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Eagles P7 report for Crieff Date: 28/04/2008
The Eagles P7s were depleted by illness and unavailability for the Crieff tournament at sunny Braidhaugh, but the 10 (the bare minimum needed) who were there put on a very good show. With no subs, the boys had to show great character and commitment to battle through the bumps and bruises of three physically demanding games in hot conditions. With the Eagles starting much better than in previous weeks, the first game was a tight, physical, end to end encounter with Blairgowrie with chances to score for both teams before Blair finally notched the only try of the game in the very last minute. Further heartbreak followed against McLaren in game two, when a humdinger of a match saw the Eagles concede, equalise with a Nicholas try, almost go ahead, and defend superbly before losing the crucial score from the very last play! No points from two good performances was very harsh, but the boys refused to let this get them down and they fronted up superbly again in the final pool game with Glenrothes and also produced some scintillating running and passing. Tries for Thomas (2), Brewster, Guy and Marshall ended the afternoon on a high with a 5-1 win. Unfortunately this was not enough to qualify for the semi-final. Also unfortunately, Kinross decided to scratch from the 5-6 place play-off, so 5th place was ours without a final game. All the players deserve enormous credit for their performances; they worked so hard for each other and showed great team spirit. Thank you and well done to Marshall, Guy, Nick, Calum H, Thomas, Brewster, Chris M, Callum S, Lewis, and Paul (our special guest from P6 who looked at home in P7 rugby) - you are a credit to the club. Thanks, too, to the Crieff organisers, refs and opponents for a great tournament (even if it was a long day!) in a lovely setting on a cracking day; to coach Alison for her invaluable input; to the 'supporters' who came along and to the Eagles bus organisers. Well done, all. PS A big well done to the P4 team - the P7s had a ball cheering you on to your great victory! B&Q Bag Pack postponed Date: 24/04/2008 Due to club commitments this weekend it proved impossible to get enough volunteers for the bag pack. this will be rescheduled for the start of next season. P6/7 report for Strathmore Tournament on 13th April Date: 24/04/2008
Eagles P6/7 Just Short at Strathie Eagles P4/5 unbeaten in Forfar Date: 23/04/2008
Well done to all for the fantastic win at Forfar (5 for 5) on Sunday, but there is still more work to do before the season is over, starting with Crieff this Sun 27/04.
All players to meet at Mayfield 10.00am or Invergowrie slip road at 10:10am. Please confirm with Erica or Simon that you will be on the bus giving name, age group, contact number and pick up point. There's a £3 fee for the bus and it will be a late day so make sure you have clothing for hanging around and a picnic - bananas are good for keeping you energy levels up without filling the stomach between games.
Also the B&Q bag pack is on this weekend so if you can spare an hour or so on Saturday it would be most appreciated. Again contact Erica if you can help, this is a key fund raiser for teh club to try and keep cost down.
See you on Sunday Gary. P6/7 report for match vs Blairgorwie on 13th April Date: 17/04/2008
A combined P6/7 team from Blairgowrie met two P6/7 teams from the Eagles (organised by Ian & Duncan) at a sunny Mayfield on 13/04/08 in a triangular contest. Blairgowrie proved to be tough and committed opponents, adept at handling and support play. The light blue Eagles found the going difficult in the first half and were down in the try count at half time. However with the slight advantage of the slope in the second half the light blues found some form with better rucking and continuity, and gradually gained the upper hand to produce a tenacious win by 4 tries to 2. In the next game the light blues comprehensively beat the dark blues, but as a scratch team, they had not had the benefit of game time. However when the dark blue Eagles took on Blairgowrie they showed their mettle. Again Blair were committed and physical, showing some fine skills. However the dark blues matched them in every department. There was some great and exciting play from both sides, ebbing & flowing each way to produce a cliff hanger contest resulting in 2-2 draw which was a fair result as both teams had put in fine performances.
Thanks to the assistants and Alison for noting the players for the Strathmore tournament. P4/5 Report vs Blairgowrie & Strathmore News Date: 16/04/2008
Sun 13/04 v Blairgowrie
We had a good run out with Blair providing one mixed team while we had two, giving us 4 games, all hard fought ending in draws bar our own A v B. Watching the standard of play we clearly benefited from the 3 day Scotland coaching camp last week. Well done to everyone and congratulations to Max for winning the Man of the Match.
This weekend is the Strathmore Tournament (20th April), but unfortunately we can only take limited numbers on the Sunday as we will be playing with a mixed 4/5 team.
If you are chosen and cannot make it let me know asap on 526483. There is a £2 player fee and registration is at 10am, so we will be leaving Mayfield at 0915 or you can go directly there.
Team as follows Ceillem, Max, Ryan, Jabber, Ewan, Logie, Cameron, Aaron.
Everyone else to go to Mayfield for training with John 1000-1130. Watch this space for info on the Crieff Tournament.
