National 2 East Prospects
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Topic: National 2 East Prospects
Posted By: sweatysock
Subject: National 2 East Prospects
Date Posted: 17 Sep 2022 at 21:45
Had my first dabble of rugby this season today at Worthing who entertained Sevenoaks. Worthing just did enough to win, but look a team finding their feet with plenty of new faces. Decent game though
Weirdest moment was having a conversion in front of the posts charged down
Anyway, this league already looks very competitive and wide open - doesnt seem to be an obvious whipping boy or dominating team
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Replies:
Posted By: Rabbie Burns
Date Posted: 17 Sep 2022 at 21:55
Bottom 3 teams are 0 from 3 so need to get a win with N Walsham @ Guernsey next week one of these may change but can’t see Westcliff picking up anything at BSE and you can very quickly get cut adrift. As you say should be an entertaining league
------------- So many Christians not enough Lions
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Posted By: Golden Jackal
Date Posted: 18 Sep 2022 at 20:39
Ermm Blackheath... played 2 won 2 and already racking up the points!
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Posted By: sweatysock
Date Posted: 18 Sep 2022 at 21:31
Golden Jackal wrote:
Ermm Blackheath... played 2 won 2 and already racking up the points!
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yep may well be right. Incidentally, how does promotion and relegation work - presumably first place gets you promoted,or at least a playoff - are you in with a shout if 2nd? How many teams go down -1,2,3?
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Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 18 Sep 2022 at 22:00
One up to National 1, three coming down.
While there is no formal level transfer, the leagues at this level will be selected to minimize travel.
------------- Sweeney Delenda Est
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Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 18 Sep 2022 at 22:16
Having checked, 2 down and one up.
There are no play-offs in the national and regional league.
Promotion from counties 1 is tbc. There are 16 leagues feeding 12.
------------- Sweeney Delenda Est
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Posted By: LHTT
Date Posted: 02 Oct 2022 at 09:43
So, how does everyone think it's going so far?
BSE gave Club a reminder that they won't have things all their own way in the 2nd half yesterday scoring 3 tries in 6 minutes, it wasn't the day for it but Bury's rolling maul looks a handful, I suspect they'll come into their own when the weather changes.
I was surprised that Henley went down to N Walsham yesterday, I had them down as likely competitors but NW is a notorious difficult place to go...
Barnes & OA's also look like they can score...
------------- Irritating Offspring of the word unite.
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Posted By: Golden Jackal
Date Posted: 02 Oct 2022 at 17:48
Club were the best side Ive seen Bury play in the last 18 months...reminded me of Rams and Chinnor in their pomp....Bury looked overawed and lacked intensity in the first half and were cut to ribbans by a team that play at real pace....showed some good charachter to come back and who knows if the 5th try hadnt been ruled out for "blocking". then it could have been a grandstand finish...I think by Christmas Shanners and the boys will be out of sight...
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Posted By: LHTT
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 10:34
Interesting comments GJ. I agree the ruling-out of the 5th try was a key moment, but the officials got that right, from my angle, we may have to agree to differ on that.
Big test away at OA's next game & I think we may have picked up some knocks on Sat which could test the strength in depth of the side, I'm not so optimistic on Club's immediate future as you yet.
I think BSE should have a good season, best team at WH so far this season.
Does anyone know why Rockford have had a points deduction?
------------- Irritating Offspring of the word unite.
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 10:40
It does look pretty ominous at the moment.......Shanners Club stringing some very good early results together.I had thought that OA's, BSE, Hawks and TJ's, might all provide stern competition for them. I guess they still might, but each have shown some fallibility already. They might well contest the 'best of the rest' competition between them, with perhaps, Barnes and Dorking looking to get involved as well. The latter have recruited well ![Confused Confused](smileys/smiley5.gif)
It would be a shame if Club pulled away early, as in our new format with only one promotion position, there would be less interest in the season.
The relegation battle might be more interesting with two going down. Westcliff with their points deduction look to be in some trouble, but there is still a long way to go.
I watched my first game of the season on Saturday at The Rugby Park. A decent BP win for my lot, the caveat being that that City Side was perhaps, the weakest I can recall in 20yrs of watching them.
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Posted By: LHTT
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 11:13
Westcliffe points deduction, not Rochford, sorry, Essex all the same to me!
What's the points deduction for?
I think it's too early to be talking about Club pulling away when we are 1 point clear after 4 games.
------------- Irritating Offspring of the word unite.
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Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 11:28
I believe it is for not fulfilling games last season, when there was no relegation, so carried over to this season.
You may only be one point ahead, but do have a game in hand
------------- Sweeney Delenda Est
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Posted By: Ancient Oak
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 11:31
Not sure if this the right forum topic but I just wanted to give a big shout out for Zoe and her dinner ladies at Barnes on Saturday. Three Ancient Oaks arrived travel weary, thirsty and hungry having been denied our customary pre match local pub refreshment by horrendous traffic delays on the A3. Throwing ourselves at the mercy of these culinary angels they feasted us on steak pie, veg and gravy without batting an eyelid all washed down with a couple of pints of Ruddles - thank you ladies! Barnes hospitality helped to soften the subsequent blow of the thumping we got on the pitch - a few key talismans missing I'm afraid. No excuse I know. Barnes are a slick unit but we'll be back!
------------- "Heaven prosper our sport"
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Posted By: LHTT
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 11:58
What's the latest on your pitch AO?
And I heard a rumour that there may be issues relating to a points deduction for Sevenoaks too, something to do with the registration of an Australian last season? (I'm not trying to stir things up, genuinely interested!)
------------- Irritating Offspring of the word unite.
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Posted By: Shamrose
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 12:13
Quietly happy with Dorking's start to the season in a higher league
For the 3 promoted clubs you simply don't know what you have stepped into so a soiid start is welcome ![Big smile Big smile](smileys/smiley4.gif)
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Posted By: ThamesEstuaryMan
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 12:59
As a Westcliff supporter, I’m pleased that we are currently more competitive than we were in this league last season. It was a shame that an unfortunate first half red card probably cost us, what would have been a confidence building first win a couple of weeks back. It’s going to be another tough season though and we will need to keep everyone fit, and have some luck if we are to have any chance of picking up the wins we will need to get out of the bottom two. One thing is for sure, the lads won’t give up.
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Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 13:03
Dorking has been at this level before, it was only seven years ago. Though things change rapidly, so I am not sure how much that helps.
------------- Sweeney Delenda Est
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 13:05
Hi Shamrose........Dorking do have some previous, though the current side is not as strong as the team that were promoted last time around.......with messrs Crow and Pimelow at the helm ? They flattered to get promoted again for a while did they not ? I think Crow was up at Dry Leas last year but I have not seen his name on the team sheet thus far.
I imagine this year's side are strengthened by the addition of four Raiders ? I reckon two of them could, arguably, play level 3.
