Coach’s Reports

 

 

29th April 2012

St Judes 10 vs. Halton 4

In a clash between 2 of the top teams in group A, Jude’s gained the spoils for the second time this season.

Conditions were poor and considering the weather, handling errors were low. Try scorers were Sean Croston and Callum Fisher with Gary Mcmahon kicking 1 from 2. MOM was the consistant Gary Mcmahon, 2nd was Connor Jones back from injury and joint 3rd was Seb Smith-Howarth and Josh Yates. No game next week and then Newton away in NWC semi-final on May 13th.

 

 

22nd April 2012

St Jude’s 52 Vs OSJ 0

St Jude’s were asked to bring forward their weekend’s game at OSJ’s request and the team didn’t disappoint the crowd, putting on a performance which would delight a coach at any level.

 

The conditions were wet in contrast to the weekend, so it could have been expected that handling errors could dominate the performance.

However the lads continued to improve week on week with a absolutely fantastic performance both defensively, and offensively.

The team scored 9 tries, from 9 different scorers and kicked 8/9 goals. Credit to OSJ who I am confident will retain there place in the top flight at 12,s, they came up against an unstoppable force tonight.

It would take too long to describe all the tries, however from a coaches perspective it is always nice when moves come off and the move of the game involving Bill, Josh, Gary Mc, Dom and finally Sebbo was a coach’s dream. The lines of running and general kicking and organisational play was first class.

Try scorers were Josh Yates who was MOM, Gary McMahon who also kicked 6/7 goals got 2nd MOM and is fast developing a reputation, Brandon Reid with his best game of the season, Aaron Caunce, Boris Harris with a cheeky effort, Lewis Melling with a trademark effort, Sean Croston who powered his way through. Kyle Brennan and Sebastian Smith-Howarth who got 3rd MOM jointly with Robbie Lindley who put in by far his best performance.

 

Finally a mention to JAWS (Josh Aubrey-Williams) who calmly slotted over the eighth goal kick.

 

Jude’s next entertain Halton Farnworth at home on 29th April. Halton will be coming full of confidence so we need to prepare well as we have done in recent weeks.

 

Well done lads, enjoy the weekend off, but don’t be late Saturday.

 

Congratulations to the March 2012 Player of the Month:  Sean Croston!

 

25th March 2012

18th March 2012

Rylands 8 – St Jude’s 24

 

Jude’s went into the game having made several changes and came away with another win. All 20 lads played with only Connor missing. As with previous games the completion rate wasn’t great however they still showed some great skills in the build up to their tries.

With his first try for the club was Boris Harris followed by Sean Croston, a great effort from Josh Yates and 1 from Lewis Melling.  Goals came from Gary Mc with 2 and Kyle Brennan with 2.

MOM was the outstanding Sebastian Smith-Howarth with a great work ethic. In second came Jack Reddy who had his best game and 3rd went to Jack Sharples who had a great gam

Next week we are at home for the first time this season Vs Leigh East.

 

4th March 2012

St Jude’s 12 – Halton 10

 

 

 

 

 

Next Season 2012

Last game of the interim season was on the 27th November 2011, we ended the season as we started with an impressive win and without conceding any points. The summer season commences Sunday 4th March. During the first half of the season March-June, it will see teams split into 3 or 4 groups as well as seeing the team compete in the NWC cup? There will be 4 competitions based on the group you are playing in ranging from the NWC premier competition through to development and plate competitions. The finals held in Blackpool are scheduled for weekend of the 19/20th May.

There will then be a mid season break in July and August before re-commencing in September-November. During this time the team will also compete in the Lancashire cup. A straight knock out involving all teams from all divisions.

Competition for places will be fierce and we will be looking to field our strongest team as opposed to years 7-12 (so far). I urge all players and parents to work extremely hard in pre-season and come to training with the right attitude and a desire to want to be coached. For all the success we have had since under 7’s, we haven’t won anything yet. The next stage of our development gives us an opportunity I think to win both trophies on offer. We are without doubt the best team in our age group and provided that the lads attend training regular and work hard both physically and mentally, we should be looking forward to continued success.

