If you're struggling to find that perfect little Christmas gift for someone special in your life (you of course!) then have a look at the Canadian Women's Rugby Team Calendar. What better way to ease those ache and pains after a particularly hard training session? Can't think of one.
Buxton Thirds 0, Sandbach 10
Buxton travelled to a foggy and frosty Sandbach hoping to kick start their season with a win. In a desperately close game they lost narrowly to tries at the start and the end of the game, but won enough possession and had enough territory and chances to have taken the points themselves. The Thirds took to the field wearing the new shirts sponsored by Simply Thai, full of intent. The opening exchanges were hard fought with Buxton's man of the match Ford producing a shuddering tackle, but Sandbach worked themselves in to a strong attacking position and with the Buxton defence lacking precision them breached it to cross the line. Stung by that Buxton went up a gear. With Woodward winning plenty of possession at the lineout there was plenty of possession to work with and Bennison exploited the space to make a series of breaks. Chapman Charles and Allen supported the breaks but the subsequent phases produced slow ball and the game became bogged down in a series of scrums. The front row of Bearman, Fussell and Austin were becoming more and more dominant but handling errors cost Buxton scoring opportunities. A searing break from Bennison tore open the Sandbach defence, as he glided down the wing with Ritchie and Gardin in support he backed himself and appeared to have scored in the corner, only for the eagled eyed referee to disallow it for not grounding the ball.Buxton continued to take the attack to Sandbach, a series of kickable penalties were shunned in favour of lineouts but despite the possession the Thirds could not breach the Sandbach line. Always looking to counter Buxton had to be alert to the threat and Preece and Graham organsied the defence effectively and Rose produced a series of big hits before going off injured to be replaced by Cavanagh.
The second half saw more of the same. Increasingly Buxton were dominating the set pieces but Sandbach looked more effective in the loose. With Gyte on the field the intensity of the tackles went up and some excellent defence repulsed a series of Sandbach attacks close to the line. As the clock ticked away the pressure and tension spilled over. Stratford and Preece combined well and the ball was moved to the backs with increasing desparation. Dawson threatened with half breaks but these came to nothing as dropped passes and slow ball stifled attacking options. With the final scrum of the game Buxton drove the Sandbach eight back ten metres but as the ball spilled out Sandbach got the ball away and ran sixty metres to score in the corner despite the efforts of Purvis and Burton. It was a disappointing end to a game that the Thirds could so easily have won but a failure to maintain pressure at key moments and to nail their chances cost them the game.
Bearman, Fussell, Austin, Woodward, Rose, Charles, Allen, Chapman, Preece, Bennison, Ritchie, Burton, Graham, Ford, Gardin, Cavanagh, Gyte, Stratford,Dawson, Purvis.
Apres Match
MOTM Chris Ford
Next week we are at home to Congleton. We know what we need to do. Chris will send texts later in the week so let him know when you are available ASAP.
There was a moment during the first half when they had scored their third try and we were resembling the village of the dammed that I had an overwhelming urge to run away. (Well okay limp pathetically and collapse on the touchline)We had players lying around all over the place, Johnnies leg was gashed open and his knee looked like a balloon, Tay was writhing on the ground (though Lizzie says he does this a lot) Rob had a nasty head wound, Tom had undergone major reconstructive surgery, Ali B was being brave about his hamstrings, (have I mentioned my Groin?) It could have turned into a farce. Instead we do what we know we can do. Put a brave face on it and battle away regardless of what the opposition can throw at us. Only there were moments today when we looked really good and had them flailing around on the back foot, as we off loaded the ball out of contact and supported each other. Some of the tackling was poor but some of it (stand up Chris Ford and Dan Rose) was bone jarring. We are not far off being a descent side. Seriously if we can get to training on a Thursday and put a couple of things together it will make a big difference. Remember last season and how a few simple things turned the season round. So thanks for the past couple of weeks,lets make it a winning return for Chris, and get the season back on track.
For what its worth my MOTM was Geoff. You have a difficult job to do on the wing and you do it better with every game. And you also got wound up and put it to effective use. (Good captaincy?)
By the way don't miss Ali Bearmans lectures on "Why sat nav is crap and all you need to do is follow my directions for getting to and leaving Burnage RUFC" Its riveting stuff especially when you are behind him, oh no your're in front of him now!
Buxton Thirds 0 Hope Valley A few more than us. If anyone knows the final score let me know please. I am struggling to get a match report in but thanks to all of you who turned out and toiled away in the mud.
Don't forget Training on Thursday.
Back to League action with Burnage away this coming saturday. Will be sending texts out but we will meet at the club at 12.30 sharp.
Cheers
Simon
Not a great turnout (thanks Ali, Dan, Ian and Chris) We have to find that extra ten percent to start winning and we will only find it up at training. We have new moves to work on both for the forwards and the backs, the coaches are keen to help us and the first team players want to see us there. It is appreciated that it is difficult with work commitments but lets make an effort and get up there for the next two Thursdays. It will make a big difference to the results.
The following have been selected to represent Buxton Third XV away to Hope Valley on Saturday 15th November 2008 Kick Off 2.30pm.
A Bearman
S Fussell c
D Rose
I Henderson
M Woodward
T Charles
C Chapman
P Taylor
P Preece
N Bennison
G Ritchie
R Burton
H Graham
C Ford
S Gardin
Bro Henderson
G Nichols
L McDonald
We will be meeting at 12.45 up at the Club. We will be leaving promptly as we need a decent warm up.
If for any reason you cannot make it please let Simon know ASAP.
Away to Hope Valley KO 2.30pm Meet Club at 12.45.
If you have not done so already can you let me know if you are available.
The adverse weather over the past few weeks finally forced the thirds onto Lilliput. The narrower pitch tends to result in more forward oriented games but on Saturday both sides tried to play with width. Buxton were struggling in certain key positions and the evergreen Graham stepped in to take on the Scrum Half role whilst outside him young Gaz Nichols stepped up to play Fly Half for the first time. He put in an assured performance.
Buxton opted to play up the hill in the first half and they found themelves absorbing plenty of pressure in the opening quarter. Defensively they were up for it and despite much of the possession Marple were unable to find a way through. Buxton launched occasional forays into the Marple half but they struggled to gain their usual advantage in the scrums despite the efforts of Davies. Marples tries came from periods of sustained possession with Buxton basically running out of defenders. Half time 12-0 down and the Thirds still felt that the game was winnable.
