It was a warm, if blustery day for our final game of the season and the pitch was once more in excellent condition, courtesy of Ground Manager Danny Rouse.
In a game of varying fortunes, Askeans lost 24 – 61 and had the consolation of some good rugby played and a bonus point.
Before the game, a minute’s silence was observed in memory of Len Jeffrey, who passed on Good Friday. There is a tribute to Len in the programme at the end of this report, written by Dave Shute.
For the first half hour, it was an evenly balanced match. Askeans forwards played well in the set pieces and in loose play and the backs ably led by Captain Charlie King, now well back into his stride after his mid season sojourn on the side-lines.
Sevenoaks scored first after several drives (0-7). Askeans were undaunted, however and after a period in the 22 and several drives, Charlie King dived over for Askeans’ opening try (5-7)
The good work was quickly undone, however, as Sevenoaks then scored from the kick-off and Igor Pestrikov was sin binned for killing the ball (5-14).
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Askeans were on the attack once more and following an excellent drive by Marcus Middleton, Charlie King was again on hand to score. Fionn O’Connor was unlucky with a conversion attempt hitting the post (10 – 14).
It was end to end stuff, Askeans were playing with enterprise and character.
And then as the match approached the half hour, the game turned. From an innocuous play on the half way line, Sevenoaks ran in a try. The frustration amongst Askeans players was palpable and Sevenoaks players were now buoyant and they ran in four tries without reply in 20 minutes.
The score was now 10 -47, with half an hour to go – and Askeans got back into their stride, as if those 20 minutes were a mere aberration!
After a few drives, Charlie King crossed the line for an excellent hat trick! Fionn converted (17 – 47). Askeans were playing with confidence once more, even though, Sevenoaks were next to score. Unfortunately, Fionn’s despairing tackle was adjudged high and he was sin binned. Yet again, Askeans were not to be denied and after creating pressure in the 22, No.7 Josh Dunham found some space and scored an excellent try, converted by Diarmuid Morrissey.
Sevenoaks had the final say, scoring just before ‘No-side’ (24-61).
Congratulations and a warm welcome to our debutants, Ilia Koniukhovski and Alex Masters, who was also our Player of the Match!
Congratulations to league winners, Canterbury III, who pipped Bromley II and long time league leaders Old Colfeians II to the title - The very good news for us is that we retain 2 ‘Local derbies’ against Bromley II and Old Colfeians II and have one less coach trip to Canterbury for next season!
And of course, Many Congratulations to Askeans’ players – a good mid table position in the league with some attractive rugby played and a good run in the ‘Salver’, beaten only by the reigning Champions, Cliffe Crusaders in a tense encounter.
There was an excellent purple patch, when we were unbeaten in the league from the end of September through to Christmas . Unfortunately, injuries took their toll after Christmas but as ever the spirit has been undimmed!
Our next ‘Fixture’ is this coming Friday, Askean RFC Annual Dinner at The Rectory Field. It speaks volumes of the efforts of Director of Rugby Ian Lunn and the spirit within the club, that it is a ‘Full House’!
It all augurs well for next season already!
The programme with a tribute to Len Jeffrey is below