Old Yardleians 3rds 41 - 5 Old Halesonians 3rds
An impressive try scoring result by Old Yards 3rds outscoring Hales by seven tries to one. Tony Fitz gave a captains performance with two tries, one either side of half time. With many returning experienced 3rd team players, it was Mark Baldwin who took the leadership of the pack with his efficient running, precise kicking and strong discipline. With the returning experience of Andy Killarney, John Lonie, Marcus Hope, Alan Arkell, Alistair Gouldborn, Sean Tootill, Dean Smith and Dave Howlett, it made for a very structured game and the Old Hales pack was no match for Old Yards pack. A front row consisting of John Lonie, who made his debut in the position, Rob Hibbard and Mark Baldwin, with Roger Lazenby coming on during the first half, the Old Hales scrum struggled to make any ground. Martin Cartwright again continued his great try form at winger, scoring twice during the match, and Egg Male scored one from the other wing, the first half was very much a team effort. The backs swapped and changed all afternoon, trying out some of the younger players in different positions, Steve Turvey, Lewis Williams, Rich Dransfield, Nick Booth and James Walsh all made significant impacts on the game. The return of Dean Smith and Simon Davies to the time was also a crowd favorite and it was nice to see no yellow cards coming from the referee all game. A wonderful try from Phil Evans and another from the always reliable Dave Howlett, killed off Old Hales early in the second half, with Lewis Williams adding points with the boot. This was the first fixture for the 3rd team on Saturday and the signs are looking good for a very successful season.
Rich Withey (Lyrical Waxer!)