Match Report: Petersfield 3rds vs LockHeath Pumas 1st XV - Saturday 17th September 2011
Although the scoreline suggests that this was a re-run of the recent New Zealand-Japan 2011 World Cup game, the enthusiasm by both teams to play an expansive style of rugby was a major factor on the end result.
For both the first 20 minutes of each half, Petersfield were matching LockHeath Pumas in every aspect of the game from 1 to 15. The 40 minutes either side of the initial 20 minutes in each half were a different story. With a well-drilled set of young backs and co-hesive forwards, LockHeath frequently used their backline, especially their Tindall-esqe ‘crash-ball’ inside centre, to make ground into the Petersfield 22. The pressure finally told as another well-drilled set move brought the first score underneath the Petersfield posts. With a converted try, LockHeath continued to utilise set moves between forwards and backs,
with frequent disruption at scrum time. While containing the LockHeath pressure, Petersfield continued to build momentum through initial strong defence, direct running by backrow-flyhalf-centre combinations ( including an audacious side-step by veteran outside centre, Rhys James, to ‘outfox’ the entire LockHeath three-quarter line) and some astute tactical kicking.
With the game reaching the end of the first 20 minutes, a scything and nimble run by Petersfield ‘man of the match’, scrum half Gary Harfield, starting just inside the Petersfield half ended in a LockHeath kick into touch outside their 22 line. With the Petersfield front five securing ball from the following line-out, the ball was shipped by fly-half Groves to inside centre Blanks who drove the ball to the LockHeath 5 yard line. From the ensuing ruck, the ball was quickly released through hands with the final ‘basketball-style’ pass by Higson releasing outside centre James to side-step one man and go over for Petersfield’s first (unconverted) try. For the next 20 minutes, LockHeath’s pace and early season fitness began to tell, albeit Petersfield’s continuing enthusiasm for both defence and offence style of play, as points began to appear on the scoreboard. Unfortunately to add to Petersfield’s woes, injuries to players in key positions began to impact fluency in play.
After re-grouping at half-time, Petersfield came out with new enthusiasm and aggression, especially the forward pack, hitting the rucks at speed and turning over opposition ball. Once again the first 20 minutes of the half belonged to Petersfield, ending with the forward pack taking another 22 line out ‘catch and drive’, driving the LockHeath pack over the try line near the right hand side corner flag. From the pack of players, returning Petersfield player, prop Buck Rogers was credited with the unconverted try. In the end early season fitness began to take its toll, as LockHeath upped their game, with points appearing on the scoreboard on a frequent basis.
As ever, rugby was the winner, as the Petersfield 3rd XV welcomed four new players (Chris Brooker, Mike Downs, Antony Ruming and Andy Hawkins) and one returning player (Buck Rogers) to the team this season.
Note: If anyone is interested in playing for Petersfield Rugby Football Club, please do not hesitate to contact Julian Blanks (3rds and Vets Captain/Team Manager) on 07766542538 or e-mail: Julian.blanks1@btinternet.com