In a competitive game with Bexley, where fortunes swayed one way and another, Askeans came up just short 17 – 22 in a compelling and competitive game.
It was a wretched day, the rain becoming more incessant as the game progressed – so different from the balmy autumn day of a couple of weeks ago!
Bexley got off to a quick start, scoring a try within 5 minutes to go 0 -5 up. Askeans, however, settled down well with their quick backs going for several darting runs before a break from midway saw Nial Ryan go over for a try, well converted by James Roddy – 7 – 5.
The pattern of the game was already established with Bexley’s bulky forwards looking to gain yardage with driving mauls, bullocking runs and crash balls, versus Askeans’ ‘Fleet of foot’ backs and it was a Bexley forward run which led to their 2nd try – 7 – 10.
As the game moved into the 2nd quarter, Askeans’ defence stood resolute, and the half ended with all to play for.
Askeans had a great quick start to the 2nd half – a couple of darting runs and quick hands created space and Dave Tate exploited a move that began from halfway to go over for an excellent try under the posts - 14 - 10. Askeans were now playing with confidence and a penalty conversion by James Roddy from the 22-metre line saw Askeans lead 17 – 10 and enjoy a period of ascendancy. Another of his penalty attempts from the 10-yard line went narrowly wide and nearly led to an Askean try as Bexley mishandled on their line.
It was yet another series of Bexley forward driving runs that led to their 3rd try, somewhat against the run of play 17 – 17.
As the weather deteriorated and the game moved into the final quarter, Bexley’s driving forwards came more and more into the game, and it was their turn to be in the ascendancy.
With just 5 minutes to go, Bexley went over for their winning try, 17 – 22.
Whilst Askeans did not get their desired result, it was a competitive and entertaining game, enjoyed by both sides and supporters.
It was really good to see Blackheath members watching the game, along with Askeans’ members, Family and Friends
Many Thanks, especially to Blackheath Chairman Mike Bohndiek for venturing out on such a miserable day weather wise!
Askean RFC Squad – Saturday 2nd October 2021
Jack Henderson (Capt.) Ciaran O’Flynn
James Roddy Joe Field
Thomas Henderson Charlie King
Dave O’Connor Devon Maynard
Niall Ryan Adam Maguire
Matthew Owen Shane Walton
Dave Tate Rob Stanley
Chris Owen Nana Pratt
Alex Ure Christian Carillo
Head Coach Tim Keepax
Askean Man of the Match
Nial Ryan
Our next game is away to Old Gravesendians on 16th October.
Our next home game is against Sheppey on 23rd October
– Why not come up and join other Askeans’ supporters at The Rectory Field!