Mums and Dads lets try and get a second table between us for the Race Night. Cheers Gary. Open Day Touch Tournament Date: 03/04/2008
The Yusef Abubaker Memorial Trust Open Day Touch Tournament Riverside Sports Ground Dundee 3rd May 12noon £75 per team To kick off the 2008 Touch season Touch Dundee in partnership with The Yusef Abubaker Memorial Trust are running a Open Day Touch Tournament To raise funds for the trust. Included in your teams entry fee will tournament awards and BBQ. As many of you are aware Yusef was a member of the Dundee Eagles S1 rugby team (and their most improved player last season) who tragically died from sudden heart problems earlier this season. Please try and put together a team for this event or get in contact with Colin Whittaker who will find a team for you to play in or just come along on the day to support this and help us all to do some good in Remembering Yusef. What is Touch!!! Touch Rugby is often referred to as Touch, with no tackling, lineout’s, scrummaging or kicking involved and due to it being a minimum-contact game for participants of all skill levels, it's an ideal way for anyone who is looking for a fun way to keep fit and meet new people. Teams are made up of squads of up to 14 with 3 men and 3 women on the pitch at any one time All teams taking part will be mixed, 3 men and 3 women with a maximum of 8 subs and all players are to be aged 16 and over. For more info on how to play touch and the rules click on the link below http://www.touchdundee.org.uk/about.asp All Money raised thought this one day touch tournament will go to charities The Yusef Abubaker Memorial Trust are working with including Cancer Research and the British Heart Foundation Eagles S1 v Stirling S1 Date: 01/04/2008
We are delighted to report that match injuries to both George and Harris
were not serious and that both players are recovering well. George was taken to hospital suffering from neck pain after a collapsed scrum, but thankfully the diagnosis is muscle strain which shouldn't leave any lasting problem. George has taken a day off school and has been told to take a break from rugby for two or three weeks. Harris also suffered a similar injury but has recovered fully. MATCH REPORT: Eagles v Stirling. Dalnacraig. Referee Max Paladini. Although the Eagles had defeated Stirling on both previous occasions this season, Stirling had proven themselves to be a well drilled squad with big physical forwards and the potential to cause problems out wide through their direct running wingers. Preparations got off to a bad start with a last minute call-off through injury by hooker/utility forward, Campbell, which added to the loss of power house prop, Angus, and mercurial stand off, Jamie C. The loss of three influential players, plus new addition Graeme, meant that the squad's resources were going to be stretched against good quality opposition. Stand in 10, Seth, was also carrying an injury which threatened his involvement right up to the whistle, but thankfully he was able to play and made a telling contribution. It was agreed that the match would be three x 15 minutes, and the Eagles kicked off in fine dry conditions playing against the slope on the top pitch at Dalnacraig. Almost immediately the Eagles dominated possession and field position, with excellent quick rucking and support play. After just 5 minutes, Centre Jack made space to open the scoring. On 10 minutes, good passing saw Seth go over for number two, and just before the end of the first third, Jack added his second. Successful conversions were slotted by James and Blair, to give the Eagles a comfortable 11-0 lead at the first break. The second period was only a couple of minutes old when a collapsed scrum led to prop George suffering a painful neck injury which required a lengthy stoppage in play. Thankfully the S1 super support team was on hand, and the combined medical expertise of Seth's dad, Cameron's mum and dad, and Peter Fox (S2 dad), ensured that George was comforted whilst an ambulance was summoned to take him to Ninewells for a check up. Many thanks to one and all.Fortunately an x-ray showed only a muscle strain and after the mandatory 'mum I need a day off school', George will be back tormenting defences (and team-mates) after two or three weeks rest. After a delay of over half an hour, the match restarted with both sides quickly finding their previous rhythm and intensity. The Eagles scored again through Jack, and the extra point was added by Blair. Stirling however were coming more into the game, and after the Eagles lost prop Harris (to a worryingly similar injury to that which affected George) the Dundee lads were stretched, and conceded their first converted try through a well worked attack down the wing, which closed out the second period 15-4 in the Eagles favour. The weather had by now deteriorated and the rain and cold wind worsened playing conditions considerably yet both teams were keen to play on (although the number of spectators definitely reduced!) With their tails up, Stirling saw the potential to attack the wings and started to create extra men in the back line which required some desperate last ditch tackling to keep them at bay, with scrum half Craig covering an impressive amount of ground. Inevitably Stirling found space to add their second converted try, however the Eagles dug in and there was never likely to be any late collapse. Fittingly, the last score was to come from the boys in blue, when Jack characteristically broke the line, and ran in under the posts from deep, for his fourth and the Eagles fifth try of the match, converted by James (or was it Craig?). This was a real squad victory by the Eagles with everyone making a big contribution. With five key players missing by the final whistle, a slightly unfamiliar line-up performed well above expectation, with several players taking the opportunity to step up to the plate and show what they can do. Particularly strong efforts from Gavin L, Shaun, Seth, Cameron and James, who all put in noteworthy performances- well done guys, keep it up every week! Also special mention of Harry who has now played a couple of stints on the wing and shows great enthusiasm and a willingness to improve. Many thanks also to the ladies of 'The flying anoraks' for providing excellent post match catering. It is greatly appreciated by all the players and coaches. FINAL SCORE: EAGLES 18, STIRLING 8. (Pie and beans 10/10) NOTE TO ALL PLAYERS/PARENTS: To continue your rugby development, please consider enrolling for The Scottish Rugby Camp to be held at University Sports Grounds, Riverside, Dundee 9th-11th APRIL. If you require Enrolment Form or details please contact Colin Whittaker on colin@dundeeeagles.co.uk What's happening with the Eagles... Date: 27/03/2008
