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national 2 south status

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Topic: national 2 south status
Posted By: Darth Raider
Subject: national 2 south status
Date Posted: 13 Oct 2021 at 21:03
hi all.....i posted a thread such as this for several years now.....and to be fair it seemed to be fairly well received.  with 100's of posts and thousands of views.  that said, it seems to me that R-M traffic in general is much down this year and so, if there is no interest, we can always just close it.

so.....where is our league this year ?  Very strong again i think and again, with some early indications of how things might end up.  My opinions.....

starting at the bottom.....it seems evident that both Westcliff and Barum are, quite literally, out of their league.
Barum seem a bit of a yoyo side.....too good for the SW league but well short of the requirements for survival in the grinder of Nat2s.  

I confess i was also thinking that the last relegation place (forgetting the new league structure next year) would be decided between Rochford and Hinckley, but both have shown significant improvement already and might yet drag others into the struggle against 14th place.  also confess to see the City side in their current situation, but they, alongside OA's, another team with relatively recent Nat1 provenance, are struggling so far.

At the top......well i thought the Choppers should and would have won the league last year, and i fully expect them to make amends in this one.  they are an outstanding team unit.....withe whole being greater than the sum of the component parts,,,,,very well done to the coaching team.  the pack is exceptional and they also have the benefit of the best half back partnership (imo) in Oulton and Honey.  the former a prolific tryscorer as well and the latter the best fly half in our leagu and maybe the one above.  i was surprised and perhaps, quite pleased, to see him still at the Recreation ground this year.....i thought he would go to Pirates or even Exeter.
I had thought too, that Clifton with their extensive Bristol DR cohort, might challenge them, and i guess they may yet do so. bit\ut two early defeats have set them back.  The horrible stuffing from Choppers is a definite setback.
Esher too, had clear ambitions for this year and may yet improve, but early results would seem to indicate that they have not (yet at least) got enough.j

perhaps the two over achievers at this early stage would be Dings.....who seem to have an excellent pack, and but for a few points in a couple of games would be much higher.......and my lot.

The Raiders.....well....i confess that after we lost several of our better players to more monied teams, i was worried about how we might stay out of the relegation zone this year.
our new management team and coaching staff seem to have done an outstanding job and we have recruited very well.
As ever, we are showing ourselves to be a tryscoring team.  from what i have seen so far, our pack and particularly our set piece, are not consistently good enough to win this league.  That said....we are still missing some incredibly impactful players from our back line and already have at least 7 or 8 out injured.  i think that with luck on that front we could get even stronger.

i am hoping we will make top four

good luck to all with injuries and i also hope that the chaps at the bottom at the mo can turn it around.  great league as ever.

ooh.....forgot the bloo%y Hawks.  they look dangerous too.....another very good pack.  hope they get relegated though Big smileWink 



Replies:
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 13 Oct 2021 at 22:14
I fully expect Leicester Lions to begin reeping up the league and may well be there or there abouts come the sharp end of the season. Surprised with the other Leicestershire side, I thought Hinckley would have started better at home, but there's plenty of time for many sides to make a statement.


Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 13 Oct 2021 at 23:16
Well nobody will yo-yo this season.
With probably 4 and possibly six  Nat 1 teams going up to the expanded championship - and the expansion of Nat 2 with a third division there will be no relegation.

If they remain stronger than the other SW sides, they will probably not be relegated next season either.


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Sweeney Delenda Est


Posted By: Undercover Back
Date Posted: 14 Oct 2021 at 08:27
Purely in the interest's of speculation and conjecture, a few of my thoughts after (nearly) a fifth of the season complete.

Redruth clearly the title favourite's, with a rather congested bunch in behind them chasing. Listed in my perceived order of threat over the remainder of the season. Henley, Clifton, Worthing, Lions, Esher. 

At this early stage, the schedule can allow for a certain rose tinting (or the opposite) when looking at the table in isolation. This year most teams will face a veritable murder's row of games with Redruth, Clifton and Esher all inside a four week window which will go a long way to sorting the men from the boys. 

A final thought, the last team relegated from Nat 1 who have managed to climb the ladder back was Cinderford after a two year stay. Of the recently promoted sides, Canterbury alone have returned to grace us with their presence (OE's fall being another matter entirely). A testament to the strength of the league? I sincerely hope so.


Posted By: The Hawks
Date Posted: 14 Oct 2021 at 18:44
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:



ooh.....forgot the bloo%y Hawks.  they look dangerous too.....another very good pack.  hope they get relegated though Big smileWink 

Darth I see you haven’t lost your sense of humour over the pandemic!!😂😂 I think the team to beat is Redruth, pity our game was postponed, but I fully support the decision. OA’s were certainly very unlucky at not winning against them down there the other weekend,  I thought Clifton might of edged it last weekend but The Reds had other ideas! Hopefully my beloved Hawks will keep the pressure on Redruth for the top two position, but I guess Leicester, Esher and maybe the other Raiders, Guernsey, who have started very well and who we play next, will be up there!
As for the bottom three I can’t argue what you have said.

