Ashbourne 10 Nottingham Casuals 9

24 November 2012

Midlands 2 East North
Ashbourne 10 Nottingham Casuals 9

Casuals lost this encounter in the dying minutes, when Ashbourne managed to drive over for a try.
From what looked as if it might be a drubbing, Casuals managed to turn the game round, and looked if they might manage their second win in the league.
Playing uphill, on a slippy, soggy pitch, almost bereft of any pitch markings, in the ever increasing rain, it was hard to imagine the level of commitment, and the quality that both teams were going put into the game.Even keeping the on their feet was a a miracle at times.
The first 15 minutes had Casuals defending their line as resolutely as has not been seen for many months. They managed to quell every attack from Ashbourne, forcing them into errors, even when they had crossed the line.
Ashbourne were awarded a 5 metre scrum, from which they finally managed to cross the try line for the first score.
However, instead of succumbing, Casuals upped their game, and although it was just before half time, before they got on the scoreboard, Casuals were awarded 3 penalties, two of which Mark Higgins converted to give Casuals a 1 point lead at the break.
Play fluctuated for much of the second half, but it was Casuals who scored next, when Higgins, after missing one, potted the second to extend Casuals lead.
With the temperature dropping, hands getting cold, and a slippy ball, some of the moves were broken up
But it was still anybody’s game and unfortunately Casuals were heartbroken when Ashbourne took the game to Casuals line, and they managed to force their way over.
What it would have been like had just one more kick gone over, but it was not to be, and Casuals had to be content once more the losing bonus point.

The spectators have to be congratulated for standing on the touchline in this appaling weather. (4 Casual supporters, and the subs)
Thanks to the man with the whistle, Mr Ashwood who travelled all the way up from Milton Keynes,and the ever young Dennis Mahoney, advising on behalf of the NLD referees society.
Thanks for the use of your brolly Dennis.

Unfortunately the news during the week was that Sleaford had pulled out the league, and Casuals are now second from bottom.
What will it take to get Casuals out of this position.
Bit more luck for certain,a few more balls between the posts, and a bit more of the constructive play that was evident during this game.
The will and determination is not lacking, but the team have to now build on the belief that they can play as a team.
If they perform as well as this and last week, it must only be a short time before they get the next win.