Tours, bad hair days, race nights, bag packs, festivals and ladies nights. Look at the updated events page to see what's happening at your club in the next few months. The club is dependent on fundraising to allow us to keep the costs to a reasonable level for all members. Have a quick read at the Events page to see what's on and how you could get involved. You'll be guaranteed to enjoy any event you attend as well as helping the club raise necessary funds. Remembering Yusef - Yusef Abubaker Memorial Trust Spring Fair Date: 24/03/2008
Saturday 29th March sees a Spring Fair at Harris Academy, 10am-4pm to raise funds for the Yusef Abubaker Memorial Trust. As many of you are aware Yusef was a member of our S1 team (and their most improved player last season) who tragically died from sudden heart problems earlier this season. The Yusef Abubaker Memorial Trust is raising funds to help with a number of aims:
The stalls / activities on offer at the Spring Fair will include freshly cooked home-made exotic foods pre-packed to take away, Face painting, Asian Henna drawing, Children’s Tattoos, Hair braiding, colours and extensions, International crafts, Plants, Authentic Middle Eastern Kaftans and clothing, Hand-knitted fashion scarves, Reflexology and massage, Nail and beauty, Treasure Hunt, Beat the Goalie and many more stalls including refreshments. Please try and come along to support this and help us all to do some good in Remembering Yusef. For more details on the Trust visit http://www.yusefabubaker.org.uk/ Craigiebarns & Longforgan P6/7 Rugby Festival Date: 19/03/2008
Craigiebarns and Longforgan Primary 6/7’s took part in a rugby Youth Coaches unable to attend included Bilai H, Craig W, David D, Christopher Callum F from Craigiebarns PS and Ross I from Longforgan were picked by teachers and coaches on the day of the festival and won a place on the forthcoming Scotland Rugby Camp to be held here in Dundee in April. S2 return to winning ways against Kirkcaldy Date: 18/03/2008
“They will come again, the leaf and the flower, to arise From squalor of rottenness into the old splendour, And magical scents to a wondering memory bring; The same glory, to shine upon different eyes.” Laurence Binyon wasn’t a bad poet and the ideas of rebirth contained in ‘The Burning of the Leaves’ remind us of the season of the year; but having re-read those lines shortly after our last home fixture – yes, that one – the coaches hoped that they could equally be applied to our Eagles S2 team, who faced a tough visit to Kirkcaldy. An early spring Sunday afternoon, bright and cold. In the distance, the Eagles take the field, three new players in the ranks. The kickoff: Kirkcaldy’s big forwards state their intent. We take them on; we play their game. It is slow. It is tight. There are mistakes. A flash of inspiration at last, our forwards break the shackles and put new winger Stewart over for a debut try. Back come Kirkcaldy. But we continue to play them at their game and things are ponderous. We need a mental shift; that will win it for us. But it doesn’t come – yet. Kirkcaldy batter away and eventually roll over near the posts. The extras are added and half time arrives, we are 7-5 down. We have not yet turned a half-time deficit into a win. Thinking caps are on! The half time chat: boys, play your own way! Be free. Forget that props don’t do that, wingers don’t do this. You won’t be criticised for trying something. Be yourselves, you have talent to burn. Forget the opposition; show yourselves what you can do. The second period begins and the sun comes out, in fact and in metaphor. In two minutes we are ahead, the first of Graeme S’s hat-trick and a turbo-charged try it is. Good hands swing the balance in our favour. We probe; we tease; we stretch, and soon we go over again. Two conversions take the score to 19-7. Now we begin to play rugby the way we like it. Kirkcaldy try hard but they don’t have an answer today. We are fast, slick. We are communicating and it is paying dividends. Graeme gets his hat-trick, Aidan scores a beauty from a break by Gus, Niall and Niall each add points and we ease away to 36-7 at the final whistle. In the first half we played their game. Our defence was committed, as it had to be in keeping the score down to only 7-5. In the second half we played our version of rugby and it paid off. The forwards took the ball forward with skill and determination and the backs used it to do what they do best. A 36-7 win was a fair reflection of our second half performance in which Kirkcaldy spent no time in our half of the field. Osama, Scott and Stewart debuted well and Declan had a very good game, his second-ever match, at tight head prop. Ollie B and Niall M were instrumental in our much-improved second half. Scott D contributed well at flanker, a new position for him, and it was good to see Sean W return from long-term injury. We have been working hard on communication and Rory was very vocal, showing good awareness of the game. Stewart R, with a kick-and-chase in the second half, and Niall Q with a throw-in to himself, showed some of the speed of thought and decision that we are always encouraging at practice. Well done to both, and well done to all in a good win against a strong club. The pies and beans were great as ever, thanks to Kirkcaldy for the welcome. Match Report for S1s 16th March 2008 Date: 17/03/2008
After a 5 week gap since their last match, the Eagles S1s took a large squad of 20 players to Kirkcaldy, for what turned out to be an excellent team performance full of free flowing rugby.
