Hi Guys,
Rugby date 19/12/o9 home against Ormskirk 4th postponed frozen pitch
Sorry its late lads, but it was a heavy night on Saturday. Well the sever weather we have been experiencing, sadly brought the years last game to a early postponement. With our pitches been deemed unfit on the Friday night, and a call to Ormskirk saw that their pitches were also unplayable. And so many of us got an extra day shopping in with her in doors, lovely. But we still had the Xmas bash to look forward too, as we dragged our selves round the high street.
With the game off though numbers were some what lacking, but a few good men told lies to the other half saying "I won't be long or to drunk honest". And made a good show, with the Santa hats at the ready. Along with the 2's players who had donned viking costumes, the merriment began, and much ale was drunk. I would also like to thank Mary for a lovely stew, nice and hearty it was. There where a couple of matters to be dealt with at bully's court session, and of course plenty of fines dished out which were as warned double fines. But the main two issues for the court hearing on our behalf, were not represented and therefore found guilty in their absence. The first crime brought before the bench was, Steven Lee attending a rugby league match instead of playing for us. The second matter dealt with was, Matt Briscoe unable to attend for the game of the day or the Xmas bash due to having tickets for Blackburn Rovers. I believe this to be a football team, but as yet have not had this confirmed. As I have already said these matters where dealt with and tried fairly by a mob of rowdy vikings and Santa's. The punishment handed down to these criminals was, deemed fair and just. And so both defendants will be required to wear stockings and suspenders for the players dinner, at the end of the season. Along with shirt and third team tie.
As the evening went on Andy Boyes and his father had arranged for a band, to celebrate their birthdays and a absolutely top evening was had by all. I would like to thank both Andy and his Dad for a superb night on behalf of the whole team. I would also like to say thanks to the nice young man and his girlfriend, who gave P.G. And myself a lift into town later in the back of his
van. The most fun both of us have had in ages, I can't remember much after that though but I did manage to find my way home, with a Donner kebab under my arm.
And so that leaves me to wish everyone a merry Christmas and a very happy new year. Which will now start early with a rearranged game against Ormskirk on the 2nd of January. I would like all players to let either P.G. or myself know their availability for this fixture as soon as possible. So don't eat to much or get to drunk, if you are going out be careful in the bad conditions. And leave the car at home if you are drinking, I only add these warnings because I want as many as possible available for this game. Take care and I will see you all in the new year
Yours Christmasy Carlos (captain).
Tuesday, 22 December 2009
Monday, 14 December 2009
Hi Guys,
Rugby date 12/12/09 away against Kirby Lonsdale match postponed frozen pitch
so it's the season to be frosty, and unfortunately or fortunately depending on your view, this weeks game suffered at the long bony fingers of Jack frost. At 11.40am, just making a quick bacon buttie, my phone rings and I was given the news from Kirby that their pitch was un-playable due to frozen ground. At this point I had burnt my first 3 rashers of succulent back bacon, having replenished the grill with a further 3 rashers I called P.G. to pass on the information. After a short conversation I realised I was burning my second set of rashers, I can't get used to this new cooker electric grill and ovens. Anyway I was due to turn out for the 2's and had to get my skates on, as burning all that pig had now put me behind and still no lunch.
So myself Eddie and Joe Holden, Mark Grimes and new boy Ollie where able to boost the 2's in their game at Vale which is in Lancaster just down the road from frozen Kirby. We got the first sign that things may not go our way, when skipper Marco lost the toss. Should seen this omen as a sign, however we kicked off and where soon putting pressure on the Vale try line. But failure to convert was the second sign it wasn't going to be our day. The third was how quick Vale ran in their first 3 try's, at this point I tried to gee the boys up whilst standing in the shadows of the posts. Alas though failure to make first up tackles allowed Vale to run in several try's in the what was becoming one way traffic.
We did manage to score what Bully called the try of the season with some good phases been strung together for the backs to convert the pressure we applied into our only score. For me the highlights where Ollie playing his second game of union had a really good game on the wing. And Joe playing at scrum half having a fine performance. The tackle practice we all got will come in handy for us all, we did so much in a defensive game we where destined to lose.
And so with the majority of the third team having a rest, we can look forward to welcoming Ormskirk to Ramsgreave this coming Saturday. This is the last game before crimbo and so as a tradition of the third team Santa hats are compulsory, for all members weather playing or not or even playing up in the 2's. It would be nice to have a win this week as we will be having a Xmas rink after the game. And Andy Boyes has given us a open invite to join him and his father at their birthday party in the club. So get your passes to get messy signed early. could all members please wear ties and shirts as well, I am trying to organise a few team photos to be taken.
