First Team v Camp HillLeague positions meant little as local bragging rights were of greater significance as we welcomed Camp Hill to our humble abode. Shocking weather welcomed a very big crowd who were not expected to part with their cash to watch what was to follow.
Camps approached the game in a low key manner but the Yards, having rarely met their neighbours in recent years, were getting rather excited. Our wise old chairman, Bobo, advised his team not to let the occasion take over. It was a shame that his experience and calm advise were lost along the way.
The pre-match buffet, with many players from the 'Good old days' in attendance, was enjoyed by all those present. There were no domestic beer disputes and I will mention some of our Old Timers shortly.
The game itself was a major disappointment. It seemed to me that the visiting players and supporters were winding up the home team who should have responded as the Chairman suggested rather by knocking the stuffing out of them. With a man fewer for large spells of the match, the Yards defended well but giving away far too many penalties, with ten extra metres, or twenty, or even thirty did not help. However, we fell for it, and must learn from the occasion. The visitors did not really make any real use of the numerical advantage which was probably a good thing.
Stars from the past.
Apologies for anybody I have overlooked, but it was good to exchange stories from the past with a good many former players. This includes three Wallace boys,Jan Ullah and Tom Kavanagh, the Bard himself, Robin Sadler, Lord Brown of Lowsonford, the very smooth Fergie, one time Birmingham/Solihull prop, Will Hart, Rick Thorn, Bob Anderson,Hooker extraordinaire, Dave Jenkins, the King of wallpapers, Tony Fagan,and loads more who I will mention in the next epic report.
A special mention for a young Lady, Heather Tierney, from the famous sporting academy, better known as 'Tommies'. Having watched the match Heather is considering re-opening a link which would enable her students to integrate with the club. 'Watch this space.'
Stars of the future
It seems that the RFU feel that clubs should not place any great value on winning or losing but I still think that 'Political Correctness' is sometimes over-rated. Anyway, our young stars had another excellent weekend on their visits to Kings Norton, Veseyans and Exiles. This coming Sunday sees them all on the A45 to Coventry where they take on Earlsdon.
Big Dave's Men
As an alternative to our first team, there was a contrast in styles as our development Squad met a team of Students from Birmingham University. Muscle and experience were key factors as Dave Langley led the boys to an impressive victory. Thanks to the Referee, Mr David Hansen, who could probably be seen from Outer Space with that very smart orange shirt.
More visitors from the past.
It was great to welcome back to the club people from all over the place and who, in their time displayed a wide range of talents, some of them involving rugby. Pembo, who managed to get sent off after one minute of a game, the supplier of post-match pies, Martin Cullen, Tanky, Deano, Dinner Time, The Bread Man, Dave Broadfield, Graham Davis. The Eds Brigade, Tinker,Jacks the Younger, Craig Fleming, who looks fitter now than ever. A massive thank you to Mick Ison for organising the day..
OUR COMMITTEE
Often criticized, rarely praised, if you can make time, have a chat with them, maybe share a point of view and if you think that they deserve it, thank them for their efforts.
Club President, Mr Steven Painter, welcomed our guests with his usual eloquence and panache.