Your support and guidance as parents will play a vital part in whether or not we continue to be successful.

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to all players and parents.

Yours in sport

Gary McMahon

27th November 2011

St Jude’s 36  Vs Thatto Heath 0

Jude’s 12′s played their last game of the short season, a season that has arguably put them as one of the top teams at this age group.

Jude’s have developed year on year, with this season seeing an average of 4 points only conceded against, with 9/14 games keeping a clean sheet.

Try scorers today were Gary McMahon with 2 tries and 4 goals, Connor Jones, Sean Croston, James McDonnell, also with their first tries this season Jack Sharples and Liam McNamara.

MOM was the impressive Kyle Brennan, second Azzer Caunce and joint third Brandon Reid

Awesome, team, awesome season. Lads, you’re a pleasure to coach. Roll on March boys!!!!!!!!

 

20 November 2011

St Judes 22 Vs Leigh East 6

Jude’s made the trip to East to play a much improved East side with a new coaching structure and beaten only twice this season.

It wasn’t Jude’s best performance this season however the class and desire of the team was evident this morning, eventually overcoming some stiff resistance from a well drilled side.

Jude’s started well enough defending well and scoring 2 superb tries through MOM Connor Jones and the impressive Dominic Kevan who was set up by second placed Josh Yates.

However Jude’s allowed East to come back and they finished the half stronger. Early in the second half East scored a deserved try to make it game on. Jude’s then regrouped and scored a further 2 tries from 3rd place Gary McMahon who also kicked 3 goals and Sean Croston.

In the end Jude’s came out comfortable winners however they will need to learn from today and be more aggressive in the tackle and the wide players will need to be more effective in attack and defence.

Last game before the break is at home next week V Thatto, so far a very successful season from a talented bunch of lads. Next season will see how far the team have come when they enter competitions.

13 November 2011

St Jude’s 38 Vs Chorley 0

Jude’s entertained a very much improved Chorley who can find themselves unlucky to lose by such a score. The first ten minutes saw Jude’s fail to complete there sets however there line speed and defence limited Chorley and eventually Jude’s scored out wide with a well worked try from the ever impressive Sean Croston who went on to score a second try. The latter of the first half and the second half showed that when Jude’s are on form it will take a good team to stop them. They where clinical in both attack and defence.

Yet another clean sheet and some great tries scored. Jude’s did have to make changes early on when errors where affecting the game, however all players responded well and contributed fantastically when they re-joined the team.

The team where lead well by captain and MOM Gary McMahon who scored a try and kicked 5 goals, other tries came from Callum fisher, Brandon Reid, second placed MOM James McDonnell and with his first try for the club, the “mighty” Reece Evans.

In third place with a fantastic performance was Robbie Larence.

A big thanks to our friends and opposition Chorley and Alan Bowers. Great team, great coach and great parents.

6 November 2011

Newton 0 Vs Jude’s 12′s 18

After last weeks much improved line speed defensive performance, today’s game versus a proven and exceptional side, was a test on how effective Jude’s line speed would be against arguably one of the best sides at this age.

In a word the display was “awesome.” The drills worked on in recent weeks, are certainly looking good and finally amongst the players it would seem as though the penny has finally dropped!

Talent is what the team has always been about, but the hard work and positive attitude is what has inspired the team to such great performances. The game was ran fantastically by half backs Kyle Brennan who got second in the awards and Gary Mc, with the outstanding MOM Josh Yates and 3rd place Sean Croston at centre creating havoc in the Newton defence.

Storm passed the ball around well but the difference on attack today was that Jude’s took on the defence and the lines of running was exceptional.

