MATCH: Wandsworthians 2nd vs Kingston 3rd
DATE: 13th March 2010
RESULT: Loss SCORE: 19-31
It really was a game of two halves, in fact a game of two pitches and two halves.
The first 20 minutes saw us put under extreme pressure by a well drilled league playing pack consisting of hardened vets . It took that long for our pack to settle, considering it was first time many of us had played together/in that position/at all, it really made me proud to see the fight and determination.
The front row saw Karl playing his 1st game as prop against an oppo who looked like Hagar the Horrible who just eaten a bucket of wasps, Karl held his own and managed the best 'put down' a prop can do... a smile that said "is that all you've got?" Az and Dickie cemented that and the pack began to hold its own. Powerful driving coming from the workhorses Dave Ambrose and Jim Brown (thanks for the patience guys). Our back row of Stardust, me and Cyril contained most of their pressing attacks and Cyril on the burst scared the bejesus out of the oppo. with Stardust living off their lose ball.
However Kingston took full advantage of our settling in time and ran in 3 tries, 2 of which we should've have stopped.
This breach was countered by clever substitutions by Dom, including him self coming on with Ash to add that 1st team pace and fitness to the mix, much needed considering Kingston 1s play 5 divisions above us and their 3's are of a similar ilk!
10 minutes after this and with the tide turned. Ash went on a solo run, smashing through their centres, full back and (when they caught him) back row. To touch down the Dubs 1st score. The oppo obviously scared of this renewed campaign resorted to dirty tactics, when a 2 year supporter pinched Colvins kicking ring hiding in the club house and claiming it was a car!!
The game came to a crunching halt, when the scrum collapsed on top of our other new prop Darren Tavernee. Leaving him polaxed and in shock. Once it was clear Darren was getting feelings back in all the right places, the 2 teams moved to Kingston's other pitch whilst the ambulance crews looked after Darren. I'm very happy to say he is fine ( I saw him for coffee yesterday) after a short sojourn strapped to a bed by a nurse called Layla he was released from hospital.
When I caught up with the game it was to see Rob T outpacing Kingston backs supported by Sam Glaister and Brian O'Mara to touch down for try #2.
Penny had a magical game at 9 running, ducking, diving causing panic amongst Kingston back row and playing the perfect supporting role for us.
One of the tactical changes in first half was to move Matt and Cyril into centre positions and I'm not being funny but if I saw a 6'5 and 6'9 centre running at me well...you only have one option and Kingston couldn't find their elephant gun locker key and boy did they pay the price! Cyril was up on them like a flash and when the ball was in their hands it took all of their backs to try and stop the duo. Matt breaking through for another Dubs try and only stopped for his 2nd when 6 of them chain linked together to tackle him. I not going to mention those boots either, but do check the photos!
Liam another new Dub came on to keep up the pace at flank, and I have to say, not only can he talk a good game, he can actually play one. Well in Liam, get yourself down to training I said!
My man of the match not only for his 101% effort in this game, which saw him change position twice, but his unfaultering 2nd team commitment is Andy "man of" Steele thank you so much Andy you make my life as capt. a breeze.
SCORERS: Tries: Luke Sexton 2.
Steve Colvin - 1 conv, 1 pen.
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 1st vs Woking 1st
DATE: 6th February 2010
RESULT: Win SCORE: 15-11
Sometimes you feel amazing after a win, others sad at not winning by the score you deserve and others a little confused as to what just happened. For the boys that played on Saturday, these were the combined feelings. But who cares… we won!
Before I go on about the game I would like to take a moment to reflect on Saturday; a milestone in our new journey. We put two sides out, on an international home game Saturday, on a Kings Old Boys Rob Tagg game and we got a W with one of the sides. This really is testament to the commitment of the Dubs, the Committee and the ever enduring positive focus of one John Henry Mills. Well done.
On to the 1s. We began the game in the ascendancy with the clear ability to turn over a unilateral Woking side. The game broke down into a scrappy affair with us taking the breaks and running the ball far into the opposition half. This was the story. They drove, picked, drove and then we turned over on the break. This remained the story for the rest of the match.
On two such breaks we scored our tries. The first was a break by Neil Vermuelen, barnstorming up the centre of the park. When he was closed down he kicked to the corner, an excellent kick, where Luke Sexton was burning up the wing to get there before the oppo to score the first try. It was then Luke, again, following a great break, this time by Ross Haddow, that led to a second try, converted by Steve Colvin.