As for the other Raiders in Worthing, your fairy tale start, will come crushing down soon, so a mid table finish will beckon you!😂😂 see you on the 13th?!


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'Go The Hawks!'


Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 14 Oct 2021 at 19:37
Originally posted by The Hawks The Hawks wrote:

Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:



ooh.....forgot the bloo%y Hawks.  they look dangerous too.....another very good pack.  hope they get relegated though Big smileWink 


Darth I see you haven’t lost your sense of humour over the pandemic!!😂😂 I think the team to beat is Redruth, pity our game was postponed, but I fully support the decision. OA’s were certainly very unlucky at not winning against them down there the other weekend,  I thought Clifton might of edged it last weekend but The Reds had other ideas! Hopefully my beloved Hawks will keep the pressure on Redruth for the top two position, but I guess Leicester, Esher and maybe the other Raiders, Guernsey, who have started very well and who we play next, will be up there!
As for the bottom three I can’t argue what you have said.

As for the other Raiders in Worthing, your fairy tale start, will come crushing down soon, so a mid table finish will beckon you!😂😂 see you on the 13th?!


I try to remember never to predict Redruth losing at home - as they rarely do - possibly because of the travelling most other sides have to do?

The flip side is Redruth have a number of long journeys each season - something they have usually struggled with - so it will be interesting to see if they can keep the away form up.

As for Guernsey, should be good at home for similar reasons - I wasn't that impressed with them at Worthing in round 1, but they have done well since that.

Worth bearing in mind that they have only played at home once to date.

Henley are usually there or thereabouts - the 2 games in hand need to be remembered, but of course they have to win them.

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RAID ON


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 15 Oct 2021 at 21:15
ooh.....a rugby conversation about our league......how exciting !!

undercover......welcome....i have....not to my recollection, encountered you before.  but excellent post.....i agree with most of what you say and in particular, the order in which the challengers will line up behind the Choppers.

Nick....you are as ever, over excited about the prospects of your one dimensional team Tongue.  get some talented backs at last and you might be competitive.

unfortunately, i have reached a stage of life where i am uncomfortable driving long distances in the dark, so unless i can get one of my rugby mates to drive me, i  will miss out on my usual journey to Dry Leas to pick up the 5pts.  Be assured however, that if i can make it i will let you know so you can buy me some beers.  Clap

agree with 999.....Guernsey were decent at our place, but individual errors from one of our players made the scoreline look closer than it should have been.  suspect you will force errors.....kick to the corner and maul it over for a win....yawn...Ouch


Steve...mostly agree.  have you looked at our website and our squad ?  53 members now...confessedly.....this is historically just about how many you need to get through an Nat2S season, but we have some extraordinary quality that might return ?

i am particularly excited by the presence of Anscombe at 10 again.....also rhe return of Cleaves.  i continue to think it impossible that Blewett will actually play.....but if he does.....then watch out Choppers !  Big smile


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 15 Oct 2021 at 21:54
oh......and Steve....disagree about Choppers away form.  yes.....you are right and they were  uniformly poor on the road.....but as i recall.....they fixed that quite dramatically in their last league season,  not sure if that is because they are travelling and staying overnight on the Friday....but whatever it is it is working.




Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 17 Oct 2021 at 17:02
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:

oh......and Steve....disagree about Choppers away form.  yes.....you are right and they were  uniformly poor on the road.....but as i recall.....they fixed that quite dramatically in their last league season,  not sure if that is because they are travelling and staying overnight on the Friday....but whatever it is it is working.




Darth , your memory excels - Redruth's away form was better in the last season - you may be correct about the reasons.

They are certainly the team to beat in my opinion. In fact the premature ending of the season may have stopped them overtaking TJs.

Congratulations to Rochford - well beaten at Rugby Park 2 weeks ago when their front five looked extremely unfit - but what a turn around with good wins in the last 2 games.



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RAID ON


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 17 Oct 2021 at 19:44
another surprising day......for me at least, in Nat2S.  Three thumping wins and five really tight games, most of which i managed to get the wrong side of Ouch

let's start with the big wins.
No surprise to anybody i suppose, that Choppers march serenely on with a big win at Westcliff.
I was surprised however, at the scale of the thumping Barnes got at BSE.  Whenever i watch the Barn Elms boys they look a really competitive outfit and if you are not properly at it on the day, they will turn you over.  As it stands, they might be pleased that there is no relegation this year, otherwise they might be looking nervously over their shoulders as both Hinckley and Rochford seem to be on a bit of a roll ?

My lot fielded a slightly depleted side against Barum, who i thought, were pretty poor defensively.  While we scored nine tries, i left the Rugby Park feeling a little flat, as we butchered another half dozen chances and our continuing indiscipline allowed our opponents three scores.  Perhaps though, our promising start has left me with unrealistic expectations at this early stage ....probably so  Big smile

As to the tight games.....

