Captain's Report - Sat 16th February 2008

Written by Administrator

Monday, 18 February 2008

Richmond 28 - 11 Shelford Saturday's game against Richmond was billed as one of the defining moments of our season. Playing against the undefeated league leaders at their home ground would act as a barometer showing how far we have progressed as a team this year. The result would also influence the likelihood of us playing National League rugby next year. This was therefore a huge game for the Shelford collective. Preparation for the game went superbly. The only regrettable factor was the niggling knee injury sustained by Shelford battering ram, Aki Lea, who had to settle for a place on the bench. Shelford started the game brilliantly, putting our opponents under tangible pressure and forcing the opening exchanges to take place in the Richmond half. This pressure was felt by the Richmond supporters who knew in an instant that they were in for a tough game. A series of attacks up the left flank yielded a try for yours truly, who dummied the Richmond defence to burst over from close range. The Richmond voices disappeared almost entirely and on occasions, the only voice that echoed around the ground was a certain Mr Rees shouting in words of encouragement to "his" team and scrummaging advice to the resurgent Anthony Lenk! This start could not have gone any better. However, Richmond soon showed that they are not atop London One for nothing. Slowly but surely and with an impressive mix of discipline, organisation and skill, they played their way into the game. Their forwards protected the ball extremely effectively and their numerous driving mauls and "hit ups" sapped the energy from the valiant Shelford defence. However, we never let them get away, forcing them to be content with a penalty attempt and a converted try. Half time score 10 - 5 to Richmond. Richmond were able to continue to dominate possession and territory in the second half and yet still the Shelford defence remained strong. The lung-busting effort levels from the Shelford boys were only matched by our desire to leave the pitch with our heads held high, ideally with a win under our belts. However, Richmond remained undeterred in their assignment to continue an unbeaten season. They attacked time and again and it was only a matter of time before they would inevitably translate their superior possession and territory to points. The first try was a shade lucky, however, when a Richmond back row player charge down a kick that resulted in a simple try for the hosts. The next try was a well-worked move down the right hand touch line, that saw the Shelford defence outnumbered and outgunned and yet still fighting to deny our opponents any additions to their score. The final try was a mystery to most of us, as Richmond executed a training ground move to perfection, allowing their fullback and captain to waltz to the try line totally unopposed. As the final whistle went, Shelford were out on our feet, totally exhausted by the efforts and exertions of the day. We were able to walk off the pitch with our heads held high, safe in the knowledge that we had given a very good account of ourselves. The elation and relief at the final whistle of both the Richmond players and supporters reinforced this assertion. The silver lining was provided by our local "friends", Hertford, who beat Worthing 14 - 13 and have undoubtedly helped to keep our dream of promotion alive. We must now win all of our remaining games, which includes beating both Worthing and Sutton & Epsom. Barnes and Richmond must also beat Worthing and then second place will be ours. We know that we can only control our own games and so we look forward to travelling to Sutton & Epsom on 1st March to get back to winning ways.

Last Updated ( Saturday, 09 August 2008 )

 

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