Steve then added a confident penalty in to make it 15 – 3 to us at HT
The second half saw replacements as, in typical Dubs fashion, tickets for the England game forced only one half.
The second half went much as the first, just without any points for us. What we did do well was battle and battle hard. Under a lot of pressure we did not let heads drop, even as they scored one in the corner, we continued to hold our own.
I want to point out some outstanding performances. Firstly the front row, Lee, Mark and Henry VIII were superb in getting us on top in the scrum. Secondly, Paul Cooper for a sterling performance all round.
SCORERS: Tries: Luke Sexton 2.
Steve Colvin - 1 conv, 1 pen.
MATCH PHOTOS
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 2nd vs Grange Town
DATE: 6th February 2010
RESULT: Loss SCORE: 5-71
Well done the Dubs, the score shows what a miss-match it was, but the Dubs held heads high through-out the match.
Grange Town for what ever reason, decided to bring a squad down that included the likes of Cardiff Blues Academy players.
Quite simply we were treated to some watching fantastic handling from the Welsh, catching them them when we could and doing our best to reply with engaging rugby. Unfortunately we couldn't use our pack to its full advantage as Grange Town didn't bring any props so we had to play un-contested scrums, which suited the oppo just fine.
The Dubs to a man were legend, 10 minutes into the second half the ref asked us in a very diplomatic way 'have you had enough'. The answer he got "NO CHANCE". We tried to contain the flood but another 3 tries were run past us grrr. Then the oppo asked if we wanted to have some of their players to mix up the team. They got a polite 'ruck off'.
Players of note:
Andy Steele, earned his tag "Man of..." he kept us straight and true throughout the match and his try was out of this world, breaking from deep in our half he bamboozled the welsh, jinked this way that way and touched down under their posts.
Mark Lucy, pack leader and soul of team spirit on Saturday Mark thank you for everything.
Rob Lynch, kept a backline that had never played together, together. Great to have you back Rob.
Dave Abrose, manned out a fierce 80 minutes a true Dubs Vet.
Matt, Az, Dickie, Steve, Sam, James, Stephen, Servelle, Karl, Darren, Iain, Swampy THANK YOU for holding out against the welsh, and never surrendering I'm absolutely made-up with what happened both on the pitch and off it true rugby gents all of you THANK YOU.
SCORERS: Tries: Andy Steele.
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 1st vs Economicals 1st
DATE: 30th January 2010
RESULT: Loss SCORE: 21-31
An afternoon of peaks and troughs on Saturday in all respects against an Economicals side that did not deserve half of what they got. What I take from the game is the dogged determination we continue to display in victory and defeat; 80 minutes really is 80 minutes at the Dubs.
As usual we controlled the forward line against them and they had the slight advantage through the backs. Early possession, as through the game, was even with our pack turning them over easily in the scrum. Despite the parity they broke away twice as a result of attacking turnover to take an early lead. From this point on in the half territory was very much ours.
Consistent pressure and good running lines put us in the corner with a penalty. Confident in our pack, I opted for a scrum. All they could do to withstand the pressure was kill the ball. On a pick up from 8 they were acres leagues offside and we were given the penalty try for our efforts.
The half continued in this respect. Strong attack from us, broken and turned over and then the counter from them. This served them, to gain another score before the whistle.
After half time it was much the same. We continued to exert pressure from which they broke. A couple of injuries, concussion and a yellow card did nothing to serve our purpose and it was at this point that they went ahead further, seemingly out of sight.
Eveidently not that far. The last 10, with a full complement and fresh legs, we applied the pressure we should have done throughout the game. Camped on their line, we rumbled through the forwards, then through the backs following some good combination play. Eventually the juggernaut full back Rob Tindall crossed from 5 in the fashion of a seasoned prop! Then our pressure continued to tell in the scrum with yours truly crossing from 8 off the back of a solid drive. All three tries converted by Steve Colvin, in rich form with the boot.
All in a disappointment as we could have taken much more. 10 more minutes and this would have been a very different match report. As it is we go into next week's game against Woking with due pride and confidence. If we perform against them as we did at our peaks in this game then we will be enjoying two victories against woking. Good work chaps.
As usual a big thanks to all the supporters that turned up this week, you keep us going. Also, I would like to take this opportunity to formally thank Bryn Stoker for his commitment as club photographer. It makes a real difference to the club to have these on our website and I for one am very grateful, thanks Bryn.