Having failed to make any impression using the forwards as a battering ram, Buxton opted for an offloading game. It almost bore fruit as Cavanagh broke through a tackle offloaded to Fussell who found Ford outside him. Ford made some ground and as he was tackled passed inside to Fussell in support who linked with Chapman. From the ruck Rabbitts who had replaced Graham spun the ball out to Nichol and deft passing moved the ball to Ritchie who was bundled into touch.
Gyte launched an attack from full back and carved his way through several tackles, he was brought to ground and the ball turned over. Sensing space behind Marple hoofed the ball up field but Charles showing all his experience had dropped back to cover the eventuallity and launched an attack himself deftly gliding through the defenders before being brought to ground. Henderson continued the move and Austin drove on before Marple managed to snuff out the attack.
Burton showed a useful left boot and put in several racking kicks into the corners. At the lineout Buxton did their best to disrupt Marple ball, and showed a marked improvement on their own throw in.
As the clock ticked down at the final scrum the forwards went AWOL and Marple with turnover ball were able to breach the fractured defense to touch down under the posts to give the score line a flattering appearance.
This was a massive improvement on the previous week but with marginal improvements that can be made on the training ground the Thirds can look forward to winning these games.
Buxton:Davies (McDonald 50mins), Fussell c, Austin, Henderson, Cavanagh, Charles, Dilworth (Richard 30mins) Chapman, Graham (Rabbitts 65mins) Nichols, Ritchie, Burton, Gardin, Ford, (Dawson 50mins) Gyte, Team Coach S Gyte.
Apres Match
No court, everyone ran away apart from five of us.
Injury update
Tom Edge - continues to make good progress and hopes that his finger nail will have grown back in time to allow him to play next week.
Dilly has bad back
Captain my Captain has man flu
Funniest moment of the match - Bird almost falling on killer who was minding his own business with Benno a little bit to close to the touchline. Luckily bird missed killer, otherwise.......
A last minute try flattered Marple as this was a game that the thirds could have won. But we did not quite have the self belief. Training on Thursday is where we can get it right. Some good individual performances on the back of a good team effort. Gaz Nichols did a fine job at half back, and Chris Ford had an excellent game on the wing (voted MOM by Sir)
A full match report to follow, but it appears that we have no game next week, the next match is in the league away to Burnage on 22 November 2008.
Options for next week are either;
Try and get a friendly (prefered one)
Have a training session up at the club and then watch the England v Australia match KO 1430
Buxton 3rd XV 5 Stockport 62
Buxton were outclassed by a superior back line and a strong set of forwards and to be honest some sloppy tackling and defensive alignment. From the kick off Stockport caught the Thirds napping and after a series of sweeping moves touch down for their opening try. A second followed shortly afterwards and it looked like a long afternoon was in store for Buxton. However this team never gets downhearted and rallied by Allen they produced an excellent ten minutes of play. Bennison made the first of several effective breaks and the forwards took the attack on and drove deep into Stockport territory. Stockport scrambled the ball clear but Buxton had a throw in ten metres from the Stockport line. Using a well rehearsed move, Cavanagh powered his way to the line and seemingly touched the ball down, only to be ruled held up. Buxton had the put in and secured clean ball. preece fired the ball out and the move appeared to have died out. Chapman secured the ball and the move moved right with the forwards driving as a unit for the line. Preece using his experience darted for
the line and supported by Dilworth got the try. For a fleeting moment it seemed as if the thirds would get back into the game, but defensive lapses and some positional naivety gifted more points to Stockport and the game was ended as a contest by half time. An injury to Preece necessitated some changes to the half backs. Buxton never gave up, Allen charged at the defenders all afternoon and Cavanagh took numbers of defenders to bring him down. Nichols had a half break, Ford showed some strength on the wing and Burton showed some strong running, but the Thirds could not string enough phases together to make any progress. With the last kick of the match Stockport launched a speculative punt upfield, as the ball bobbled about in the in goal area, Pollitt fell awkwardly and damaged his knee while Stockport helped themselves to another try.
Next week at home to Marple.
Bearman, Fussell, Austin, Cavanagh, Henderson, Allen, Dilworth, Chapman, Preece, Bennison, Ritchie, Nichols, Burton, Ford, Gardin, Pollitt, Rose
They have been ordered so should be with us in a couple of weeks. Let us know what you think by voting in the poll on the right hand side.
Buxton Thirds got their first win of the season with a battling and workman like win over fellow strugglers Old Bedians. The win lifts the thirds off the bottom of Division 5 South in the Miller Homes League. With plenty of subs the Thirds could concentrate on going flat out from the off, but despite opportunities were unable to break down a stubborn Old Bedians defence. With the scrum and line out functioning effectively Buxton were able to exert plenty of pressure in the set piece, the front row of Bearman Fussell and Austin looking comfortable and assured and the benefits of training showed through with Allen and Cavanagh providing the power in the second row. Edge and Poole had plenty of quality possession to distribute. Buxton's best chance of the first half came from a penalty move deep in their own twenty two. Skipper Allen spotted the space and instead of kicking for safety Poole took a tap and sent the ball out to Nichols. He broke through the Old Bedians defence and jinked his way some thirty metres up field. With opportunities outside him he back himself and the move died when he was brought to ground. With the backrow of Charles, Chapman and Henderson hitting the rucks the quality of possession was much
improved and the thirds defensive lines kept the sporadic Old Bedian attacks at bay. The conditions did not favour open back play but Ford and Politt used the limited opportunities well and Ritchie carried well. The half time score of 0-0 did not adequately reflect the thirds dominance. To their credit they started the second half even more strongly. Using the driving maul to more effect they marched into the Old Bedians half, and set up a number of attacking positions. A series of drives for the line led by Austin and Allen fractured the Old Bedians defence and Cavanagh crashed through to score a well worked try. Some positional changes and the introduction of fresh legs helped Buxton keep up the momentum. From broken play Edge found Hoodie lurking off his wing and he produced a burst of speed to take him clear of the defenders and under the posts for the second try. Charles converted and in the conditions 12-0 looked a wining scoreline. A lapse in concentration let Old Bedians back in. They countered with a series of sweeping moves and after switching play to the right managed to burrow over close to the touchline despite Gardin's efforts. A superb conversion took the scoreline to 12-5. For the next five minutes Old Bedians were back in the match. Excellent tacking and support kept them at bay, and Bennison cleared the danger by breaking out of his twenty two. The game was effectively sealed with ten minutes to go. Buxton wrecked an Old Bedians scrum, forcing them back towards their line. Allen nicked the ball from the ruck and Chapman darted for the line only to be held up. Preece set the move up again and the ball went through a number of hands close to the line before Charles crashed over to make the game safe.
