Last stand

We returned to league action for an away fixture against Fullerian’s. From the start we were up against it. With a number of injuries and school commitments. Both the A & B teams having matches our team manager had requested a postponement due to these difficulties. Both our opponents declined stating they would rather claim the points. Another injury overnight meant the A team only had 15 players. We had four forwards in the backs and some forwards in different positions to which they normally play. We had three B team players all of whom performed with great credit.

The opening exchanges saw some early tries for both teams and after ten minutes we trailed 10-7. It was clear that the boys were up for the challenge. The defensive commitment, team work and character of the players shone through. The forwards and kicking of Etherington help us get good field position and gain further points. Despite heroic defending we could not keep Fullerian’s out. By half time we had gained a bonus point and we were leading 17-22. It was clear that we were going to be hampered by not having any replacements which our opponents had the luxury of.

In the second half with 29 minutes to go even the referee got injured. The game was held up until a replacement could be found. Despite falling behind we hit back in with two tires one converted. With about 12 minutes to go we lost another player to injury and were playing on with just 14 players. At this stage we led 24-29. We found ourselves camped on our own try line, knocking back wave after wave of attacks. It was only on the very last play did Fullerians equalise in the corner. The try was unconverted and the final score was 29-29. This was an excellent performance against all the odds.

Team
Alibhai, Benfield, Brown Cooper, Crafford,Crowhurts, Davies, Etherington, Ewan, Florence, Forbes (capt) Hopkinson, Jones, Wells and Willis