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Posted By: Ancient Oak
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 16:26
[QUOTE=LHTT]What's the latest on your pitch AO?
And I heard a rumour that there may be issues relating to a points deduction for Sevenoaks too, something to do with the registration of an Australian last season? (I'm not trying to stir things up, genuinely interested!) [/The latest I hear is that our pitch should be OK for our next home match v Canterbury on the 22nd Oct. Very embarrassing for us but totally out of our hands. We played our home match v Dorking on a cracking pitch at Sevenoaks School. Dont know anything about the rumour you mention.QUOTE]
------------- "Heaven prosper our sport"
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Posted By: honestinjun
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 18:54
Ancient, that is ever so kind of you to say, Zoe and her team are brilliant and I am so pleased she looked after you and some of the weary Oaks who travelled, I think you got Barnes on the bounce back as we were so poor at Henley the previous week.
------------- HonestInjun
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Posted By: Even Older Hooker
Date Posted: 03 Oct 2022 at 21:19
The points deduction for Westcliff was for not putting a side out at the end of last season vs Worthing. As I recall they could not put a front row out, we offered players. Not wanted. The front row were on a stag weekend I believe. Not impressive
------------- Another one against the head
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Posted By: FEZ ANT PLUCKER
Date Posted: 07 Oct 2022 at 12:07
Darth Raider wrote:
Hi Shamrose........Dorking do have some previous, though the current side is not as strong as the team that were promoted last time around.......with messrs Crow and Pimelow at the helm ? They flattered to get promoted again for a while did they not ? I think Crow was up at Dry Leas last year but I have not seen his name on the team sheet thus far.
I imagine this year's side are strengthened by the addition of four Raiders ? I reckon two of them could, arguably, play level 3. |
Hi DR. As Shamrose has not replied to your post I thought I would respond. As Camquin has said we were promoted to L4 seven years ago and spent 2 seasons. Its been mentioned before but we finished 4th in our 1st season and shocked quite a few. Its true we had Crow and also Roux our current DOR. Pimlow is still with us but his appearances now are more cameo's as he has returned from a long while out, and now has a family and is of course that much older. IMO our team of 2022 is as good, but now the club has much deeper strength in depth and can cope with the demands. A strong mix of the club graduating its youth, good recruitment, and the added benefit of state of the art Gym and S&C facilities. The club has also invested heavily in our coaching staff and medical support team, so we have a lot to offer young players who want to join a progressive well managed club. Indeed it was the lack of our strength in depth that resulted in our relegation the last time. The club has benefitted from good sponsors which has allowed for the development of facilities and our 1st team pitch. We have also been lucky to have recruited Henry Birch, Henry Anscombe, and Joe Spurgeon from Worthing and all are contributing to our current success. I did try to establish why they left but never got an answer. I understand differences of opinion might be something to do with it. It will be interesting to see if Crow turns out against us for Henley when we visit Dry Leas on 12th November.
------------- Fezantplucker
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 08 Oct 2022 at 15:24
Thanks for the response FAP......i was surprised Shamrose did not respond himself. From what you say, it seems that as a club, Dorking have taken big steps forward. I will be surprised if the current side has more quality than the team that was promoted 7 years ago.....but will let you know what I think after seeing your lot at our place. I did hear that you have a no8 who is a bit of a terror in the loose and at the breakdown ?
I won't get into reasons why our lads left for Dorking, other than to say you left out Will Scholes, arguably the best of the bunch. My understanding was that he said he had retired, before turning up at the Big Field. ![Ouch Ouch](smileys/smiley18.gif)
Best of luck for the rest of the season, I reckon another top 4 finish would be a fine result for you.
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Posted By: Wigwam
Date Posted: 09 Oct 2022 at 18:12
From that seen some far I would be surprised if Blackheath lose a game all year. That prospect just amplifies the ridiculous RFU reshuffle that in turn means we have no play offs at this level.
------------- Pace Power Perfection
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Posted By: FEZ ANT PLUCKER
Date Posted: 10 Oct 2022 at 11:27
Darth Raider wrote:
Thanks for the response FAP......i was surprised Shamrose did not respond himself.From what you say, it seems that as a club, Dorking have taken big steps forward. I will be surprised if the current side has more quality than the team that was promoted 7 years ago.....but will let you know what I think after seeing your lot at our place. I did hear that you have a no8 who is a bit of a terror in the loose and at the breakdown ?
I won't get into reasons why our lads left for Dorking, other than to say you left out Will Scholes, arguably the best of the bunch. My understanding was that he said he had retired, before turning up at the Big Field. ![Ouch Ouch](smileys/smiley18.gif)
Best of luck for the rest of the season, I reckon another top 4 finish would be a fine result for you. |
Hello again Darth I didnt know Will Scholes came from Worthing. It has never actually been officially announced, although there was a lot of rumour going around that he had joined us from Canterbury, and another mention of having played at Bury St Edmunds. He is a real class act IMO and has bolstered our 2nd row so that we now have at least 8 competing for selection. I dont know exactly why he came to us but am very glad he did smell the coffee. Did you attend our home match v Worthing a couple of weeks ago? I thought you had a very young team and lacked the experience of Dorking on the day. There was not a lot in it tbh. We will all look forward to our Christmas fixture against Worthing on 17th December and best of luck to you too.
------------- Fezantplucker
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Posted By: Golden Jackal
Date Posted: 10 Oct 2022 at 12:13
Will joined Bury from Cinderford....he then moved on to Canterbury and then Worthing and now Dorking... Decent player and a nice guy to go with it, but history suggests best not to include him in any long term plans...
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Posted By: LHTT
Date Posted: 10 Oct 2022 at 12:30
Wigwam wrote:
From that seen some far I would be surprised if Blackheath lose a game all year. That prospect just amplifies the ridiculous RFU reshuffle that in turn means we have no play offs at this level.
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It's gone very well so far it's true but I doubt that myself & 4 games in, with only 1 away game played, I don't think the relative strength of Blackheath against the league as a whole can be accurately assessed yet.
This weekend away at OA's is a big test IMO...
------------- Irritating Offspring of the word unite.
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 10 Oct 2022 at 20:34
TP.....agree it is at least possible that the Club will go unbeaten this season. Early indication this Saturday away at Woolams.....arguably their toughest fixture of the year ? Win that one and they are well on their way. Shanners could do with some success. Jackal et al.....I think Scholes is an outstanding athlete for a lock and a great tryscorer from that position, not unlike Sumpter at Lions. But as you say....not likely to be around too long ? I can understand him leaving Cinderford....I clearly recall writing that their locks at the time, Hone and Lane as I recall in their promotion season, that i thought both could play level 2. Scholes is very good, but IMO lacks the bulk to go that high. But suspect he will find more money at level 3 at some point, which is where he belongs. Money being why he also is at Dorking. FAP......no....for the first time I missed our encounter at the Big Field. Indeed, you were watching a very young and inexperienced 'Raiders' side. Truth be told, there almost more actual Raiders in the side Dorking fielded. No idea what will happen with our season......i have only watched the one game so far. We seem to be improving and despite losing at least 9 members of last year's pack.....excluding Spurge.....we still have some potent backs.....and we seem to be improving a bit. Hope springs eternal......hoping for top half of the table.
