18.02.2012 J4 XV v Old Belvedere (H)

18/02/20123:00pmLeagueSt. Marys J4 XV20 – 0Old BelvedereHome

St Marys 7 Belvo 13

While the history books will record the match as a 20-0 win for Marys due to Belvo having to go uncontested in the scrums, the game itself finished in a disappointing loss.

We got out of the stalls quickly and where soon exerting pressure on the Belvo line. Within the first few phases of play and within a head of the line Ciaran dug a pass out of the ruck and Ted threw a dummy and found a gap to squeeze himself through before crashing over the line. With the conversion scrapping inside the post it was 7-0 and we were off and running.

Unfortunately that was our lot for the match and Belvo soon discovered that their physical pack was the way to do most damage. A forwards game ensued and soon they crashed over for a try. Conversion missed but it was 7-5 and a further try and penalty saw them stretch their lead to 13-7. We fought valiantly and try as we might we couldn’t get the winning try. The team were brave in calling some daring backline moves that very nearly paid off but on a cold day and with most of them playing together for the first time some uncharacteristic handling errors meant the final scoreline was 7-13.

It’s a glowing testament to the club spirit that so many lads were willing to come out and help us get a squad for the day when we were in such dire need. A huge thanks to Ciaran, George, Carl, the two Steves, Ryan, the two Daves, DB, Mick and Hugh. Without guys like this the junior side of club rugby would be a poorer place. 

Thanks also to Belvo who despite starting with no front row and 14 players for the first ten minutes still made the journey across town to fulfil the fixture. An enjoyable game even if it wasn’t the prettiest to watch!

Next up Barnhall away in the final league game before the quest to bring the Colonel home begins on the 10th March.

Ian Grimson