Let's start with Guernsey.  After watching them at our place i was quite impressed and thought they might make 7th or 8th in the league,  They are unbeaten since and put a real marker down on Saturday by beating Hawks (always a pleasure to see Wink).  Are we perhaps, witnessing the birth of n second Channel Island powerhouse ?  A la Jersey ?  Not short of a few bob thereabouts.

Hinckley next.....they have had the toughest of early fixtures and it would seem, given a very good account of themselves on most occasions.....and are perhaps getting stronger.  Although they have only won once so far, their negative points difference of just -6 shows how near they have been to an outstanding start.  Not sure about their squad depth, but a mid-table finish seems more likely and overall, a much better effort than their last journey south.  A good addition to our league. 
By contrast, although Esher will be pleased with the points, i suspect they are falling a little short of their lofty ambitions.

Clifton v OA's ?  i am going to give up trying to predict either of these teams results, in fact i suspect that they are both deliberately conspiring to ruin my prediction league season......and to be fair....making a pretty good job of it Clap

i had thought that the Sumpter lead Lions might push on this season, but another away defeat would seem to infer that they are much the same place, albeit still strong at home.  in order to improve their prospects, i would strongly recommend that they rest all of their best players next week.  They seem very tired to me Wink

Otherwise, i echo Steve's thoughts posted above....well done to Rochford....that looked a nailed on win for Dings to me.....who i would have thought would have had the bulk to nullify the Rochford pack. 

hopefully, we can tempt some fans of all these sides to tell us a little more.  
  


Posted By: sweatysock
Date Posted: 17 Oct 2021 at 21:04
great summary Darth -seems wide open at the top , but think Worthing might struggle to stay at the top, albeit pleasantly surprised by the start and you never know. Agree re yesterday - butchered a few chances and set piece a bit of a worry particularly the line-out


Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 18 Oct 2021 at 11:45
I think the Lions felt they let one get away at the weekend and will be out to prove a point to themselves as much as anyone else this coming weekend. Ed Sumpter hasn't played since the middle of September, might be part of our woes.


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 18 Oct 2021 at 13:08
Hi Tiger.  Why is Sumpter missing then ?  he is certainly a loss, one of the best locks i've seen at this level.  good athlete and quite a tryscorer !

I seem to have a vague memory of him spending time with the Tigers ?


Posted By: Barum man
Date Posted: 18 Oct 2021 at 16:11
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:

hopefully, we can tempt some fans of all these sides to tell us a little more.  
  

Hi Darth,

As far as Barum are concerned this season they are a fair way off the team that won the last south west premier title IMHO.  With 4 or 5 key players missing and others retired or taking a break from rugby we are lacking in squad depth big time and that is obviously a massive problem in N2S. It’s going to be tough season for us this season that’s for sure but hopefully it will be great experience for the youngsters that are stepping into senior rugby for the first time (mostly all local players that have come up through the ranks and are experiencing first team rugby for the first time).

 



Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 18 Oct 2021 at 19:17
Hi Barum man.....thanks for taking the time to contribute.

At least this year, you can experiment and take the time to grow your younger players on, without fear of relegation.

Curiously, i was sent a link today and read your well balanced match report ( i did not think your lineout that bad Wink ), and rewatched a video of the game.  dunno why, but Barum looked a fair bit better on the video.  i thought your 9, 12 and 13 all showed well, but the wingers need to defend better imo.

it is a savagely competitive league and as you point out, squad depth is vital.  We have 8 or 9 out ourselves i think......already. 

best of luck with the rest of the season and i look forward to future updates. Tongue

good idea to fake an Covid outbtreak and avoid a visit to the Recreation ground though OuchWink


Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 18 Oct 2021 at 21:51
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:

Hi Tiger.  Why is Sumpter missing then ?  he is certainly a loss, one of the best locks i've seen at this level.  good athlete and quite a tryscorer !

I seem to have a vague memory of him spending time with the Tigers ?
I believe he's injured, not certain, Nick Cairns had a game with the Tigers, don't remember Ed doing so, but could be wrong.


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 23 Oct 2021 at 21:11
well well.......golly gosh....another outstanding day in our league ?
I had thought that there were three teams that i might reply upon in terms of predicting their results....Redruth, Barum and Westcliff.  The latter did not let me down and will likely, be embarrassed about their result today.  thankfully, we do not see teams ship 100pts or more in this competitiveleague and i hope for their sakes they can improve.  otherwise...Clifton are clearly the top points scorers in the league and although i have not seen them yet....it would appear that if you let them have the ball they will hurt you badly Ouch

Next up.....what happened at the Recreation ground ?  it would be great if we could find either an Choppers or Esher fan to let us know  At face value....an tremendous win for Esher....very well done.  Are they now announcing themselves as potential league winners ?  were choppers missing Oulton or Honey ?
Hard for us neutrals to understand.

