It was a gorgeous autumn day on Saturday, 23rd October and The Rectory Field looked resplendent and ready for rugby!
Askeans went down 21 – 55 in an entertaining game of fluctuating fortunes. Whilst defeat brought disappointment, there was also optimism for the future with some enterprising and spirited play and some new personnel.
Askeans had a good settled start and early territorial advantage with season debutants Kudzai Maboreke and Toby Rush settling in well.
Sheppey showed good defence in their 22, however and despite Askean forwards competing valiantly in the loose, Sheppey’s superior scrum began to have an impact and they scored 2 tries quickly, one a fine individual effort by their No.12 from the halfway line, to give them a 0-12 lead.
Askeans came back and once more exerted pressure in Sheppey 22 – and again, their robust defence protected their line.
Play then moved to midfield and it was during this phase that Sheppey converted a penalty for offside - 0 – 15.
An attack down the left wing saw Sheppey score their 3rd try, giving them control at half time - 0 – 22.
For Askeans supporters, the start of the 2nd half was exhilarating as the team exploited their backs’ running capability, especially wide and outside – Toby Rush made a great run down the left wing, leading to Askeans 1st try
7 – 22.
Kudzai Maboreke then ran from the halfway line on the right side, breaking tackles as he went to go over for an excellent try.
14 – 22
From nowhere, the game was now competitive. Sheppey rose to the challenge, however and applied some sustained pressure in Askeans 22, leading to a try.
14 – 27
Askeans came back again and once more it was a fine run on the left by Toby Rush, which led to Askeans 3rd try
21- 27
There was tremendous excitement amongst Askeans supporters – Could they continue to create space and utilise the pace of their backs?
Unfortunately, that was as good as it got and Sheppey regained control and scored 2 quick tries, one from a short penalty move on Askeans line and another, more or less straight from the kick off.
21 – 41.
There was time for Askeans to apply more pressure which was not converted into points – and for Sheppey to apply pressure which was converted into 2 more tries. And perhaps, the conversion of pressure into points was the difference between the sides in a very entertaining game.
Final score 21 – 55
As ever, there was a great atmosphere on the pitch side and in the Clubhouse. Blackheath members came along to support Askeans, Sheppey had a good following and there was a convivial atmosphere, helped along by a buffet laid on by Director of Rugby, Ian Lunn
Askeans Man of the Match
– For excellent running in attack and robust defence
– Toby Rush
Don’t forget our next match at The Rectory Field on Saturday 6th November vs Dartford Valley
Preceded by our World Famous Pre-Match Buffet! Just £10, cash on the day
– An excellent opportunity to catch up with Fellow Askeans, support the Team and enjoy the bonhomie at The Rectory Field!