Aylesford Festival
Medway under 11s ended the 2009/10 season on a high note and nearly added some silverware to the trophy cabinet after an action-packed day at the Aylesford minis rugby festival saw the Rochester side go down by two scores to nil to their old enemy Sidcup in the Cup Final of a ten-team competition.
Medway’s route to the Cup Final was hard fought against some very determined opposition. First up was a well-polished side from Romford in a pulsating match that saw Medway produce some of their best rugby of the season. Despite some brilliant interplay between backs and forwards and some strong, direct running from Alex Russell and Oliver Bell, Medway were initially unable to penetrate a solid Romford defence. Romford’s plans to run the ball wide were continually thwarted by good defence from Medway wingers Michael Parmenter and Adam Clark, whilst thumping hits from hooker Billy Young kept the Romford forwards on the back foot. The deadlock was eventually broken in the second half after a kick and chase saw Medway backs Josh Bruin and Alex Belsey dive on the ball for Belsey to make the all important touch down and register the only score of the game. 1-0 to Medway.
Next up in the qualifying round was Ayleford’s second team. Medway didn’t waste any time showing who was in charge. A clever break through the midfield from Alex Belsey and a well-timed pass into the hands of Joseph Hicks saw the flyhalf sprint over the line to mark his first-ever try for the first team in this his debut season. Despite Aylesford’s manful efforts to repel the Medway onslaught the pressure told again shortly after with a strong driving maul featuring good work from James Clack and Regan Blyth, providing quick ball for winger James Robinson to dash 15 metres to touch down. A rushed clearance kick from Aylesford then failed to find touch and was eagerly gathered by speedster Aengus Daly who collected the ball on the halfway line of the right wing to breeze past several players and score on the left wing. Muscular work at the set-piece from giant locks James Hudson and Harry Bloomfield provided a solid platform for the Medway backs to run amok with fleet-footed Max Poynter playing some of his best rugby of the season. More of the same was to follow in the second half with the highlight a cracking try from James Bullock, who danced his way through several defenders to close the game out 4-0 to Medway.
Medway took on Cranbrook in the last game of the qualifying round. James Bullock got on the score sheet again with a jinking run to level the score 1-1. After some stout defence by both sides the game looked destined to end in a draw. Enter Josh Bruin, who had obviously not read the script, and with 10 seconds left on the clock gathered the ball from well inside his own half to burn past several desperate defenders and register a 2-1 win for Medway and an amazing try.
Sidcup were made to work hard for their 2-0 win over Medway in the Cup Final. Medway’s total commitment frustrated Sidcup’s forward orientated game, although constant pressure eventually told. However, Medway deserved their place in the final and can now look forward to next season with greater confidence that they can compete with any side they meet. Special mention must go to Callum Germany who --- playing his last game for Medway as he has decided to trade in his rugby boots for shinpads, an alice band and a round ball --- saved his best till last. His sniping runs from scrumhalf and aggression in the tackle played a significant role in Medway’s march to the Cup Final. He will be sorely missed next season.
Scribe Andy Young
Medway U11s Triumph in Essex
On a sunny if not windy Sunday morning Medway u11s travelled over the water to Essex to take part in the Westcliffe Festival. Medway were able to field two mixed ability teams - the Reds and the Ambers. And what a day they had.
Medway Reds were first up and took on a tough Thames side. The game started at a frantic pace with Kent’s finest immediately getting into the face of some very physical Essex boys. Thames, who usually outmuscle most sides they meet with their abrasive style of play, were left reeling by some bone-shuddering tackling from Medway. Giant second rowers, Harry Bloomfield and James Hudson, kept the pressure on with some bullocking runs into the heart of the Essex side with good ball retention from fellow forwards James Clack, Billy Young and Ross Carter allowing Medway’s Scrumhalf James Roberston to have a solid platform to apply their own brand of running rugby. This relentless pressure and some impressive play from Medway flyhalf, Joe Hicks and Max Poynter eventually told as Medway’s own version of Usain Bolt, in the rather more diminutive form of Aengus Daly broke free from inside his own half to carve his way through several Thames players to register the only score of the game.1-0 to Medway.
After that bruising encounter the Reds had to face the home side, Westcliffe. This was another riveting encounter with both sides battering each other in a game that could have gone either way. However, Westcliffe eventually shaded it 2-1 with a consolation try for Medway from hooker Billy Young who crashed over after a good drive from the rest of the Medway pack.