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Posted By: Shamrose
Date Posted: 11 Oct 2022 at 14:25
Hi Darth
Reason i didnt respond was i really dont know why they chose to come to Dorking but very glad they did Dorking do not normally get a group of players from one club arriving together so my guess was they were all friends who decided to move together as we had this at Ealing a couple of times in the 80's and that was the rreason they gave
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 13 Oct 2022 at 16:50
Hi Shamrose........thanks for taking the time to respond. I also do not know for certain why the four players left for Dorking, though i could hazard some guesses. They did not all leave at the same time though.....it was a serial affair. I guess however, that it is fait to conclude that for one reason or another, they were dissatisfied with their lot at the Rugby Park and Dorking were able to offer more of whatever they were looking for.....so best of luck to all involved really......while being a sad and damaging loss for Raiders (imo). Were you once an Ealing supporter ? I have half a memory of swapping notes with you before.......though whether that was as an Dorking or Ealing fan I can't recall. I was ever an huge admirer of the brand of running rugby played by Ealing......Ben Ward pulling the strings so well at 10......and the quite incredibly prolific Phil Chesters on the wing. I think he may have scored more than 60 tries in one season ?
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Posted By: Shamrose
Date Posted: 14 Oct 2022 at 11:53
Darth
I played for Ealing as a colt and senior until i moved overseas and when i moved back to Ealing i used to go down and watch them. Yes i remember watching Ben Ward and him in down at Ealing. He had truely electric pace but was also strong, he scored 70 tries in Ealings promotion in 2010/11 from Nat 2 South to National 1 and then scored 42 the next year in Nat 1! There was a brute of a winger on the other wing Owen Brunsells who scored 32 and 20 in those two years as well
I moved out to Dorking in 2008 but still went back to Ealing quite a bit and but now get to a game once or twice a year but now enjoy the rugby down at Dorking who currenly have an exciting and relatively young team mainly made up of former colts plus some recent useful recruits ![Wink Wink](smileys/smiley2.gif) . Maybe i will see you at your place in December
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 15 Oct 2022 at 19:26
Surprise to me, but Club falter away at Woolams......always going to be a tough game......and OA's go top on the back of it. Makes things more interesting ?
I am expecting more from both Guernsey and TJ's as the season moves on, but many of the eventual top six are most likely, already in place. Very well done to both Barnes and Dorking, who for me at least, are the overachievers of our season so far ![Clap Clap](smileys/smiley32.gif) Rochford are a curious side......up until the huge concession by Westcliff today, they had shipped more points than anybody else, while simultaneously recording 5 TBPs. I have witnessed a number of seasons in which Hawks, with their considerable resources, have recruited mid-season to great effect. They cannot be counted out of a title win yet (unfortunately ![Wink Wink](smileys/smiley2.gif) ![Cry Cry](smileys/smiley19.gif) )
It remains a shame (to me) that there will not be a race for a playoff place......it might have been quite a competition this year ?
V pleasing win for my lot at the Haberden. ![Clap Clap](smileys/smiley32.gif)
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Posted By: Shamrose
Date Posted: 17 Oct 2022 at 09:45
Dorking riding their luck with two away matches won in the last minutes by 1pt and now 2pt's but you make your own luck and as a new team in the League it is a really promising start, especially as 4 of the six matches have been away.
Looking forward to the visit of Burry St Edmunds on Saturday
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 22 Oct 2022 at 19:55
It seems that Dorking's luck finally ran out.....but still an useful LBP.......did they get a full side out ? Most of the other results seem to have gone as expected ?
Game of the day will very likely have been at the Rugby Park.....where I was today. OA's were quite the biggest pack I have seen for a while and so, I was less surprised at how they had managed to beat the Club last week. They dominated the first quarter and were totally dominant in the set piece. They scored two tries and our situation was exaggerated by a red card and the shortly after, a yellow. In between there were a number of injuries to OA's players.....some at least, serious. They lost their place kicker at 13 and I think, their 8, both very serious injuries causing delays. WE defended tigerishly in the loose and with limited possession, managed to use our pace out wide to score three tries while down to 13 men.......and the another early in the second half....still down to 13. Although I don't accurately recall it....I am told we were down to 12 for a while. OA's had much the better of the last quarter as we tired.....pulled it back to 31-20 with 10mins to go, but with the clock in the red and trying to secure an LBP, threw an intercept pass. 38-20. Very pleasing, but perhaps, not the most accurate scoreline in terms of possession and teritory.
Onwards and upwards though......we improve week on week ![Wink Wink](smileys/smiley2.gif) ![Clap Clap](smileys/smiley32.gif)
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Posted By: Rabbie Burns
Date Posted: 22 Oct 2022 at 20:21
Have to say Guernsey we’re huge never seen so many tall people in one side
------------- So many Christians not enough Lions
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 22 Oct 2022 at 20:40
does not seem to have done them a lot of good Rabbie......crushing defeat ? did their set piece work well ? any other thought about the game in general ?
in fact....anybody else got anything approaching a match report of what they saw today ?
sweatysock......you at the Rugby Park today ?
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Posted By: Even Older Hooker
Date Posted: 22 Oct 2022 at 20:57
Darth, I was there !!!!! and what a privilege. The best game I have watched at the Rugby Park for some seasons. After the Red card which even the offended player said was no offence (high tackle} The work rate and cohesion of the forwards was monumental. their communication support for each other shows a very cohesive unit with respect for each other's skills. Add that to the pace of the backs and their defensive skills, you had almost the perfect team performance. As we tired OAs battled back very well, but we had done too much damage. I believe the score very fairly reflected the quality of play. I do hope the OAs player badly injured recovers ASAP. The Red wine is out, A very happy old Hooker.
------------- Another one against the head
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 22 Oct 2022 at 21:04
malbeq or have you changed OH ?
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Posted By: Even Older Hooker
Date Posted: 22 Oct 2022 at 21:23
No Darth Malbec it is yum yum
------------- Another one against the head
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Posted By: Rabbie Burns
Date Posted: 22 Oct 2022 at 21:57
Bit of a stop start game at Well Hall that never really got going as the ref seemed to enjoy listening to his whistle. It was our highest penalty count of the season many decisions which baffled both sides. 4 tries in each half meant the result was never in doubt but Guernsey never gave up and caused problems showing by scoring in the dying moments. One interesting side show was the Armstrong brothers playing against each other for the first time. We were given the benefit of the doubt on a couple of tries this afternoon which probably balances the 3 decisions we weren’t given last week at OAs.