SCORERS: Tries: Penalty Try, Rob Tindall, Ash Ali.
Steve Colvin - 3 Conv
MATCH PHOTOS
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 1st vs Egham Hollowegians 1st
DATE: 23rd January 2010
RESULT: Win SCORE: 41-3
What an excellent result it was on Saturday, 6 tries for us and they failed to cross the line at all, the start needed for 2010. A great effort by all Dubs with good rugby played by forward and back alike.
The game started at a good pace with us n the ascendancy from the off. A good run from the back row led to, the returning, Darren Baker being bundled into touch just before the line. Te pressure from us conituned and we were rewarded with a first Try of 2010 by Richard Pennington going over in the left hand corner; excellently converted by the on form boot of Steve Colvin. They were quick to respond and we defended well to repel them, their pressure told and they slotted over for 3; but that was it.
More pressure from a Dubs side back to full strength ensured more tries. Good running from the forwards of the inside ball set up good phases from which the backs flew. Dimi went over for a try before half time, as did Chairman Dave Brockes, following an outstanding pick up and run from Ross Haddow.
Half time and we were very much in the ascendancy.
The Dubs continued to turn the screw in the second half, which was the half time call. Again, the thinking and phase play from the 10 channel inside to set up 2 nd and 3 rd phases enabled us to build a solid base. Ross Haddow, on excellent form, took a mazy run and avoided all threats to go over from 30 yards out. Converted again.
Next, followed a great piece of understanding of Sports Psychology and the game of rugby itself. Inspired leadership and infinite wisdom from the skipper gave us three points from a penalty just inside of their 22 where many would have taken a run. Calmer heads prevailed at this point and this was truly the nail in the coffin for the opposition, a turning point avoided!
With the game in the bag we continued. Some excellent linking and support play through a flowing move ensured a well earned try for Rob Tindall in the corner. This is the best move I've seen us do for a long while. Darren Baker then marked his return with a good piece of finishing and selection of running line, Colvin converted.
SCORERS: Tries: Richard Pennington, Dimi Kharin, Dom Brockes,
Ross Haddow, Rob Tindall, Darren Baker.
Steve Colvin - 4 Conv, 1 Pen
MATCH PHOTOS
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Currie Cup - Reds vs. Whites
DATE: 12th December 2009
RESULT: Whites won SCORE: 31-19
Quite a good deal to report from the inaugural Curry Cup match; the first in our long and rich history as a club. Most importantly; it was an excellent game, played in the true spirit of the club by players with varying years of service. I would like to take credit for this success but whole heartedly direct all praise to Millsy who was the conductor behind such a successful orchestration of the game.
Actually I tell a lie; most important is the news that my Whites beat Millsy's Reds 31 – 19 and took the Curry Cup home.
Unfortunately, I tell another lie… Did anyone pick up the Cup from the Pub? I fear in my post match celebrations I may have left it.
An excellent game from the outset with two evenly matched sides battling for territory and possession. The first try of the game went to the whites after consistent pressure giving Jim Grant the opportunity to go over for a well earned try for the engine room. Several opportunities went begging for both teams with one try disallowed for a forward pass (cheers plum!) The Reds got right back into it with a super run from Ed “Kenny” Dalgleish breaking a host of tackles from flailing White hands and going in under the sticks.
Half Time 7 -7.
Following the consumption of Port and Cheese during the half time break, both sides stepped back into action revitalised and full of vigour. The game went to and fro throughout the second half.
Tries were exchanged by both teams. Two excellent individual tries scored by Matt Sunley for the Reds showing a clean pair of heels to all chasing. One for yours truly and then two excellent finishes from Rob Tindall who capped off an excellent performance. Good kicking from Smedley and Colvin gave the points total you see. However, the highlight of the game was certainly the ever-enthused Paul Cooper charging down a kick and then rallying the troops for one of Matt's tries!
All in chaps, a successful first Curry Cup. Lets hope they continue like this. With my team winning!
SCORERS: Whites: Tries: Jim Grant, Cyril Springer, Ash Ali, Rob Tindall 2. Steve Colvin (3 Conv)
SCORERS: Reds: Ed Dalgleish, Matt Sunley 2. Tim Smedley (2 Conv)
MATCH PHOTOS
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 1st vs Old Glynonians 1st
DATE: 28th November 2009
RESULT: Loss SCORE: 3-5
I always thought that as I got older I would be able to let go, to see rugby as a pastime and not constantly replay the game in my head while lying in bed. I assumed that life, work and women would be more important. As it turns out, I was wrong.
