Davison praises his U17s

GUERNSEY put in a brave performance in defeat against county champions Gosport and Fareham in the Hampshire Under-17 Cup. Coach Tim Davison was pleased with his side's efforts and felt that the magnitude of the 27-5 loss somewhat flattered the visitors.

'They are a very good side but we should have got a few more points,' he said.

'The boys gave everything they could - I cannot fault their effort. All it shows up is they are short of match practice and match fitness.

'Our last game was in October, so to go out and play the Hampshire champions in January is a bit optimistic.'

The visitors held a 15-0 lead at half-time at Foote's Lane and Davison was content with the fact that his rusty outfit had contained them for the opening quarter-of-an-hour.

Now confident that they could compete with their illustrious opponents, Guernsey got the try their efforts deserved in the second half and were also held up over the line late on.

'Up front we had about parity with them, which was a very good achievement,' Davison said.

'Their backs were much better at spotting and utilising space because they were far more experienced.

'In saying that, we scored arguably the best try of the game through Robbie Titterington.

'It took us 50 minutes to get the ball to him, but when he did get it he set off on a 50-yard run weaving his way through their defenders.

'What was noticeable was that we were not under desperate pressure.

'A lot of the play was between the halfway line and the 22. Fundamentely, our defence was very good.'