Ilkley v York Wasps

York Wasps vs Ilkley 29th October

•Match one - Wasps 2 v Ilkley 0 (W)
•Match two – Wasps 2 v Ilkley 1 (W)
•Match three – Wasps 3 v Ilkley 0 (W)

For context it’s worth noting that York lost to Ilkley last year, which is perhaps another indication of York’s development over the past 12 months.

On a beautiful sunny morning for open, ball in hand rugby, both sides put on a great display. Initially 4 matches were agreed, however after the third Ilkley who had a squad of around 18 vs our 22 elected to call a halt.

While the score line suggests a fairly comfortable morning, the reality was a lot different, with Ilkley playing some fantastic rugby – strong performing backs linking to a v strong pack. Without some great ‘scramble defence’ the score line in the first two matches would have been a lot different.

One the strengths of York Wasps players is their ability to adapt and develop their game they did this well last Sunday. So whilst neither side had dominance in the set scrum, from the off Ilkley kept turning over York possession in open play as they got to the breakdowns quicker and were more decisive. Wasps stronger open play structured defence kept them in the game and in turn creating opportunities, keeping the ball alive through handling phases to score at crucial times throughout the morning.

By the final match Wasps forwards finally started winning the breakdown battles more often and in turn this resulted in a strong winning margin.

Plenty of tries were again scored out wide as a result of some slick handling – with both Beharells scoring well worked tries. Among his hat trick of tries, Elias managed his customary intercept much to the consternation of the opposition! Whilst Freddie L scored from a free kick, cutting back to crash over. Charlie H playing at full back had another strong game including a great solo effort.

There were notable performances across the field –Toby B had easily his strongest morning of rugby this season ensuring Ilkley’s best player was kept quiet and when attacking mode ripping apart the centre ground before timed distribution. Archie also had one of his strongest games at centre – involved with both Beharrell tries and putting in some great tackles. In the pack Henry DB and Henry B both had dominant games marauding cross the gain line. However, Louie again upped his all around game – and if awarded would be my man of the match. Not only was his rucking, scrummaging and bone crunching defence on display , but his straight running with ball in hand set up some fantastic positions off which Wasps backs prospered. On every occasion Louie went into contact the ball has quickly presented and recycled – A great display.