A big thank you to the Buxton players who offered to play for Old Bedians, in particular Ian Henderson who propped for them the second half to keep the scrums contested.The win will boost the Thirds confidence and the improvements show how vital it is to keep on training. Next week they are away to Stockport.
Buxton were; Bearman, Fussell, Austin, Allen, Cavanagh, Henderson, Chapman, Charles, Edge, Poole, Ritchie, Nichols, Gardin, Pollitt, Gyte, Dilworth, Purvis, Hoodie, Rose, Ford, Bennison, Woodward, Burton.
Buxton 3rd XV 17 Old Bedians 7.
Tries from Hoodie, TC and Big Bird helped Buxton to their first win of the season and provided an excellent basis on which to celebrate. Unfortunately I cannot remember who got what at Court, so if anyone wants to enlighten me I would be very grateful. I don't think the McFussells have any commercial legs though.
Match report to follow.
Buxton 3rd XV 0 v Aldwinians 46.
A brief respite from the league saw the Thirds in cup action, travelling to Aldwinians. Despite injuries and absences, the thirds managed to travel with 18 but were up against an Aldwinians side that were clearly bolstered by the fact that their seconds had had their game cancelled. Late arrivals mean't that there was little time to go through any pre-match preparations. Despite this the opening exchanges were even with both sides making errors. Aldwinians made progress into the Buxton 22 and some sterling defence kept them at bay with Rose putting in big hits. Eventually the pressure told and Aldwinians opened their account. The game was by no means a procession for Aldwinians. The thirds fought hard, edging the scrums and with the line out functioning much better this week the additional possession gave Preece options with the ball. Poole made a well timed break through the traffic, but despite the support the ball was knocked on. Gardin made some strong runs from the back, and Hoodie was a constant menace. Too many errors and turnovers however ceded the initiative to Aldwinians and by half time Buxton were 24 nil down and tie was lost. Aldwinians replaced their front row and the scrums became scrappy.
Injuries to several players meant some reorganisation. Buxton had been penalised heavily in the first half but with the game lost the penalty count evened up and with Poole finding some distance and Fussell finding Charles in the line out more should have been made of the possession. The forwards began to make more runs, Henderson picked up on the loose ball and Cavanagh drove into the heart of the defence with six tacklers hanging off him but was unable to off load. Pollitt and Ford both showed good presence on the wings. Buxton battled hard all afternoon, and never gave up. The effort they showed will be rewarded as the season goes on.
Next week the Thirds entertain Old Bedians at home. Training is on Thursday at 7.00pm.
Buxton were: Rose(Chapman 40m), Fussell c, Austin, Henderson, Cavanagh, Woodward, Charles, Chapman (Taylor 40m), Preece, Poole, Ritchie (Pollitt
40m), Stratford (Ritchie 65m) Nichols (Ford), Hoodie, Gardin
Apres Match
We did not hold court in the end as there were too many absentees however I have a few nominations that perhaps we can take forward to next week.
The Ranulph Fiennes prize for Navigation goes to Tay. Eventually when he realised that his sat nav needed a post code he found his way to the ground.
Mentioned in dispatches Seth and Gaz, but then they always get lost. Together. Geoff gets a mention for following the wrong car out of the ground and arriving at the pub 20 minutes late.
The Ballet Rambert gold award goes to Ian Henderson for his dive across the ruck. The referee appreciated it anyway.
To the Aldwinians player who Ian hit, allegedly, who waited until all his players were around him before "wanting to have a go back"
FUOTD - Seth for letting go of the ball on our line and letting them in for a really soft try, Mr Fussell for getting confused about the new calls, there were more but it would be tedious to mention them.
I'll post a match report later, but just to say despite the score we can be massively proud of the performance today. It was a bit of a piss take but we battled all the way and never once let our heads go down.
We need to be serious about next week. Training on Thursday is vital so lets get there if we can.
3rd XV 5 v Ashton on Mersey 38
The scoreline did not do justice to the effort and commitment that the thirds showed, but unless they can utilise their possession more effectively they are going to be in for a very long hard season. The Thirds dominated the set piece comfortably winning their own ball and stealing much of the oppositions. The tight five worked hard,Fussell in particular made the opposition hooker's life uncomfortable all afternoon.
For long periods of the first half they were stuck in their own twenty two. But the defense was well organised and stand in No 10 Charles put in some decent clearance kicks to relieve the pressure. Apart from one piece of magic all Ashton's tries stemmed from defensive errors. That said Rabbits, Austin and Henderson were tireless in defense and Bearman produced an earth shattering bone crunching tackle to save a certain try. Injuries to the tireless Chapman and the hardworking Dilworth and Rabbitts meant some positional changes had to be made.
Preece put in a quality performance at scrum half and his apprentice Edge took over for the last twenty minutes and improves with every game. A sustained period of Buxton pressure went unrewarded after a series of scrum penalties eventually were cleared down field. Despite the game being lost early in the second half the Thirds continued to fight and to battle. Nichols and Jardin combined well and Jardin made a break up the centre and it took three to haul him down. Tom, playing out of position at open side was a human dynamo and when he was switched to centre almost broke out of his twenty two. The back three of Ritchie, Edge and Ford, worked well as a unit and were always looking to join the line. Packer came on in the second half to sharpen up the defensive edge. And the introduction of Hoodie provided a cutting edge out wide and proved himself to be a handful when ever he got the ball.
Buxton's persistence and spirit was rewarded after a series of rucks took them into the twenty two. With an overlap out wide Edgie backed himself and burst through the defenders to score a classic scrum halves try.
Training on Thurday at 7.00pm Be there! It is making a difference.
Next week away to Aldwinians in the cup. Let Simon F know asap if you are available.
Bearman, Fussell c, Austin, Henderson, Dilworth (Tom), Rabitts, Woodward, Chapman, Preece, Charles, Ritchie, Nichols, Jardin, Ford(Hoodie), Edge (Packer)
Apres Match
MOM - Fussell for his hooking apparently
FUOTD - Phil Preece for agreeing to go off and allowing Tom Edge to come on as scrumhalf (It was the only thing we could think of to get Phil!)
The losing streak continued at Ashton on Mersey despite the forwards winning a stack of possession. We were better than the 38 -5 scoreline might suggest but there is much to do if we are to start turning possession into points.
Chris is away at the moment so Simon is organising the team for this week's game against Aldwinians. Its a cup game so a rest from League action for a week. If you are availble to play and you don't get a text by Tuesday evening, let Simon know by e-mailing info@buxtonrugbyclub.com.
We will be training on Thursday up at the club at 7.00pm. We have had two great turnouts so get up there if you haven't been. It will make the difference to our season.
