With yellow weather warnings galore and the incessant rain, a pitch inspection was much needed to establish if the game would be on. An inspection showed that the playing areas seemed to have let the water drain away and "classic rugby conditions" were on offer.

Dustythefitnesspainmaster had the squad up and about getting warmed up ready for the game.

Andywackysocks2 and Frankiepitchsideconsultant then had the squad put through an activity to ensure no tackle taxis nor ruck inspectors were going to be part of the game plan.

Win the race, win the ruck for Frankiepitchsideconsultant, win the shoulder battles for Gareththedefencecoach and high intensity for Dustythefitnesspainmaster were the rallying cries that came out of the team talk.

The format was 10mins game time, then 2mins feedback, then followed by another 10mins, 2mins feedback break for water and food fuel and finally followed by the last 10mins.

Mackie were straight into their GASPS as the whole squad were connected, found the best space, stressed the Deeside defenders, showed plenty of continuity and had awesome rugby speed. Andywackysocks2 had to dig deep as he tried to keep up with the speed of play.

Whistle was blown and both teams were off for their first feedback break. The squad quickly identified what was going well and what needed to be worked on.

Dustythefitnesspainmaster was exceptionally efficient at getting the rugby ball back to the centre for the restart and the second 10mins were up and running. Just like in the "big game" sides can ebb and flow, gain and loss momentum and this is what the Mackie squad had to deal with using their rugby and brain skills to find a way through the 2nd 10min.

The final whistle was again blown and both teams were off for their 2nd feedback break and to food fuel refill and drink to think. A gentle reminder to the squad about tackle taxis, ruck inspectors, hunting in pairs from the coaching squad and the players were back out the final segment.

Gareththedefencecoach had been doing an outstanding effort as chief coat hanger as players were being subbed as the rain had now settled into a constant drizzle.

The final whistle blew and both teams lined up with mud in their ears and smiles on their faces ready to cheer on their opponents and shake hands in recognition of what rugby core values are all about.

Frankiepitchsideconsultant said he loved being back as both many forwards and backs had scored some well worked tries.

Final score
Mackie 15 : 3 Deeside

Remember to ask your rugby brain "what is the one thing I need to stop doing and the one thing I need to start doing to improve my rugby skills?"

BeatthedefenceandGettheballback Tastic Peeps.

Dustythefitnesspainmaster
Gareththedefencecoach
Frankiepitchsideconsultant
Andywackysocks2