The Reds final pool game was against a very big and aggressive Rochford side, but the Reds met fire with fire and it was Josh Bruin who danced his way to the line to open the scoring after some great work from centre Alex Belsey. Rochford came back but the next score saw Billy Young put Medway Reds 2-0 up. Yet again the dangerous Rochford backs released their speedy winger in what looked like a certain try until Joe Hicks made a try-saving tackle to preserve Medway’s 2-0 advantage Joe was not the only one that had to make try saving tackles Adam Clark had to subdue attacks down his wing which he did with some great tackles to halt the larger winger facing him. Rochford continued to pound the Medway line and were rewarded with a try of their own. With their tails now up the Essex side continued to release quick ball to their pacey backs. However, this was to be their downfall as Josh Bruin cleverly intercepted a pass and raced half the length of the pitch to close the game off. A tireless performance in attack and defence from both forwards and backs saw Medway notch up a well-deserved win 3-1. With two wins from three in the pool stages the Reds had booked themselves a place in the Plate Final. The big question was who would they meet?
Medway Ambers played the other Westcliffe team and wow what a display of running rugby. Medway took the game to Westcliffe from the kick off with some powerful forward work from the Front row of Owen Baldwin, Max Willis and Cameron Bassindale, the platform was set for ScrumHalf Aaron Mathe to snipe around the fringe of a ruck to score the first of the Medway trys Medway 1-0. Again from the kick off the Medway pack drove the ball deep into the Westcliffe half and quick ball out released the backs for Josh Bruin to side step his way to the second score Medway 2-0 up. It was now all one way traffic and WestCliffe could not handle the constant pressure from the Medway team and a great tackle from Ollie Bell saw the ball jarred loose and the backs with quick hands released winger Harry Pattenden to score in the corner 3-0. What a half. The second half started in odd fashion Medway kicked off and the Westcliffe players could not field the ball which let Josh Bruin race up collect the ball at full tilt and scored straight from the Start, Medway 4-0, Medway was not finished yet New Boy Sean Horan came on for his first game of Rugby and made a impacted straight away with some strong powerful running which was recycled quickly Josh Bruin made the break and great support from Callum Germany on his shoulder the pass was made to Callum to score 5-0. Was there time for another?? yes there was Ollie Bell who was playing at Inside centre instead of his regular Prop position made hard yards but the defender just could not bring him down, he broke free and galloped in for the score 6-0 the ref then blew up what a game the parents and coaches were in awe of the performance from everyone of them.
Next up was a very large Dagenham side and the size proved to be the factor but Medway never gave up. The pack stood firm with Nathan Goodall playing his best game till injury forced him from the field, Medway reorganised and try as they may the lads from Dagenham were just to strong the game ended 4-0 to Dagenham which was not a bad result as Medway later learned that the Dagenham team was made up of 3 age groups and Had u12 players in their team so Medway should take heart from a very gusty performance as no one took a back ward step and fronted up the whole game. Medway Ambers also finished 2nd so went into the Plate Final to meet the Medway Reds.
So it was to be an All Medway plate final. Medway Reds vs Medway Ambers and it was a great final with both sides trying to impose themselves on the other. Surging runs from Harry Bloomfield and James Hudson was countered with runs from Joshua Rai and Joshua Wright but both team defended with their lives.
It was James Hudson who opened the scoring for the reds with a rampaging run with 4 defenders hanging from him he crash over for 1-0 but that sparked the game to another level and Josh Bruin counter attacked and snaked his way to the line 1-1. Joe Hick saw some space and went for the gap but great defence from Aaron Mathe and Callum Germany saw the gap close but the offload went to Billy who raced for the line to notch up a well set up try 2-1 reds. Half time and the Reds had the advantage. The second half was like a see-saw with attacks from both sides be stopped by stout defence but Billy Young was on hand from some slick handling from Lachlan Wardle and Alex Belsey to notch his second of the game and the Reds 3rd 3-1. But the Ambers didn’t let their heads drop and from a loose kick the Ambers fullback Josh Bruin looked up and sped off to the outside and rounded the last defender to make the score 3-2 as the game was entering the last few moments the game was again see-sawing but the ambers had one last chance to and the ball was moved out wide to Michael Parmenter who was stopped but had the presence of mind to pass inside to you guessed it Josh Bruin to score and level the game 3-3 the ref blew for full time but what a game what a day the spoils was shared which was a fair reflection of the day another venture into Essex county and return with their silverware well done to the lads for their great rugby and attitude you done the club your parents and yourselves proud
Scribe
Lee Bruin/Andy Young
Medway Under 11s into next round of Kent Cup
Medway under 11s on Sunday progressed to the next round of the Kent Cup after battling through four tough games at the Medway Priestfields Ground to set themselves up for the finals of the county’s Plate Competition next week.