3rd XV 0 v Carrington 17
Buxton Thirds had high hopes of ending their run of defeats and as the clock ticked past three o'clock and there was still no sign of the opposition it looked as if the Thirds would win by default. But although they had been unable to raise a side at home last week, Carrington, bolstered by the fact that their Firsts game had been cancelled arrived late but in good heart. Despite the lack of a warm up Carrington were quickest out of the blocks and Buxton had to defend from the off. Wilson and Stratford marshalled the defence and the Thirds held out. Both sides appeared equally matched, but the game was basically lost by the Thirds at the breakdown. Ill disipline saw them come off worse in the penalty count and too often good attacking ball was turned over in contact. Carrington's opening try was against the run of play and despite the endeavour the Thirds could not get backon terms. Matt Poole had a solid game at fly half, his kicking bringing a new dimension to Buxton's play. But with the lineout not functioning effectively, some of the advantage was lost. Woodward had an excellent game at openside making himself known to the opposition ten from an early stage. His pace and hard tackling will be critical if Buxton are to start winning. Allen battled away all afternoon and Butler and Pollit pulled off some vital tackles to save the line late on. On several occasions the forwards battled to the line, but with the Carrington defence at sixes and sevens and the line beckoning the wrong options were called and the opportunities squandered. When the whistle went the disappointment was etched onto the faces of the Buxton players, but if they are to turn their season round then they will need to be harder at the breakdown and swifter in decision making.
Training on Thursday at 7.00pm up at Sunnyfields. We need as many as possible there, if we are to put right the basics and start winning.
Buxton were: Bearman, Fussell (Rabbits), MacDonald (Fussell), Cavanagh (Rose),Henderson,Allen, Woodward, Chapman, Edge, Poole, Dilworth (Pollit), Wilson, Stratford, Butler (Ritchie), Gyte
Apres Match
His Honour Ali B was on the bench. He handed out fines like they were going out of fashion.
MOTM - Matt Woodward
Fuck up of the day - Mr Stratford for dropping a scoring pass. He should be dealt with for claiming to have friends from Oswestry.
Advanced warning - theme for the 25th October..........but if course if you had been at court you would know would'nt you.
Match Analysis by Matt Poole. You had to be there to appreciate it. One or two of us might be hanging up our boots sooner than we anticipated.
They arrived late. We were warmed up and up for it. So what the fuck went wrong? Training on Thursday 6.45pm at Sunnyfields. Be there come rain or whatever. Match report to follow. Its not easy by the way having to write 250 words when we don't score.
Gimli
ChabalCan be found here
Apres Match
Man of the Match - ?
Fuck up of the Day - ?
His Honour Gareth Stratford has set an example to us all with the ruthlessness of his judgements. Be warned!
The Right Honourable The Lord Chief Justice Gareth Stratford KC, KMC, OBE, TWAT was in the chair and made a number of interesting legal decisions. Some of them may have consequences. In R v Bearman the matter has been postponed to next weeks hearing. In the matter R v Ritchie, an in absentia judgement has been delivered which will be made public at the next session.
It was a much better peformance than the score line suggests! Another warm afternoon, and a different looking Crewe side to the one that was beaten by Marple last week, but a massively improved effort from the thirds. Crewe knew and acknowledged that they had been in a game. Match report to follow.
It was back to the bad old ways on Saturday as Buxton Thirds crashed to a 8 try to nothing defeat. It all began promisingly with the tight five exerting pressure on their opposite numbers and for five minutes Buxton were dominating both territory and possession. A steal from the lineout saw Cavanagh drag a couple of defenders with him but unable to sustain possession the move died out. Another Buxton attack resulted in quick turnover and Wilmslow fired the ball out to their wings who blasted past the cover defence to open their account. This seemed to drain Buxton and Wilmslow capitalised with a couple more tries, and effectively the match was dead as a contest. Allen stood out in terms of effort and was always driving at the heart of the defence, but the opportunities for possession were few and far and with Buxton's defence leaking like a sieve, it was a relief when they limped into half time. 33 – 0 adrift. The second half saw some changes in personal but Wilmslow scored another couple of quick tries before the Thirds woke up. Suddenly they began to want the ball and with Chapman and Rabbits securing the ball at the breakdown, Edge and Stratford found them selves with options. With five minutes to go Buxton launched a sustained attack and the ball was switched to Nichols. He made it to within a yard of the line and Sneddon racing up in support was just unable to hold the pass for what would have been a certain try. Buxton ended the match with a series of energy sapping drives that left the Wilmslow defence scrabbling to keep them out and one had to wonder why the Thirds had left it so late to start playing rugby.
On Saturday they travel to Crewe and Nantwich and with key personal absent they will need to start playing from the start if they are to turn their fortunes around.
Training on Tuesday 6.45pm up at the club.
Buxton were:
MacDonald, Rabbits, Fussell, Cavanagh (Dilworth), Rose, Dilworth (Sneddon), Allen, Henderson (Chapman), Preece (Edge), Stratford, Ritchie, Gardin, Nichols, Burton, Bennison (Packer) Woodward, Craig.
Apres Match
Man of the Match - Chris Allen, no contest really his was the standout performance
Fuck up of the day - Fussells throwing in at the lineout
Buxton Thirds 0 v Wilmslow Thirds 50.
Oh dear oh dear! If I can bare to do it a match report will follow, but like our play it won't be pretty.
A couple of things:
Training on Tuesday 6.45pm. Be there, we are going to work on our defense and do we need to!
We are away to Crewe and Nantwich next Saturday so let Chris know availability as soon as you get the text.
On a sweltering hot afternoon, it was a lack of self belief and confidence in the first half that cost Buxton Thirds the game. Hope Valley Firsts were well drilled and organised and were able to field five substitutes which given the conditions was a major advantage. They scored three well worked tries, but as the Thirds grew in confidence in the second half they began to demonstrate what they are capable of and finished the stronger side.
The opening exchanges were evenly matched, the Buxton front row of MacDonald, Fussell and Davies gained the upper hand and gave a solid platform for the backs. Pressure from the thirds forced Hope to concede a penalty and Charles's effort drifted just wide. After ten minutes a series of missed tackles and some poor organisation saw Hope launch a sweeping move from their own half. They attacked up the right hand side, the move was stopped by some big hits from the centres Nichols and Edge, but Hope were able to recycle and they found acres of space in front of them and scored under the posts.