Kirkcaldy presented a considerable physical challenge, fielding some of the largest S1 players on the planet, however from the off, the quick passing game of the Eagles ensured that this match was never going to play into the hands of the heavier team.
Continuously ‘moving the target’, the Eagles dominated possession and field position, which allowed them to mount waves of varied attacks through both the forwards and backs. Excellent and much improved rucking meant that the Eagles won a larger share of ground ball than normal, and when occasionally drawn into a maul with their bigger opponents, the recent focused work with Lewy in training looked to have paid rewards.
This was by no means an easy match, and at times the Eagles only held out with determined defensive work, epitomised by Angus who held the ball up over the try line when a rampaging forwards drive by Kirkcaldy looked certain to score. Perhaps the outstanding single moment in an entertaining match, came from never-say-die scrum half, Craig, who produced a wondrous last line of defence full dive tap tackle, to deny the dangerous(and extremely tall) Kirkcaldy full back what would have been a deserved try.
Five first half tries were shared amongst each of the front row, and both wingers, namely Charles, Campbell, Angus, Seth and James, with two successful conversions from Jamie C.
In the second half, despite regular rolling substitutions, the Eagles kept their shape and concentration very well, and further tries followed from Jack, Blair, Max, George and Jamie C, with the extra’s being bagged by Charles(2), Blair(2), and Jamie C.
This was a very rounded team display with all twenty players making a solid contribution. Of particular note, mention should be made of Graeme who did well playing his first competitive game of rugby, and Harry who is learning fast and shows great promise with his enthusiasm and commitment. Well done to both. FINAL SCORE: Dundee Eagles 37, Kirkcaldy 0.
Sandro Paladini Report on P1-3 at Strathie Tournament Date: 13/03/2008
The P1-P3s had a good turnout of boys on the big day with an almighty squad of 21. Fortunately for us the second Montrose team pulled a no show so we fielded three teams for the event, a blue team, a navy team and a team in yellow vests, that was very kindly managed by Lindsey Graham AKA Satch - thank you for the help (he had a vested interest with son Ben playing so it cannot be described as being under duress). With three teams playing at the same time on four different pitches the score lines were a little difficult to keep track of. However what can be said with certainty is that the boys really stuck to the task, and against the likes of the predominantly P3 Strathie Sharks (very intimidating name that) the score lines reflected the improvement that the boys have made to their game. With better passing in general and more support play the boys ran better lines i.e. forward mostly, and were really good at going for opposition tags in defence. We are scoring more tries and the boys have a hunger for victory, coupled with an enthusiasm for the game, which is great to see. The navy team recorded three consecutive wins and then a close loss to the Mackie reds (who went on to be runners up in the competition). This then put the navy team in a pool runner up final against the other Mackie team, a close run thing with Mackie claiming the honours, the boys did brilliantly. All the boys stuck in really well, and congrats to the navy team for going so far with a great team effort. Sorry I am a bit short on detail, one duty that I have missed (they never told us about reporting on the coaching course). My son tells me he got lots of tries but I fear he is an unreliable source. Give your views on child protection issues and you could win £200 of equipment for the Eagles Date: 04/03/2008
The main survey can be accessed electronically here: http://sircspss.hwb.shu.ac.uk/sportscotlandchildren1st/. The questionnaire should take no more than 10 minutes to complete and is aim The returns are completely anonymous and cannot be link Should you wish to Want to learn from the Scotland players? Date: 26/02/2008
The Pro team rugby coaching camps are aimed at all P5-U16 age group rugby players and hope to allow all players to improve their skills and reach their potential no omatter what level of rugby they play. The camp, costing £55, runs over 3 mornings from 9-11th April and children will be coached by fully qualified, disclosed coaches and will also get a chance to meet and be coached by some of the pro team players. The event will run at several venues but the April camp is based at Riverside, Dundee. For more information and an application form for the forthcoming Scotland Camp in April held at Riverside Dundee click here. UKCC1 Rugby coaching courses come to Mayfield Date: 26/02/2008
There have been two Tayside based UKCC1 Rugby coaching courses arranged within the next 6 months. If you would like to attend one of these courses fill out the application form here and get it back to Colin W ASAP Venue: Perthshire RFC (Bells Sports Centre) First Dundee Schools Rugby Roadshow a success Date: 26/02/2008
The Dundee Schools Rugby Roadshow held its first event last week at Elliot Old Pals Act at Mayfield Date: 26/02/2008