Now down to the farcical subject of training, I know its cold in the evening but only 2 lads down this week was pathetic. I will be looking for a good turn out this week as we really need to get a win. Training is Thursday night 7pm till 9pm, also if you could let myself or P.G. know your availability for the game as soon as possible so we can make our selection.
Regards Carlos (captain).
Rugby date 12/12/09 away against Kirby Lonsdale match postponed frozen pitch
so it's the season to be frosty, and unfortunately or fortunately depending on your view, this weeks game suffered at the long bony fingers of Jack frost. At 11.40am, just making a quick bacon buttie, my phone rings and I was given the news from Kirby that their pitch was un-playable due to frozen ground. At this point I had burnt my first 3 rashers of succulent back bacon, having replenished the grill with a further 3 rashers I called P.G. to pass on the information. After a short conversation I realised I was burning my second set of rashers, I can't get used to this new cooker electric grill and ovens. Anyway I was due to turn out for the 2's and had to get my skates on, as burning all that pig had now put me behind and still no lunch.
So myself Eddie and Joe Holden, Mark Grimes and new boy Ollie where able to boost the 2's in their game at Vale which is in Lancaster just down the road from frozen Kirby. We got the first sign that things may not go our way, when skipper Marco lost the toss. Should seen this omen as a sign, however we kicked off and where soon putting pressure on the Vale try line. But failure to convert was the second sign it wasn't going to be our day. The third was how quick Vale ran in their first 3 try's, at this point I tried to gee the boys up whilst standing in the shadows of the posts. Alas though failure to make first up tackles allowed Vale to run in several try's in the what was becoming one way traffic.
We did manage to score what Bully called the try of the season with some good phases been strung together for the backs to convert the pressure we applied into our only score. For me the highlights where Ollie playing his second game of union had a really good game on the wing. And Joe playing at scrum half having a fine performance. The tackle practice we all got will come in handy for us all, we did so much in a defensive game we where destined to lose.
And so with the majority of the third team having a rest, we can look forward to welcoming Ormskirk to Ramsgreave this coming Saturday. This is the last game before crimbo and so as a tradition of the third team Santa hats are compulsory, for all members weather playing or not or even playing up in the 2's. It would be nice to have a win this week as we will be having a Xmas rink after the game. And Andy Boyes has given us a open invite to join him and his father at their birthday party in the club. So get your passes to get messy signed early. could all members please wear ties and shirts as well, I am trying to organise a few team photos to be taken.
Now down to the farcical subject of training, I know its cold in the evening but only 2 lads down this week was pathetic. I will be looking for a good turn out this week as we really need to get a win. Training is Thursday night 7pm till 9pm, also if you could let myself or P.G. know your availability for the game as soon as possible so we can make our selection.
Regards Carlos (captain).
Monday, 7 December 2009
Hi Guys,
Rugby date 5/12/09 home against Fleetwood 3's score 0-11
Ahoy shipmates, well this Saturday saw us welcome Fleetwood 3's to Ramsgreave. And in honour of this we made the day pirate day, and I would like to thank everyone that took part in the merriment's that followed the game. A little bonding and team building washed down by copious amounts of grog. Boson Boyes out doing everyone with a fabulous outfit, all in all a good session.
I would also like to mention our two boys making their debut for the 2's this week Paul Fielding and Gerry Donaghy. Both lads had good games and helped in the 2's victory over preston, I hope they get the chance to develop their rugby and advance in the club.
Now down to our game, well with substitutes coming out of the woodwork and a new future star maybe, coming along we had the makings of good team. With the now experienced Andy Gray at loose head, a position he is growing into week after week, myself and Rousie made up a pretty good looking if nothing else front row. The whole shape of the pack looking good with young Jamie and P.G. in the second row, Charles and matey of the match Joe holden on the flanks. But everything bolstered by the return of Paul Cockram in at number 8 after a lengthy injury lay off.
Put this together with a superb looking back line of Ed Holden at 9 Ste Lee at 10, the now tight pair of Dave O'Sulivan and Jimmy Townes in the centre. Marc Grimes and the new boy Adam (Ollie) Alstead on the wings Andy Boyes fullback, we hoped to get back on winning ways.