From the kick off Buxton conceded a soft score and suddenly found themselves 14 – 0 a drift. This was the signal to dig deep. Using their superiority in the pack the Thirds set up a series of driving mauls capitalising on the outstanding line-out work of Dilworth. Deep in the Hope 22, Preece flicked the ball wide and Edge crashed through a couple of tackles to be driven to the line by Charles and Rose. It looked as if he had grounded the ball but the referee was unsighted. From the resulting scrum Buxton made mincemeat of the Hope effort and all they could do was to collapse the scrum. Hope managed to work their way out of their twenty two but the relief was temporary. Another five metre scrum, another Hope scrum destroyed and this time Chapman made sure of the touch down and Buxton were back in the game.
The second half was always going to be tough as Buxton had to play up the slope and things looked grim as after five minutes Hope scored and converted after another well worked back move. Rather than demoralising the thirds,this acted as a spur. With the Hope scrum gaining some parity with the introduction of fresh legs, Buxton had to dig deep. Allen took responsibility and with Davies drove into the heart of the defence. Charles ,Rose and Macdonald supported well, and Preece was able to get good second phase ball. Bennison made a series of half breaks, and Nichol was almost put away in the centre. The support play and defensive alignment was beginning to pay dividends. The ever improving Ritchie tackled his heart out and working with Gardin and Pollit the back three provided a solid defensive blanket.
A lose kick from Hope gave Gardin a chance to counter-attack . He flew down the wing and crashed into the last line of defence just being bundled into touch.
A series of moves took Buxton into the Hope half, Bennsion spotted a half chance and scorched down the wing to score in the corner. Back in the game and with a sniff of victory, the thirds upped their effort. Chapman came close to scoring and as the move continued first Edge then Davies drove for the line. The Hope defence was creaking and a scrum ten metres from their line set up a great position for Buxton. The referee warded the scrum to Buxton only to reverse it and yellow card a Buxton player for back chat. Buxton continued to batter away but time and Buxton's hopes ran out.
Buxton were:
MacDonald, Fussell, Davies, Dilworth, Rose, Allen, Chapman, Charles, Preece, Bennison, Ritchie, Nichols, Edge, Pollit, Gardin.
Training on Tuesday's up at Sunnyfield at 6.45pm.
Apres Match
There was no Fuck up of the day, so it will be carried over to next week and the forefeit doubled.
Man of the Match was Seth. He and Gaz got an even number of votes but Seth won the drink off. A tasty little number lovingly created and crafted by Steve Edge and the Barmaid at the Peaks hotel. He was so long getting it mind you I'm not sure that that was all he was doing.
Hope Valley First XV 21, Buxton Third XV 10 (Chapman, Bennison)
Match report to follow.
AS CHRIS SAID AFTER THE GAME, IF WE TRAIN WE WILL WIN THESE CLOSE GAMES. OUR SELF BELIEF AND LACK OF CONFIDENCE LET US DOWN IN THE FIRST HALF. SO GET UP TO THE CLUB ON TUESDAYS AT 6.45pm.
Third team will train with the club on Tuesdays at 6.45pm. After Saturday its important that we work on our game so be there if you can.
Don't forget to renew your membership before the new season starts. The forms can be found here. The club will be enforcing the no pay no play rules this season, so get signed up.
Well boys it's that time again ! Hope you've had a good summer ?? My friends ( I use that word very loosely) would like to play a nice friendly game of rugby, I shall of course be playing for the highest bidder, failing any bids being received I'll play for who ever will have me !! Two dates are being mulled over at the mo either the 20th or the 27th, please let Benno know which date you prefer.
Temporary site at www.buxtonrugby.wordpress.com. Go and have a look and let them know what you think. New revised site coming shortly.
Well the floors at any rate. Volunteers wanted for Wednesday 23 July 6.30pm and 30th July 6.30pm up at the club to sort out the changing room floors. Firsts and Seconds and some of the Girls have said they will be there. Could do a spot of training afterwards?
Chris arrived at John O'Groats this evening (Wed 16th July) 12 days after setting off from Lands End. He now weighs 10 stone and wants to play on the wing. Well Done Chris.
Don't forget the Club Bike Ride this weekend. 
Buxton Rugby Club are organising “The Great Ride 2008”, the fourth in a successful series of fundraising events, the bike ride will be approximately 26 miles long in the stunning surroundings of the Peak National Park. The purpose of the “ The Great Ride 2008” is to raise much needed funds to help improve Buxton Rugby Club playing and clubhouse facilities and for people of all ages to have a Great Biking Day Out. Our aim is to raise £5000, so if one hundred of us do it at an average of £50 we will achieve our aim. Let’s try and beat it.
A shortened route will be available for ages 12 and under.
The Great Ride 2008
DateSunday June 29th 2008
Start Time9.30am
Starting PointParsley Hay Bike Station
Mid PointMapleton Lane, Ashbourne
Finish PointParsley Hay Bike Station
Bike transportation will be available on the day, or you can hire a
bike at Parsley Hey Hire Station.
Who is C Hallam? He was meant to be on Mike Barbers table on Saturday night. He kept himself to himself. Perhaps he will be Captain next season. I think we should be told.
Because I had a few minutes to spare I had a look at the photos on "meet the players". It gives you the number of times that a particular photo has been viewed.
It does not make good reading or for that matter viewing.
Bottom of the pile (sorry Howard) was Mr Graham with 56. The next person had 72 so that's a long way bottom. Come on Howard pull yourself together and start looking at yourself.
Top, well are you really surprised was "Mr Male Grooming Products" himself, Wayne "Dilly" Dilworth. He has viewed himself 99 times. Disgusting. You will go blind Dilly you know so lay off it. Help an old man out and have a look at Howards photo instead.
To the rest of you, if you have the odd minute to spare why not pop by and have a look at Howards photo and give the old chap a bit of a boost. One look from you can feed his ego for a whole day.
See you at the dinner piss up (Don't you mean dance? Ed)
Worth watching again, who needs rule changes when teams can play like this?
After such a superb finish to the season, I feel we can look forward to next September with anticipation that we'll finish the league in more deserved position, here's a sneak preview of who we'll be playing
Division 5 South
Altrincham K. 4 4east-12th
Aldwinians 3 4east-13th
Marple 3 5east-12th
Broughton Pk 4 5east-13th
Wilmslow 3 5south-7th
Stockport 4 5south-8th
Congleton 2 5south-9th
Burnage 4 5south-10th
Old Bedians 3 5south-11th
Sandbach 4 5south-12th
Buxton 3 5south-13th
Ashton-on-Mer. 3 5west-11th
Carrington 2 5west-13th
Crewe & Nant. 4 New
Buxton Thirds 10 Aldwinians 0
Buxton Thirds produced an outstanding defensive display to beat Aldwinians and make a mockery of their position at the bottom of the league, in an intense, bruising and at times ill-tempered final game of the season.