------------- So many Christians not enough Lions
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Posted By: sweatysock
Date Posted: 22 Oct 2022 at 22:08
yes was there at Worthing today - an absolute thriller I thought and so eventful - early red card, plenty of yellows, bit of needle, loads of work for the physios, dogged defending but some great play at both ends, and some spectacular tries.
Scoreline probably flattered Worthing a little but reward for huge effort they put in, particularly being at least a man down for most of the match
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 22 Oct 2022 at 22:36
Hi Rabbie.....i did not know that one of the Armstrongs had gone to your club ? i assume it is the bigger lad ? Plays on the wing ? right wing as i recall ? is it fair to assume from the final score that you had much the better of the forward battle ?
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Posted By: Rabbie Burns
Date Posted: 22 Oct 2022 at 22:48
The brothers are Matt who plays for us now and is a centre/wing his older and bigger brother Anthony plays on the wing for Guernsey both are over 6ft, Anthony may have got the upper hand today as he scored but Matts team won and yes we pretty much controlled the forward game
------------- So many Christians not enough Lions
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 22 Oct 2022 at 23:58
Thanks for that Rabbie.......it is indeed Anthony out wide that I recall as the biggest threat. it will be interesting to see if your Club can win this league. Shanners is a top coach.
an impressive result again today. we might have done you a favour in turning over your main competitor ? it remains unlikely that my lot can get involved in the title race.....but we seem to be improving week on week ?
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Posted By: The Hawks
Date Posted: 23 Oct 2022 at 08:51
Darth Raider wrote:
Thanks for that Rabbie.......it is indeed Anthony out wide that I recall as the biggest threat. it will be interesting to see if your Club can win this league. Shanners is a top coach.
an impressive result again today. we might have done you a favour in turning over your main competitor ? it remains unlikely that my lot can get involved in the title race.....but we seem to be improving week on week ?
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Club coming to Henley next week then we are away to Worthing, if we can win both of them we also could be in the mix as well?!! Funny old season, we stuffed OA’s, lose to Bury on first day and lost to North Walsham!! Early days!!
------------- 'Go The Hawks!'
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Posted By: honestinjun
Date Posted: 23 Oct 2022 at 09:29
Barnes had a scrappy win against Rochford, the big Rochford pack disrupted and spoilt our fluency in the first half and we led 6-0 at half time. Injuries too meant there were 8 changes from N Waltham which didn’t help our continuity much. Rochford rely a lot on the boshing and ball carrying of Mac Duaibe at 8, he is a nuisance,but as he tired on 60 mins so did many of his mates around him and Barnes took control. TJs next week will show if we have really progressed this season or we are just flattering to deceive in an attempt to muck up Darth’s weekly predictions!
------------- HonestInjun
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Posted By: Golden Jackal
Date Posted: 23 Oct 2022 at 10:28
Think Dr's comments about Dorking not having a full side out is a little disrespectful to BSE....We were woeful the previous week versus Worthing and whilst still some way off our fluent best, came out on top against a resilent Dorking side. Sir seemed determined to keep playing until D scored, thankfully out wide and so the conversion went narrowly wide.... Fez, Shamrose and all at Dorking, many thanks for the hospitality shown to the Bury travellers (not sure where your commentator dragged up the 600 crowd from ) we look forward to welcoming you to The Haberden...hopefully you wont experience the Dartford Crossing being blocked meaning a late night finish...
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 23 Oct 2022 at 11:23
Hi Nick....Hawks certainly have a pack that could trouble club....always strong and the addition of Tom Vooght from Rams is a very good one. I saw that Will Crow was back last week, which will help, but Hawks again this year, seem to have trouble scoring backs tries and securing TBP's ?
Injun.....I have much improved in my Barnes predictions this year, but need no help in co@king things up regardless ![Ouch Ouch](smileys/smiley18.gif) Your trip to The Slade will indeed be an interesting one. Just hope it does not keep raining. Unless they have done something with the drainage, that place turns into a swamp quite quickly. Highly recommend wellies if you are travelling....and watch out for Hippos and Crocs !
Jackal....I meant no disrespect...but having watched my lot against both teams....saw the full length video of the BSE game.....I thought Dorking looked the better side and had home advantage. I thought that they might win quite comfortably ? I was also curious to know if their 4 ex-Raiders were all playing ? They have been influential. A good win for your lads....the Dorks have been involved in some very close encounters
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Posted By: Shamrose
Date Posted: 24 Oct 2022 at 09:22
Golden Jackal wrote:
Think Dr's comments about Dorking not having a full side out is a little disrespectful to BSE....We were woeful the previous week versus Worthing and whilst still some way off our fluent best, came out on top against a resilent Dorking side. Sir seemed determined to keep playing until D scored, thankfully out wide and so the conversion went narrowly wide.... Fez, Shamrose and all at Dorking, many thanks for the hospitality shown to the Bury travellers (not sure where your commentator dragged up the 600 crowd from ) we look forward to welcoming you to The Haberden...hopefully you wont experience the Dartford Crossing being blocked meaning a late night finish...
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Hi GJ
I thought it was a real game of two halves with Bury better in the 1st and D's the 2nd. I think Dorking made a real mistake in not taking the penalty in front and then going for the try as there were about 8 minutes left and then Bury did take their chance and so D's needed a converted try and missed with the conversion. I thought Burys backline looked sharp and offered Dorking nothing out wide
Judging from the cars I would say it was around the 500 if you count the players in all three games as well
Not easy next week with Old Albanians but this season never was going to be ![Smile Smile](smileys/smiley1.gif)
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Posted By: SurreyRugby
Date Posted: 28 Oct 2022 at 14:36
Spot on with you comments Shamrose.
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 29 Oct 2022 at 21:56
great result for the Dorks today at Woollams....a very valuable win. No doubt, OA's would be suffering from the ridiculous number of serious injuries they got from their encounter with us last week, including I think, both half backs and their place kicker, but a strong performance from Dorks nevertheless .
Probably the two best packs met at Dry Leas today.....not having seen Club this year I fancied the Hawks pack to get the better of that encounter.....wrongo ![Embarrassed Embarrassed](smileys/smiley9.gif) ![Ouch Ouch](smileys/smiley18.gif)
Elsewhere......most of the other results went much as many predicted. My lot will be a little disappointed to lose after establishing an 3-26 lead after half an hour. Well done the other Raiders though.
Still much to play for, though Westcliff look in dire trouble
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Posted By: Shamrose
Date Posted: 30 Oct 2022 at 12:15
incredibly tight league with 6 teams on 5 wins and Blackheath 6 from 7
I have tipped against Dorking twice this year and they have won both so clearly need to change that!