The game started very scrappy, with the ball being knocked on several times by both teams. But Blackburn seemed to be dominating in possession and territory, unfortunately not been able to convert the chances we created in the first half. Ollie making his debut going very close after Stevie put in a superb cross field kick. Fleetwood however battled hard in this close fought game and made the only score of the first half with a very well taken penalty kick.
The second half started with Fleetwood gaining a second penalty very early on, converted to put Blackburn 3 points further behind, but the boys dug deep and fought hard as we made our way up the field going close on several occasions but once again coming away with no points. After what seemed like hours camped in their 22 Fleetwood broke free and it was our turn to defend. A period of Fleetwood pressure saw them going over in the corner to score the only try of the game, the lads in the corner making the tackles not so sure the ball was grounded but referee Shawn awarding the points. (we're not good enough to have the need for camera's at our level) And so the referee's decision is final. The game ended with with us going down to a 11-0 defeat not a nice thing at home, but the game was hard and fair and we did not disgrace ourselves in anyway. A few chances taken and it would of been a very different result.
Maybe a few more numbers down training could of helped us in the game putting moves together and the likes. One of the problems of the day was a lack of proper warm up also we left it a little late to go out, not giving us any time to rehearse any moves, And so we had to wing it a little. The blame for this falling at my feet and so I will ensure to gee everyone up a bit and endeavour to get out earlier. Although there was some confusion as to which team I would play for before kick off the lack off direction pre game may of contributed to our slow start.
And so we take a look to next weeks game, away against Kirby Lonsdale. Currently 8th in the league played 12 won 4 lost 7 and 1 walk over. But they have lost their last 4 league game's. We could really do with getting a result although Kirby is a hard place to go I feel that we can travel and put up a good show. I would appreciate your availability as soon as possible either to myself or P.G. And hopefully a few more numbers down training this Thursday 7pm till 9pm will help us.
Regards Carlos (captain).
Rugby date 5/12/09 home against Fleetwood 3's score 0-11
Ahoy shipmates, well this Saturday saw us welcome Fleetwood 3's to Ramsgreave. And in honour of this we made the day pirate day, and I would like to thank everyone that took part in the merriment's that followed the game. A little bonding and team building washed down by copious amounts of grog. Boson Boyes out doing everyone with a fabulous outfit, all in all a good session.
I would also like to mention our two boys making their debut for the 2's this week Paul Fielding and Gerry Donaghy. Both lads had good games and helped in the 2's victory over preston, I hope they get the chance to develop their rugby and advance in the club.
Now down to our game, well with substitutes coming out of the woodwork and a new future star maybe, coming along we had the makings of good team. With the now experienced Andy Gray at loose head, a position he is growing into week after week, myself and Rousie made up a pretty good looking if nothing else front row. The whole shape of the pack looking good with young Jamie and P.G. in the second row, Charles and matey of the match Joe holden on the flanks. But everything bolstered by the return of Paul Cockram in at number 8 after a lengthy injury lay off.
Put this together with a superb looking back line of Ed Holden at 9 Ste Lee at 10, the now tight pair of Dave O'Sulivan and Jimmy Townes in the centre. Marc Grimes and the new boy Adam (Ollie) Alstead on the wings Andy Boyes fullback, we hoped to get back on winning ways.
The game started very scrappy, with the ball being knocked on several times by both teams. But Blackburn seemed to be dominating in possession and territory, unfortunately not been able to convert the chances we created in the first half. Ollie making his debut going very close after Stevie put in a superb cross field kick. Fleetwood however battled hard in this close fought game and made the only score of the first half with a very well taken penalty kick.
The second half started with Fleetwood gaining a second penalty very early on, converted to put Blackburn 3 points further behind, but the boys dug deep and fought hard as we made our way up the field going close on several occasions but once again coming away with no points. After what seemed like hours camped in their 22 Fleetwood broke free and it was our turn to defend. A period of Fleetwood pressure saw them going over in the corner to score the only try of the game, the lads in the corner making the tackles not so sure the ball was grounded but referee Shawn awarding the points. (we're not good enough to have the need for camera's at our level) And so the referee's decision is final. The game ended with with us going down to a 11-0 defeat not a nice thing at home, but the game was hard and fair and we did not disgrace ourselves in anyway. A few chances taken and it would of been a very different result.
Maybe a few more numbers down training could of helped us in the game putting moves together and the likes. One of the problems of the day was a lack of proper warm up also we left it a little late to go out, not giving us any time to rehearse any moves, And so we had to wing it a little. The blame for this falling at my feet and so I will ensure to gee everyone up a bit and endeavour to get out earlier. Although there was some confusion as to which team I would play for before kick off the lack off direction pre game may of contributed to our slow start.