3 – 0 to the Dubs for most of the game and turned over toward the death to lose 5 – 3 against a Glyn side that, by any measure, did not deserve a win. We were more physical, had better ideas and more of the ball. A familiar story I hear you cry, true, in this instance though the ‘we was robbed' adage appears most appropriate.
A Dubs line up mixed of new and old players, with a number of familiar faces missing, turned up at a surprisingly weather free park to take on the top side in the league. Within minutes we wondered how they had managed to be there. We soaked up anything they had and hit them back hard. Within 5 minutes they knew they would have a tough day ahead.
Tackling to a man was excellent with only one or two missed tackles in the game. Dave Brockes at Centre led the way showing true Dubs grit and stopping every Glyn player that came toward him. This physicality eventually pushed us toward their line. We had one penalty go wide but the second one we scored with through the boot of Steve Colvin. This gave us a lead we maintained until the second half. We continued to squander any opportunity they had with excellent defence and steadily took control as the half wore on.
3-0 at Half Time
In the lead we looked to build on the strengths. One of which was the scrum. We dominated in that area and within minutes had a scrum 8 yards out. Driving over we spread the ball out but were unable to secure a try. This period of pressure gave us another shot at goals which went just wide.
Again, they never looked like scoring. Constant pressure on their out half and much better discipline kept us ahead. With 10 to go a Dubs victory was fast approaching.
However, one break, one missed tackle and they were through. They scored against the run of play and made it 5-3.
We had continued possession but now in the wrong half. The Dubs gave up at no point but were despondent to lose to, on the day, an inferior bunch of players.
Final Score 5-3
Again I don't know how we lost but what I take is the knowledge that this club and the players I have the joy to call team-mates, can beat anyone in this league. That is exactly what'll happen after Christmas.
SCORERS: Steve Colvin (Penalty)
MATCH PHOTOS
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 1st vs Guildfordians 1st
DATE: 21st November 2009
RESULT: Loss SCORE: 8-31
A loss is what I have to report this week but that, by no means, tells the tale of Saturday's game.
From the start it was tight between the sides, with the battle being waged up front among the big lumps. Good counter rucking and excellent back row scrounging from Dimi and Dave ensured good possession and the spoiling of ball. They began to get the edge as we were unable to secure good lineout ball with our two 1 st team jumpers out. Eventually their slight advantage told and they went 3 up. We fought back well and had a good period of pressure inside their 22. This pressure saw a number of opportunities go begging despite good hands, particularly from the returning Paddy Williams. Eventually we were in a place to slot over 3 points from Phil Turner's boot.
3-3 at Half Time
The second half was a slightly different story. We continued to have good opportunities and pressure but were again unable to apply a clinical edge through back or forwards. They began to set up some rolling mauls and were able to score from one effort, their prop unchallenged.
This was a continuing pattern; rumbling up from them and swift reply from us, just failing to go to the final hand. We then lost some key players to injury. Their rumbling and some questionable tackling from us allowed them to cross a further 3 times, if rather undeservedly.
In typical Dubs spirit we were camped out on their line for the last ten which eventually saw us go over for a try at the final whistle.
This is the story of the season. We deserve to win but don't. We need to get on top of this and I really believe we will. Dubs never give up.
Good work boys.
SCORERS: Phil Turner (Penalty), Sam Glaister (Try)
MATCH PHOTOS
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 1st vs Lightwater 1st
DATE: 7th November 2009
RESULT: Draw SCORE: 7-7
Two Dubs draws in two weeks; the spell of the Guinness Premiership appears to be cast upon the ranks at Surrey 4. A Dubs side that contained a great number of players out of position did well to come back from early problems to post a respectable scoreline, but we really should have won.
Firstly though, a massive thank you to all of those who played so well out of position, you really did your club a service.
From the off we went behind. Their kick off, passed back from the breakdown, charge down of the kick and before we could get anything rolling they were 7 – 0 up. That was, however, the last time they got anywhere near scoring. From there on in it was Dubs possession and territory all the way, with the win seeming an inevitably. We put consistent pressure on them, resulting in countless ball on their 22.
