The young Elks travelled to Sleaford to take on Southwell in the semi final of the U14s Shield competition.

In cold conditions with frequent snow flurries, Ilkeston made a bright start with the teams hard runners, Tom Caines and Aidan Norris crossing the line twice in the first 5 minutes. With Joe Doughty converting the first, Ilkeston looked well set to move on from their 12 point lead. Southwell however fought back with Ilkeston not timing their passes, and conceding a number knock ons and forward passes. Winning most of their own scrums, Southwell took advantage through the skillful running of their fly half, who scored the first of their tries. This was followed shortly after by a second try from their open side flanker, who shrugged off some ineffectual tackles. Neither were converted. Ilkeston responded well, winning the majority of the rucks. Ben Middleton then produced a grubber kick into the Southwell 22, which bounced kindly for Tom Caines to collect and cross the line again. Southwell’s fly half once more beat the Ilkeston tackles to touch down and convert his own try. Aidan Norris however won the first half for Ilkeston, scoring again from a typically robust direct run. It went unconverted and the first half ended 22-17 in the Elks favour.

The second half was more evenly matched in many ways, with Ilkeston winning the breakdown but then failing to convert their possession, and conceding set scrums to Southwell. The opposition backs however gained in confidence with the full back scoring a try after 9 minutes ( converted), and the fly half rounding off a strong individual performance with a third try. Despite a desperate Ilkeston fight back to put pressure on the Southwell line, they were unable to secure the vital try and the score remained 22-29 to Southwell.

There have been many positives from this seasons NLD campaign as many of the squad have grown in maturity and skill. Most importantly, they have started to play as a genuine team, thinking more tactically, making their own decisions, appraising their own performance and working hard for the duration. The coaches are pleased with the progress to date, and whilst disappointed that they are not in the final, they recognise the achievement of reaching the semi finals.

Man of the Match : Tom Caines