37 - 0 sounds like a tonking but the guys showed great commitment in adversity. 10 mins before kick off and we only had 13, after those nasty 2nds robbed us of Pat and Wazza. We started the game with 14, of which only Bobby was a recognised forward, but managed to get Melty on the pitch after half an hour, despite his shoulder being knackered - a true hero. Kicking off into the wind our line held firm for 10mins before they crossed our line. We clearly had them rattled as the next time they got near our line they decided to kick for goal (8 - 0 lead). With uncontested scrums at least we could guarantee some ball, although the lineouts need a bit of practising (we eventually won a couple in the second half!). Our defence was awesome for the rest of the half, although two tries were conceded - the last being the final play of the half making us 20 - 0 down at half time. Despite their size superiority we tackled like men possessed with John Martin (our colossus second row) spearheading the tackling, ably supported by Matt Penfold and NZ Kieran on the flanks. With the wind behind us Fergus drove the ball miles with his boot and toyed with them on a couple of occasions as the ball bounced in play and then over the defenders head into touch. Some strong centre runs from Joe Collins and SA Cieran were also impressive, as was Dennis, our Brazilian answer to Robinho making his debut on the wing. The pack never gave up and with two 60 year olds and a couple of 40 somethings in the front five, we certainly won on the experience count. With vociferous support (half of whom should have been on the pitch!) we strived to go over their line and spent a good 5 mins camped in their 22. Sadly no score came and they ran in three further tries to make the final score 37 - 0.
Team : Bobby, James G, Rikki (C), John M, Aiden S, Matt P, NZ Kieran, Melty, Dave P, Fergus, Dennis, SA Cieran, Joe C, Fraser, NZ Mark