Buxton got off to just the start they needed only three minutes into the game. Bosely made a stunning break from 40 metres out blasting through the midfield tacklers before jinking down the wing and beating the despairing cover tackles to score in the corner. From this Aldwinians came back strongly at the Thirds, but superb organisation defensively kept them at bay. Ritchie and Packer were instrumental in organising and keeping the defensive line. Edge and McGuigan began to work well together. McGuigans probing kicks relieved the pressure and Edge sniped and tackled well around the fringes and the pack was beginning to exert some pressure on the Aldwinian eight sending them backwards and disrupting their ball.
The Buxton lineout functioned well with Charles taking plenty of ball and Cavanagh collecting the scraps. Options were somewhat limited when Dilworth had to retire towards the end of the first half but Barber proved his worth, disrupting the opposition ball.
Buxton’s pack was working overtime in the loose. Rose slowed up possession on the floor and Allen relished the opportunity to take down the big runners. When Buxton had the ball Bosley was outstanding breaking tackles, making the yards and recycling the ball.
Aldwinians created a couple of chances in broken play but first Nicholas and then Jardin made try saving tackles. A missed penalty chance in front of the posts added to Aldwinians woes.
Aldwinians frustration began to boil over in the second half. They fell out amongst themselves and the Thirds exploited this by increasing the defensive pressure and causing mistake after mistake.
Despite being under territorial pressure Buxton managed to work their way out. McGuigan darted through a gap and then sensing space behind the defence put in a perfectly weighted kick. Nicholas had a race to the line against the full back but the young centre won by a yard to touch down for Buxton’s second to give them a 10 – lead.
Aldwinians threw everything into the match and set up camp in the Buxton twenty two for twenty minutes. Despite the vociferous support from their supporters they could not break Buxton down. Wave after wave of attacks were stemmed, Allen, Fussell and Charles to the fore with Henderson, Barber and Rose wrapping up anything out wide and Cavanagh and Uprichard scrapping for everything on the floor. The Thirds gave away a succession of penalties and finally the referee lost patience. Cavanagh was the unfortunate recipient of a yellow card. Aldwinians sensed that with Buxton down to fourteen men this was their chance. But try as they might there was no way through. Buxton held out until Cavanagh returned. Indeed Aldwinians were lucky not to have men carded themselves for some careless use of the boot. Having spent the afternoon going nowhere round the fringes they resorted to moving the ball along the line only to find that the defensive resolve was just as firm out wide as first Handcock and then Lownds made hard hitting tackles.
With Cavanagh restored Aldwinians resolve crumbled and a raking McGuigan kick took Buxton to within sight of the Aldwinans line. From a five-metre scrum Charles picked and drove to the line. He was held short of the line but Fussell continued the move and seemed to have grounded the ball only for it to be deemed to have been held up.
Continuing the pressure quick hands through Nicholas and Bosely put Dawson into space. He beat off one tackler and went over in the corner and spilled the ball as he made contact with the line. Again the try was disallowed. But time was running out and the whistle went to give the Thirds their first win of 2008. It was an outstanding effort by the whole squad and a fitting way to round off what has been at times a difficult season.
Rose (Wood 50m), Uprichard, Fussell, Dilworth (Barber 30m), Cavanagh, Allen, Charles, Henderson, Edge (Packer 45m), McGuiggan, Ritchie (Handcock 60m), Bosely, Nicholas, Jardin (Dawson 45m), Packer (Lownds 45m)
Apres Match
Man of the Match - Gaz though Geoff came a close second
Twat in the Hat - Should have been the Aldwinian supporters
So that's it for another season. A big thank you to Chris Allen for doing a fantastic job as Captain (hopefully he will consider having a second go)We all look forward to his speech at the Club dinner.
Thats what we were today. Fantastic way to end the season.
Alex Ferguson save your breath, We saved the best for last. We were simply outstanding today. We dug deep, and produced one of the best defensive efforts in the history of the third team. Forget glorious defeats this was an outstanding awesome display, and everyone who put on a shirt made a contribution. Oh yeah the score was 10 -0 but who cares, we won.
Buxton Third XV 17 Burnage 31
Buxton thirds, still looking for their first win of 2008 came close to pulling off a victory and but for a couple of errors in the second half the score could have been very different.
Buxton began slowly and despite establishing a strong platform in the set piece they were unable to convert possession into points, struggling to win the breakdown. Burnage, quick to turn defence into attack, turned over ball on the half way line and a series of sweeping moves put them in at the corner. Burnage had the better of the possession for the next five minutes and a sloppy defensive lapse close to their own line let Burnage in for their second try.
A nasty injury to the skipper Allen disrupted Buxton a little. But some reorganisation brought stability back. Dilworth took over the blind side duties and Cavanagh came onto bolster the second row. Though still struggling to establish territory Buxton began to make more of their possession and some strong running by Jardin and Nicholas showed what they were capable of. As usual Packer was solid at full back, and Dawson and Ritchie worked hard with him to organise the defence.
The thirds began the second half in storming fashion. Edge replaced Fussell to give some extra pace in the loose and the forwards began to exert themselves. Cavanagh began to make inroads in to the defence and with Bosley causing panic every-time he had the ball holes began to appear in the defence. After Bosley had breached the defence again, the forwards took control of the ball and after Uprichard and Henderson had set up the position, Cavanagh dragged three defenders with him and crashed over the line for Buxton’s opening try. This brought them back to within a score and they were in the ascendancy. The next five minutes took the game effectively away from them. Two poor pieces of kicking gave the initiative back to Burnage who took full advantage to score two quick tries. Buxton refused to lie down and dominated the remaining twenty minutes of the game. The forwards ran controlled possession at the Burnage defence, Bearman and Rose doing sterling work. A quick tap penalty by Edge saw a try disallowed. Another powerful Buxton scrum drove the Burnage eight back and it was Tim Charles who claimed the try from the ruck of bodies. Sneddon came on for his first game for six months and made an immediate impact. With the forwards creating opportunities, Preece and Stratford began to exploit the space out-wide. Several times they created overlaps only for these to be squandered. Eventually the pressure told and Bosley battered his way over the line for a well-deserved score. Preece, playing he promises will be his last game for the Thirds before retiring, almost scored himself but the weight of defenders was to much even for him.
Another improved performance, but these are the games that the Thirds are capable of wining. A little more self-belief and they could have taken the game.