Medway’s path to the next round of the Kent Cup was pretty emphatic with 15 tries scored and only two conceded. Despite a poor start against a tough-tackling Dartfordians side that saw the home side go down 1-0, Medway soon got into their stride with an impressive 7-1 victory over Folkestone.
Scrum half James Robertson opened the scoring in the first half against Folkestone with a pick up and drive from close quarters. Good cover tackling from Oliver Bell and Alex Russell helped keep Folkestone on the back foot. A well-worked passage of play, involving both backs and forwards that saw giant second-rower James Hudson deftly offload the ball for Aengus Daly to cross the line. As the confidence returned the Medway side let loose in the second half with Harry Bloomfield bagging an impressive brace and Josh Bruin also scoring two tries, both via interception. Max Poynter slotted comfortably into the backs while Aengus Daly was busy again, scoring from the halfway line.
The third pool match of the day saw Medway pitted against Tonbridge Judds ‘B’ in a more closely contested match. A scintillating break from Adam Clark fell short just two yards from the line before being eagerly pounced upon by Billy Young to open the scoring. The ever-present Aengus Daly then ran in a try from 30 yards, quickly followed by another from Callum Germany who picked up from behind his own scrum to weave his way through several players to register a 3-0 victory for Medway.
Having finished the group stage in second place, Medway found themselves facing a tough Thanet side in the quarter-finals of the Plate to vie for next week’s spot in the finals. However, by now Medway were in full flow and centre Alex Belsey opened the scoring with a jinking run through several defenders. Not to be outdone, fellow centre James Bullock ran in another two tries before Callum Germany struck again from in close after a mesmeric run from Josh Bruin. Aengus Daly finished the scoring to make his personal tally for the day a whopping four tries.
All in all it was an extremely impressive day for Medway who showed that they are more than capable of mixing it with the best when they set their minds to it. Even more encouraging was the emergence of several new players to the squad – Joseph Hicks, James Clack, Lachlan Wardle, Regan Blyth and Michael Parmenter - who all stepped into their roles with ease and made significant contributions on the day.
Scribe – Andy Young
U11A New Year Cup
Medway U11 make slow but solid start to New Year
Medway under 11 A’s registered a respectable second place on Sunday as they shook off the effects of a long Christmas break by taking part in a three-team New Year’s Cup tournament at Blackheath Rugby Club.
In bitterly cold conditions the Medway team faced tournament hosts Blackheath in the first game. With many of the Medway side looking like they had just unplugged their X-Boxes for the first time in a while the hosts were able to take advantage of some sloppy defence to notch up two early tries.
However, after some stout defence, most notably from Oliver Bell, the Medway side slowly clawed their way back into the game. The first half ended 2-1 after second rower Harry Bloomfield won his own lineout ball from 25 metres out and powered through several players to cross the line.
The second half saw the mighty Medway pack dominate their opposition at the scrum but with Blackheath’s rush defence in full swing the Medway backs struggled to make any serious inroads into Blackheath territory. The game ended 3-1 after Blackheath ran in one more try.
Next up was Beckenham who provided a much easier test as the Medway side crushed their opposition 7-0. The match was dominated from start to finish by the Medway forwards who used their considerable size advantage to good effect by securing quality ball all over the park.
Josh Bruin ran in the first of Medway’s tries with one of his trademark jinking runs from fullback. Scrum-half James Robertson’s quick thinking saw him score the second as he picked up from behind the scrum to run in through a gap. Winger Adam Clark showed good instincts by scooting over from close range after more good work from the front five. Billy Young took the tally to four after the hooker ended up with the ball from a well-worked rolling maul. Max Poynter also scored after the winger showed good pace to cross the line from a well-timed pass from Callum Germany. Speedster Aengus Daly bagged a brace after more good work from the backs.
Honourable mentions also go to forwards Alex Russell and James Hudson and in the backs Alex Belsey and James Bullock.
Scribe Andy Young
Medway U11 finish 2009 on a high
Medway under 11 A’s ended 2009 on a high on Sunday by beating Gravesend 7-1 in a highly entertaining game that saw centre James Bullock register a superb hat trick. The win was all the more impressive as Medway showed true character to bounce back from a 4-0 defeat by reigning Kent Champions – Tonbridge Juddians.
