Dad's Army win at Ramsgreave

Rugby date 23/10/10 home against Furness 2's score 22-14

Hi Guys,

This was not just any win, but pure nostalgia. With an average age of about 40+ we made a plan and stuck to it, our visitors travelled well and looked a good side with a lot of youth and a sprinkling of older players. We however had some player issues before we kicked off, with only 12 players turning up and Percy on his way. But Charles Page made a dash home for some duds and the 1St xv management allowed our players player from last season, who was on the bench for them this season to start for us. And so with the inclusion of Eddy Holden we managed to start with 15 players on the park. Before the game I spoke about discipline, and our efforts in this department where fantastic. I can only recall giving away 3or 4 penalty's and none in our danger zone. This is a good show of discipline and well done lets keep up the concentration on this issue, it had been a Achilles heel for us at times this season. But it looks as though we are starting to learn from our mistakes.

As I have said we had some player issues before the kick off but a better third team of experienced players I doubt you could find. We new it was going to be a day of heavy toil, but the forwards stuck to there game plan picking and driving when needed and supporting each other at the breakdown. The driving maul was working well and we managed to confine our visitors to their own half for the majority of the game. With total dominance at the scrum and winning the lions share at the lineout we managed to keep Furness on the back foot, not allowing their quick backs any ball to do any damage. Unfortunately Martin Jessop going down with a suspected tear to his calf muscle, left a gap in our second row. But not for long as old timer and team manager Keith Walmsley, strapped on a pair of boots and showed you never loose it, we don't know what it is but Keith gave it plenty. At 50+ this shows superb commitment and dedication to a team he believes in, and I thank him for his efforts.

With all our young lads away with the 2's we had to make some changes to our back line, Eddy stepping in at 10 and Braddy at 9, was like last season and they linked well. But Mike Doc Doherty playing at 12 and Henning at 13 was an inspiration. They brought not only some experience but some understanding to our backline, With Jim Coleman coming in to help out from fullback. We looked the part and played with style when ball was in hand, crossing the game line and keeping the pressure on the Furness defence. To say it was perfect would be big headed but it was pretty close, our fitness looked good and when Furness went uncontested in the scrum and therefore gaining some front foot ball, our defence was strong. With the quick ball Furness where able to release their fast young backs and this put Burn under pressure, but some superb defensive tackling meant we where able to close out the game.

I would like to Thank Gareth Thomas and Dino Radice for showing true club spirit in our moment of need,as Eddy was taken back by the 1's, Henning who had been superb was injured. As it turns out he will need some surgery to a nasty finger injury, this meant we where reduced to 13 and Gareth and Dino both pulled on boots and came to our rescue. Also Andy Toms was ready and willing to take to the field if needed, as I said true club spirit. With their help we managed to close out the game and take a well deserved win. M,O,M for the game was awarded to the whole team who performed magnificently.

Next week we travel to close rivals Preston, this is a game we should be able to win, however as I have said a couple of injuries and a few people unavailable means we will be tight for numbers again. With so many of our younger boys now taking a regular position in the 2nd xv, we will need every man we can get so availability as soon as possible please. Lets not forget training on Thursday night P.G. Is doing some fantastic sessions and the efforts are showing in our fitness and game play. Once again I commend all the lads who put their hearts and souls into this weeks match lets keep building and working hard. Thanks.

Regards Carlos (captain).