Well done to Barum and I suspect that their 16th man came to their rescue again.  i waws still surprised that the Rochford pack.....the team have been on a great run of late.....did not find a wayy to win this one.

what i thought would be a high scoring defeat at Goose poo green, turned into a low scoring draw.  as ever......commentary welcome from anybody that was at Barn Elms today.

OA's erratic form continues and they were emphatic winners in a tryfest at Woolams.  Dings did well to score yet another 5 tries but their defence let them down again conceding 8.

Hawks creep forward......edging another incredibly tight game.  while they will still fancy their chances and have a pretty decent pack, they have just two TBP's so far this year and that is likely to cause them problems in the near term if they can't fix it.  hope not TongueWink

lastly......Guernsey find a way to win their 7th game on the trot and go top of the league Big smile
outstanding stuff.  that said and in the absence of any Guernsey posters, hee hee, i still don't think that they will finish in the top 4. brest of luck to them though and they are a thoroughly combative side.

Oh.....just realised i forgot my lot.......was n't there.  seriously weakened side......seemed to defend well.  very well done to the lads wearing the shirt on the day.  still hoping for a top 4 finish for us Tongue


Posted By: Halliford
Date Posted: 23 Oct 2021 at 21:57
I couldn’t get to Cornwall but got messages back. Esher played uphill in the first half and were near perfect, getting to 29-7 at halftime. The Chair of the NLR thought it was the best half we had played in years. 
Turning round Esher scored first before the inevitable Cornish fight back. They got 3 tries but a missed conversion left them needing two tries to win and they didn’t get it.
Esther’s backs seem now a settled, effective unit but our forwards still need more strength and bulk. Missing 3 from the squad today, 1 of whom returned from injury on Friday night.


Posted By: chopper10
Date Posted: 24 Oct 2021 at 08:03
Hello Darth…Redruth we’re missing key players including Oulton and Trewin 9 & 15. Redruth we’re convincingly outplayed in the first half with poor decision making at 9. The second half saw the Reds play to their potential but it was too late! An exciting game to watch - Well done Esher. 
Chopper10 


Posted By: Barum man
Date Posted: 24 Oct 2021 at 09:35
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:


Well done to Barum and I suspect that their 16th man came to their rescue again.  i waws still surprised that the Rochford pack.....the team have been on a great run of late.....did not find a wayy to win this one.


Hi Darth, Strangely enough Barum massacred the Rochford pack in the first half so much so that Rochford replaced two of their pack after 30 minutes, after that it was more even but Barum always had the edge up front.
Rochford scored their only try after 5 minutes but never really threatened a lot after that. The second half was one way traffic with Barum camped in the Rochford half most of the time (often in the red zone) but it only yielded one more try - fair play to the Rochford defence but to be honest Barum should have been out of sight with a little more patience.
Still a way to go for Barum but we are going in the right direction.


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 24 Oct 2021 at 10:50
sounds like an exciting an entertaining encounter at the Recreation Ground, with a result that nobody predicted after Esher built their convincing first half lead.  Just goes to show that with a few injuries, much can change in our league.  
Esher host Clifton next week and Choppers travel to the island.  Fascinating encounters.  I look forward to forecasting the results incorrectly yet again Wink

Best of luck with the rest of the season Barum man.....as ever, home form seems pretty good, but it is hard for a neutral to see your lads climbing out of the bottom three without an distinct change in away form .


Posted By: sweatysock
Date Posted: 24 Oct 2021 at 11:48
certainly very interesting contest this year - normally by this stage one or two teams clearly emerge as stronger than the rest, but certainly not clear cut yet


Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 24 Oct 2021 at 11:59
Lions beating top of the table not worth a mention then?


Posted By: Barum man
Date Posted: 24 Oct 2021 at 12:27
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:


Best of luck with the rest of the season Barum man.....as ever, home form seems pretty good, but it is hard for a neutral to see your lads climbing out of the bottom three without an distinct change in away form .

I agree entirely Darth ... just hope we can scrape a few home wins to keep a bit of respectability although its going to be tough for sure.


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 24 Oct 2021 at 13:57
Easy Tiger......it did get a mention, albeit very brief.  I was not at the game so have nothing of value to add.  Perhaps you can tell us more ?
It was a good win for Lions, although I predicted 5-0 to Lions, so we did better than I thought we would.
We'll 'ave yer at our place Wink

Also, you only have WilHuckleberryson on loan.....so enjoy him while you can TongueTongue


Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 24 Oct 2021 at 21:55
Match report posted


Posted By: RedPete
Date Posted: 26 Oct 2021 at 08:52
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:

Easy Tiger......it did get a mention, albeit very brief.  I was not at the game so have nothing of value to add.  Perhaps you can tell us more ?
It was a good win for Lions, although I predicted 5-0 to Lions, so we did better than I thought we would.
We'll 'ave yer at our place Wink

Also, you only have WilHuckleberryson on loan.....so enjoy him while you can TongueTongue

Terrific player, wish he could have played more often for Taunton than he did, is he returning to Worthing?