I’m sure no-one’s missed the news that Dundee have drawn city rivals Morgan in the 5th round of the Scottish Hydro Electric National Cup but some of you may not realise that it’s the second time two of the combatants will have gone head-to-head after spending much of their playing careers as team-mates. Dundee’s captain, Lindsey Graham played alongside, and became firm friends with Morgan’s Graham Kiddie while both were with Boroughmuir in Edinburgh only to find themselves on opposite sides when Boroughmuir beat Dundee in the Scottish Cup final in 2005. DUNDEE HSFP VS Morgan Date: 25/02/2008
This week’s preview has been contracted out to the author of some scintillating articles in a little known electronic newsletter that circulates among an exclusive cadre of rugby aficionados in the area. I’m referring of course to the Dundee Eagles newsletter that ran a peerless piece of sporting journalism anticipating this weekend’s all Dundee clash at Mayfield in the 5th round of the SHE National Cup at Mayfield. Without further ado I hand you over, unexpurgated, for the build-up to … Child Protection and Volunteering Research Date: 24/02/2008
Child Protection and Volunteering Research 6 Nations games in the clubhouse !!! Date: 19/02/2008
All Eagles welcome in the clubhouse at Mayfield which will be open for Saturday's 3 6 Nations games. Scotland A V Ireland A Date: 18/02/2008
Eagles S1 keep on winning ... Date: 13/02/2008
An excellent squad performance saw the S1's record big wins over both Dunfermline and Mackie, and marked a return to the eye catching form that saw them win the Midlands cup back in November! MATCH 1 v Dunfermline: After a decidedly lack lustre display during their recent wins over Highland and Madras, the Eagles players acknowledged that they were needing to re-focus on their key strengths of moving the ball away from the contact, and quick support. Immediately from kick off, the Eagles took control and demonstrated good passing skills and teamwork, leading to the first try after only 2 minutes by ever-probing stand off Jamie C. Further quick fire tries followed by Jack, Blair, then Jack again, before on 8 minutes, a good link up between the forwards and backs led to a now typical 'Raging Bull' score by super-prop, Angus. The first half scoring was rounded off when a good run by outside centre, Max, resulted in a well deserved try by hard working second row, Shaun. The second half was only 1 minute old when good interplay by the backs offered Jack the opportunity to show his pace with a long run in to score number six, and reaffirm the Eagles first half dominance. After 4 minutes, full back Jamie F produced a good try, followed by another bull dozer effort from Angus on 9 minutes, and a real scrum half's counter from Craig quickly after. Yet the spectators had to wait until almost the final whistle for the move which best illustrated the confidence, skill and invention which this group of players are capable of producing. With a strong field position in the opponents 22, the backs called a 'CK Ball' and a quick feed from the ruck saw stand off Jamie C chip a sublime cross field kick for winger Blair to fall on for the final try, converted by Seth. FINAL SCORE: Eagles 32, Dunfermline 0. MATCH 2 v Mackie: This Eagles squad had not faced Mackie previously, and therefore watched with interest as their strong running wingers eased Mackie to a comfortable 22 - 7 win over Dunfermline. Mackie had some very large players which would need to be taken down quickly, and the Eagles centres identified the importance of cutting off their opponents supply to the wings. With strong tackling throughout, and excellent quick hands, the Eagles quickly established field position, and after 3 minutes Jack found a gap for the first score, converted by Jamie C. Almost straight from the restart, the Eagles added another through winger Blair, who also added the conversion. A few minutes later, centre Jack added a brace of back to back tries to virtually secure the victory after only 11 minutes played. Further first half tries by firstly Blair, then a strong forwards effort well finished by prop Gavin L (putting in perhaps his best ever Eagles performance) rounded off the half time scoring. The second half started where the first had left off, with number 9, Craig getting on the scoreboard with an early try. Mackie's refusal to cave in to the onslaught was rewarded 3 minutes later with a well deserved try, but awakened an immediate response with back to back tries by Jack and Angus. Five minutes from the end, Mackie got their second, however fittingly the final say went to the Eagles' very own 'Raging Bull' who went over for his second try of the game, and his fourth of the day. Not bad for a tight head prop! FINAL SCORE: Eagles 35, Mackie 6. Graciously, the Mackie coaches talked of the 'attitude and hunger' which set the Dundee boys apart. Well done to the S1 squad, who all played a part in two confident and accomplished performances which showed how affective they can be when playing as a team. Sandro Paladini S1 Coach S2's running rugby survives torrid encounter Date: 12/02/2008
