Game Report: August 1, 2007

Under 18 Men - Aurora upended by Ajax
Aurora Barbarians RFC (ABRFC) 7 - Ajax 24

The u18s ended their TRU u18 season on a disappointing note losing 24-7 to Ajax last night. The early part of the game was close but a strong second half by the home side meant that Aurora would not get their revenge from an early loss to the Wanderers.

The u18s finish their season with four wins and two defeats; good enough for second in their division and position in the Tier One play-offs. The standings will be complete later this week and only then will the u18s learn their first round opponent.

The game began well for Aurora but they were unable to convert their early chances into points. This would come back to haunt them as Ajax take advantage of every foray into the visitors end. A defensive lapse led to the Wanderers first try when they attacked from deep in their own end. A smooth transfer of the ball in a tight off-load sent the inside center up the middle of the field. The final pass put the Wanderer fly-half over under the posts and Ajax led 7-0.

Aurora returned, once again, to the Wanderers end and solid defensive pressure led to a turn over. Inside center JD Otten pounced on the ball to score the try and when scrumhalf Zach Pilotte made the convert the game was tied.

A mental lapse with time running out in the first half provided Ajax with a golden opportunity to pull ahead, they made excellent use of a poor clearing kick to score under the posts. As the convert crossed through the uprights the refs whistle signaled the end of the first 30 minutes.

It was a tired and somewhat dispirited group that gathered around the coaches for the much-needed water break. Nonetheless they returned to the field ready for battle.

Unfortunately, Ajax quickly got the upper hand and put ten points on the board before Aurora could mount any pressure.

The final 15 minutes saw Aurora defend with strength and energy as the coaches went to the substitutes bench in order to find fresh legs. Ajax kept up the pressure and ran out deserved winners.

The u18s next game is Wednesday August 8th in the first round of the TRU play-offs. Location and opponent TBD.