Try scorers were Sean Croston who maintained his record of having scored in every game, James McDonnell who was unlucky to have a second try cancelled, the impressive Lewis Melling and the dynamic Seb Smith-Howarth.

Gary Mc kicked only 1 from 4 tries, but all were from wide positions. Mention to Reidy who only played 5 mins due to a sickness bug, and JAWS who although he was quite in attack, impressed with good line speed out wide which forced Newton up the middle.

Next week home Vs Chorley.

30 October 2011

Wigan St Jude’s 28 Vs Widnes Moorfield 4

Jude’s had worked all week on improving our line speed whilst also putting more emphasis on applying pressure on attacking drills.

The line speed displayed from Jude’s was the best it’s been for some time, credit to Mike and Moorfield who moved the ball well but any team would have found it hard to break down the Jude’s defense today.

It happened once when poor tackling on the left side and at FB lead to Widnes scoring there only try, otherwise it was a top class defensive effort.

First half with ball in hand saw several handling errors and forward passes which Jude’s spoke about at HT, and the second half saw an increase in the completion rate, and an attacking performance which was much better.

The performance sets us up nicely for next weeks game against our friends and rivals Newton Storm.

Many good defensive performances today but with some outstanding performances the awards went to:

MOM Boris Harris

Second James McDonnell

Third Aaron Caunce

Try scorers Seb Smith-Howarth with 2, Connor Jones, Callum Fisher and Sean Croston with 1 each. Gary McMahon kicked 4/5 with 2 from almost off the touchline.

23 October 2011

Westbank 0 v Judes 38

Another clean sheet which is always pleasing, there were also some good individual performances. However the completion rate and line speed will have to be much better if the team is going to contest for honors after the winter break.

Once again Jude’s fielded a squad of 21 players with several changes made to the starting line up and all players getting game time.

MOM was 2 try Lewis Melling, a clear winner

Second with 2 tries was Sean Croston

Third with 5 goals was Gary McMahon

Other try scorers were James McDonnell, Dominic Kevan and Seb Smith-howarth

 

16 October 2011

St Judes 26 Vs Blackburn

Jude’s entertained Blackburn this morning, a team that for years always proved difficult to beat. Once again Jude’s came up with countless unforced errors. Combination tackles was good, line speed once again ordinary.

It may seem harsh comments after a 26-4 victory, however 5 weeks ago against the same team we scored 46 points so it shows the difference in performance levels.

As coaches’ we will continue to work on improving fitness levels, confidence and core skills, as well as doing some video analysis and 1 to 1 sessions with individuals to take them through this difficult period of learning.

Finally the coaches’ would like to remind all players that “it is not ability that takes a player to the top, but a sound work ethos and a good attitude to training and coaching.’

9 October 2011

St Jude’s 18 Vs Rylands 8

Jude’s went into the game again with several changes made and with all 20 players available, all getting game time. Not for the first time this season Jude,s line speed was average although the combination tackles where very good. Thanks to Chris Fairclough whose sessions in the gym are certainly paying dividends. Best on the day where MOM Brandon Reid, second Gary McMahon with a try and 2 goals, Seb Smith Howarth was 3rd .Further tries came from Sean Croston and Josh Yates who also kicked a goal.

2 October 2011

Crosfields 0 Vs St Judes  22

With several changes made this game could have proved a banana skin. However in wet conditions the team put in a solid performance particularly on defence, limiting there opponents to very few chances.On another drier day the team could have scored more points but overall the coaches where very pleased with the performance, particularly the line speed.Try scorers where Gary McMahon who also kicked 3 goals, Sean Croston, Connor Jones and Callum Fisher. MOM was tied between Connor Jones and Sean Croston, second was Jack Reddy and third Robbie Lawrence. Lets get to training in the week boys and continue to work hard.

Next week home Vs Rylands.

St Judes 10 Vs Halton 22

This week saw arguably 2 of the top team meet at Parsons Meadow. Unfortunately for Jude’s it was Halton who started the brightest scoring an early converted try to go on and lead 6-0 at half time.