And so we take a look to next weeks game, away against Kirby Lonsdale. Currently 8th in the league played 12 won 4 lost 7 and 1 walk over. But they have lost their last 4 league game's. We could really do with getting a result although Kirby is a hard place to go I feel that we can travel and put up a good show. I would appreciate your availability as soon as possible either to myself or P.G. And hopefully a few more numbers down training this Thursday 7pm till 9pm will help us.
Regards Carlos (captain).
Monday, 30 November 2009
Hi Guys,
Rugby date 28/11/09 away against Fylde Vandals score 36-12
Once again team selection made very difficult due to a lack of players at the higher levels, and I would like to thank those third team members that made the long journey down to Sandbach for the 2's. However the lack of players was not going to dishearten the spirits of the third team and with 13 players and 3 still to arrive we took to the field to face a very tough, well drilled experienced Fylde. With so many players missing the team looked very odd, Charles Page playing at hooker, Rousie at 8, Mike Holden at 9 once again. But the heavy weight Fylde pack didn't hold any mercy for the inexperienced Blackburn front row, made up of myself at tight head and Andy Gray at loose. Well under the cosh Fylde pushed hard 5 yards out and the pressure soon told with the heavy weights crashing over for the first of their try's. With the team behind the posts and our backs screaming for a ball we had hardly seen let alone had any sort of possession that we could of used, two reinforcements were seen jogging onto the pitch. The third team stalwart Andy Goodwin, who had managed to convince his friend that it would be fun to come and play for us, even though he thought maybe 10 minuets but played the full 80. And I would like to thank and welcome Ben Davies to the third team and hope his new found fondness of rugby continues with us down here at Blackburn.
Even though the welcome sight of our reinforcement's buoyed the team Fylde continued to dominate the first half going on to finish the half 31-0. The half time saw Andy Gray leave the park after a hard fought half in a tough scrummaging game, resulting in us going un-contested in the scrum. Dave O'Sullivan also arriving late after making a long journey from Carisle coming on to play in the forwards. A position he wasn't used to but putting in a worthy performance. So a rejigged Blackburn pack with Joe Holden now taking up the number 8 slot and a back line to die for, desperate to show what they could do if given a glimpse of the ball, the second half got under way. It was a little headless to start with and after many mistakes and knockons the team started to string together a couple of moves and showing just what we were capable of doing if we had managed to compete in the first half. A superb cross field kick from Eddie Holden setting up Marc Grimes for the first of our scores in the this half. Converted by Eddie, and some simply fantastic defencive tackling meant that pressure was starting to build on Fylde for the first time. However a sliced kick from full back John O'Ryan, gave Fylde who reacted quickly tacking a quick throwin five yards out and dotting down for their only score of the half. This blip in a otherwise superb game from John seemed to galvanise the team, and we were soon building pressure again that finally saw Eddie Holden cross the white wash to score our second try. with time running out a knock for Charles saw him leave the pitch and me in a very unusual position of wing forward. But it was all to late and the referee blew his whistle for full time leaving us wondering what if.
A game of two halves to coin the phrase, maybe some of the missing players would of helped us maybe not. But everyone that pulled on a Blackburn shirt once again gave their all till the last play. This for me makes me so proud to be your captain and I believe that the strength of this team can get back on winning ways. With this said we look forward to welcoming Fleetwood to Ramsgreave this weekend. Fleetwood currently 11th in the league just above us played 9 won 3 lost 6. As you can see this is a potential 6 pointer and so I ask as many players as possible to attend training this Thursday 7pm till 9pm, to give us a Chance to work on the good things we do and especially the bad. Also this weekends game is pirate day and everyone is reminded that they must have at least 2 pieces of pirate attire and talk like a pirate. This is all fun lads and will raise a few doubloons through fines, and we can all have a good laugh at those that get caught jumping ship, as they will be forced to drink grog and swab the decks. Ye have bin warned ARR!!!!
