23 March 2012
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| James in action for Canada |
A first half that was blighted with too many unforced errors and some soft and non-exsistent tackling had us behind 6 – 26. All credit to the Pirates they came to play on Friday and took every opportunity that we gave them and punished us accordingly. At the halftime break we knew what we had to do, it was simple, keep the ball and cut down on the silly offloads and go through the phases and the points will come.
Simple rugby I know, but sometimes that’s all you need. We were able to keep our cool and gradually run them down, forcing them to give away penalties and eventually points in the process. And with 10 minutes gone in extra time we finally pulled back the lead with the last play of the game thanks to a scampering run from Brendan Burke to run out winners 26 – 25.
Now I have to admit, this was one of the best comeback wins I have been involved in. For the boys to compose themselves and come out in that second half, stay calm and slowly claw our way back was brilliant.
And the 3300 blues supporters that were there to witness the game loved every minute of that second half. But for myself, the most satisfying thing was know that we crept ahead in the playoff race just that little bit more, and with the shock result of Rotherham beating Leeds on Sunday, that made things even more comfortable for us.
But don’t get me wrong, our job isn’t done just yet, we have another big game this weekend up at Leeds against a side that has a lot to prove, especially after being beat at home last weekend.
And don’t forget we haven’t beaten Leeds this season so we really do have our work cut out for us. So roll on Sunday!! Anyway I think that’s enough from me for this week, take care everyone and as always “Come on you Blues”
James Pritchard is professional rugby player of Bedford Blues (captain) and Canada. Follow him on Twitter @JPritchard_21