As someone mentioned it will be interesting at Henley in two weeks as I see Will Crow has started the last 3 games for them and everyone at Dorking knows how good he is as he was often the game winner for Dorking for many years before he moved up a division to Rosslyn Park
I will be down at the Big Field on Saturday and will be well wrapped up as due showers and a moderate breeze which down there is not great as so open
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Posted By: FEZ ANT PLUCKER
Date Posted: 30 Oct 2022 at 19:40
Darth Raider wrote:
great result for the Dorks today at Woollams....a very valuable win. No doubt, OA's would be suffering from the ridiculous number of serious injuries they got from their encounter with us last week, including I think, both half backs and their place kicker, but a strong performance from Dorks nevertheless .
Probably the two best packs met at Dry Leas today.....not having seen Club this year I fancied the Hawks pack to get the better of that encounter.....wrongo ![Embarrassed Embarrassed](smileys/smiley9.gif) ![Ouch Ouch](smileys/smiley18.gif)
Elsewhere......most of the other results went much as many predicted. My lot will be a little disappointed to lose after establishing an 3-26 lead after half an hour. Well done the other Raiders though.
Still much to play for, though Westcliff look in dire trouble |
I was at The Woollams yesterday and witnessed a good but often see-saw game. It was clear that OA's were missing their 4 regular players injured the previous week, and this was the reason put forward by their supporters, although one questioned whether the lady referee was dating our Captain? before adjusting his comment to compliment Dorking on being the better team. Joking apart Dorking did have the upper hand and remained 7-10 points ahead for the whole game. Even when OA's tenacious response saw them reduce the deficit Dorking replied again to restore the points difference. I dont know but imagine it must have been a full strength OA,s to have beaten the Club 2 weeks before our visit, so it is quite possible we met an understrength and disjointed OA,s. That said Dorking continue to impress me and we are going from strength to strength. Well done lads you rose to the occasion. One of the reasons we were relegated on the last occasion from L4, was our lack of strength in depth. We seem to have addressed that problem with a strong squad, strong 2nd XV, with many competing for selection in most positions. Long may it continue.
------------- Fezantplucker
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Posted By: LHTT
Date Posted: 31 Oct 2022 at 11:17
Strength in depth will have a bearing over the season no doubt.
Very important win for Blackheath at Dry Leas on Saturday.
Hawks pack looked very competitive for 70 minutes although Club did gift them a lot of ball, but neither backline, with the exception of Hawks wingers & the Lloyd & Claxton link up for the second club try showed much of a threat tbh.
Defensively Blackheath were exceptional & that and a better bench, won them the game.
Henley were good hosts, lots of nice banter on the touchline, I enjoyed going back there after a long gap & look forward to going again in future.
------------- Irritating Offspring of the word unite.
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Posted By: FlyingRuck
Date Posted: 31 Oct 2022 at 15:05
Strength in depth is so very important. Blackheath have a second team competing in a league this season and it really does make a difference to the whole set up with the two's having games week-in-week-out.
------------- See you further on up the road
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Posted By: PM009
Date Posted: 31 Oct 2022 at 18:59
Well needed win for Canterbury on Saturday after losing 4 on the bounce, not sure where to gauge City Side this year, not in danger of going down but the performances have been hit and miss. Sevenoaks seem to be adapting well, expected more from TJs coming down from Nat1 last year. Club the clear pick of the Kent sides
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Posted By: LHTT
Date Posted: 01 Nov 2022 at 12:36
Well we do have a second XV at the moment but whether we can hold on to them I don't know. There has been some interchange between the sides, Armstrong got into the 1st XV after catching the eye in the seconds for example & that will help to keep them interested but no-one can blame players if they drift away to other clubs where they can get 1st team rugby every week.
Our seconds played Henley's seconds on Saturday and we've also played Barnes seconds this season so clearly we are not the only club out there with some strength in depth at the moment.
------------- Irritating Offspring of the word unite.
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Posted By: Golden Jackal
Date Posted: 01 Nov 2022 at 14:20
We took the decision to withdraw our 2nds from the Raging Bull / Zoo League as it didnt guarantee enough games and furthermore the majority of games were in or around London... Fortunately our CB allowed our 2nds to join the league system at level 7 and to date it has been a great success. Our young 2s are now playing many local clubs 1st XV's and having a great time of it. Not only does it give them regular games against clubs they might have drifted to, but the members are enjoying it too, with often a 100 plus cheering them on against "old" rivals.
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Posted By: FlyingRuck
Date Posted: 01 Nov 2022 at 15:36
LHTT wrote:
Well we do have a second XV at the moment but whether we can hold on to them I don't know. There has been some interchange between the sides, Armstrong got into the 1st XV after catching the eye in the seconds for example & that will help to keep them interested but no-one can blame players if they drift away to other clubs where they can get 1st team rugby every week.
Our seconds played Henley's seconds on Saturday and we've also played Barnes seconds this season so clearly we are not the only club out there with some strength in depth at the moment.
|
I help run the second team at Blackheath and there is a really good feel about the team whose home games coincide with the first team home games. This provides a great club dynamic with everyone together post-game for MOM awards etc . There has actually been quite a bit of movement between first and seconds and this weekend will be interesting with a number of players coming back from injury. We are competing in a league of 13 sides home and away including Richmond, RP, Rams, Ampthill, Barnes etc so there are plenty of games and players seem to be buying into the "one squad ethos" which we are promoting at the club. As the season enters its third month, I am confident that we will continue to develop.
------------- See you further on up the road
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Posted By: LHTT
Date Posted: 01 Nov 2022 at 15:46
FlyingRuck wrote:
LHTT wrote:
Well we do have a second XV at the moment but whether we can hold on to them I don't know. There has been some interchange between the sides, Armstrong got into the 1st XV after catching the eye in the seconds for example & that will help to keep them interested but no-one can blame players if they drift away to other clubs where they can get 1st team rugby every week.
Our seconds played Henley's seconds on Saturday and we've also played Barnes seconds this season so clearly we are not the only club out there with some strength in depth at the moment.
|
I help run the second team at Blackheath and there is a really good feel about the team whose home games coincide with the first team home games. This provides a great club dynamic with everyone together post-game for MOM awards etc . There has actually been quite a bit of movement between first and seconds and this weekend will be interesting with a number of players coming back from injury. We are competing in a league of 13 sides home and away including Richmond, RP, Rams, Ampthill, Barnes etc so there are plenty of games and players seem to be buying into the "one squad ethos" which we are promoting at the club. As the season enters its third month, I am confident that we will continue to develop. |
Good news FR, all power to your arm.
------------- Irritating Offspring of the word unite.
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Posted By: FEZ ANT PLUCKER
Date Posted: 01 Nov 2022 at 17:28
Two weeks ago when Dorking lost at home to Bury St Edmunds we had 3 teams at home. The 2nd and 3rd XV,s kicked off at 1pm and were able to watch the 1,s at 3pm. This doesnt happen every week but as it was our "Oktoberfest" the occasion delivered a record bar take of £16K with ALL players having great fun and bonding. Our 2nd XV play in a league against Worthing, Wimbledon, Richmond, and RP.