Regards Carlos (captain)
Rugby date 28/11/09 away against Fylde Vandals score 36-12
Once again team selection made very difficult due to a lack of players at the higher levels, and I would like to thank those third team members that made the long journey down to Sandbach for the 2's. However the lack of players was not going to dishearten the spirits of the third team and with 13 players and 3 still to arrive we took to the field to face a very tough, well drilled experienced Fylde. With so many players missing the team looked very odd, Charles Page playing at hooker, Rousie at 8, Mike Holden at 9 once again. But the heavy weight Fylde pack didn't hold any mercy for the inexperienced Blackburn front row, made up of myself at tight head and Andy Gray at loose. Well under the cosh Fylde pushed hard 5 yards out and the pressure soon told with the heavy weights crashing over for the first of their try's. With the team behind the posts and our backs screaming for a ball we had hardly seen let alone had any sort of possession that we could of used, two reinforcements were seen jogging onto the pitch. The third team stalwart Andy Goodwin, who had managed to convince his friend that it would be fun to come and play for us, even though he thought maybe 10 minuets but played the full 80. And I would like to thank and welcome Ben Davies to the third team and hope his new found fondness of rugby continues with us down here at Blackburn.
Even though the welcome sight of our reinforcement's buoyed the team Fylde continued to dominate the first half going on to finish the half 31-0. The half time saw Andy Gray leave the park after a hard fought half in a tough scrummaging game, resulting in us going un-contested in the scrum. Dave O'Sullivan also arriving late after making a long journey from Carisle coming on to play in the forwards. A position he wasn't used to but putting in a worthy performance. So a rejigged Blackburn pack with Joe Holden now taking up the number 8 slot and a back line to die for, desperate to show what they could do if given a glimpse of the ball, the second half got under way. It was a little headless to start with and after many mistakes and knockons the team started to string together a couple of moves and showing just what we were capable of doing if we had managed to compete in the first half. A superb cross field kick from Eddie Holden setting up Marc Grimes for the first of our scores in the this half. Converted by Eddie, and some simply fantastic defencive tackling meant that pressure was starting to build on Fylde for the first time. However a sliced kick from full back John O'Ryan, gave Fylde who reacted quickly tacking a quick throwin five yards out and dotting down for their only score of the half. This blip in a otherwise superb game from John seemed to galvanise the team, and we were soon building pressure again that finally saw Eddie Holden cross the white wash to score our second try. with time running out a knock for Charles saw him leave the pitch and me in a very unusual position of wing forward. But it was all to late and the referee blew his whistle for full time leaving us wondering what if.
A game of two halves to coin the phrase, maybe some of the missing players would of helped us maybe not. But everyone that pulled on a Blackburn shirt once again gave their all till the last play. This for me makes me so proud to be your captain and I believe that the strength of this team can get back on winning ways. With this said we look forward to welcoming Fleetwood to Ramsgreave this weekend. Fleetwood currently 11th in the league just above us played 9 won 3 lost 6. As you can see this is a potential 6 pointer and so I ask as many players as possible to attend training this Thursday 7pm till 9pm, to give us a Chance to work on the good things we do and especially the bad. Also this weekends game is pirate day and everyone is reminded that they must have at least 2 pieces of pirate attire and talk like a pirate. This is all fun lads and will raise a few doubloons through fines, and we can all have a good laugh at those that get caught jumping ship, as they will be forced to drink grog and swab the decks. Ye have bin warned ARR!!!!
Regards Carlos (captain)
Monday, 23 November 2009
Hi Guys,
Rugby date 21/11/09 away against Marple 3's cup game score 38-5
Well guys let me start by saying how proud of all the lads who made the trip to Marple this weekend with myself missing I thought we may struggle to put 15 on the park. But on Thursday things looked promising, however a very poor turnout at training did give me cause for concern. I'll come back to that later, but the 2's looked in good form and there was chance of a couple of players coming our way. With P.G. Manning the phones I felt that things were looking good. And so gave the heavy mantle of captaincy over to P.G. for the weekend and sure enough Paul did a sterling job, with the help of Stuart. Whom I believe fell over the try line with the ball in hand and was awarded a try. Well done Stu, goes to show right place right time right decision tap penalty and look what can happen Mr Martin Johnson if only England had shown as much imitative. In talking to my 2 lieutenants I believe that 1 to 15 performed superb, again shame the same cannot be said for England. I must thank Mike Holden who not only provided us with young Joe, making sure that he was on time, but brought his own boots and due to some last minuet let downs from some of the second team players. Played at 9 for the full 80 minutes and did a sterling job, Mike you are penciled in for the remainder of the season. I would like to also thank James Fisher and Nick Archer, Nick back from injury who has been playing for the 2's this season and James who has also been doing a job for the 2's, for their efforts and hope that you play many more games for us. And as I said a big thanks to all of my regulars who gave more than I could hope for by all accounts the score somewhat flattered the Marple side.
Anyway here is P.G's thoughts on the game as my replacement I felt only right he should put a few words together.