Halton where the best side on the day and thoroughly deserved the win, particularly with there second half performance where they scored tries early in the second half and defended superbly for most of the half.

Jude’s will need to take out the positives from the game particularly with the way in which they finished. They scored 2 tries from Sean Croston and Dominic Kevan which gave them a glimmer of hope at 18-10 before Halton sealed there win with the last try.

The coaches spoke before the game about attitude, aggressive line speed, desire and a willingness to work hard for each other. Unfortunately and not for the first time some players for whatever reason chose to ignore good coaching advice and ultimately let there team mates down.

We will definitely move on from this i’m sure with a squad of 22 players. Competition will be tough and only those who are prepared to work hard consistently will gain there rewards.

MOM today was Gary McMahon who easily topped the tackle count and kicked 1 goal. Joint second was the consistent Connor Jones and Dominic Kevan, 3rd with his best game of the season was Kyle Brennan.

Lets get down training this week boys and work hard at putting it right. Crosfields away next week.

18 September 2011

St Jude’s 32 V Saddleworth 10

Jude’s continued there unbeaten start with an away win in Oldham v Saddleworth.

Despite the scoreline this was an under par performance from a team which has so far impressed early season.

Try scorer’s where Gary Mc, James McDonnell, Seb Smith, Azzer Caunce and Sean Croston with 2. Goals from Gary Mc 3 and Josh Yates. MOM with an awesome display particularly in defence was Gary McMahon, Sean Croston ran him a close second with Sebastian Smith-Howarth 3rd.Next week home V Halton KO 10.30

11 September 2011

St Judes 20 Vs St Pats 0

Jude’s entertained local derby rivals Pats, in the seasons opener.

Jude’s came out of the blocks quickly, scoring early on through Sean Croston. Further tries came from Jack Reddy, James McDonnell and Azzer Caunce with 2 goals from Gary McMahon. Jude’s dominated the first half taking advantage of the wind and where unlucky not to be further ahead given 2 tries were disallowed for forward passes.

The second half saw several interchanges and against the wind they defended well against a much improved Pat’s side. Overall Jude’s defence was the winner not allowing Pat’s to breach there line.

In general it was a solid performance from Jude’s who showed not only can they play football but also defend solidly. Pat’s who will definitely improve with some new signings can take great credit for there second half performance and the way in which they conducted themselves on and off the field. Rivals they may be, but today was about 2 sides playing hard and showing each other mutual respect.

MOM was Connor Jones (Awesome) followed by the equally impressive Dom Kevan in 2nd and Brandon Reid 3rd. Gary Mc and Josh Yates where also at the centre of everything.

07 September 2011

St Jude’s 52 Vs Chorley 0

St Jude’s completed there final warm up game, with an emphatic victory over a much improved Chorley Panthers side who will be competing this year in group A. Jude’s have certainly benefited from an intense pre-season, and are looking red hot as we approach Sunday’s opening fixture against local rival St Pat’s. However form counts for very little if the team don’t approach the fixture with the right attitude.

Stand out performances v Chorley came from Gary McMahon, Lewis Melling and James McDonnell. Tries scored by Lewis Melling with 3, Aaron Caunce with 2, Gary Mc, Kyle Brennan, Sean Croston, Callum Fisher and Seb Smith-Howarth each with 1 each.

Goals came from Gary Mc with 5 and Josh Yates 1. Final score Jude’s 52 Vs Chorley 0.

 

04 September 2011

St Jude’s entertained Blackbook in a warm up game, as preparation for the start of the season in a weeks time.

Blackbrook had previously always proved to be somewhat of a bogey team, but not any more.Wearing their new strip which was sponsored by “British School of Coaching,” Jude’s came flying out the traps scoring in the first 5 minutes.With the addition of new players Jude’s where fielding a strong team and produced a performance of class, and maturity.

