Blues North versus a Blues Development team at Sardis Road was always going to be an interesting fixture.
Both sets of players had points to prove - Blues North the fact that they were selected on merit and Blues development the fact they were good enough to be promoted.
"Blues Dev" started the stronger; with constant pressure they hammered Blues North line but sound defence kept them at bay.
The contact area started to sway in Blues North favour and due to a number of turnovers territory became easy to Blues North. A lineout in the Dev teams 22 saw quick hands along the back line with a superb running line from Mitchell Dummett and an equally good off load to send Will Rose into the corner.
The second try was off fourth phase possession with great decision-making allowing Steve Owen to touch down near the post. This was the cushion Blues North needed and with the injection of Dean Gunter and Tom Rees in the centres Blues North inflicted their superiority with another 3 touchdowns by Tom Rees, Sean Nicholas and a second by Will Rose.
This fixture proved its worth as the Blues development looked a side full of quality competing in all departments, players catching the eye for Blues Dev were no 8 Aaron Atkins second row Jordan Dean, winger Liam Watton and fullback James Wood.
I can honestly say the majority of these players are regional standard but unfortunately the quality in our area is once again proving a delightful nightmare for the selectors and I for one am really looking forward to Blues Development v Blues South.
On the other hand 25 points and especially 5 tries is very impressive against great opposition and can I endorse how delighted we are as coaches, the maturity every single player showed in the execution of roles and responsibilities the forwards gained possession and the backs used it.
In just four sessions we have improved immensely and although we are just out of the starting blocks, Im sure everyones thoroughly looking forward to the season.
Finally competition for places is rife not just within but purposely we have left room for players to come in. We must support both teams, as this structure will determine not just the best players in our area but more importantly the best player development.
Dale McIntosh.