The girls’ section took centre stage at Donkey Lane and the progress recorded by the U13s, U15s and U18s was again there for all to see as the ‘Tigers’ recorded wins in three of their four games against visiting Basildon on Sunday May 9, writes Jonathan Landi.

An earlier kick off time, and 10.30am is far more congenial than 1pm, when Donkey Lane stage tends to empty out and become rather soulless, and this allied to the balmy conditions set the scene for a memorable morning of rugby on an occasion when both sets of players
clapped in honour of the memory of the late Chris Gill.

The U13s have some mazy runners and they lasted the course well in their 14-8 win, while, on the adjacent pitch, the U15s similarly tapped into the ‘buzz’ by shading their first encounter 6-4 against their Essex rivals, before drawing the rematch 5-5. It was also similar story of happy faces but tired bodies on the second team pitch where the U18s similarly caught the mood by shading a thriller 18-15.

Signalled out for special praise in the U13s were Charlotte (first try), Amy (support and link play) and Eliza (communication), whereas Emily and Thelma both shared the podium when it came to great running.

Niamh was clearly the standout player in the U15s and even a Basildon player quipped: “She’s fast.” However, she also proved to be good organiser and motivator, and the likes of Imogene, Grace and Megan fed off this to positive effect. Not that they were the only ones.

There was also some outrageous pieces of opportunism. As a long range kick from Ignatians’ own try line opened up the possibility of a foot race the other end, but the ball went dead. Still, it showed that Ignatians were prepared to chance their arm by trying things.

Head coach Tom Mann, having also refereed the game, said: “We played some good stuff and showed that we were prepared to try things. However, there is scope for improvement in defence.”

There is far more depth to girls’ section than merely winning games of rugby but the winning momentum, very evident against Watford, was again in abundant supply, and this is certainly a plus for recruitment.

Added to a decent coaching set-up, and the ability to get well organised, are other vital cogs in a winning formula, and their reputation is
clearly spreading as games against Eton Manor are in the pipeline at the weekend.

The bonhomie is clearly rubbing off well on the girls. Showing commendable team spirit, they go about their business quietly and effectively, and there is no atmosphere of reproach if anyone makes a mistake. They’re also improving as rugby players. Long may it continue.

Finally, a big thank to all the referees as Brian and Darren, in common with Tom, also stepped up to the mark in this area.