On a sunny day the team were well beaten by a North Walsham side that (like last weeks match against Ipswich A) played far more organised and effective rugby. No matter how good the individual parts and players of the Diss team were, collectively they again do not come together as a unit - with shape and purpose - and consequently paid the penalty.

Diss tackling again was too high - not troubling the opponents' legs - allowing Walsham to make ground through our lines, again leaving it up to the returning Will Worley at fullback. We have to get tackles from the first man in the line as it is not right to leave it to Will when 4-5 people have missed earlier tackles. Diss rucking however was competitive and matched Walsham across the game, winning many balls, and of particular note was the very strong counter-rucking by Kit Brodie. One point that stands out in recent matches is that the boys still need to understand the game better especially when to pick up the ball or steal in the ruck - something the opposition knows better than we do. This links with the need to work as a unit in the tackle and get in to support the tacked teamate. Finally, the passing was just not good enough, with too many 'hail mary's', 'looping lobs' and 'hospital passes' leading to fumbles, rather than crisp accurate and speedy passing we know is possible.

Diss had one 'ray of sunshine' just before half-time with a try - a strong break from the scrum by 'man of the match' No8 Peace Joshua gained significant ground through the centre showing his strength with the ball. As he became tied up the ball fed out to Jaiden Mutsambiwa to find space and race up the pitch to score. Jaiden is improving every match and is becoming a fine player. The rest of the match saw Walsham dominate and win pretty much every scrum with a good pack - with Diss getting a few scraps on their put in...well done to Toby Groves for continuing to hook even after the ball was lost and getting some back !!!.

In summary, lots to work on, or given it is the Xmas break, lots to think about. Let's hope the boys watch some rugby over the break to see how it should be done as it will be a question of 'back to basics' when we return.

The bottom line is that the talent is there individually across the squad, the frustration and the riddle we need to crack is how we translate this into a unit where everyone works together and backs each other up and also knows where to stand and what part of the overall 'machine' they are.

Thanks to all the parents and supporters who travelled to Walsham for a good atmosphere. Wishing you all a very happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year, and let's hope Santa brings some cheer and structure for the U14's in his sack.

Festive greetings.