Rugby date 21/11/09 away against Marple 3's cup game score 38-5
Well guys let me start by saying how proud of all the lads who made the trip to Marple this weekend with myself missing I thought we may struggle to put 15 on the park. But on Thursday things looked promising, however a very poor turnout at training did give me cause for concern. I'll come back to that later, but the 2's looked in good form and there was chance of a couple of players coming our way. With P.G. Manning the phones I felt that things were looking good. And so gave the heavy mantle of captaincy over to P.G. for the weekend and sure enough Paul did a sterling job, with the help of Stuart. Whom I believe fell over the try line with the ball in hand and was awarded a try. Well done Stu, goes to show right place right time right decision tap penalty and look what can happen Mr Martin Johnson if only England had shown as much imitative. In talking to my 2 lieutenants I believe that 1 to 15 performed superb, again shame the same cannot be said for England. I must thank Mike Holden who not only provided us with young Joe, making sure that he was on time, but brought his own boots and due to some last minuet let downs from some of the second team players. Played at 9 for the full 80 minutes and did a sterling job, Mike you are penciled in for the remainder of the season. I would like to also thank James Fisher and Nick Archer, Nick back from injury who has been playing for the 2's this season and James who has also been doing a job for the 2's, for their efforts and hope that you play many more games for us. And as I said a big thanks to all of my regulars who gave more than I could hope for by all accounts the score somewhat flattered the Marple side.
Anyway here is P.G's thoughts on the game as my replacement I felt only right he should put a few words together.
This Saturday so a rest from the stresses of league positions replaced by a cup tie away at Marple 3Rd's. With no first team game we were hoping to field a strong side, however this idea soon vanished as the reality of 3rd team life struck home. We started Saturday morning with a flat 15 which at 11am reduced to 14 with a last minute cry-off. Many thanks to Mike Holden who not only stepped up to the mark but put in a full game at 9 and did a decent job to boot. We arrived at Marple an hour before kick-off but unfortunately our kit along with some of the team had travelled in Rousey's car which must have had Mark Thatcher as co-driver (very old joke) so we took to the field at the last minute and slightly UN-organized. Upfront the Blackburn pack started strongly and it soon became apparent that Marple had little appetite for rucking. However on a wet and windy day mistakes were inevitable and every restart saw us struggle. The scrum was not working at its usual high level and a re-shuffle was necessary to improve things, and the line-out was a disaster from start to finish. Missed calls, miss-timed lifts, poor jumps and wayward throwing meant we never won a single ball all day. This would highlight the need for all players to make an effort to get down to training, Thursday night is the time to iron out such problems not Saturday on the pitch. Marples strength lay in their back line, with 2 ex England rugby league players in the three quarters they made strong runs all day however some committed play from the Blackburn backs saw some good tackles and all the team worked hard all day to keep the score line down and try to seek out some points of our own. This endeavor was finally rewarded with a late try from one of the Blackburn pack after taking a quick tap from 5 yards out and power sliding through the mud to hit the line. The final score of 38 - 5 did not really truly reflect on the efforts made by all.
Moving on some big plus points to be taken from the day. As already mentioned good to see Mike Holden play well at 9, great to see Nick Archer in a 3rd team shirt again, MOM performances from both Jamie Elston and Joe Holden bode well for future, James Fisher also played well with some strong running. Also many thanks to the boys who played through the pain barrier to keep 15 on the pitch. If subs had been available we would have made at least 3 changes due to injury but those individuals played on rather than leave their team mates short, true third team spirit.
Regards
Paul Greenwood
Now back down to business, with this weekends fixture in mind, away at Fylde 5Th I would like your availability as soon as possible either to myself or P.G. Also a couple of things Paul picked up during the Marple game, that could be addressed at training if the numbers were present. I know that some people like myself work away or late on Thursdays. However when I get the chance I make an effort to get down even if I go direct with no togs, but still manage to show my face. The lack of numbers last week was pitiful, with 4 lads training the session was a waste no chance to work on anything constructive. Lads we must do better there is still plenty of work to be done on the training pitch. Fylde are hard adversary, and currently 8Th in the league won 3 drawn 2 and lost 5. This game if we were to win would be a massive boost to our season that seems to have stuttered of late with the last 2 leagues been called off for their own reasons. We must start to get our game back on track. Fylde will be buoyed after a good win against Sedgley Park this week in the cup so we have plenty to do, and I know you won't let me down.
Regards Carlos (captain)
Monday, 16 November 2009
HI Guys,
Rugby date 14/11/09 away against BAE Warton game postponed waterlogged pitch.