Try scorers on the day where James McDonnell with 3, he is already on the way to beating last seasons effort of 40 tries. Also on the score sheet was MOM Lewis Melling with 2, debutants Sean Croston and Robbie Lawrence with 1 each, also on the score sheet was the impressive Seb Smith-Howarth and Josh Yates. Goals came from 2nd placed Gary McMahon with 4 and josh Yates with 1. The 3rd award went to the tireless Connor Jones.

Jude’s continue there preparation at home to Chorley on Tuesday, before kicking off the season on Sunday with a derby game at home to St Pats. Well done boys, lets keep up the intensity right the way through the season.

Gary McMahon provides bsc with a report on the season ahead for St Judes as bsc continue to sponsor the under 11′s team as they progress to under 12′s:

This year will see the boys make the transition up to under 12′s, their final year in the North West Counties 8-12′s leagues before moving up to the NWC 13-15′s leagues on 2012-13. This year will see the boys make the transition up to under 12′s, their final year in the North West Counties 8-12′s leagues before moving up to the NWC 13-15′s leagues on 2012-13. Next season will see the boys develop into the 13 a side game playing full international rules, and for the first time competing in the NWC challenge competition and Lancashire cup competitions respectively.

The other significant change is that the game is moving to the summer era. They will commence with a short season from September – November, before taking a winter break. They will then revert to the summer based competition in March 2012, playing through until November.

During the past 5 years the team been regarded as arguably the best NWC junior side at it’s age group by its fellow clubs, always producing skills which are well in advance of there years. Since the age of 6 to 7, the coach’s philosophy has been to allow the team to express itself, and this is clearly shown with the outstanding “team” performances that the side produces week in week out. The strict disciplinary regime and respect that the boys show, is also a factor in how the team perform both on, and off the field. The lads have obviously grown physically over the years but more importantly mentally and are now ready to take on the responsibility of playing competitive matches and going into High School.

The boys are already well into pre-season and with the addition of 4 new players, this shows that with the hard work that the players and coaches are putting in, St Jude’s under 12′s is regarded as a stepping stone for new and existing players who have aspirations of playing representative or professional rugby. The coaches are also looking to take the team abroad within the next couple of years, to test themselves against sides from overseas, whilst providing another opportunity to help to develop the team as they progress into their teenage years.

The coaches are looking forward to what will hopefully be another successful year, and with the help and support from Judith Barton and the British School of Coaching, we are sure the team will go from strength to strength.

Yours in sport

Gary McMahon

End of Season Rugby Presentation 3rd July 2011

Special Guest:  Lafeta Paleas’aesina, Salford City Reds

Rugby Presentation 19th May 2011

Joe Darbyshire- Player of the Month May 2011

Josh Aubrey-Williams – Player of the Month April 2011

Josh Yates – Player of the Month March 2011

Jude’s entertained local derby rivals Pats, in the seasons opener. Jude,s came out of the blocks quickly, scoring early on through Sean Croston. Further tries came from Jack Reddy, James McDonnell and Azzer Caunce with 2 goals from Gary McMahon. Jude’s dominated the first half taking advantage of the wind and where unlucky not to be further ahead given 2 tries were disallowed for forward passes.The second half saw several interchanges and against the wind they defended well against a much improved Pat’s side. Overall Jude’s defence was the winner not allowing Pat’s to breach there line.In general it was a solid performance from Jude’s who showed not only can they play football but also defend solidly. Pat’s who will definitely improve with some new signings can take great credit for there second half performance and the way in which they conducted themselves on and off the field. Rivals they may be, but today was about 2 sides playing hard and showing each other mutual respect.MOM was Connor Jones (Awesome) followed by the equally impressive Dom Kevan in 2nd and Brandon Reid 3rd. Gary Mc and Josh Yates where also at the centre of everything.

 

 

British School of Coaching. 01744 605046. St Helens WA10 6UU