Medway will be disappointed at the way they played against Tonbridge – a side they recently drew 0-0 against in the final of the Upminster Festival – but will take much encouragement from a highly impressive performance against Gravesend.
Poor defence, a lack of aggression at the breakdown, and some errant kicking out of hand cost the Medway side dear against Tonbridge. Thankfully, Medway had rectified most of these mistakes by the time they took on Gravesend.
The match against Gravesend was built on much firmer foundations with the Medway forwards securing better ball for the backs to wreak havoc. Medway’s centre pairing of Josh Bruin and James Bullock ran the show. The pair notched up five tries between them with Josh Bruin’s solo effort from his own line and James Bulloch’s mazy dance through several Gravesend defenders, both candidates for try of the season. However, James Bulloch’s third try drew the biggest cheer of the day as this meant his father had to honour that old rugby tradition of buying a round at the bar (cheers Ade).
Speedy winger Aengus Daly also crossed the line after some slick passing through the backs and prop Alex Russell powered over from a pick and drive after more good work from the Medway pack.
A big pat on the back also to the rest of the team: Oliver Bell, Harry Bloomfield, James Clack, Adam Clark, Callum Germany, James Hudson, Max Poynter, James Robertson and Billy Young.
Scribe Andy Young
U11 B v Tonbridge B,C and Vigo (13 December 2009)
With Medway A away to Tonbridge it was up to Medway B to host Tonbridge B/C (two mixed teams) and Vigo.
The day started very cold and after a short warmup we got into matches. Due to the late arrival of players matches were slow to get under way and kindly Tonbridge lent Medway two player to make a side of ten.
Medway’s first game was against the first of Tonbridges sides. Medway were shell shocked from the start with strong rucking and quick ball of the Tonbridge players and were quickly down 0-4 at the break. The second half was a much stronger affair from Medway only letting in a single score.
Medway’s next game was against the second side from Tonbridge and this proved to be a very tough affair, with this team having a much stronger pack. Medway though held their own throughout the games scrums showing determination. Tonbridge proved too strong though and led 0-3 at the half. Medway were close to scoring with a strong drive from Lachlan and Regan to only be held up over the line. The second half became tougher with Medway players showing tiredness of playing against teams of eleven and were then run down by a quick succession of tries from Tonbridge 0-6 to the visitors. A strong finish from some stars of the day then showed Tonbridge that Medway was still strong to keep them scoreless for the remainder of the half.
A tough day for our brave eight, and a big thanks to our friends from Tonbridge who proudly helped our team to field a squad of ten players. Some notable efforts of the day; with Joshua Rai showing some great tackles and determination at the ruck. Regan Blyth and Max Willis worked very hard at the break downs In fact the complete forward five worked hard at all the scrums, well done to Ross and Nathan. Lachlan Wardle playing at scrum half seemingly everywhere, and Joshua Wright and Harry Pattenden showing great strength in their tackles and rucks.
Medway B were; Regan Blyth, Ross Carter, Nathan Goodall, Harry Pattenden, Joshua Rai, Lachlan Wardle, Max Willis, Joshua Wright.
Medway U11 travel down to Thanet in the rain
On Sunday Medway U11’s travelled down to rain soaked Thanet to play the home team plus Sittingbourne. Due to a few players missing Medway had enough to put out a A squad that saw Lachlan Wardle make his debut on the wing as a result of all his hard work he has put in over the last few months at training and in the B squad.
Medway A squad had to play a very tough physical Sittingbourne side. As the whistle went the rain was still coming down and the playing surface was sloppy at best. But Medway still tried to use their bigger more mobile pack to set up the Glamour boys in the backs but due to the ball being more like a bar of wet soap there were mistakes from both teams. Sittingbourne struck first through their live wire scrumhalf who may have been one of the smallest guys on their team but played like a giant 1-0 to Sittingbourne.
Medway must have got a shock at going behind something they are not used to this season. From the re-start the pack drove the ball up the field with strong runs by Billy Young James Hudson and Alex Russell set up quick ball for Inside centre Josh Bruin to step his way to the line Medway 1-1 this was the spur that they needed Medway started to apply pressure at the set piece and the backs tried to run the ball when they could but the conditions was not kind for flowing champagne rugby. Then a clever kick by Medway was chased well by the backs the ball was rolling in the mud but Callum Germany was there to scoop it up to score the winning try Medway 2-1 Sittingbourne were not finished and threw everything at the Medway defence, it was some great tackles from Lachlan wardle Max Poynter and Ollie Bell that preserved the lead right till the final whistle.