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Compassion for the conned, contempt for the conmen.


Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 26 Oct 2021 at 10:53
He seems to have settled nicely at the Lions..........................


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 26 Oct 2021 at 12:23
it was just a joke Pete.....Scrappy started with us.....famous for the 'headed try'.....see youtube.  his education took him to Titans and I assume, subsequent employment has taken him to Lions....where he does indeed seem nicely settled.  Best of luck to him.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OI4glvHmhwM" rel="nofollow - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OI4glvHmhwM


Posted By: sweatysock
Date Posted: 30 Oct 2021 at 17:24
Worthing won 34 to 32 thanks to 2 late tries. Rather got away with it today against a spirited Barnes team who were the better team for a lot of the game


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 30 Oct 2021 at 19:17
I agree with Sweaty.....Barnes will be mortified that they did n't win this one.  They were (to my mind) the better side and should probably have won by at least two scores.  Credit to Raiders that they upped it a bit in the second half and kept going for the 80mins.....somehow sneaking the win Ouch

Excellent win by the Molesey Rd boys at home to a very strong (if erratic) Clifton side.  They are on a good run now.

The Choppers will be very pleased to get back into their winning ways with a tough fixture away to the islanders, who were top but now in the blink of an eye, drop to 4th.  Guernsey seem to be consistently competitive and it will be interesting to see how high they can finish ?

The Hawks dominant pack produced another win....this time away at Merton Lane. They have games in hand and will no doubt, move a long way up the league from their current, lowly 10th position.  They still however, only have two TBP's and this may yet prove a problem for them Wink.

Dings dispatched Barum.....who scored 3 tries again but their defence on the road is a recurrent problem.  I can only feel sorry for Westcliff.....crushed at home by OA's.....shipping another 13 tries. ouch

Well done to Lions......edging a tight game away to Rochford, who have proven themselves a tough nut to crack, particularly at home.

Lastly, another good win for BSE.....who appear to be in very good form.  Free scoring and beating an combative Hinckley side who have done pretty well on the road, but with little reward so far. 

Thoughts from anyone who attended any of these games today......eyewitness accounts always valuable. Smile 


Posted By: Halliford
Date Posted: 30 Oct 2021 at 19:41
Esher were really dominant in the second half. Clifton scored from the kick off and were good value in the first half but Esher got really on top after halftime and Clifton failed to add to their score. It was aggressive defence that was so impressive with Clifton barely getting into the Esher half after the break. Harry Bate was strong in the first half but disappeared in the second half. A low penalty count and a match played in a competitive but f air atmosphere. Esther’s back row - Dow, Scott and Wilkins took control and when Gossington came on as well that was it for Clifton.

So a great first half at Redruth, a great second half against Clifton, looking forward to the full 80. 


Posted By: Golden Jackal
Date Posted: 31 Oct 2021 at 08:10
I was impressed with Hinkley today. A very physical side that attacked the breakdown and aggresive in the tackle...Pointon a real livewire at 9. They dominated the first 15 minutes of both halves, however Bury always looked superior out wide and after weathering the storm deservedly took the spoils


Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 31 Oct 2021 at 10:49
Worthing started well, went 7-0 up but then failed to score again as Barnes took control - their kicker looked really good even from distance.

Worthing took the game to Barnes in the second half, which was fairly even overall. It seemed every time we narrowed the gap to 3 points, we gave up a try ( interception then a line out that ended with a score in the corner which seemed to be unopposed)

The last few minutes saw Worthing lay siege to the visitors line and saw a penalty try and yellow card, followed by a maul pulled down in the corner resulting in the visitors going down to 13 - Worthing then scored their 5th try to gain victory.

It could, probably should, have been a different result - the Barnes kicker hitting the post from the touch line with his last conversion attempt.

My assessment was Barnes played as well as they could on a day Worthing struggled to find their A game.

Having said that, a valuable 5 points that sees Worthing back to the top

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RAID ON


Posted By: honestinjun
Date Posted: 01 Nov 2021 at 22:43
Barnes were mortified Darth, penalty count killed us, and finishing the game with two yellows took the biscuit…learn to give away less pens and we will win games like this, simple as that.

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HonestInjun


Posted By: RedPete
Date Posted: 02 Nov 2021 at 09:27
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:

it was just a joke Pete.....Scrappy started with us.....famous for the 'headed try'.....see youtube.  his education took him to Titans and I assume, subsequent employment has taken him to Lions....where he does indeed seem nicely settled.  Best of luck to him.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OI4glvHmhwM" rel="nofollow - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OI4glvHmhwM

I think he must have concentrated more on University rugby therefore limiting his appearances at Taunton. Glad he's still active and enjoying his rugby


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Compassion for the conned, contempt for the conmen.