Rugby date 14/11/09 away against BAE Warton game postponed waterlogged pitch.
Well let me start first by thanking everyone that made the trip to Warton on Saturday, it looked as though after the problems of the previous week we would be able to field a decent team. With plenty of numbers available, OK we may of been missing key positions again but with the late arrival of Joe and Mike Holden things didn't look to bad at all. With 20 names on the team sheet we made our way out to Warton, looking to get back in to winning ways. Unfortunately Warton had not called to say that half their pitch was under water and when the referee looked at it he rightly decided that it would be unsafe to play on. If Warton had called us we could of changed the venue back to our place and had a game, however with everyone changed there was not time to get back to Ramsgreave. so a little game of touch just to have a run out was played then a bit of fun as we decided to go snorkeling and see who could get the furthest slide through the water. Anybody showing signs of rash or itchy skin, fever, chills, cough and muscle aches should contact their doctor as you may be dying of Schistosomiasis. No I'm only joking.
But we did have a bit of fun and we do have the rearranged fixture to look forward to, it also gave us chance to do a little team building and put some thoughts out there for your consideration like a mini third team tour. We can also look forward to this weekends game away against Marple in the Raging Bull shield. Marple are in division 4 south and currently second in that league played 9 won 6 lost 2 and 1 walkover. So a hard team and a hard game, as I said we must fulfill this fixture as a call off on our behalf also affects our league status. I am sure that the team that does make the trip will do a fine job and do us all proud if you can all let us know your availability a.s.a.p. It would help with selection.
As I said on Saturday there is a couple of dates for your diaries November 28Th Band night at the club tickets £5 see Rousie. December 5Th home fixture against Fleetwood pirate day, 2 pieces of pirate attire to be worn and pirate talk all day only. December 19Th home fixture against Ormskirk, Andy Boyes birthday and third team Christmas drinks. If I can think of any thing else I will blog and post in team news. That just leaves me to thanks again and good luck for this weekend as I will be in Twickenham hopefully watching a better English performance than the last 2 efforts.
Yours Carlos (captain)
But we did have a bit of fun and we do have the rearranged fixture to look forward to, it also gave us chance to do a little team building and put some thoughts out there for your consideration like a mini third team tour. We can also look forward to this weekends game away against Marple in the Raging Bull shield. Marple are in division 4 south and currently second in that league played 9 won 6 lost 2 and 1 walkover. So a hard team and a hard game, as I said we must fulfill this fixture as a call off on our behalf also affects our league status. I am sure that the team that does make the trip will do a fine job and do us all proud if you can all let us know your availability a.s.a.p. It would help with selection.
As I said on Saturday there is a couple of dates for your diaries November 28Th Band night at the club tickets £5 see Rousie. December 5Th home fixture against Fleetwood pirate day, 2 pieces of pirate attire to be worn and pirate talk all day only. December 19Th home fixture against Ormskirk, Andy Boyes birthday and third team Christmas drinks. If I can think of any thing else I will blog and post in team news. That just leaves me to thanks again and good luck for this weekend as I will be in Twickenham hopefully watching a better English performance than the last 2 efforts.
Yours Carlos (captain)
Monday, 9 November 2009
Hi guys,
Rugby date 07/11/09 home against Preston Grasshoppers game called off
Totally unsatisfactory, that I feel sums up the weekend. Unfortunately we where forced in to crying off this weekends fixture against Preston due to circumstances beyond our control. Let me fill you in on a little background information. The way the league runs is that the first xv has to field a side, then the second xv then the third, we can not field a third team and not field a second string. the league would not award any points and would take a very dim view of us. That said, this weekend the first xv reported a record high in injured players, somewhere around 20 players not available. This therefore gave Andy Tom's one almighty headache, resolved by sending the majority of the second team up to fulfill the first xv fixture. However this resulted in him having to call upon the majority of the third xv to fulfill his second team fixture. And therefore resulting in us having to call our game off due to lack of numbers. I would like to point out that the league award one point for fulfilling a fixture, that's right turn up and even if you loose you still get a point. also the minimum number required to fulfill a fixture is 9, and the opposition have to match that number by no more than one extra player. i.e. we turn up with 9 they can only have 10 on the field at a time. And many times teams have turned up at our place with less than 15 and we have given them numbers to make more of a game of things so is the way of social rugby.
