Southwell Home

On a warm, bright October morning, the teams divided off for two games initially. On Rex's pitch, Bradwell scored almost straight from kick off, proving that we don't always have to start slow! Southwell replied immediately, setting in motion a competitive and full blooded game, with Casuals showing more intensity than last week. Edwin looked immediately at home on debut, making a great break to score and getting stuck into defence too. Southwell replied, then some good teamwork saw Casuals attack, which Sam recycled well for Otto to score in the corner.

Every time we scored a well built team try, Southwell responded with a longer range effort, with speed and silky sidestepping.

There was some thunderous tackling from the visitors, and Casuals were often battling on short-handed with various players receiving treatment. Edwin squeezed so much into his debut, and seemed certain to score a second try but for an heroic cover tackle that ultimately led to him going off injured for the rest of the day. We all hope he returns next week.

The first half ended with scores level, but definitely with Casuals on top. The second half went more Southwell's way, helped by their numerical advantage, despite strong work by Sam and Bradwell at the breakdown, and Otto growing in confidence as the game progressed.

The second game was more one sided in Southwell's favour, although Felix sparked a memorable counterattack when they failed to ground the ball after one breakthrough. This game also saw Casuals having to deal for the first time with the opposition tactic of kicking it long. This, coupled with suffocating defensive pressure, led to a further try for the visitors.

In the huddle, James reminded everyone of the need to hit the tackle and the clear out hard, and buy time by winning these collisions. These small margins were making the difference in the scoreline.

The final game brought everyone in to a 9 a side match. Owen was strong as ever in the ruck, Rupert (a deserved player of the week) was everywhere in both attack and defence, and Stan has obviously been watching too much of the world cup with an attempted pass out of a tackle that a Fijian would have been proud of! There was some lovely handling in attack, and it took strong defence from Southwell to keep us out....and not always legally. They were penalised numerous times for high tackles, but Casuals did well to keep their composure and discipline and keep pushing on.

The game ended with no further tries for Casuals, but seeing the sheer joy on Nathan's face (punching the air in triumph) at making a try-saving tackle at the death reminded everyone that it's not just about tries scored.

The winner? Rugby :)