Bearman, Uprichard, Fussell (Edge 40m), Dilworth (Cavanagh 20m) Rose, Allen, (Dilworth 20m) Charles, Henderson, Preece, Stratford, Ritchie (Lownds), Bosley, Nicholas (Sneddon 58m), Dawson (Jardin 40m), Packer (Procter 55m)
Apres Match
Man of the Match - Brendon, who then claimed the twat in the hat
Fuck up of the day - The traitorous Tom Edge for refusing to pass so that he did not let a rival score a try. (Apparently he is top try scorer)
The Waistcoat issue was settled by a judgement remarkable for its erudition and legal insight.
Captain our Captain returned from hospital stitched up but still bleeding and then managed to play the guitar and sing at his Birthday party. Well done.
League update - we are still bottom and now have no chance of catching Sandbach. But it would be good to win the last two games.
Comrades, our glorious leader is forty. Let us celebrate this with him after the game in a nice and civilized way, like we always do!
Our leader speaks;
"Let there be no doubt that the dark clouds of defeat are now rolling away and that the tide of victory is rising and a win of unprecedented magnitude is on the cards and will swamp the opposition in a tidal wave of tries."
Apparently verse does not sit easily on the sports pages of our esteemed local paper, what they want is facts and names so that people can recognise each other. Well I have some news for them. My match reports have never bourne any relation to facts and in next weeks report,which I have written already, everyone is going to be named Godfrey.
This was the Thirds "Battle of Maldon",
Mind must be harder, spirit must be bolder,
And heart the greater,as our might grows less
Here lies our leader in the dust , the hero
Cut down in battle. Ever must he mourn
Who thinks to go home from this battle-play.
Despite the scoreline, the Thirds were magnificent in defeat. In appalling weather they produced a performance of pride and courage that as they left the Knutsford clubhouse produced a standing ovation*. Knutsford were made to work and to fight for every point, never, not once, not for a moment did the Thirds flag or let their heads drop. To have been part of the team today was an honour. To name individuals is invidious but you can't have a match report without it. so here goes.
Captain our Captain was outstanding. His rallying cries spurred the tired and weary legs on, and he was a threat and a thorn in the Knutsford side all afternoon. Bearman, Uprichard, and Fussell, battled and battered their opposite front row all afternoon. Dilworth and Rose provided the power behind and as the game wore on Rose began to get about the park a bit and make a nuisance of himself. Dilworth as always gave his all. Allen we have mentioned but he grows in stature every game, and Henderson was the rock. Even his kicking had a certain style to it. Anthony was fearless at open side and with experience will come guile and an awesome prospect (even if he does come from Longnor) and when he tired the old fox Dawson appeared to snap and cause them confusion.
Tom Edge stepped up to the plate and took on the tricky role of scrum half. He grew into it as the game developed and made some feisty breaks to show what he can do. Stratford was calmness personified, an oasis of tranquility within the surging maelstrom around him. He has taken to the strategy and like a Kasparov or an Adams finds innovation in the chaos that it creates.
To the three quarters we salute you. Your defense at times was so solid that it forced Knutsford to make errors, so that we lucky forwards could indulge ourselves in yet another scrum. You never gave up nor did you waver;
He told his troops
To make a shield wall and to hold it fast
Against their foes....Steadfast they stood
as Stratford stirred them on
Bade Seth, Gaz, Geoff and Dan to concentrate on defense.
And at the back, standing firm
In the mud and rain, there was a rock,
A lintel, unflinching in the face of the onslaught,
Ali Packer our brave last line.
Remember all the speeches that we uttered
Often when drinking beer, when we made vows
Upon the benches, heroes in the hall,
About hard strife. Those that had true
Courage shewed it.
*Okay it was applause and they remained seated, but it was heart felt and those guys had been in a game today and they knew it.
Buxton Thirds 14 Congleton 17
Buxton were minutes away from a first win of the year when a momentary suspension of common sense ceded the initiative to Congleton and they just won a kick and chase three quarters of the length of the field to ease them ahead for the first time in the match. Buxton tried to come back but they had been running on empty for most of the second half and nasty injury to James Weston brought the game to a wretched conclusion for the Thirds.
Things had began so differently however. In a storming and fractious first half well policed by poacher turned gamekeeper referee Taylor Buxton threw everything at Congleton and deserved their half time lead of 14 –0. Even without the usual dominance upfront they managed to use their possession wisely. While Henderson, Charles and Mike competed in the loose, the wily old heads of Preece and Stratford varied the plays to keep the Congleton defense guessing. The build up for the first try started with a Congleton throw in. Buxton had set up camp in their twenty- two, when Uprichard pounced on the lose ball. He drove to the line and despite the support work from Fussell and Cavanagh was held just short. Congleton managed to scramble the ball into touch and a superb take from Charles and a well controlled drive took Buxton to within one metre of the line. As the drive was halted, Allen drove Mike over for the try and Charles converted. Congleton tried to come back into the game but with Bennison secure under the high ball and the backs producing a solid defensive line they could not find a way through. With the Buxton centres creating holes and Dan Gyte taking the ball at pace it seemed only a matter of time before Buxton scored again. The second try started with a miss move in the centres and Stratford found Gyte with a flat pass at pace. He was halted but the forwards arrived in support and first Allen and Dilworth then Cavanagh drove at the Congleton defense. The move appeared to have been halted when up popped Uprichard to muscle his way over for an excellent score. Charles added two more points and Buxton had a fourteen point cushion. It had been a gruelling first half though played at a whirlwind pace and this was to take its toll on Buxton in the second half. Congleton had been forced to rearrange their front row due to some aggressive scrummaging from Allen and the fresher legs gave Congleton an edge in open play. They launched a series of attacks down the centre of the field and managed to create an overlap on the left hand side. Despite the desperate tackling from the Centres and Bennison Congleton managed to squeeze in at the corner. For some reason they managed to take the conversion from another twenty yards in and what should have been a difficult kick became much easier. More Congleton pressure saw Buxton forced to concede a penalty and the gap narrowed to four points. With five minutes to go the thirds were in attack with options outside and on the inside. Poole replacing Gyte tried a neat little chip over the centres. Had it come off and he re-gathered under the posts and scored the game would have been safe. As it was the Congleton centre caught the chip and seeing the full back up in the line, launched the ball into the acres of space. Charles made a valiant effort to get back but the ball held up just enough for Congleton to touch it down and claim the try. The points gave them a three point lead. Buxton tried to come back and Ritchie, Cavanagh, Uprichard and Fussell all made ground and battled their way through to the Congleton twenty two. As the ball was cleared to touch Weston was injured and the game conceded.
It was a mighty effort by all the thirds. They have raised their game on each of the last three occasions and a win is in their sights. Saturday against Stockport would be a good place to claim it.
A mighty big thank you to Paul Taylor for the excellent display referring display. The Congleton players refused to believe that it was his first time with the whistle and said that he was on of the best they had come across all season.