A good spell of pressure resulted in an excellent break down the nearside. Frustration at the closeness of the line bubbled to the surface with Neil Vermuelen getting 10 in the sin bin. Still, with only 14 it carried on the same way, dubs possession, if a little less territory. They did make some good midfield breaks but spoiled their own chances by constantly diving over on the floor.
Good running through the backs and forwards put us back under their sticks with consistent pressure. Trundle after trundle met with bodies over the top. Such was the regularity that we were, deservedly, rewarded with a Penalty Try. The conversion slotted over well by Phil Turner, back at fly half and playing a very good game.
H/T 7-7
And that's how it stayed. We had a penalty 40 yards out and Steve Colvin almost secured us the win, the wind snatching it away. Lots of pressure and lots of aggression, lots of hits and lots of carries but no cutting edge, The second half was scoreless. Some close run things going wrong at the last with good tackles, knock ons or turnovers. Every Dub was blowing at the end and could not fault the efforts.
SCORERS: Phil Turner (Penalty Try conv.)
MATCH PHOTOS
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 2nd vs Reigate 2nd
DATE: 31st October 2009
RESULT: Draw SCORE: 5-5
A glorious late autumn day, saw 21 Dubs turn out to wear the badge against Reigate's 2 nd team. We also brought with us a very vocal supporters team.
The match kicked off with the Dubs taking the ball and driving forward, our props leading the pack and making precision runs gaining metre upon metre. The ball popped up the wrong way at the 5 th phase and Reigate used their running skills to bring the ball back to our try line. For 10 minutes they tried to break through and were held back by a stoic wall of Dubs steely determination. The game turned when Sidders broke through their right wing, bringing the ball back to the centre of the pitch to be supported by an angry and mobile Wandsworth team lead by pack leader Mark Lucy, with sublime mauling and tackling coming from our locks Peter Brown and David Ambrose. For a few minutes it looked like the experienced league side might push us back again, but quick hands from #9 Dimi, through to our centres saw the ball passed to supportive flankers, Chairman Dave and Sidders who broke free and moved us to 5 yards outside their 22. New Dub and centre Jim Dodgin used his rugby acumen to alleviate pressure on us and apply it in plenty to Reigate, with smart passing, opening channels and granite like tackles. Unfortunately we lost our hard tackling, quick thinking back Rob Lynch (Rob is well on way to recovery and on the back of the game has signed up for tour) to injury during this period, which saw the young blood Sam Glaister come on and carry on in the same determined fashion. Our pack lead by the good looking front row of Callis, Dickie and Lucy knuckled down to do a job, and fought and thought and bought us to a scrum 8 yards out. You could hear the muscles creak and bones crunch as our pack used our newly learnt coaching technique to bind tighter than ever before. Dickie hooked the ball faultlessly, even though this was his first game for the Dubs in 20 years. All 8 Dubs drove and when the scrum stopped our quick thinking #8 Matt Sunley scooped up the ball one handed (two hands Matt) and used his sheer bulk to drive through 3 rows of desperate Reigate players. First score to the Dubs much to the delight of the touchline chorus line!
Reigate tried to come back before halftime but superb tactical kicking from Penny saw their efforts wasted and their heads started to go down as they had to run backwards time after time, his best kick leaving our 22 and landing 3 yards from their goal line. We lost our left wing Darren Tavenier, to a thigh injury when he broke through their first line of defence and decided to use their two centres for tackle practice, falling badly he hobbled off to be replace by new Dub, Serville, but more of him and his red boots later.
Halftime score 0 – 5
Halftime substitutions saw man mountain Callis take gentlemanly leave of his place to give fellow prop Lee Mason a half. Steve “Stardust” Baker, fresh from Ibiza and the trots replaced a spent Ambrose Snr.
The second half was a job of holding back wave after wave of Reigate attacks and counter attacking. 10 minutes in saw the legend Dickie substituted, Dimi replacing him at #2 and Chairman Dave picking up the scrummy mantle and a lithe Millsy coming on at 6. Throughout both halves a newly invigorated Iain Hagan smashed the granny of his opposite number on the right wing and drove hard in both loose and set pieces. Which showed that at the end of training 1-on-1 session he had about tackling with Chairman Dave paid big dividends.
Serville, never quite got the right ball to free up his potential speed on the wing, but what gaps were there saw lightening speed which got those on the pitch and on the touch talking. We look forward to seeing the potential unlocked. One of his breaks saw the ball pop out to Millsy who side stepping the first line of defence, used his tactical knowledge (sorry Dom) to place the ball over their defence leaving it a yard from touch, unfortunately it bobbled the wrong way and was made safe.
