And a good time was had by one and all
The season only got under way only a couple a weeks ago but already matches fot the 3rd XV has been rescheduled. So for our third game we traveled to Delft to play their local civilian side.To make sure we were there on time our squad-leader Mal, Dragon one, had rendez-vous time set at 18.00 hrs. with most of us replying to the mails we actually had a full squad and even subs. So the boys in blue embarked on the trip to Delft.
Beating traffic, our first win, we arrived well in time for coffee and warm up.
Overall the game was that we had possession with our pack came close to their try-line but couldn't put the ball over it. They had a few "experienced" and young players that made breaks and could run like f@#$%. But at the end of the first half there it was........our try. A well executed penalty with Ed, Yorkie and Marc-Paul scoring. The first try of the season was a fact. That fact that Delft scored 3 or 4 tries was just a minor set back.
Changes were made and the bodies and minds were focused on the second half. A pity that they scored straight from the kick off but we straightened our backs rolled up our sleeves and got on with it. Same scenario as the first half where we gave them a run for their money with the forwards but just couldn't finalise it. So final score 63 – 5 but with loads of positives to take from.
In my opinion we all put in 100% but a few names spring to mind that played in positions they never played. Eric, a new fly half and man off the match, Marc-paul, Harmen as hooker and everybody that played, for me it was a pleasure to play with you.
And then the third half wich kicked off in the dressing room with a crate of Grolsch and a large plate with mini salamis provided by our host. From the start ARC made sure we were heard through the clubhouse and many a song came out of our throats. All showered and groomed we entered their territory and sat up base around the bar. Nearly the complete ARC songbook was sung and conclusion was that we deffo won the third half, with Delft ladies ( we played all their teams ) coming close. With the beer flowing, chicken wings , sausages and leverworst passing along the final whistle came not too early.
So now the technical bit then.
I think we had great skill in handling the glasses, full and empty ones. The jugs could come a wee bit quicker from the pack to the backs. It was great to see that unexpected things happening were dealt with in a quick and safe way. Voices were sound with the whole spectrum covered.
We can build from our performance on and off the pitch, keep up the good work and spirits and we can go a long way. ( we have to travel to Dukes )
And with a home game against the students from Sanctus Virgiel we pick up from where we left. Come early as we watch the semi final between two teams, not as good at the singing as us though, All Blacks v Australia. Followed by us, the Ladies and 2nd XV a full packed rugby day lay ahead off us.
Hansie baby.