------------- Fezantplucker
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Posted By: RugbyWiz3
Date Posted: 04 Nov 2022 at 11:17
From what I hear on why the players left Worthing to go to Dorking. ![Disapprove Disapprove](smileys/smiley13.gif)
I understand there is a loan agreement with Quins, no issues here. But its been said the Loan players were getting started over the regulars (who came to Dorking) without training. I can see how this p**sed off the lads. I understand Henry Birch may even have been dropped as captain at very short notice for a loan player. Interesting.
Great to see them still playing however, and not put off by this. Lucky Dorking that they chose them.
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Posted By: Wigwam
Date Posted: 04 Nov 2022 at 18:10
RugbyWiz3 wrote:
From what I hear on why the players left Worthing to go to Dorking. ![Disapprove Disapprove](smileys/smiley13.gif)
I understand there is a loan agreement with Quins, no issues here. But its been said the Loan players were getting started over the regulars (who came to Dorking) without training. I can see how this p**sed off the lads. I understand Henry Birch may even have been dropped as captain at very short notice for a loan player. Interesting.
Great to see them still playing however, and not put off by this. Lucky Dorking that they chose them.
|
You should never listen to hearsay
------------- Pace Power Perfection
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Posted By: FEZ ANT PLUCKER
Date Posted: 06 Nov 2022 at 21:01
Henley v Dorking 12.11.2022 Dorking will be taking a large contingent of support for next weeks game at Henley. I for one will be interested to see if Will Crow plays against his old club where he started as a mini and played right through until Dorking were relegated from L4. After leaving I understand he had difficulty in getting game time when at Rosslyn Park, and was 3rd choice 9 for a long period. Since moving to Henley I understand he has a settled life, a mortgage and family with his roots now firmly in Henley. I also know he has long standing friendships with many still at Dorking so the re-union on and off the pitch will be sentimental. I for one will be interested to see if he still retains his silky skills and speed around the base of the scrum.
------------- Fezantplucker
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 06 Nov 2022 at 21:14
Wigwam wrote:
RugbyWiz3 wrote:
From what I hear on why the players left Worthing to go to Dorking. ![Disapprove Disapprove](smileys/smiley13.gif)
I understand there is a loan agreement with Quins, no issues here. But its been said the Loan players were getting started over the regulars (who came to Dorking) without training. I can see how this p**sed off the lads. I understand Henry Birch may even have been dropped as captain at very short notice for a loan player. Interesting.
Great to see them still playing however, and not put off by this. Lucky Dorking that they chose them.
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You should never listen to hearsay
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They were a pretty shocking band weren't they..........................................I'll get ma coat...........
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Posted By: Kimbo
Date Posted: 07 Nov 2022 at 07:36
tigerburnie wrote:
Wigwam wrote:
RugbyWiz3 wrote:
From what I hear on why the players left Worthing to go to Dorking. ![Disapprove Disapprove](smileys/smiley13.gif)
I understand there is a loan agreement with Quins, no issues here. But its been said the Loan players were getting started over the regulars (who came to Dorking) without training. I can see how this p**sed off the lads. I understand Henry Birch may even have been dropped as captain at very short notice for a loan player. Interesting.
Great to see them still playing however, and not put off by this. Lucky Dorking that they chose them.
|
You should never listen to hearsay
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They were a pretty shocking band weren't they..........................................I'll get ma coat........... |
The use of the word 'band' here is a little extreme.
------------- Our City, Our Club
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2022 at 19:42
Another outstanding win for the Dorks today, away at Dry Leas. They seem masters of edging close encounters They go top of the league although Club have a game in hand.Barnes recorded another high scoring win and continue their fine form this season. Club visited the Swamp....no idea what conditions were like, but after the very heavy rain earlier in the week, I feared the worst. That place just does not drain and I sometimes wonder if sides should or indeed can, refuse to play on it. ![Ouch Ouch](smileys/smiley18.gif)
The Oaks side secured a valuable draw on the island......one i did not personally expect, but this was just one more of what appear to be a number of battling performances this season and it would be no surprise if they were to move several places up this league. ![Big smile Big smile](smileys/smiley4.gif)
Most other results went pretty much as expected I think. Although Club probably remain clear favourites this year, it might end up closer than many of us thought. Any of the top 8 teams might still harbour hopes of promotion glory and there is a long way to go.
It could yet continue to be an exciting season
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Posted By: Rabbie Burns
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2022 at 20:30
I called it mudflats DR
------------- So many Christians not enough Lions
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2022 at 21:06
It is a shame for everybody Rabbie......there is a pond outside the clubhouse preventing you from reaching the pitch.....when i have visited anyway. TJ's have a lot of very good backs......they might enjoy playing an expansive running game, but it is almost impossible on that surface for some of the year. They seem to be a very wealthy club though, so let us hope they acquire a new ground pretty soon. They are most certainly an aspirational club......nicked a few of our players....but who has n't ![Confused Confused](smileys/smiley5.gif) ![Ouch Ouch](smileys/smiley18.gif)
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Posted By: Rabbie Burns
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2022 at 21:40
The players do move around at this level all chasing the ££££s. TJs had 5 former Club players although some were quite a while back
------------- So many Christians not enough Lions
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Posted By: Clueless like most
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2022 at 21:59
Pitch looks in good nick on the TJs Facebook pics 😬
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Posted By: Rabbie Burns
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2022 at 22:16
You had to keep moving or there was a puddle around your feet. Pictures can be very deceiving ever used an estate agent
------------- So many Christians not enough Lions
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Posted By: Clueless like most
Date Posted: 12 Nov 2022 at 22:40
The shirts looked played in but all the colours still clearly on show. Perhaps just deserved the win ?
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Posted By: The Hawks
Date Posted: 13 Nov 2022 at 08:45
Darth Raider wrote:
Another outstanding win for the Dorks today, away at Dry Leas. They seem masters of edging close encounters They go top of the league although Club have a game in hand.Barnes recorded another high scoring win and continue their fine form this season.
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I made the long trip up from Cornwall yesterday. Dorking off load in the tackle were superb, great support play ![Clap Clap](smileys/smiley32.gif) . We had them in the scrum, but I thought we were going to sneak it with the last play of the game like last week, but with three penalties in a row, went for the corner, two were brought down and the third we knocked on, ref blew for the end of the game! Good banter with their supporters and well done Dorking 👏👏 Nick
------------- 'Go The Hawks!'
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Posted By: Shamrose
Date Posted: 13 Nov 2022 at 14:35
Great league this year
6 sides on 7 out of ten and 2 on 6
Dorking continue to surpass all my expectations and continue keep winning tight away games at good sides and definitely have added some steel to their defence
16 games left so all to play for
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Posted By: FEZ ANT PLUCKER
Date Posted: 15 Nov 2022 at 09:07
The Hawks wrote:
Darth Raider wrote:
Another outstanding win for the Dorks today, away at Dry Leas. They seem masters of edging close encounters They go top of the league although Club have a game in hand.Barnes recorded another high scoring win and continue their fine form this season.
