Old Yardleians RFC: Club News
AN AWESOME PERFORMANCE
Mon, 11 Nov 2013 12:00
First XV
Nobody in the club could recall having played against Cheltenham North so it was a step into the unknown when the teams met on Saturday. It looked likely to be a real test for the Ys as our visitors were top of the league and unbeaten so far.
What a game, we started from the first whistle and did not ease up apart from a brief spell at the start of the second half. I met a group of travelling supporters and we had a chat about our respective clubs, their history, results, playing strengths etc.and it was clear that they were true rugby people with a genuine insight into the game. I asked what they felt were the reasons why they topped the league. They suggested a mobile pack who won enough possession for a speedy set of backs. They also felt that determined defence and a 'never say die' approach contributed to their success.
Well, it was hard to believe that by half-time we had secured a bonus point with five tries giving us a lead of 27-0. In a state of shock I asked my west country friends, were we playing well or were they playing badly? Opinion was divided.
The visitors half time review from the captain/coach was clear to us all as he questioned the sexual habits of his team and they could probably hear him back in Cheltenham with or without GCHQ assistance. Well it worked as his side pulled back two early tries through the elusive running of their dangerous backs.
This sent out a wake-up call and the Yards responded in style. The home pack was totally in control of scrums, line-outs and the driving maul was highly effective. With no possession of note the visitors were on a damage limitation exercise.
The final score in favour of the Ys of 48-12 was well deserved. Three close range tries from Steve Grainger, a collectors item from our President's son, Phil Painter, a couple from the jinky Tom, a classy chip and chase from Jake and if I have missed any more scorers let me know. Jake missed a couple of kicks, one dire attempt at a drop goal, but high quality line kicking more than compensated.
At the final whistle one of my friends from Cheltenham acknowledge the display of rugby provided by the Yards. In fairness, I did have to let him know that we did not always played that well.
The real test will come next Saturday with the re-arranged league match at Southam. This should tell us if we have really made that level of progress or was it just a one-off?
Praise from me is not a regular event so enjoy it now. Boys, this was the best performance that I can remember from an Old Yards team. As I said , it was 'AWESOME'.
Development XV
lost a merit table game by 19-25 against Kidderminster 2s that we could and should have won. I didn't watch much of the game but I did notice a new player in our back row who looked very promising. Eve told me that the man of the match for us was Ian Walker.
Vandals XV
travelled over to Kiddy for a merit table game and won 27-7. With a a blend of youth and experience, we won by 27-7. According to our manager, Mark, Charlie Ebdon had a very good game including a try. Have I seen Charlie on television in a programme called 'Fresh Meat?' or was it just a lookalike? Callum (son of Chicken) also scored a try.
Fixtures for Saturday (16th November)
First XV v Southam League game away kick off 2.15 (CV47 2DG)
Development XV v Woodrush 2s away kick off 2.15 (B38 0EL)
Hornets XV v Redditch Vets home kick off 2.15
Vandals T B A (waiting for fixture pool)
Minis / Juniors
On Sunday we welcomed local friends and rivals, The Eds, and the sun shone on the righteous. Loads of spectators, loads of young and enthusiastic rugby stars of the future and a good time was had by all. The results, who knows? and I don't think many care. Graham organised the Poppy Day period of silence which was respected by all.
Next week training for all age groups.