Throughout the 1 st and 2 nd half campaigns of attrition, our backs were covered by the man who is made of Steele, Andy. He read their game beautifully and brought ball after ball back from his #15 strong-hold to put us firmly back on the front foot. With 10 minutes to go Reigate were camped 5 yards from our line, and were kept out for 5 minutes, until finally their relentless pressure saw them break through our lines to even the score at 5-5. The game ended a draw, which was probably the fairest result given the sweat and blood left on the field by both sides.
Special thanks from me and Vice Captain Brownie goes out to all the chaps on the touchline. The support really helped in those moments of need boys, thank you very much. To all second team please make the effort to come and watch the 1 st team next Saturday 7th as they take on Lightwater away and please, please come down for a social beer at the club the week after on 14 th when they have a tough fixture against Guilfordians and shout the Dubs on...
And a very special thank you to match photographer Bryn Stocker, who has now mastered the lens cap and the 2 second delay and has taken some glorious photos.
SCORERS: Matt Sunley(try)
MATCH PHOTOS
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 1st vs Economicals 1st
DATE: 24th October 2009
RESULT: Loss SCORE: 14-36
Well, its strange how sometimes we can reflect positively on a defeat and this really was one of those occasions. I reflect warmly on the spirit and dubs ethos that prevailed throughout a good battle with our neighbours.
Without a number of first team regulars we switched positions and stood up ready. Unfortunately it did take a while to get used to a new look outfit and we conceded two early tries. Stabilised, we rallied and held good ground, absorbing their string attack and eventually countering ourselves. 50:50 possession in the latter half of the 1 st ensured a good game and a good display of commitment from the dubs. They managed to break through our lines to get a third but this held no issue for us.
Immediately we responded. Good drives through the forwards and some clever running lines ensured that our Chairman went over for a much deserved try to cap, what I think, was his best performance in a while. Well done Dave. Steve Colvin slotted an assured conversion as we went into half time.
The second half started well. We were on their line and hurting them in the ruck with some excellent counter rucking. A good battle in the scrum kept the game tight with both sides having to fight hard for steady ball. Big hits on quick runs from both sides kept it a good close game with the Dubs in the ascendancy. Injuries and a binning spoiled things. They lost a player and so the game went to uncontested scrums for a time. Whatever the rules have to say, this worked massively against us. Their backs had easy ball and were able to take it through, playing to their strengths. They went over a couple of times and put the match beyond us. This was very unfortunate but we must win in all circumstances.
As soon as scrums were up and running again we were back on top. We were the better team when the game was truly the game. Consistent pressure and good communication resulted in a very god try from a quick tap penalty for Rob Tindal l on the loop. Steve Colvin again showed us his clarity with the boot from out wide.
Overall the score line is not good, 14 – 36. They are a very good side of individuals who attack well. We showed, again, that we are a team. Moreover, a team of mates who want to play for the same reason and will use every ounce of endeavour for the cause.
SCORERS: Dave Brockes (try), Rob Tindall (try), Steve Colvin (2 conv)
MATCH PHOTOS
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 1st vs Egham Hollowegians 1st
DATE: 17th October 2009
RESULT: Loss SCORE: 3-19
Unfortunately not a great day out for the Wandsworthians 1 st team. Couldn't fault people's commitment and effort; at the end of the match we lost and are all still finding it hard to understand how.
The game started off well, we hammered them in the first ten minutes but they soaked up the pressure well. They put a clearing kick through from the half way line and then were on the right end of a lucky bounce and hack to see their player cross the whitewash to score. The game continued in this fashion with good pressure and we got on the scoreboard before half time with a good penalty strike from distance to get three points.
The second half started positively with further continued spells of pressure with many players being held up short of the line. Consistent pressure through the forwards and backs came back unrewarded and they broke to put hammer on and score. Much the same for the last 10. We had all the territory and pressure but did not convert. They again broke and sealed the game.
A big thank you to the good number of dubs who came all the way down to Egham to watch; sorry we couldn't get a W for you chaps.
SCORERS: Steve Colvin (1 Pen)
MATCH PHOTOS
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 1st vs Woking 1st
DATE: 10th October 2009
RESULT: Win SCORE: 24-17
A first victory of the season in our first game at the lands of the season; a good start for the 1st XV.
