Victory for the Barbarians!!

The Hague Barbarians (the Junior cluster team comprising of players from Voorburgse Rugby Club and Wassenaar Warriors) celebrates a very well-deserved victory after making the long journey to Almelo in the east of The Netherlands. Playing in almost freezing conditions, the team produced a solid performance and an equally solid 34-52 win.

Following a somewhat nervous start for The Barbarians, Twente made the first impact on the field with a converted try in the opening 10 minutes. Not phased by this, The Barbarians regrouped and found an attacking spirit that brought an increased confidence to start driving deep into Twente lines with controlled aggression, good disciplined rugby and great support. Strong in the attack with forwards and backs really working well together to retain possession and gain yards, the first half ended with a compelling 12-26 score line.

The second half was opened with strong push from the Bulls who switched their attacking tactics to a long kick deep into The Barbarians half; this resulted in a strong attacking effort from the Bulls and the first try from them of the second half being muscled over the line. The Barbarians repeated their first-half ability to quickly regroup and the visitors responded in a series of attacking moves what moved the score to a very compelling 17-47 in favour of The Barbarians.

Going into the final 10 minutes, the Bulls showed their determination with renewed vigor in the attack. This attacking spirit from the host team, coupled with a few minutes of poor discipline and less effective defence from The Barbarians, brought the final score to 34-52. Both teams enjoying a good physical contest and some great rugby.

Matt McCoy, Plamen Brown and Tijmen Pronk placed their names on the score sheet but for the coaches, this game really was a celebration of great teamwork and support that enabled this solid performance. The lessons of previous games and the focus of training sessions were brought into this contest and the result was a win. The team should be immensely proud of themselves.

All who traveled to Twente wish to pass their thanks to the management, players and supporters of the host club for such a warm reception and hosting after the game. The Barbarian players continue to learn their lessons from the game but equally as important they experienced today the true values of rugby where they received exceptional hospitality after the match from a club who represent the true values of this sport that we love. We very much look forward to the opportunity of reciprocating and welcoming The Bulls to either of our grounds.

Mark McCoy
Trainee Match Reporter

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