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 02 Nov 2021 at 12:12
Hi Honestinjun.  I mostly agree.....i was horrified at how often we turned over cheap possession, but on most opccasions and within moments, your lot had found a way to give us the ball back.  both sides kept the ref pretty busy with petty infringements.

i thought your tight five were excellent in the loose and if that power could be harnessed without the errors, i would agree that much more could be achieved.  The skipper Seabright was outstanding, though the whole Barnes pack ran out of puff a little towards the end....imo....against their much lighter opponents.

In addition of course, and never to be forgotten, you have Josh Hammett.  He has been a pain the ar$e  for maybe 10yrs now......about time he retired  Wink he had another very good game.....kicking from hand and tee peg excellent as usual.

In our defence, I will say that there is a fair chance that you will meet a different Raiders side in the return at Barn Elms.  I am hoping that we will have a number of injured backs returning around the xmas period.  Historically, we pretty much only score backs tries but have to some extent, needed to reinvent ourselves of late due to injuries.  We scored four tries from mauls i think, despite our generally misfiring lineout.....probably an all time club record Tongue

Best of luck with the rest of your season


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 02 Nov 2021 at 12:41
hmmm.......have just reread my note posted above, and am feeling a little sheepish about crediting Josh Hammett without mentioning our own outstanding fly half (on the day....he has been deployed elsewhere as needed this year Ouch ).  One Matthew McLean.

Most will not realise, but in the whole of level 4 history, Matt is clearly the top points scorer with over 2300pts.  This perhaps,is not toooo much of a surprise for a player of his quality and amazing longevity. what might come as a greater surprise, is that he is also the all time top tryscorer. I think his 5 scores so far this year have edged him past the legendary Phil Chesters of Ealing.....with 122 tries.

Great stuff Matt.....long may it continue ClapClapBig smile  Tremendous club servant. Legend.

excuse the tub thumping....much deserved in this instance I feel


Posted By: RedPete
Date Posted: 02 Nov 2021 at 21:30
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:

hmmm.......have just reread my note posted above, and am feeling a little sheepish about crediting Josh Hammett without mentioning our own outstanding fly half (on the day....he has been deployed elsewhere as needed this year Ouch ).  One Matthew McLean.

Most will not realise, but in the whole of level 4 history, Matt is clearly the top points scorer with over 2300pts.  This perhaps,is not toooo much of a surprise for a player of his quality and amazing longevity. what might come as a greater surprise, is that he is also the all time top tryscorer. I think his 5 scores so far this year have edged him past the legendary Phil Chesters of Ealing.....with 122 tries.

Great stuff Matt.....long may it continue ClapClapBig smile  Tremendous club servant. Legend.

excuse the tub thumping....much deserved in this instance I feel

Agreed, a regular thorn in our side!


-------------
Compassion for the conned, contempt for the conmen.


Posted By: honestinjun
Date Posted: 02 Nov 2021 at 22:26
Hammett is playing well this season (but I think this is his 5th/6th season) mainly because he has a more solid platform in front of him, too often in the past we have been pushed off the ball but for once we have had few injuries to the front fives in both the 1’s and 2’s and the lads are training twice a week, makes a big difference, sounds like they need to work more on personal fitness, although not losing two players to yellow cards in the last 10/15 mins would also help methinks SmileSmileSmile 

-------------
HonestInjun


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 03 Nov 2021 at 12:40
Pete.....Matt had an perennial battle with yoyr own 'donkey' Kingdom of course.....often a tight battle for the top points scorer position.  I think he is in second place on the all time list with about 1800pts ?  Is he still going ?  He looked to be slowing down a bit the last few times I saw him play. 

Injun.....no doubt the life of any half back is a damn sight easier with plenty of front foot ball......a luxury many have to do without.


Posted By: Golden Jackal
Date Posted: 03 Nov 2021 at 15:52
Gary Kingdom has been a perennial thorn in BSE's side, but an outstanding player and decent bloke...I think he kicked a last min pen for Taunton the other week, but is not always starting these days


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 06 Nov 2021 at 18:07
Oh me of little faith.......should have gone with my gut and forecast a long awaited away win for the lads from Hinckley Ouch.  An outstanding result.......very well done to them, also to Hereshoping and Scrumtime, who had the foresight and courage to predict this unlikely (?) win.  
3pts in the prediction league does not seem like enough ?  Worth some bonus points really Tongue

Any readers on here who were at Dry Leas today and can give us a bit more detail of what transpired ?
I had thought 1-4 might be possible.  0-5 is quite a surprise....albeit a pleasing one Wink


Posted By: The Hawks
Date Posted: 07 Nov 2021 at 08:59
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:

Oh me of little faith.......should have gone with my gut and forecast a long awaited away win for the lads from Hinckley Ouch.  An outstanding result.......very well done to them, also to Hereshoping and Scrumtime, who had the foresight and courage to predict this unlikely (?) win.  
3pts in the prediction league does not seem like enough ?  Worth some bonus points really Tongue

Any readers on here who were at Dry Leas today and can give us a bit more detail of what transpired ?
I had thought 1-4 might be possible.  0-5 is quite a surprise....albeit a pleasing one Wink

I wasn’t at the game, but I just didn’t predicted this result! Hinckley results have been close so far this season, to go 0-28 was a fantastic performance, well played Hinckley. Watch out Worthing for the backlash next week!! 😜


-------------
'Go The Hawks!'


