After a disappointing start to their season in Midlands 3 west which saw two away defeats, the Yards opened their home programme with a hard fought victory against a gritty Redditch side.
On a very hot afternoon the Yards scored the first points of the game when powerful winger Andrew Pearce cut in off his wing at speed to break all the attempted tackles on his way to scoring under the posts. Adam Walker converted to open up a seven point lead.
The Yards had selected a pack of forwards that contained a blend of physical strength and youthful mobility and as a result dominated possession both in open play and set pieces. From some scrappy possession the visitors caught the Ys by surprise with a smart counter attack for a try to bring the scores level As half time approached both teams scored penalties with all to play for in the second half.
The home side continued to control the game and kicked two more penalties through Walker However, Redditch were not giving up and scored another converted try to take them into a one point lead. The Ys kept their patience and gradually turned the screw with Pearce claiming his second try with an unstoppable run and finally prop forward Peter Butler sprinted over from at least five meters and with Walker converting , the final whistle went to give the Yards a well-deserved victory by 28 points to 17. Next Saturday see another away game, this time at Shipston.
Thanks to all who contributed to this report!
Vandals
In brief, the Vandals and Co. faced one of the stronger sides on the circuit. Having performed their own version of the Haka, i.e. The Hokey-Cokey the visitors looked impressive but were no match for a determined Vandals side. Tries were scored by Shannon junior, Kevin, Chairman Sean x2 and Max who also kicked some points to bring victory by 36-0. Thank you to International Panel referee, Mr D. Collingwood for stepping in at short notice.
Under16s
The learning process continues. If the opposition only have 13 players and you agree to match their numbers by not having flankers, you will be exposed by a speedy set of midfield backs who are smart enough to realise where the empty channels are. Never mind, we played some very good rugby with Tre'rail and Adrian looking particularly sharp.
Social
What a quiz! The Painters were looking for victory, Rob and Andy were up for it but the winners were my old mates from the seat of learning in Erdington, St Edmund Campion School. Dave (Spartans RFC), Mary, John Mac, Pat Groark and the Burgesses. Well Done. She who knows most things didn't know quite enough but I guess you can't win 'em all.
A special thanks to prize donors including The Westley Hotel, W.H. Painters, Simon Brown, Two tries Fagan, Rick Thorne, Steve and Lyn Painter, The Rochfords, The Killarneys and Sharon F.
Well done to quiz man Luke, and marker Sharon and thanks to Team Hughes for running the bar and to Shannon for setting up the PA system.