Next up was Thanet, the rain had stopped now but the ground was like a bog but Medway had the upper hand from the first whistle Medway Scrumhalf James Robertson was everywhere putting in big hits and causing havoc everywhere. But the forwards were at the dominating best and it was from a series of forward runs that Billy young scored the first try of the game with his trade mark pick and drive from a few yards out. 1-0. from the kick off the backs went to work with slick hands from Aengus Daly and Alex Belsey the Medway team swept up the field the backs were stopped just short of the line and it was Billy Young that was there to pick up and dive over the line Medway 2-0. So at half time Medway were up 2-0 and it could have been more but some fine defence from Thanet kept them in the game. The second half saw more ball getting out to the backs with quick hands they could use their pace, it was from once such move saw Josh Bruin side step his way to score a try in the corner Medway 3-0. The Medway lineout was working well in these trying conditions and good work from Harry Bloomfield saw him charge his way up the field but a great covering tackle saw the big man stopped but the rest of the pack rucked quick ball to release the backs again and Josh Bruin was on hand to touch down for another try Medway 4-0. Times was ticking away and Medway used a new Lineout move which saw Alex Russell claim a great lineout throw to rampage to the line to score a fine try. The game finished 5-0
So the long road trip was worth it in the rain and I am sure there was plenty of mud in parent’s cars.
Team for the day was
Ollie Bell Billy Young Alex Russell James Hudson Harry Bloomfield James Robertson Callum Germany Josh Bruin Alex Belsey Lachlan Wardle Max Poynter Aengus Daly
Ashford and Gravesend, 22 November 2009
The U11 A's maintained their unbeaten record this season with wins against Ashford A (twice) and Gravesend in predictably unpleasant conditions down the M20. More remarkably, they are yet to concede a try this season having now scored 30 of their own without reply.
They beat Ashford 4-0 and 2-0 and Gravesend 3-0, and had several tries disallowed for the ball being held up, by the grass as one Medway wag suggested. All three performances demonstrated the remarkable spirit in the team which is built on a powerful and mobile pack supported by intelligent and skillful backs. On the occasions that the opposition neared the Medway line, all nine defended it without compromise and their proud record remains intact.
Scorers on the day were pocket battleship Billy Young, Harry Bloomfield who isn't as nice on the pitch as he looks off it, James Robertson who was outstanding at scrum half with his sniping runs, fleet footed and wily Josh Bruin, and Adam Clarke who's supporting runs paid dividends.
Honorable mention must go to James Hudson who's charge from the half way line carrying at least five of his own players and the entire Ashford team deserved a try but the ref couldn't give it when the vast mass of chaos finally collapsed over the line.
There is much to admire about this team who are able to adapt to any conditions it seems. Despite the wind and rain the ball passed through hands and when the sun finally comes out it will be interesting to see if this team can reach its full potential.
Congratulations to the other crucial team members, Ollie Bell, Alex Russell, Callum Germany, James Bullock, Alexander Belsey, Joe Hicks and James Clack.
Scribe Ade Bullock
Ashford, 22 November 2009
Medway B’s were pitched against Ashford B’s and were able to complete two games during the day. The first match showed the Medway players were going to mean business with strong contesting at the break down and some spectacular tackles. The match was a see-saw affair for the first half with neither team willing to give in and ended scoreless. The second half started in the same fashion before a series of drives and some spectacular runs down the touch line had Medway camped near Ashfords line. Ross Carter then drove through the pack to steal the first score for the day. Ashford struck immediately back with an excellent run by their strong winger 1 – 1. Medway again pressured Ashford and some fantastic kick and chase followed by strong rucking again gave Medway close quarters. This time it was Reagan Blyth who saw a rare gap through the strong defence of Ashford and Medway were up 2-1. The game again went back to the see-saw and a last ditch run by Ashford was stopped by a crunching tackle from Joshua Wright. Medway victorious 2-1 at the whistle.