Posted By: sweatysock
Date Posted: 13 Nov 2021 at 20:43
I would say that the top 2 now (Redruth and Esher) may well be top two at end of season


Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 14 Nov 2021 at 10:09
Two fine sides, but no one is running away with it yet, still a long way to go


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 14 Nov 2021 at 11:37
Sweaty/Tiger......I agree with you both.  I suspect that Choppers and Esher are favourites, but you can see that the table is becoming quite compressed at the top now.

As we see nearly every year in this league, nearly every team can beat every other on any given day. those of us who foolishly try and predict the results each week, can for the greater part, never know the composition of the teams that are fielded.  Injuries, particularly when they are to key players, can have an significant impact and often do.
So squad depth is ever the issue and it will come into play this year too.

Hawks bounced back nicely this week and most encouragingly for them, seem to have got their back line firing at last.  Lousy timing imo Ouch

Agree with Tiger about the current top 2, but all of the current top 8 will all still fancy their chances if they can put a bit of a run together.  There will e some fascinating matchups between them all in the weeks ahead and also, plenty of potential banana skins in away games against nearly all of the other Nat2S sides too Wink

So six fairly predictable home wins this week, with only poor Westcliff bucking the trend.  

There are some brilliant fixtures leading up to xmas......much for us all to look forward to.

As ever.....commentary from anybody attending any of yesterdays games would be much appreciated.   I did not get to Dry Leas this year unfortunately.


Posted By: Chopper
Date Posted: 14 Nov 2021 at 14:23
Away wins will always be a key factor in table positions. Redruth have notoriously preformed well at home, (advantage Hellfire Corner) but away form has been patchy over the years. Hammers seems to have the wheels back on the bus which has made our away form better in recent seasons.




Posted By: Golden Jackal
Date Posted: 14 Nov 2021 at 14:51
It was certainly advantage Hell Fire yesterday...thought we were unlucky not to get a bonus point..Plus like the added touch of a parked Audi to delay our "short" Smile journey home that fraction longer!


Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 14 Nov 2021 at 15:34
Well, assuming the changes go through, you may not have to do it again.


-------------
Sweeney Delenda Est


Posted By: Golden Jackal
Date Posted: 14 Nov 2021 at 17:18
Yes much as the welcome is great and the people are Rugby mad, getting home at 1.30am having spent 8 hours the previous day travelling may not be missed.


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 14 Nov 2021 at 17:41
Don't forget the Tribute Wink
Also.....amongst players and clubs, it is possible that opinions might be mixed.  Yes, it is an hell of a journey, but it is an iconic venue and a tremndous challenge....perhaps savoured by some.  I certainly remember our first win there. Tongue


Posted By: Chopper
Date Posted: 14 Nov 2021 at 18:23
Originally posted by Golden Jackal Golden Jackal wrote:

It was certainly advantage Hell Fire yesterday...thought we were unlucky not to get a bonus point..Plus like the added touch of a parked Audi to delay our "short" Smile journey home that fraction longer!

Saw the picture of the Audi on social media. Bad form from whoever parked it there, still, time for more "tribute"


Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 14 Nov 2021 at 19:50
Originally posted by Chopper Chopper wrote:

Originally posted by Golden Jackal Golden Jackal wrote:

It was certainly advantage Hell Fire yesterday...thought we were unlucky not to get a bonus point..Plus like the added touch of a parked Audi to delay our "short" Smile journey home that fraction longer!


Saw the picture of the Audi on social media. Bad form from whoever parked it there, still, time for more "tribute"


There was another car featured on social media blocking a coach in a couple of weeks ago at Redruth

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RAID ON


Posted By: RedPete
Date Posted: 16 Nov 2021 at 13:34
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:

Pete.....Matt had an perennial battle with yoyr own 'donkey' Kingdom of course.....often a tight battle for the top points scorer position.  I think he is in second place on the all time list with about 1800pts ?  Is he still going ?  He looked to be slowing down a bit the last few times I saw him play. 