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I made the long trip up from Cornwall yesterday. Dorking off load in the tackle were superb, great support play ![Clap Clap](smileys/smiley32.gif) . We had them in the scrum, but I thought we were going to sneak it with the last play of the game like last week, but with three penalties in a row, went for the corner, two were brought down and the third we knocked on, ref blew for the end of the game! Good banter with their supporters and well done Dorking 👏👏 Nick
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Another cracking win on the road and fully deserved IMO. Also amazed to see more Dorking supporters in the bar post match than Henley. Well played to Henley 12 who won MOTM and with Sean Fitzpatrick watching from the touchline. It was however a glorious day for playing rugby, with many worse days yet to come.
------------- Fezantplucker
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Posted By: Shamrose
Date Posted: 17 Nov 2022 at 16:56
I was just curious as to who the new Winger at Dorking was Austin Emens and the below came up on the search which is the highlights of last weeks games N2E games
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FYcrDAxVmv8" rel="nofollow - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FYcrDAxVmv8
He has an amazing step which I saw at Dorking a month back and for his 2nd try on here. Another good addition to the team
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 26 Nov 2022 at 17:04
Not all of the results in yet........but a very entertaining game for the neutral at the Rugby Park today, with Raiders coming out on top 46-32 in an exciting encounter full of excellent attacking play and perhaps, some dodgy defending. A game of two halves then, with the home side looking absolutely deadly with ball in hand in the first half. Five pretty backs tries answered by a very good one from the TJ's winger. The third quarter started with a sixth backs try and the completion of a great hat-trick from winger Curtis Barnes. But then came a protracted period in which the TJ's half backs got their hands on the ball and started to dictate play. TJ's showed excellent patience and ball retention.....we did not.....on the rare occasion that we regained possession, we quickly kicked it away again. The score moved I think, from 39-8 to 39-27 and a serious momentum shift continued. The clock ticked on and Raiders came back into the game a little. A nice 7th backs try from a lovely running line with about 6mins left, put the game to bed, but TJ's kept going and had the last score as further compensation. I expect that they will be disappointed with their solitary TBP however. A great result for the Oaks I see, and another surprise defeat for the Hawks ![Big smile Big smile](smileys/smiley4.gif) The Oaks are having a pretty good season it seems ? The Barn Elms boys recorded another fine win and it seems likely that at the very least, they will record their highest ever league finish ? I might be wrong about that though.
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Posted By: Wigwam
Date Posted: 26 Nov 2022 at 18:40
how to sun up the game today……Worthing first half sublime second half out came the worry beads
------------- Pace Power Perfection
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 26 Nov 2022 at 19:14
Hi TP.........certainly a game of two halves, and as ever, fine margins dictate the course of play. I thought that our half backs did very well with front foot ball, but at 18 and 19yrs of age respectively, struggled when that changed. hopefully they will learn quickly. I thought that the TJ's half back pairing were excellent throughout. ![Clap Clap](smileys/smiley32.gif) Overall......a satisfying win, which neither of us predicted ![Ouch Ouch](smileys/smiley18.gif)
I note that Club edged past poor Westcliff.....who are looking horribly out of their depth.
Another comprehensive win for the freescoring Dorks....and very good results for both Guernsey and OA's.
Still tight in the 'best of the rest' competition, but Club still look strong favourites. Looking forward to watching them at our place soon. ![Big smile Big smile](smileys/smiley4.gif)
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Posted By: Wigwam
Date Posted: 26 Nov 2022 at 20:42
Evening Darth Must admit nerves were getting the better of me in the second half. I was circulating the pitch that quick nippers poor old dog was getting out of breath trying to keep up. I think the W scrumy is in his 20’s by the way
------------- Pace Power Perfection
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Posted By: islander
Date Posted: 26 Nov 2022 at 21:16
NLR site a bit muddled for Roch v Gsy score. It says (40) 26 - 4 (6) but I don't think you can score 4 any more! ![Wink Wink](smileys/smiley2.gif)
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Posted By: Even Older Hooker
Date Posted: 26 Nov 2022 at 21:18
Worthings control and vibrance in the first half especially was the scrummage. both teams wanted to play open Rugby and got on with it, hence very few if any resets and well refereed.
------------- Another one against the head
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Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 26 Nov 2022 at 21:18
I believe it is 28-40, four tries to six
------------- Sweeney Delenda Est
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Posted By: Golden Jackal
Date Posted: 27 Nov 2022 at 11:28
Was impressed by the Barnes performance yesterday. they have assembled the most competitive set of forwards that I have seen in 10 yearsa of BSE playing them...Sirs pedantic refereeing (4 yellows in a clean game) made for a dreadfully stop start game, but the Barnes defence was superb and when Plan A for Bury didnt work, they asumed carrying on with it would overcome a committed home side... Bravo Marty, Jack, Rhino, et al
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Posted By: honestinjun
Date Posted: 27 Nov 2022 at 21:09
Thank you young Jackal, we have worked hard on becoming a fitter, more competitive side this season, the basis of our improved performances is this fitness combined with a motivatived squad and the 2nd xv playing in a very strong league too, which is preparing those players for their inevitable 1st xv appearances when injuries and absences happen. If you combine these things with a more balanced coaching team then you end up with the team we are right now..by no means the finished article but happy with our progress thus far.
We have Blackheath next week at their place, who I am sure will be rightly confident of maintaining their top spot after their 94-0 dismantling of Westcliff, but we will try our best!
Just want to add that I think the league is significantly weaker this year without Leicester Lions, Clifton, Dings, Hinckley,Redruth, not saying we would have performed worse but it would have been a lot harder with them all in the mix, interesting (but not surprising) that they occupy the top 5 spots in West!
------------- HonestInjun
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 27 Nov 2022 at 21:26
honestinjun wrote:
Thank you young Jackal, we have worked hard on becoming a fitter, more competitive side this season, the basis of our improved performances is this fitness combined with a motivatived squad and the 2nd xv playing in a very strong league too, which is preparing those players for their inevitable 1st xv appearances when injuries and absences happen. If you combine these things with a more balanced coaching team then you end up with the team we are right now..by no means the finished article but happy with our progress thus far.
We have Blackheath next week at their place, who I am sure will be rightly confident of maintaining their top spot after their 94-0 dismantling of Westcliff, but we will try our best!
Just want to add that I think the league is significantly weaker this year without Leicester Lions, Clifton, Dings, Hinckley,Redruth, not saying we would have performed worse but it would have been a lot harder with them all in the mix, interesting (but not surprising) that they occupy the top 5 spots in West! |
Made me wonder how the Lions would be doing in the old South league had it continued, however still early days and some very difficult away fixtures in the New Year.