After a brief rest Medway were back into the contest against Ashford B’s. The match this time was a more open affair but with great runs from both sides no one was able to score. Ashford threw everything at Medway and crossed the line twice to only be held up by the combined strength of the Medway side. Just before half time Medway suffered a blow when Owen Baldwin suffered an injury to his knee, Owen had been strong at the breakdown creating several turnovers. The second half started with 0-0 but Ashford were quick to strike with another fantastic run down the wing but Medway were unable to stop it this time, 0-1. Medway struck back from the kick-off with good play in their own half. The ball was quickly secured and fed quickly through the hands to substitute Adam Clark who was able to run the length of the field to open the score for Medway 1-1. The game then went into Overdrive with Ashford pressing again and again. Medway would counter with some fine work from scrum half Aaron Mathe who consistently delivered good ball to Stephanie Brook. Some excellent breaks with Lachlan Wardle and Harry Pattenden combining but were unable to make it through to score. Eventually Max Willis picked up the ball at the ruck after spotting some loose defence and charged half the field for a well deserved try 2-1. Ashford would continue to strike again and again only to be denied twice with Medway again holding the ball up over the try line. Ashford continued to dominate play for a while until Max Willis not satisfied with his previous try spotted the same mistake again and went straight through the Ashford defence and sprinted three quarters of the pitch to give Medway a 3-1 victory.
Medway B had deserved their wins with all involved in an exceptional display of rugby.
The forward pack of Owen Baldwin, Cameron Bassindale, Regan Blyth (1), Ross Carter (1), Max Willis (2) and Nathan Goodall had shown to be very strong in all areas of the game with the additional flexibility shown with Cameron and Max swapping between hooker and wing. The backs were Aaron Mathe, Stephanie Brook, Lachlan Wardle, Joshua Wright, Harry Pattenden and Michael Parmenter with a brief but effective guest appearance by Adam Clark.
Scribe Neil Wardle
B Team Match Report
In their first game the much changed B team took on a large Ashford team, with the wind in their faces they battled bravely to turn around at half time 0-0. In the 2nd half the wind favoured them and scores from Ross Carter and Regan Blyth capped a great display all round. Final Score 2-0
Their 2nd game was almost a mirror image of the first, with Ashford taking the ball up early using their superior size, but with the wind in their backs the 2nd half was all Medway, with tries coming from Max Willis (2) and Adam Clark. Final score was 3-1 Medway
All round great display from the whole team in challenging conditions.
Scribe Phil Mathe
U11 B v Aylesford
With the A team away at the Upminster Festival the B team travelled to Aylesford to gain some much needed match experience. Aylesford B were a strong side with a couple ex-Medway A players in their side. The B team started their campaign very slowly showing their inexperience and lack of confidence against this team but it really was a day of halves as over the two matches the Medway side became stronger and stronger.
The first match saw Aylesford leap from the blocks and score four tries in the first half with the Medway forwards unable to hold their own in the scrums a lot of turnover occurred. For the second half of this first Match Medway regrouped and showed some fantastic spirit by not being down at half time but focussed on what they needed to do to improve in this game. In the second half the team lifted and with the forwards now holding their own Medway only conceded two tries which were soundly put down to a little loose tackling. So first game went to Aylesford but Medway had shown great spirit to keep fighting and at times frustrated Aylesford.
The second match saw the B team really step up to the mark. The forwards started giving the Aylesford team some serious issues winning the scrum against the feed and also fiercely contesting line outs with Cameron confusing them with his variations in calls. The forward pack of Reagan Blyth, Cameron Bassindale, Owen Baldwin, Ross Carter and Nathan Goodall really showed they have what it takes to make an impact.
With a few changes to positions for this match a little confusion and slow ball created an opportunity for Aylesford which they capitalised on to score a try in the opening minutes. Medway regrouped and some strong play from the back line meant that Medway started to trouble Aylesford and some good distribution from Joshua Wright and then combinations from Stephanie Brook, Joseph Hicks, Lachlan Wardle and Harry Pattenden kept the defence for Aylesford busy.
The second half was an even stronger display with Medway now showing some tough work in defence and attack. Aylesford after some substitutions now started to put pressure on the line and even broke through but some very determined efforts from Joshua Rai and Michael Parmenter producing some try saving tackles. This half then finished a scoreless affair but Medway were unlucky not to score although they spent much of this half in the Aylesford half but full credit to them their defence was just too strong today.
Although we came away without a try and two losses it was a victory for the players as they showed the true Medway spirit and never gave up and improved as the morning progressed. It is important to note that although Aylesford had six substitutes Medway played the day with none. The next time we face them I believe we can give them a bigger scare.
Medway B were; Owen Baldwin, Cameron Bassindale, Stephanie Brook (Captain), Regan Blyth, Ross Carter, Nathan Goodall, Joseph Hicks, Michael Parmenter, Harry Pattenden, Joshua Rai, Lachlan Wardle, Joshua Wright.
Upminster Festival
11 October 2009
Medway share spoils with U11 Kent Champs
On Sunday Medway U11's travelled to Essex to play in the Upminster festival. Medway was looking to build on their great success from the week before when they shared the Cup with Upminster. Could their 100% record remain by the end of the day?