The performance was far off perfect but a victory puts us in a good position for the next few weeks as we have many players return from injury and absence. There were some positive signs for the weeks ahead and ones that we intend to build on.
We started off rather tepidly, conceding a try and a penalty in quick succession having missed a pop at the posts early on ourselves. This is a trait that appears to be rearing its ugly head again and we must ensure we are ready to go from the off. Getting back into the game we began to make headway and gain territory over a good Woking pack. Soaking up the pressure, Paul Cooper made a break offloading to a marauding Jim Grant who broke a couple of tackles. The ball was held up on their 5 yard line. Swiftly put out through the backs, the ball was seized upon by Richard Pennington who sidestepped his way over for a well earned try and his 3 rd of the season.
The dubs continued to soak up the, rather unilateral, Woking attack and the next try was scored by Phil Waugh, completing a creative move he began with some slight of hand and a turn of pace. Unfortunately, he was injured and had to go off.
At half time honours pretty much even and the Dubs in the driving seat.
Again, however, we took far too long to get into the game again. We allowed the opposing team a sneaky break through over ambitious hands and found ourselves trailing once more. The message clear; we have to start each half firing on all cylinders.
However, this saw the last of their scoring breaks and possession of any attacking endeavour. Consistent pressure through forwards and backs enabled good territory. The forwards rumbled up but were subject to White Line Fever on more than one occasion. Edd Groves ended the attrition with a well timed break from 5 and scored, Phil Turner's conversion making honours even at 17 – 17. Sensible placed kicking and consistent pressure enabled us the time in the Woking 22 required for Edd Groves to cross again to cap off a good performance, converted again by Phil Turner.
All in then, a W on the score sheet and momentum building. Some things to work on, but its damnably easier with a win behind us. Bring on Egham.
SCORERS: Edd Groves (2 tries), Richard Pennington (try), Phil Waugh (try), Phil Turner (2 conv)
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 2nd vs Mitcham 3rd
DATE: 3rd October 2009
RESULT: Loss SCORE: 19-29
The match started in very blustery conditions; with the wind in our favour we took their starting kick well. Ash leading a driving maul we ended up 10 yards in their half and won the scrum. A series of scrums saw us gain yard by yard the advantage needed for our back row to break off and drive to their line. Three times we smashed into the Mitcham defence, Ash finally rolling and driving to touch down (try not given because the ref couldn't see). Another scrum on their 5 yard line saw Sidders break off take the hit and off-load to Ash who scored, first points to the Dubs!
The next 15 minutes saw the Dubs defend against wave after wave of Mitcham backs. With Steve Colvin leading the defence with Andy "Man of Steele" scooping any lose ball and taking it forward. Mitcham finally broke through scoring through one of their many fresh backs (they had 12 subs against our 2). Head down again and the powerhouse machine of Dave Ambrose and Phil Farr who at 40 stone between them drove our defiantly solid front row of Mason, J. Baker and Lucy forward time after time, our back row cutting down any lose ball and making life uncomfortable for their # 9 and #10.
This game saw Dimi play as scrum half for the first time ever, what a powerhouse, every loose ball contested, every lost ball contested, their scrum half and standoff didn't know what to make of this pit-bull tearing into them time after time and if they did manage to make a move they were hacked down by Sidders or Ash and if they got close enough Millsy.
A long pass out from Mitcham caught us un-aware and despite Rob Tindall taking out the first two men the ball was slipped to their prop, who did himself proud sprinting the last 30 yards and going over even though he had our new man Iain Hagan hanging on his legs!
Our backs worked tirelessly, and saw them lead us back into the fray with new Dub Iain Hagan breaking their run, wrestling the ball from them and being supported by Dimi who took the ball back to our right opening up gaps, one of which Penny made maximum use of going over for a great try!
Converted by Steve Colvin.
We then lost the hard tackling Mark Lucy to a nasty cut which saw the emergence of SWAMPY coming on the pitch for the first time in 4 years, a little re-shuffle saw him flanking like he'd never stopped playing.
Mitcham won a penalty and went for the posts knowing they had no way of breaking an organised defence, 3 point to Mitcham hurrah! They then changed 4 players, one of which had borrowed Billy Whizz's boots, he ran around every player on the pitch twice, including his own and finally got tackled off the pitch by another new Dub Darren Tavenier. This left them 5 yards from our line, our lineout held solid and the ball passed deftly for a long clearing kick, unfortunately the high wind caught the ball and spun it neatly into their 10's hands with 2 men over then ran in a try.