This All said we found our self calling off a home game, this I promise will not happen again. We have to field a team even if it all looks dark and gloomy and we haven't got 15, it does however mean a little more commitment to the third team. I know no-one wants to turn up knowing we are probably going to get beat, but that is not a forgone conclusion. And god forbid if we fail to fulfill fixtures we run the risk of loosing the third team forever, this is not an exaggeration you don't have to look far to see clubs folding and dropping teams, Lostock in our league LSH also struggling and many more. The third team is where I enjoy playing with good friends, but also it is a place for people who may not be a supper star, or maybe the players of the future to develop their skills and learn techniques be for going on to play in the higher teams. It is also a important piece in the social side of the club with many wives and girlfriends and children coming along to support their team and supporting many of the clubs functions. So with that in mind we must endeavor to do better and make sure that we fulfill our fixtures no matter how many players we have.
Now some well earned thanks for the players who where called upon by the second xv, Especially Paul Greenwood, Marc Grimes, Jim Colman, Andy Snape, Charles Page, Jamie Elston. All of whom put plenty of effort into the game some really shining, and even though we lost the score does some what flatter Rochdale 2's. They made as many mistakes as we did the difference was when they made a mistake we were 2 yards away when we made a mistake they capitalized. The only high point for myself was having Mark (Bully) Bullen rub my lower back with heat liniment which he managed to spill down my buttocks. Adding a little discomfort to a otherwise hard day aat the office, in which i was blowing chunks for the majority only getting my second breath ten minutes from time when someone mentioned a pie and pint in the bar.
This leaves us to look forward towards this weeks fixture away against BAE Warton, who may be struggling at the bottom of the league but manage to put a team on the field every week. A lesson there for us maybe.
Yours committedly Carlos (captain)
Rugby date 07/11/09 home against Preston Grasshoppers game called off
Totally unsatisfactory, that I feel sums up the weekend. Unfortunately we where forced in to crying off this weekends fixture against Preston due to circumstances beyond our control. Let me fill you in on a little background information. The way the league runs is that the first xv has to field a side, then the second xv then the third, we can not field a third team and not field a second string. the league would not award any points and would take a very dim view of us. That said, this weekend the first xv reported a record high in injured players, somewhere around 20 players not available. This therefore gave Andy Tom's one almighty headache, resolved by sending the majority of the second team up to fulfill the first xv fixture. However this resulted in him having to call upon the majority of the third xv to fulfill his second team fixture. And therefore resulting in us having to call our game off due to lack of numbers. I would like to point out that the league award one point for fulfilling a fixture, that's right turn up and even if you loose you still get a point. also the minimum number required to fulfill a fixture is 9, and the opposition have to match that number by no more than one extra player. i.e. we turn up with 9 they can only have 10 on the field at a time. And many times teams have turned up at our place with less than 15 and we have given them numbers to make more of a game of things so is the way of social rugby.
This All said we found our self calling off a home game, this I promise will not happen again. We have to field a team even if it all looks dark and gloomy and we haven't got 15, it does however mean a little more commitment to the third team. I know no-one wants to turn up knowing we are probably going to get beat, but that is not a forgone conclusion. And god forbid if we fail to fulfill fixtures we run the risk of loosing the third team forever, this is not an exaggeration you don't have to look far to see clubs folding and dropping teams, Lostock in our league LSH also struggling and many more. The third team is where I enjoy playing with good friends, but also it is a place for people who may not be a supper star, or maybe the players of the future to develop their skills and learn techniques be for going on to play in the higher teams. It is also a important piece in the social side of the club with many wives and girlfriends and children coming along to support their team and supporting many of the clubs functions. So with that in mind we must endeavor to do better and make sure that we fulfill our fixtures no matter how many players we have.
Now some well earned thanks for the players who where called upon by the second xv, Especially Paul Greenwood, Marc Grimes, Jim Colman, Andy Snape, Charles Page, Jamie Elston. All of whom put plenty of effort into the game some really shining, and even though we lost the score does some what flatter Rochdale 2's. They made as many mistakes as we did the difference was when they made a mistake we were 2 yards away when we made a mistake they capitalized. The only high point for myself was having Mark (Bully) Bullen rub my lower back with heat liniment which he managed to spill down my buttocks. Adding a little discomfort to a otherwise hard day aat the office, in which i was blowing chunks for the majority only getting my second breath ten minutes from time when someone mentioned a pie and pint in the bar.
This leaves us to look forward towards this weeks fixture away against BAE Warton, who may be struggling at the bottom of the league but manage to put a team on the field every week. A lesson there for us maybe.
Yours committedly Carlos (captain)
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