By Harry Tovey
Head coach Elijah Taylor was happy with his 2nd team’s display, despite them losing narrowly 22-19 against Cardiff University 7ths at the USW Sport Park.
Tries from Matty Marchington, Olly Milsom, Finn Osborne and Toby Anderson, accompanied by the boot of captain Tom Crompton, saw the visitors record their second win of the season in BUCS Western Tier 4.
“After a few tough weeks and tough results, I think today was a good response from the boys,” said Taylor.
“Some of those boys have never touched a rugby pitch before, so the attitude from them was just second to none. We’ve got a lot to work on and a lot to take from today, but we are happy at the end of it.”
The hosts crossed the whitewash through hooker Jarrad Bowen, Dan Cotterall, and Cameran Isaac, but the 19 points USW racked up were not enough in their opening game of the season.
Pic: Marcel Dudek
“I can say I am disappointed, and yeah, it’s disappointing not to come away with the win, but at the end of the day, we are happy with our structure,” added Taylor.
“Getting over the whitewash on a few occasions was very pleasing, and the noise behind us says it all.
“Everyone is happy even though the result was ours. The boys are happy, and we as coaches, are happy at the end of it.”
Up next for Taylor’s men is a trip to the Cotswolds to face Royal Agricultural University 1sts next week, and it will be another tough test.
“They are going to a tough bunch of boys up there. The Royal Agricultural says it all – some farmers and probably some tough nitty-gritty players.
“However, after the way some of these boys showed some heart today and played some great rugby, we are looking promising.”