Halftime score Mitcham 15 Wandsworthians 12 Half time saw Lee Mason give a rousing come-on which is exactly what we did in the second half. Dave "Eric the Viking" being replaced by new "boy" Steve Baker as lock, this was Steve's first ever game of rugby and saw him continuing the powerhouse tradition with Mr Farr.
The first 10 minutes of the second half saw some poor decision making and an intercept from Mitcham to score.
Our line outs were solid and saw the deft James Baker keeping the ball on target time-after-time, and saw the pack who had barely met each other drive with a practiced skill above that anyone could have predicted. Driving deep in Mitcham's 22 a series of mauls left us camped on the right side of Mitcham's line pounding it to the left, finally patience and power told a dive through defenders legs saw Millsy score clean as a whistle, try not allowed - ref couldn't see.
A bout of relentless Dubs tackling saw our Swampy cracking a rib and being replaced by the fast moving Dave Ambrose as flanker.
Mitcham's fresh legs got them another try making the score 29 - 12 with 10 minutes to go. Some of Mitcham's players, now addled as to why we hadn't rolled over took to dirty tactics one of which saw Penny's nose turned to goo and his lips to a good Botox advert! The passing word from their offending # 8 "it was only a little kiss".
Moment of the game for me saw the pack drive form the half way line to Mitcham's 22 and Dimi feed smash ball after smash ball until Penny seeing a gap side stepped their centre and drove himself and the ball into their #8 3 yards from the line and not being held (having "kissed" their # 8 back) leapt to score, Mr Colvin took a kick from deep on the left for our last points of the day.
A very special thanks from all of the second team goes out to Dickie, our sole but very vocal supporter, who lead the way from the warm up to the last ale. Thank you Dickie.
And a personal thank you to Ash and Rob T from the 2nd Team Capt., couldn't have done it without you guys, thank you Millsy.
Match facts:Final score Mitcham 29 - Wandsworthians 19. Mitcham squad = appox 28 Wandsworthians = 17 Dubs average age of squad - 38
SCORERS: Richard Pennington (2 tries), Ash Ali (try), Steve Colvin (2 conv)
--------------------------------------------------------
MATCH: Wandsworthians 1st vs Reigate 1st
DATE: 26th September 2009
RESULT: Loss SCORE: 14-28
What can I say; the blood, endeavour and camaraderie were all out on display for a gripping encounter in the palatial settings down at Reigate. In it all the way at 14 – 14 we were pipped to the post in the last 3 minutes against a side that did not deserve to win.
Why did they win? The game started badly with ill discipline allowing Reigate two shots at goal through penalties but luckily their kicker hadn't quite got his eye in and we escaped to regroup. Equality in possession and territory for most of the first half saw both teams cross the whitewash. Reigate went over first, as a result of a set piece. We then applied excellent territorial pressure through ‘ steady ' forward pressure and some good chasing. Rob Tindall nearly broke through on an exceptional interception run but was brought down at the last. All this pressure resulted in a penalty 8 yards out. Phil Waugh made the right decision, spinning it wide for Paddy Williams to cross from the centre for the Dubs first try of the season.
The half finished on a sour note, with another Darren Baker big hit unfortunately resulting in a broken jaw for our new Vice Captain. He has undergone surgery yesterday and is recovering well. All to enamoured to be around so many nurses one imagines!
The second half saw more pressure put on by both teams for the first part of the half but attrition the only result. Further bad news saw Paddy Williams go off with a worrying injury to his hamstring. With all subs used we were in the unfortunate position of going down to 14. Even with 14 we didn't look like losing and could have taken the lead with a penalty just going wide from distance.
We both had chances and they created a good one from a kick into our 22. A high-quality patch of defence on our part did result in a sin binning for Richard Pennington for apparently handling on the floor. They crossed the line against our 13 to make it 14 – 7. We responded immediately. Edd groves set off on a blistering run only to be tripped, even then he managed to get the ball away to the following support and we thought we had scored. The ref disallowed it as he couldn't see it, to the frustration of some, only to then award a penalty try for the tripping. Phil turner slotted the conversion to make it 14 – 14.
We held on until the last where they then crossed twice in the last 3 minutes to result in a flattering score line indeed.
All in, we were the better team. We showed more heart and played well against the odds. Luck was in their favour. I guarantee it won't be on the home return.Good effort chaps.