First up in the pool was Stamford, Medway started the match on fire, the forwards gave Stamford no space or chance to get out of their own half. All the pressure was too much for them to handle and Alex Belsey cut through the Stamford defence to register the first try of the game (1-0). Medway continued to dominate the game at every facet and it was the pack that was to claim the second try when Alex Russell powered over to make it 2-0, this was shortly followed up by front row partner Billy Young who crashed over for the 3rd try of the game. The Medway Backs were not going to let the forwards have all the fun and glory, Fullback Josh Bruin made one of his blazing runs to make it 4-0. With the bit between their teeth Medway did not let up continuing to hound the Stamford team at every turn. With time winding down to the end, there was just time for Medway to cause a little more havoc, with a crunching tackle from James Hudson that made his opposite number spill the ball, Alex Belsey was there to scoop it up & score the final try of the game. What a start...
Up next was Aylesford which was a hard fought game from the start but great tackling and constant pressure from Oliver Bell, Callum Germany and James Bullock kept Aylesford on the back foot for long periods but as half time approach the score remainded at 0-0. In the second half both sides tried to dominate but it was Medway's pack that drove the ball up the field to within feet of the Aylesford line, Billy Young tried to drive over the line but the defense was strong, Medway recycled the ball quickly giving Pack Leader Harry Bloomfield the chance to drive over the line for the curial score leaving Medway the 1-0 winners.
The final pool game was against Braintree an unknown team to Medway. So unsure on how to play against Braintree, Medway started brightly but the opposition had a game plan to frustrate Medway’s attacks but with some great defence from Max Poytner, James Robertson & Alex Russell they managed to shut Braintree down before they got any momentum to threaten Medway’s lines but even with attacking runs from Belsey, Bruin, Bullock & Germany the first half ended 0-0. The second half saw the introduction of fresh legs, Aaron Mathe & James Clack started with passion to win but the game become a little scrappy and even with mighty runs from Aengus Daly Medway couldn't breach the Braintree try line. The opposition were then just holding out for a draw and as the final whistle came, the score remained at 0-0. Medway are through to the semis.
Medway was to face Chelmsford in the semis who were a much larger outfit but as Medway were now so fired up they were looking for nothing but a win to get them to the finals. The forwards once again with the quick thinking of Bell over powered their opponents at the breakdowns and it was from one such play that presented the Medway backs the opportunity to launch a sweeping move from right to left with great speed of hands to get the ball to Bruin in space for him to out sprint the cover defence to touchdown for the games first try 1-0. Medway continued to smother Chelmsford in their own half. With all this mounting pressure the backs moved the ball once again in another magic moment that released Daly to add his name to the score sheet making it 2-0. Not to be out done Medway’s other Winger Adam Clark put in a great tackle that jarred the ball loose for the backs to take full advantage by moving the ball through & up quickly for a little pop out to Daly for his second try of the match giving Medway a 3-0 victory to the Final and their second final in 2 weeks.
Tonbridge Juddians the current U11's Kent Champions awaited Medway in the final. And what a final it turned out to be. Both teams wanted so much to win this game and it showed from the utter commitment from both sides. The tackles that were going in and the great attacking rugby that was foiled from the massive defensive efforts from all these boys made it such a great final. Medway had to weather a lot of pressure in the first half but Tonbridge made a mistake going toe to toe with the Medway Dogs of War, No one was going to cross their tryline today & Medway made it to Half time 0-0.
The second Half Medway seemed to have more control and try as they may the Tonbridge defence was not going to concede today either. As the time ticked away neither team gave an inch, bodies were put on the line from each team as both teams played a massive game in front of their coaches and parents. The Final whistle came and the score was 0-0 but the boys had given everyone watching one great game of rugby with this in mind the coaches decided that spoils should be shares evenly.
2 festivals,2 finals,10 matches 7 wins 3 draws 0 losses 21 tries scored 0 conceded,
Well done to the whole squad as everyone played their part in this success.
Squad for today -
Forwards - Ollie Bell, Harry Bloomfield, James Clack, James Hudson, Alex Russell & Billy Young.
Backs - Alex Belsey, Josh Bruin, James Bullock, Adam Clarke, Aengus Daly, Callum Germany, Aaron Mathe, Max Poynter & James Robertson.
