Ivel travelled to Tadley looking to use a mixture of youth and experience to turn the tide of recent defeats. They started the game well, with very effective scrimmaging putting the team from Yeovil in a strong position. This forced the ball out wide and soon the game began to flow at pace.  Ivel displayed some excellent ball retention and continuity of play. The pressure finally told when Ash Pippard scored a penalty, followed by an unconverted try. Emlyn Kuhn then added to the score with a useful drop-goal. Ivel were on top and things were looking good.

Half-time
Tadley     10
Ivel 1XV  11

In the second half the home side decided to go on the offensive and produced some good rugby. It was due to the efforts of the Ivel team that the scoring didn’t overtake them. Troy Fowler and Andrew Cook were especially praised for the huge tackles they made when they were needed. Their efforts were the tip of the iceberg with Ivel’s commitment levels at an all time high, showing some great spirit throughout the game. Ivel kept ahead of their hosts when Max Harvey slotted a drop goal. The final minutes were tense as Ivel were on the verge of a thoroughly deserved win. But it was not to be. With light fading rapidly Tadley won a penalty right in front of the posts. They scored and the match was over.

Full Time
Tadley     16
Ivel 1XV 14

Ivel could have won this game and should have won it, but when opportunities came along they weren’t taken. Having said that the team performance was excellent. This is the start of a positive month for Ivel where we need to secure as many points as possible before the end of the year. With Andrew Cook taking his chance to come up from the second team and perform as he did, his team-mates should be inspired to move forward.

On a side note, five of Ivel’s players were involved in a car accident on the way back from Tadley. Four were released that night with one kept in for observation. All five are back now and we wish them all a speedy recovery. With four of the players involved being forwards it could challenge the Club to provide a team for this week’s match at home against Minety.