Old Yards 20 v Bloxwich 16 (midlands div. 3 north/west)
OY’s were up against a strong, physical Bloxwich side whose strengths lay in their pack and their intimidating style of play. OY’s conceded a penalty in the first minute on the half way line, well converted by the Bloxwich kicker to be immediately behind 3 – 0, but following the restart, good pressure on the Bloxwich threequarters enabled Dean Brain to capitalise on an error and outpace the opposition to score an unconverted try. This was virtually repeated after ten minutes, when again a Bloxwich threequarter movement was disrupted for Brain to collect a loose ball, commit the cover and put in Adam Walker for a second try, this time converted to bring the score to 12 – 3.
A second penalty to Bloxwich for not releasing made the score 12 – 6, and OY's possession was being restricted by the Bloxwich pack. The direct nature of the Bloxwich tactics began to work and the OY's pack began to lose focus and control, reacting to intimidation and allowing the game to become scrappy, reducing the amount of good ball for the backs. Despite this, the Yards backs showed some good touches, passing and kicking, with both wings being involved, mainly on inside breaks.
After five minutes of the restart, changes were made to the OY's front row with Roger Lazenby replacing Jack Horton, but the Bloxwich pressure continued up front, and it was not until twelve minutes into the half that the OY's regained some forward momentum with a powerful drive into the Bloxwich 22 which resulted in a yellow card for a Bloxwich forward for pulling down the maul. The penalty was converted for the Y's by Walker.
Two minutes later, from inside the OY's half, and near the touchline, Phil Painter made a fine blindside break form a maul to feed Lee Purdey, who showed a winger's pace and swerve to outpace the opposition cover to score an unconverted try. A scuffle developed on the line, and as the scorer got up, he was felled by a punch from an opposition player in full view of the referee, who decided that a yellow card was sufficient. It was a credit to the OY's captain and players on the pitch that their reaction to this was minimal.
Despite numerical superiority, OY's were unable to create any further scoring opportunities but did not look in any danger until slack marking let Bloxwich in for an unconverted try after 26 minutes. The visitors scored a late try in stoppage time but Yards held on for a valuable victory.
Next up on the fixture list is a trip to Burntwood for a league match this Saturday.
Development xv 'asalted'
The recent run of success came to an abrupt end with a heavy defeat against an experienced Old Saltleians. The only points coming from a Rhodes penalty. Missing a number of key players our young team lost by 3-34.
The old fellas rumble on.
Captain Very Slow has yet to finalise his post-match analysis. However, as the only touchjudge as well as the only spectator I am able to offer a brief summary. To begin with it was good for local rugby to see The Eds put out 3 teams as they have struggled to do so recently. Captain Very Slow spent most of the game playing handbags with the Eds number 8 (I wonder who taught James P.E. at the Grimshaw academy?) so didn't really see much of the game. The Vandals, i.e. Old Ys vets and leftovers, cruised to victory by 48-7. Tries were scored by Nev, Peter Fridge, DCI Burrows, Tony Fitz, John Lonie, Arkell and Ed McD x2. Ralph managed 4 conversions. Thanks to 'Sports' of the Eds for reffing and keeping the game interesting when it could have become a little more one -sided. Thanks also to the hosts for giving us a game at short notice after 2 other teams cried off late in the day. Don't forget Jan Ogan you owe me a pint!
A Blast from the past
Brendan Fahy, an Old Yardleian winger during the 1980s sends best wishes to all of his contemporaries. Well known as the second fastest sprinter in Cork City, work took him to Colchester where he showed them what real Yardleian rugby was about and as a result ended up in their thirds!
Even further back in time
Nigel Hough that former flame haired hooker is celebrating his 60th birthday this weekend. If you wish to join him he is aiming to consume some beers in Moseley, take a look at Moseley rfc v Cornish Pirates and probably attempt more beer after the game. How many doormen will Robin Sadler test the patience of? If you wish to join the celebration contact Steve Painter, Dave Jenkins or even Nigel Hough.