Dundee Eagles S2 vs What began as a competitive and exciting game, illuminated by two great running and handling scores finished with aplomb by George S, descended into a bad-tempered encounter that was ended early by the referee. On the positive side, Frazer S had a storming game making lots of tackles and is developing into a good No 8, and once again Rory M secured our line out ball off Scott T’s good throwing. New boy Declan did his very best in the scrum alongside the excellent Callum K and Adam M showed later in the game that he deserves more game time. In the backs, Jack A tackled like a demon on a mission, George S had another good game all round and Stewart R launched the line well. Niall Q had a fearless game at full back and he is developing fast. Frequent minor injuries took their toll and the team was forced into multiple positional changes which greatly affected the balance of the side. For the first time, the side was captained by Callum K who led with a composure and dignity well beyond his years. The rest of the team supported him well and the boys must take great credit for the way they conducted themselves in sometimes difficult circumstances. The referee was Max Paladini and without wanting to embarrass him (we’ll save that for the Newsletter), Max once again lived up to his burgeoning reputation as a communicative and observant ref who is able to focus on the game. You couldn’t ask for more and we are not alone in thinking that Max could go to the very top in rugby refereeing. We now have a few weeks of training to come, followed by a visit to the friendly and always-welcoming Kirkcaldy Rugby Club with whom we have a good relationship. This is always a competitive game played in great spirit, and the bacon rolls at Kirkcaldy are not to be missed. If you don’t fancy standing out in the freezing cold to watch junior rugby – and if you don’t there’s something wrong with you, it’s better than watching Youth coaching course Date: 12/02/2008
Pictured are the Dundee Eagles Youth coaching course candidates on Wednesday 6th Feb before their induction onto the course at Mayfield sports centre. The course aims to provide the 14 young coaches a general introduction to sports coaching and rugby in particular. As well as encouraging these individuals to participate themselves this course may provide an impetus for them to think about sports coaching as a career option. By increasing the number of rugby coaches in the area and at Dundee Eagles rugby club this initiative will encourage young people to get involved in the coaching side of sport which can only benefit the whole community of Dundee. The scheme was also given a boost with the news of a successful bid for funding from the Dundee City Sports Council - the new initiative has been awarded an Events Grant to help with the over all running of the course. The initiative is delivered in collaboration with Dundee HSFP RFC, Scottish Rugby Union, WOmen's Scottish Rugby Union and Sport Tayside & Fife.
For any more info call Colin Whittaker, Dundee Eagles Rugby Club Development Officer on 07745302924 SRU fair play Date: 10/02/2008
EAGLES COACH UPDATE COURSE Date: 05/02/2008
A Long Term Player Development Pathway has been discussed in sport Course Tutor: Ken McKay, Education Development Officer, PE & Sport, Angus Council
Email or Phone Colin to book your place by Noon on Friday 15th Feb. 2008 Email: Colin@dundeeeagles.co.uk
6 Nations trip to Murrayfield Date: 31/01/2008
Scotland Vs France trip 12noon meet in Mayfield in the car park (on the Grass!) Bus will go prompt at 12.15 Bring warm clothes and even waterproofs Remember that food at Murrayfield is not cheap, not even mentioning its nutritional balance, so it might make sense to bring a packed lunch. KO 3pm Hope to be back by 7 ish Four more Eagles coaches get their wings Date: 31/01/2008
Four of the coaches that missed the last part of the foundation coaching course were signed off last week at Mayfield and are now fully qualified. Included in the group are Alison MacLeod and Lesley Porter making them the first female Eagles coaches. Alison will be working with the p7 group and Lesley with the P6 group. The other two new coaches are Russell Macleod & Fraser Cochrane. DE LUCA WINS FIRST CAP IN SIX NATIONS OPENER Date: 30/01/2008
Two days before he celebrates his 24th birthday, Edinburgh centre Nick De Luca is named today to make his debut for Scotland in Sunday’s opening RBS 6 Nations Championship match against France at Murrayfield. S1 continue winning ways Date: 30/01/2008
The S1s were delighted to extend a warm welcome to Highland, travelling all the way from Inverness, and to near neighbour Madras.
Back in September the Eagles S1s and S2s had travelled north to record emphatic away victories in what was the first match of the season. However clearly Highland S1 had worked very hard since, and are now a much improved side.
Match 1. Eagle’s v Madras: Eagles win 5 tries to 2.
In the previous season, both teams faced each other as P7’s, with Madras clearly having the upper hand. Most recently, when the sides last met in November, it had been a tense affair in which the Eagles had to work very hard for a satisfying but narrow 2 tries to nil victory. However this time round the result was never in doubt with the first try being scored from close in by second row Shaun, after the match was less than 5 minutes old.
Madras worked to try to contain the sustained pressure from the Eagles, but struggled to match their pace and numbers in support. Further Dundee tries followed, with one from ever industrious scrum half Craig, a brace from centre Jack, and the fifth coming from irrepressible hooker ‘Captain Underpants’, Charles. Madras had much less of the ball, but found some success, crossing the Dundee line twice, and fighting well to the final whistle.
It was not a day for kickers and the usually dependable James and Jamie C struggled in the high wind, however Jamie did well to manage one conversion in tough conditions.
