It’s been a tough season for Askeans, but the spirit, hard work and endeavour came together on Saturday at the Rectory Field with a league bonus point win against Greenwich.
For the first time in recent weeks, Askeans had a full complement of players, thanks to the tireless efforts of Director of Rugby, Ian Lunn, who has had to manage the ongoing problems of the extensive injury and unavailability lists.
Askeans came from an early deficit of 0-10 down after 20 minutes to record a fine 22-15 and a four try win at the final whistle.
Being a local derby it was a physical battle, with both sides giving everything right from the kick off. Defences were strong and none of the 7 tries were soft.
The tight Askeans line was eventually breached twice in the early stages, although Greenwich had to work incredibly hard to finally burrow over the line.
But that was the extent of the threat, with Askeans recording 22 unanswered points before the opposition scored a consolation try when Askeans were down to 14 men - by then the result was never in doubt.
The back row was prominent throughout with both Sam Adams and Nick Patten crossing the line to put Askeans ahead.
Their partner in the back row, number 7, Ollie Kemmis patrolled every inch of the wide pitch non stop - he was like the Duracell Bunny and never flagged - all those marathons paying off big time - the running not the choc bars, obviously!
Greenwich never threatened again after Jack Henderson, scored and converted, before Tadiwa Chanakira crossed to cap his fine all round performance from full back.
Jack was injured in the final quarter and had to go to hospital, but recovered to return to the bar before all the beer was consumed.
All three subs also played their part in this very encouraging victory.
Following the final whistle everyone, including the many supporters, retired to the bar to watch the international match on the big screens.
Despite England losing, there was little sign of anyone leaving the club - not while the beer was still flowing, anyway!
It would be wrong not to recognise that the whole squad contributed to the excellent win - here is the full team sheet -
1 Toby Setters
2. Rob Stanley
3. Devon Maynard
4. Dave O'Connor (Capt.)
5. Tom Henderson
6. Ollie Kemmis
7. Sam Adams
8. Nick Patten
9. Charlie King
10. Jack Henderson
11. Matthew Owen
12. Rob Coole
13. Alex Ure
14. Chris Owen
15. Tadiwa Chanakira
16. Luke Kemmis
17. Danny Walkden
18. Sam Hills
February 19th is the next home game vs Swanley.
There will be a pre-match buffet and a players presentation in the bar after the game.
Everyone is welcome, as always, at the Rectory Field.
Well done a win at last keep it going many thanks for match reports all the breast Daisy 🙏