Absenteeism doesn't stop Casuals

Saturday 21st Sept 2013

Midlands 2 East (N)

Nottingham Casuals 16 Kesteven 10

After Kesteven’s thumping of Melton Mowbray the previous week, Casuals were expecting a very stern test, but their resolve won the day.

After a wonderful lunch in the clubhouse (thanks Andy H again), the spectators, including a host of past players, were treated to a match full of endeavour, and a late rally to win the game.

With 8 changes from the team against Dronfield,it took some time to gel, but it was the defence that proved the difference.

The forwards provided the backs with a decent supply of ball, and the half backs got the line moving regularly, keeping the ball in hand, and not gifting it back to the opposition through needless kicking.

Howatson, captain for the day, gave Casuals the lead with a penalty, after 18, and they held the lead to the ½ hour, when Kesteven drew level.

Shortly after the break, Kesteven got a converted try. Kicking a penalty to touch, and from the maul following the lineout, their scrum half sneaked through a huge gap to cross the line.

Paul Greensmith pulled 3 points back from another penalty, but Casuals were forced to wait till very late for the scores to seal the victory.

Howatson showed his speed, when he outstripped the defence, but was denied the score, as Hallam was penalised for obstructios,(mesmerised by the run no doubt) but Howatson was not to be denied.

The backs again built up another good move, and Howatson took off from ½ way, running around the cover to grab the lead with an unconverted try.

As the game was reaching it’s conclusion, Casuals were heroic in defence, even taking Kesteven’s ball from a lineout (Lewis B!!) and forcing turnovers on the ground.

Casuals broke out and went deep into Kesteven’s ½ , and Joe Barton, temporarily shifted to wing from the 2nd row for the day, emerged from a maul, bursting through, blasting defenders out of his way, scoring under the posts, to seal the game. Unfortunately the kick was missed (not the first to miss a kick from in front of the posts!!!!) and Casuals had to nervously wait for the final whistle.

Casuals backs, given some freedom, showed what they are capable of, it was good to see some decent moves, and the confidence that built up as the game progress.

Hopefully, even when the absentees come back in, Casuals will continue in this vein, and use the ball intelligently.