Match 2. Eagle’s v Highland: Eagles win 3 tries to 1.
Forced to switch to the sloping pitch at Dalnacraig, this fixture turned out to be anything but the routine repeat victory that perhaps some in the Dundee camp had been expecting.
With a big squad of 18 players all keen to play, the regular rotation of subs was bound to unsettle the team, and an uncharacteristically out of sorts Eagles were immediately put on the back foot, falling behind to a well deserved Highland try early in the game.
Playing up hill in the first half, the Eagles continued to huff and puff without ever getting close to producing their normal brand of quick, fluid rugby. Pinned back in their own 22 for large parts of the first half they seemed unable to find their rhythm and were consistently out rucked by the more focused Highland pack. In a rare break up field, full back Jamie F crossed the line but tried to go under the posts only to be held up when it seemed much easier to score. However as half time approached quick hands by Craig and the two Jamie’s released George who twisted well to go over in the corner for a nicely taken try, which levelled the scores at the break.
After the turn around, the Eagles, now running with the slope, began to dominate field position and pin Highland in their own half. Strong running from the backs began to open gaps, with Jack going close on a couple of occasions. After several well worked phases, Jamie F was quick to see an opportunity and drew the opposing fullback before going over. The conversion was successfully added by Jamie C.
Another big run by Jack was stopped just short of the line by a high tackle, and the resulting penalty led to super prop Angus crashing over for the clinching score. Always keen to leave his mark, the successful conversion was bagged by hooker, Charles, much to his delight. We shall no doubt be regaled by his stories of heroic deeds for some time to come!
Well done guys. As always you gave great effort and didn’t let up. However there is still a great deal to improve on, particularly in rucking where you too often lost possession when it was there to be won. Hard work needed in training me thinks.
Special mention to new recruits Harry and Andrew, who did well to contribute in a match, having only recently come in to the game. Also big ‘welcome back’ to Seth who had a good first outing after his lengthy enforced lay off. Particular thanks to ‘The Flying Anoraks’ our dedicated Catering Corps of Kirsty, Wendy, Bernie and Judith, who fed the five thousand, with home baking contribution from others. To them we thank.
Sandro Paladini Eagles S2 vs Highland RFC 27th January 2008 Date: 28/01/2008
We were very happy to welcome Highland RFC to Dundee today for their first visit to the Eagles. After our successful (some would say riotous) tour to Inverness at the beginning of the season, it was great to cement our ties with Highland and plans are under way for another trip away to play them in September – book early! Meanwhile, today saw a welcome return to action for centre Scott D, and a second-half debut for new prop Declan. Eagles elected to play with the wind and received the kickoff. Right away, our handling and close support looked to be back to our high early-season standard and we quickly recorded our first try
of 2008, a great offload from 2nd-row Rory M giving fly-half Aidan F the chance to score on a wide loop to the corner. The wind made goal-kicking almost impossible and we couldn’t add the extras. We soon went two scores up with a great forwards try from Ross D, having by far his best game for the Eagles. Committed and aggressive tackling from everyone, particularly James S, ensured that Highland’s constant attempts to break out were frustrated. We added two further scores from Aidan and George S and a conversion before half-time, turning uphill and into the wind 20-0 ahead. Niall Q was denied a try right on half time. He had actually crossed the line and was about to touch down when he was pushed in the back, rather than tackled, and the ref determined that he had not grounded the ball. Some thought that there was a case for a penalty try (“Ref! Ref! Refer without delay to Law 10.4 (g)!” we cried from the touchline) but the referee was not interested. In the past some of the boys might have argued the point; but they are maturing fast, and not a word was said to the ref. That’s the kind of self-discipline we want to see. Eagles scored again early in the half through Fraser M, after great handling into a strengthening wind. However, Highland struck back with a very strong run from their inside centre, and we’ll be looking at why the lad wasn’t tackled. Eagles struck back from the kickoff with Aidan completing his hat-trick, but Highland were looking determined and with the wind behind them, were kicking for position deep in our half. From a quick kickoff which caught us with our backs to the opposition, Highland put pressure on full-back Niall Q who was forced to kick. The wind prevented it going to touch and, as luck would have it, sent the ball straight to Highland’s strongest runner who ran unopposed to touch down between the posts. The third quarter had been pretty harum-scarum so we decided to play a more controlled game, driving a couple of lineouts to the 5m line where Tom O, having a very good game at flanker (his debut in that position) made an excellent break off the maul and scampered in under the defence. That pretty much sealed the match for us, but there was still time for George S to add another try from long range with a brilliant piece of running, with his change of pace outfoxing the covering defence. The final score was 42-12 and we found Highland much more doughty opponents than when we last played them. It was a pleasure to host their visit and we look forward to the next game in September. The game was well-refereed by Rob Lunn and once again he handled the game very fairly, and with good communication to both sides. Good points in our performance included our handling of the ball in very gusty conditions, some strong driving play from all the boys, and rucking that fetched compliments from the opposition coaches. Less good was our control in the lineout (but the wind was very strong), our decision making under pressure and a definite slacking off in the third quarter. We moved the ball more slowly than usual and that allowed the defence to organise itself, giving our wingers little chance to shine. Plenty to work on at training, but a very good start to 2008 and some quality rugby was played. U16's Vs Falkirk Date: 22/01/2008
