he tackled ferociously (could only tackle one at a time) and berated those he could see failing. He demonstrated the Maverick spirit but he was on his own . This weeks man of the match goes to Nev Pickard.
Additional mentions go to Andy Smith and Les who hit over the whitewash to show us it was possible.
When we play well I will praise you all day long, however when we play like we did I would not be The Gaffer if I whitewashed over the failings.
Here’s to a much improved performance next week against what promises to be tough opposition.

Semper a Mavericus Semel a Mavericus

The Gaffer