Sat 17 Sep 2022
Stratford upon Avon RFC 53 - 10 Old Halesonians RFC
Following defeats in their opening two games, Stratford returned to Pearcecroft and thrilled the home support with a performance of total rugby dominance over a spirited Old Halesonians side. In bright sunshine, following a poignant 2 minute silence, on a pitch where the going was ‘good to firm’ Stratford ran in 9 tries to 2.
From the kick off Stratford set the tone keeping the ball in hand and attacking the Old Hales line with every opportunity, swift ball from scrum half Jordan Baker gave the pacy back line great ball and following a well won ruck near the line saw eventual Man of the Match Chris Bolton step two defenders to drive over the line for the opening score. He quickly followed this up in similar style to take the score to 10 nil within 10 minutes. However, Old Hales were stung into action quickly hit back with an unconverted try.
From the restart Stratford again used the ball smartly, the pack beginning to show their dominance at both line out and scrum, leading to a sublime score out wide for the experienced full back Jo Cook, superbly converted by centre Nathan Geekie. Whilst Old Hales continued to press, Stratford’s pressure increased leading to a further score from hooker Michael Dawes to take the score to 22-5 at half time.
The second half began in similar fashion with a superb line out win from Sam James the ball was worked in a strong drive with the ball finding winger Maxwell Haine , who despite the attention of three defenders drove his way over the line into the corner.
Stratford had by now begun to play with real confidence leading to further scores from Baker and veteran winger Dan Whitby taking the score to 39 -5, however despite being down to 14 men following a yellow card for a high tackle, Old Hales hit back with an unconverted try of their own.
Further spurred into action and trying to run the ball, a spilled pass by Old Hales led to the ever-present poacher Whitby to intercept and fly under the posts with Geekie easily taking the extras to take the score to 46 -10. Now, dominant Stratford closed the game out with a great run and step from centre Josh Bloomfield leaving downcast defenders in his wake to score under the posts with Geekie converting to take the final score to 53 -10.
A great all round team performance from Stratford was rightly appreciated from the home crowd and the coaching team, the Dick Workman man of the match award being awarded to Chris Bolton, not just for his brace of tries but all-round play and adaptability covering several positions during the game.
Next week sees the Black and Whites again at home, with a strong test against current league leaders Worcester, kick off 3pm all support is welcome and guaranteed a great game and Pearcecroft hospitality.
Stratford RFC welcome new players of all ages and abilities. Training takes place at 7.30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Pearcecroft.