The Dundee Eagles U15/U16’S travelled to Falkirk with 17 players 4 cars 7 supporters including Granny and Grandad Shearer and a cousin travelling direct from the west (I think!). The weather conditions were perfect for rugby although the pitch must have seen some heavy rainfall in the last few days and this was to Falkirk’s advantage with a heavier and streetwise pack than most. Dundee started well going deep into the oppositions 22 and appearing to have more of the possession, Dundee eventually gaining a penalty just inside the 22 and opting for the 3 points. C. Leese stepped up to take the honours. Falkirk now came to life working their way down the park using their dominant pack to gain territory meter by meter continuously keeping pressure on the Dundee side. With the Falkirk number 8 keeping the game alive with some barnstorming runs only to be stopped on the third or fourth tackle Falkirk really started to move the game along. Dundee only really coming into the game in fits and bursts with some cleaver passing from inside centre D.Fraser and sniping runs from L.Miller and S.Shearer in the backs and W.Arnott, C.Shearer carrying the ball well in the forwards. Falkirk now with all of the possession pressed for the line for what must have been 5 or 6 attempts at scoring but were held up by an impregnable defence but that was to be eventually breached with a typical forwards try by the home side conversion missed Dundee went into the half time 5-3 down. Half Time Falkirk 5 Dundee 3. Again Dundee started well with some well timed passing from Stand off C.Leese and inside centre D.Fraser releasing the outside backs into space with pace to burn, giving Dundee good attacking options only to be turned over when it mattered. Falkirk regaining possession inside their 22 tried to spin the ball wide only to find S.Shearer lying in wait for a well timed interception try under the posts converted by C.Leese Dundee 10-5 up and 14 minutes to go. Falkirk for the first time in the game kick deep from the restart to find replacement full back J. kiddie inside his own 22 whom naively decides to run the ball back at the fast approaching Falkirk defence with no support, only to give away a penalty for holding on to the ball on the ground. Dundee again defended ferociously twice holding up the home side over the line only for Falkirk to find a hole in the defence and score a converted try. Dundee now 12-10 down Dundee worked their way back into Falkirk territory with dynamic runs from Bangs, Kerin and most notable L.Miller the home side gave away a penalty for pushing a Dundee player into touch (that’s a new one for me but hey ho take what you can in this game). Dundee kicked for touch won the lineout and setting up phase after phase finally finding L.Miller in space making his way over the try line heading for the posts L.Miller found out for the first time in his short playing career what happens when you run over the dead ball line. Ok enough said, lets move on he won’t do it again. Agonisingly Falkirk had the last say finding what must have been half a meter between the ruck and the touchline, the home scrum half made a classic 35-meter break for the line scoring a converted try Final Score Falkirk 19-12 Dundee Dundee opting to play running rugby from well inside their own half (when we did get the ball) would be to their undoing after being continually turned over, urgency to the break down and a desire to keep the ball will be needed from the forwards if we are to move on as a team. That said some individual performances must be noted. S.Bangs first game back from injury. D.Fraser L.Miller and S.Shearer and W.Arnott, C.Shearer J Kerin. Are you the next Frank Hadden? Date: 15/01/2008
Dundee Eagles in collaboration with Dundee High HSFP, Scottish Rugby Union, Womens SRU and Sport Tayside & Fife are running a 5 week introductory course aimed at introducing young people aged 15-18 to rugby coaching. The course will run from 6th Feb on consecutive Wed nights over the period and finish on Sunday 9th March. Participants will be exposed to different aspects of coaching each week from qualified coaches and will work towards two separate accredited coaching qualifications: For more details see the poster and download the application form or contact Coco on 07745 302924 or Colin@dundeeeagles.co.uk. Only 25 places are available and the cost of the course is £20 including all registrations, materials and a course t-shirt. Development boost for Dundee Eagles Rugby Club Date: 14/01/2008
Development boost for Dundee Eagles Rugby Club
Pictured, Longforgan Primary school rugby club, today 14/01/08 All Eagles training cancelled Date: 12/01/2008
All Eagles meetings cancelled due to ground conditions. See you next week! S1 and S2 teams,STIRLING HAVE CALLED OFF Date: 11/01/2008
Hi everyone, this message is for the S1 and S2 teams. Eagles Draw Winners Date: 11/01/2008
Eagles Raffle raises £1000
Our parent club, Dundee HSFP RFC, very kindly agreed to donate the entire proceeds of the reffle (oops! showing my Edinburgh roots there, that should be 'raffle') this year to the Eagles. We ra |
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