Medway Festival
4 October 2009
What a fantastic day of rugby was achieved by all teams. Medway hosted nine visiting teams (one team failed to appear) and we put in two teams for the competition. Our visitors were Sittingbourne, Sevenoaks, Aylesford A, Aylesford B, Gravesend, New Ash Green, Upminster (Essex Champions), Barking, Tonbridge Juddians (Kent Champions).
Medway B was always expected to have a tough day playing against more experienced A squads but they played with pride and did well. The highlight of their pool matches was their first game against Tonbridge Juddians B to whom they only lost 2-0. This is an excellent score against a strong club and shows the raw ability that still exists. Their second game was much tougher against Barking who could only be said were a very large side. Our players did well and eventually lost 6-0. Some of the tackles they put in on much bigger players showed good bravery. Unluckily though Max Poynter’s try from a chased kick was disallowed by the referee (we know you got it Max!).
Medway B was then in the semi-finals for the bowl and due to a missing team earned automatic promotion to the final. This match against Sittingbourne A was a tough affair with several players collecting injuries. Sittingbourne in the bowl as a result of their tough pool proved to be too strong and won 6-0.
The Medway B team was; Owen Baldwin, Cameron Bassindale, Regan Blyth, Reese Brady, Stephanie Brook, Ross Carter, Nathan Goodall, Michael Parmenter, Harry Pattenden, Max Poynter (Captain), Joshua Rai, Lachlan Wardle, Max Willis and Joshua Wright.
Medway A started the day with high expectations and leapt to a strong start with a 4-0 win over Gravesend and quickly showing dominance in the forwards, try scorers were Josh Bruin, Aengus Daly, Billy Young and Callum Germany. They sealed their dominance of the Pool by unleashing a scoring frenzy on New Ash Green running in 7 unanswered tries. Try scorers were Ollie Bell, Callum Germany, Aengus Daly (2), James Hudson, James Bullock and Josh Bruin.
Medway A then proceeded to the semi-finals for the Cup and played long term rivals Sevenoaks. This match proved to be a very tough affair with neither side gaining an advantage. When games are this close it usually comes down to errors under pressure and this went Medway’s way with a well placed kick which was fumbled by Sevenoaks on their own try line for Alex Belsey to pounce and score the only try of the match. Medway then held the pressure for the rest of the game and won their place in the final.
The Cup final was then played against the Essex champions who were seeking some come back for Medway taking the cup at their festival last year. Another incredibly tough game was played and Medway withheld all the pressure and starved Upminster’s backs of any real ball. Upminster however proved tough to break also and the game ended in a scoreless tie, only after what can be described of the scrum of the century after Upminster elected to have a scrum near Medway’s line only to have Medway produce another dominant demonstration of power and won the ball against the feed.
The tie meant that the decision on Cup victor went to count back. Both teams were equal on pool points and were also tied for total tries scored for the day so the spoils were deservedly shared between the two teams. This was a fantastic day of rugby played in great spirit and showed why rugby is such a great sport to be a part of.
Thanks to all teams involved and congratulations to all players, you wore the Medway colours with pride!
Overall results below:
| Team | Team | ||||
| Pool A | 0 | Sittingbourne | V | Sevenoaks | 4 |
| 0 | Sittingbourne | V | Aylesford A | 3 | |
| 1 | Sevenoaks | V | Aylesford A | 0 | |
| Pool B | 0 | Gravesend | V | Medway A | 4 |
| 3 | Gravesend | V | New Ash Green | 0 | |
| 7 | Medway A | V | New Ash Green | 0 | |
| Pool C | 0 | Aylesford B | V | Upminster | 4 |
| 0 | Aylesford B | V | Upminster | 4 | |
| Pool D | 0 | Tonbridge Juddians | V | Barking | 3 |
| 2 | Tonbridge Juddians | V | Medway B | 0 | |
| 6 | Barking | V | Medway B | 0 | |
| Bowl SF1 | 6 | Sittingbourne | V | New Ash Green | 1 |
| Bowl SF2 | 0 | V | Medway B | 1 | |
| Plate SF1 | 3 | Aylesford A | V | Gravesend | 0 |
| Plate SF2 | 0 | Aylesford B | V | Tonbridge Juddians | 1 |
| Cup SF1 | 0 | Sevenoaks | V | Medway A | 1 |
| Cup SF2 | 0 | Barking | V | Upminster | 4 |
| Bowl Final | 6 | Sittingbourne | V | Medway B | 0 |
| Plate Final | 4 | Aylesford A | V | Tonbridge Juddians | 0 |
| Cup Final | 0 | Medway A | V | Upminster | 0 |