Old Yardleians RFC: Club News
WEATHER SAYS CRICKET BUT THE RUGBY SEASON KICKS OFF
Tue, 09 Sep 2014 12:00
Saturday saw the season begin in bright sunshine. The first XV were at home in a cup fixture against local rivals, the Edwardians.
Our Seconds/Development team played Handsworth 2nds and our Thirds/Vandals played Handsworth 3rds. Out of interest, Handsworth firsts did not have a game! Both of our teams had a hard work out which was probably quite worthwhile, losing by 15-36 and 19-44 respectively.
For those Yards followers who have been wondering how we would perform at a higher level after two successive promotion seasons, we will shortly find out, with our League campaign starting at home to Leamington this coming Saturday at 3pm.
The Edwardians, just over a mile up the road, have improved considerably over the last few seasons and with local bragging rights to be played for, both teams played with determination. However, as I saw it, both sides were guilty of failing to take try scoring opportunities.
From my seat on the swamp side of the ground a number of factors grabbed my attention. As the Yards attacked at pace, the final decision making was poor regarding when to pass and also the quality of the pass itself was lacking sympathy. Next up comes our number 10 and having been there myself I realise how much pressure falls on the shoulders of the goal-kicker. Jake, we all have bad days and this was one of yours. But I know that you will get it right when it matters. On the positive front, Eds had three spells when they were camped on our line in try scoring situations. Whether they used their pack or when they went wide, our defense was brilliant. Well done fellas. I know he is not a colt any more but Steve Grainger, another superb game.
A real superstar, referee Jim Looney - a splendid performance from a good bloke.