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 27 Nov 2022 at 22:34
evening Injun......a brave post by you. i took a look at the tables myself earlier today and came to an similar conclusion.....but feared to say so. I suspect that the top 5 sides in nat2w would be top in our league this year, with perhaps....only Club in that mix.
just my opinion, but the standard in our league this year is quite dramatically reduced. when i watched my own team at the outset, i thought we might do well to avoid relegation. We are improving, but the lack of quality leaves us much higher in the league than we might have been against last years opponents.
It is in some ways pleasing to see both Barnes and Dorking doing so well.
What troubles me, is that Nat1 is not weakened. It has ever been difficult to remain in that league after promotion.....in this new set up....i fear that the promoted sides will be even less ready to cope with the higher standard ?
Somewhat surprised that Shanners boys have not yet stretched away........it will be interesting to see them at our place in a couple of weeks time. I expect that they will win......but they may well be facing the best backs lineup in any of the national leagues......if we can secure any possession.....be very afraid ![Big smile Big smile](smileys/smiley4.gif)
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Posted By: Shamrose
Date Posted: 28 Nov 2022 at 09:19
Odd game at Dorking on Saturday, bonus point in the bag after 20 minutes and 40 nil at half time. Second half was much slower with the Dorking forwards deciding to hang on to the ball and try to go through the middle with lots of offloads that didn't go to hand often enough. When the backs got the ball they scored 3 good tries with the last an absolutely brilliant solo effort from Mikey Young. NW hung in there and didn't stop defending for the whole game and there will have been some tired bodies on their long coach trip home
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Posted By: Rabbie Burns
Date Posted: 28 Nov 2022 at 13:26
The reorganisation of the leagues was always likely to throw up some strange results and possible mismatches. You need to look at the relevance of where teams finished last season and if the top teams in 2S are now all in 2W then you would have to assume that league is stronger. That said for me there seems to be an rollercoaster ride between ability of the teams. In an attempt to give that some context our last 3 weeks a tough away trip to TJs which we lost in a tight hard fought game where discipline (and their 10s accuracy) cost us the game, following week we travelled to 7oaks and for around 50-60 mins although we felt we would win it wasn’t until the last 20 that fitness and squad depth turned the score line into what looked like a comfortable win, then Saturday it was over a point a minute against Westcliff and we then need to step up again for the visit of Barnes who are up there chasing the one promotion spot. The only way that you could open up a big lead at this stage is to go unbeaten and that is very rare in any league so having a lead at the top is fine at this still early stage of the season to think otherwise is disrespectful to the other teams in the league. Long way to go and lots of rugby to be played
------------- So many Christians not enough Lions
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Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 28 Nov 2022 at 14:44
The top sides may have gone West, but the relegated sides went East.
So it basically balances out.
At the top of East you have Blackheath - relegated Dorking - promoted Barnes - 11th Old Albanian - 9th
Worthing - 4th
West has Leicester Lions - 5h Clifton - 3rd Dings Crusaders - 7th Hinckley - 13th Redruth - 2nd Exeter University - promoted
which shows how fortunes can change.
------------- Sweeney Delenda Est
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Posted By: Ancient Oak
Date Posted: 28 Nov 2022 at 17:20
Thank you Rabbie Burns for showing respect unlike some for the other teams in the league. We bounced back last weekend from our second half drubbing by The Club, having competed well to lead 11-7 at the break, with a hard fought win against the Hawks who have been around at this level and above for many years. We are new boys on the block but we are learning fast. Please judge us and others on where we are come next April.
------------- "Heaven prosper our sport"
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Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 28 Nov 2022 at 18:02
Ancient Oak wrote:
Thank you Rabbie Burns for showing respect unlike some for the other teams in the league. We bounced back last weekend from our second half drubbing by The Club, having competed well to lead 11-7 at the break, with a hard fought win against the Hawks who have been around at this level and above for many years. We are new boys on the block but we are learning fast. Please judge us and others on where we are come next April. |
I'm sure we will - having seen Sevenoaks at Worthing early in the season I for one am not surprised they are competitive.
I fully expected Club to be at the top, but Barnes are certainly exceeding my expectations.
Is West or East stronger - without a pla-off we will only find out next season when the respective champions are in N1.
However it is currently a fact that both divisions are starting to see a gap between the top and bottom halves - something I think most people would have predicted.
------------- RAID ON
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Posted By: PM009
Date Posted: 29 Nov 2022 at 11:30
Assuming its 2 down from L4 into L5, has this been confirmed?
Fear for Canterbury getting dragged into a relegation fight with NW as the season goes on. Look poor, unfit and devoid of much attacking threat so far this season, going to be a long back end of the season :(
Good to see Sevenoaks competitive and Blackheath looking strong to bounce back up
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 29 Nov 2022 at 15:38
Agree with you there Pm009.......Westcliff are already gone imo, and Oaks seem to have enough about them to avoid a relegation scrap, so the City Side could well become embroiled with NW and the 100 ? After watching them at our place this year, I did remark to my rugby mates that that was the worst City Side I had seen in 20yrs of watching.....and that I would not be overly surprised if they ended near the bottom. Still a few stalwarts at the club, but they must be getting on a bit now ?
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Posted By: PM009
Date Posted: 29 Nov 2022 at 16:04
Yes its been a tough watch this season, and I can't see it improving in a hurry
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Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 03 Dec 2022 at 18:24
Any chance of some first hand accounts of games this week ? I am interested in all games of course, but particularly in the two big encounters for Barnes and Dorking today. Both had a chance to announce themselves as genuine title contenders I think. I did n't travel but my lot, despite another 8 or 9 team changes, managed to boost their PD with a big win against hapless Westcliff. Huge game for us next week when Club visit the Rugby Park.
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Posted By: Rabbie Burns
Date Posted: 03 Dec 2022 at 19:08
View from the touchline imminent just got in and having a cuppa
------------- So many Christians not enough Lions
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Posted By: Wigwam
Date Posted: 03 Dec 2022 at 20:17
I went to Westcliffe Was up there in good time but kept getting sent to an industrial site by the satnav. Turns out that was the old ground. Then tried the post code for the “new clubhouse” but that was a new housing estate. I then spotted by chance the Worthing coach across the fields in the distance. Where’s me wellies when I need them. Eventually got there but missed most of the half. Anyway it was pretty much one way as the score suggests but in saying that Westcliffe butchered a couple of chances in the second half. Nice new clubhouse but a lifeless setting at the moment but I guess a few strategically planted trees would sort that.
------------- Pace Power Perfection
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Posted By: half back
Date Posted: 03 Dec 2022 at 20:45
I was at TJs v Dorking taking some photos. An interesting contrast of styles. Dorking started very brightly with 2 quick tries, the remainder of the half was fairly even. Second half saw TJs assert some control but only drawing level with 5 minutes to go and then finally taking the lead with the last play. Overall TJs shaded it, but an excellent contest. Despite the weather, the pitch not too heavy, but please cut the grass !
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