Match Report
Tony Ryan Memorial Match - Sunday 14 February 2010
What a glorious way to celebrate the start of the rugby season, than to have the Super 14 co-ordinate its competition with the ACT Vets. I really think the Super 14 sides should be having a closer look at the ACT Vets. They may be able to glean some pointers from this formidable bunch of old rugby tragics.
For starters, the Super 14 guys are only ever going to play 16 rounds and that’s if they make the finals. Whereas the Vets season has at least 23 rounds and only stops to allow us to unwrap the chrissy presents. How’s that for stamina!
What better way to start the season than to be playing rugby in the rain. You remember, that wet stuff that used to fall from the sky. On Sunday, about 35 odd Vets players, and I mean odd, braved the conditions and donned on the Blue and Red kits to participate in the Tony Ryan Memorial Game, playing for the Clare Holland House Cup.
The game started with a line of honour for Pudge (John Hillier) who was celebrating his 50th birthday in true rugby style. Portsea Oval was in fantastic condition and plenty soft enough for everyone to enjoy the first hit out.
The match was played in true Vets spirit and at reasonable pace with both sides exchanging a series of tries to finally reach the 9 all score line. The red backs were in fine form and defended solidly against the blues 10 man backline. Both packs of forwards did their stuff, as far as I could tell; Tagger (Dave Creagh) seemed to be the last man up every time I saw him from my wing position. (Ed note: the following comment was made about the first photo - "That would appear to be a lineout lift FAIL by the reds there!")
As soft as the ground was on the day several players managed to find something very hard out there. Dan, Troy, and Mick all required some needle work and Hayesy has damaged a bicep tendon. We hope you are all back on the rugby field soon.
All players returned to the Hotel Olims for the
replay of the match and continue celebrating Pudges 50th.
A great day was had by all.
Crock
Back to Match Reports Directory