Apres Rugby
Your intrepid reporter sneeked off before court so cannot report on Man of The Match,(but as a member of the front row union if Mr Uprichard didn't get it then there will be trouble)or for that matter twat of the day. Its got to be either Poolie for that little chip over the top straight into the hands of their centre, or Dilly for confidently diagnosing James W's knee injury as a broken leg. Well he is in the Fire Service! Perhaps a special mention should go to Mr Gyte who possessed of a nice new intellectual looking pair of spectacles and desperate to get involved in a little bit of afters that took place on the touch line under his nose, managed to miss with his intended punch. There is also a malicious and totally unfounded rumour that Mr Fussell punched one of his own men in a ruck (Sorry Geoff). Perhaps Tay for being too bloody fair and for not blowing his whistle for the opening five minutes. Some of us were turning blue.
Referees of the world watch out, Tays about. Sir did a really good job in keeping the waring factions of Buxton Thirds and Congleton apart in a sparky game which we managed to lose. No doubt a deep and detailed analysis was held in court and the guilty named and shamed but to lose 17-14 to a runaway try in the last five minutes of the game was a bit of sh***er to be honest. Good news that James W who sustained a really nasty injury was up and about a couple of hours afterwards. For what its worth Andy Uprichard was outstanding. He showed what a bit of controlled aggression can do (well he is a lawyer afterall) and I thought Captain my Captain did a manful job at the coalface. Welcome to the front row union. Hats off to the girls for holding the defensive line. The backs put in an excellent defensive performance and I have to say that if we had played on a wider pitch I think young Mr Gyte would have scored. (Mind you there would also have been a few seriously knackered forwards) We really are close to giving a team a stuffing. .I know I am unfit but was that first half fast or what? One more thing. Can Mr Dilworth please stop shouting at elderly and injured props from the touchline. If he persists he will have to front up and he knows what that means. Actually one more one more thing. What was Gytie doing dragging the honourable name of the third team spectator into the mud by fighting on the touchline? If he's going to do it at least he could connect with his punches, personally I blame the new glasses that he is wearing.
Buxton 15 Sandbach 27
After being on the receiving end of a couple of thrashings over the past few weeks, the Thirds travelled to Sandbach needing to put in a big performance to stop the rot. Though they did not manage a win they produced their best performance for some time and had it not been for three lapses of concentration could well have won the match.
Sandbach started the stronger and dominated the early territorial exchanges, despite the Buxton tight five taking control. The Sandbach no 8 proved to be a thorn in the Buxton side and it was a break by him in midfield that supplied their first try. This seemed to galvanise Buxton and through the effective boot of Stratford battled their way into the Sandbach half. Henderson returning after a long layoff was in outstanding form and with Charles and Dilworth foraging for anything lose, Buxton forced Sandbach onto the back foot. Allen competed for everything and when he wasn’t leading by example he was organising the defence and motivating the team. Keeping the ball close to the forwards Buxton drove up field and with Sandbach unable to hold the drive it was Henderson that came up with the ball to claim the try. With the scores level Buxton began to exert pressure. Bearman, Uprichard and Fussell began to get the upper hand in the scrums and though the lineout was not firing on all cylinders Taylor proved adept at disrupting the Sandbach throw. Buxton were beginning to gain some dominance when a defensive lapse in midfield provided the Sandbach centres with acres of space to run in their second try. Just before half time another lapse exposed some frail defending and Sandbach stretched their lead at a crucial time. Sandbach burst down the flank and poor tackling gifted them another try. The half time score of 15-5 did not reflect the effort that Buxton had put in. Ritchie who gave a hundred percent as always, was rested and Proudlove took over on the wing. Buxton hit back with a solo effort from Bennison, running and weaving his way from fifty metres out. Sandbach extended their lead again despite some valiant defence from Nicholls and Leigh. Buxton hit back though, as Dawson who had been an effective target all afternoon brought the ball back to the forwards and Graham fed Allen who powered his way to just short of the line. The ball was secured and Dilworth was driven over from close range for the try.
Buxton refused to give up even though time was ebbing away. Twice Buxton failed to exploit an overlap and Proudlove was hauled down with the line beckoning. Despite the defeat the thirds can be justly proud of their efforts. They showed great strength of character and if they can take certain key lessons forward they will start winning again.
The team send their best wishes to Leigh who had to leave the field in the opening minutes with a nasty knee injury. We all wish him a speedy recovery.
Club training on Monday and Thursdays at the club at 7.00pm. All welcome.
Bearman, Uprichard, Fussell, Taylor, Allen, Proudlove, (Charles 10m), Dilworth, Henderson, Graham, Stratford, Ritchie, (Proudlove 40m),Dawson, Nicholls, Leigh (Handcock 5m) Bennison
Apres Match
Man of the Match - Master Tactician and aging rock star Mr Stratford
Twat in the Hat - The prop that can't kick and spills his Guinness Mr Bearman.
This week it was the turn of Old Bedians to enjoy a try fest at the expense of the thirds. And they, did scoring 87 unanswered points. When they came to us earlier in the season, they brought 9 players so we lent them half our second team and gave them a bit of a drubling. Since then they have been going up whilst we have been in free fall and it showed on saturday. We did play the whole game a man down and we were dominating the scrums with only five against their eight for lots of the game, but we could not do any thing constructive with the ball that we won. So often we would win the ball see it truned over at the first and second breakdown and then their youthful and speedy backs would exploit our fractured defence to score. And we did deserve to score at least one as we battered their line in the last ten minutes. TC had a glimpse of the line but it was fifteen metres away and his whole life would have flashed in front of him before he got there. They had youth on their side as well as superior numbers. Our half back pairing had a combined age of 99 years, while the front row weighed in at a youthful 133. Its not good at the moment. We need to go training, its simple really.
Man of the Match - Tony Austin ran and tackled his heart out all afternoon.
Quote of the day from our scrum half "whats passing got to do with being a scrum half?" He's 55 so I guess its too late to tell him but it does explain one or two things!
Twat of the day - Our ageing rock star Mr Stratford for being unable to distinguish his left from his right.
A really bad decision by the fourth official or tv ref. If thats a try then I'm a Welshman.
Despite the lipstick and the painted nails we still lost to Village Spartans. Well done them! And a big thank you to all their camp followers, who stayed to watch the Irish ALMOST do to the French, what the Welsh did to the English a week ago. But not quite. And by the way to any Welshman who has stumbled across this little oasis of bigoted Englsihness, that was NEVER a fucking try. You should be ashamed of yourselves for claiming such a flagrant non try against your fellow celts.
No match report to follow.