Injun.....no doubt the life of any half back is a damn sight easier with plenty of front foot ball......a luxury many have to do without.
Originally posted by Golden Jackal Golden Jackal wrote:

Gary Kingdom has been a perennial thorn in BSE's side, but an outstanding player and decent bloke...I think he kicked a last min pen for Taunton the other week, but is not always starting these days

Yes Gary is still playing (I think he is 38 now) though not every week and his experience and organisation are missed when he doesn't. 
He did indeed kick a penalty with the last kick of the game the other week to beat Rams, something he has done on more than one occasion (I'm sure Henley supporters look forward to seeing his name on the team sheet Wink). He shows no sign of losing his enthusiasm for the game



-------------
Compassion for the conned, contempt for the conmen.


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 20 Nov 2021 at 22:15
well i will start with the game i watched.  Another exceptional away win for the Hinckley lads.  for those that have not seen them play yet.....they have a very well organised forward pack and a very good scrum.  not much in the backs.....but they have a good kicking game and if you make the mistake of taking them on at this....as we did.....you might well lose. 
We won a great deal of ball on the gain line......but box kicked it away repeatedly and ineptly, only to have the clear MoM Joe Wilson....their fly half....take yet another 40m out of us.

3pts lost for us and very well done Hinckley.  Expect an upper mid-table finish for them this year Clap

Otherwise.......our two league favourites.....Choppers and Esher.....pushed on well.  great effort from the City Side to halt this progress but not quite good enough.
good wins for Clifton and Hawks......and both will think that they can still get themselves into this battle.

great league......lots of good games today....very tight.  best of luck to all TongueWink


Posted By: Halliford
Date Posted: 20 Nov 2021 at 22:59
Very impressed with Esher today. I had expected a close match against OA but we controlled the game so well that it stopped being a contest early in the second half. After OA scored a great try through their very quick wing at the start of the half, they did not get out of their half again until 30 minutes later, by which time the game had gone away from them. Esher forwards dominated and the backs ran OA ragged at times. Looking good!


Posted By: Barum man
Date Posted: 21 Nov 2021 at 09:55
Barum did well to hold the Lions to a single try and had a few really good chances to nick it at the end but it was not to be. The Lions number 10 kicking game was outstanding including a couple of long distance penalties.


Posted By: Wigwam
Date Posted: 21 Nov 2021 at 16:14
Playing 20 minutes with 14 men didn’t help Worthing. Both players binned quite rightly for technical offences but sir had no card for a Hinckley high tackle. These decisions always perplex me but on the day Hinckley via their game management and excellent kicking deserved their win that’s for sure. I guess the plus points for Worthing were some moments of outstanding brilliance from individuals and getting both bonus points. 



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Pace Power Perfection


Posted By: sweatysock
Date Posted: 27 Nov 2021 at 16:14
well it looks like a great result for Worthing - Redruth 10 Worthing 24 . Not  often we get much there


Posted By: Even Older Hooker
Date Posted: 27 Nov 2021 at 16:32

Sweaty I expected a tightish score due to the weather , Wow the wine is open and flowing

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Another one against the head


Posted By: Golden Jackal
Date Posted: 27 Nov 2021 at 16:38
Howling gale in S E Essex with a fired up home side pushing their old coach and players all the way before a hard earned 17 - 9 win for BSE at Westcliff



Posted By: sweatysock
Date Posted: 27 Nov 2021 at 16:50
Originally posted by Even Older Hooker Even Older Hooker wrote:


Sweaty I expected a tightish score due to the weather , Wow the wine is open and flowing

have an extra one for me as I am off the booze at moment


Posted By: Even Older Hooker
Date Posted: 27 Nov 2021 at 16:58
Leave to Beryl and myself. We will do you proud !!!!!!



-------------
Another one against the head


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 27 Nov 2021 at 18:39
not sure how much the weather played a part in all of today's results.......but generally speaking, there was much lower level of scoring than I expected, as evidenced by my dodgy predictions again.

That seemed like quite a turnaround by Westcliff.......still losing but keeping it very tight and close to picking up an LBP ?

I guess that the surprise result of the day was Raiders win at the Recreation Ground ?  I was not at the game but benefited from an plethora of text messages from a mate in situ. It seems we played into the wind (gale) in the first half and managed to keep the ball in hand successfully.....leading 5-10 at oranges.
I think we scored two nice backs tries in the second half to build a decent, two score lead.  I imagine that as ever, the Choppers pack launched an determined late attack trying to get back into the game and indeed, drew two yellow cards in the last 5mins, but did not get over the line.
A very pleasing win for the Raiders contingent.
After the Hinckley debacle the previous week....i was talking with fellow poster Wigwam....and we both said we would not be surprised if we then went to Redruth and won.  Amusingly, neither of us had the courage to predict it Big smile  

Shame the Esher/Guernsey encounter was called off, that would have been a really interesting game.

The Rochford pack seem to have given a good account of themselves again today, picking up a good LBP and showing what a threat they are if you are not 'on it'.  Hinckley continue to move up the table.

I do wonder if perhaps, the City Side are running into a bit of form.  While they have not won any of their last four games, they have come close on each occasion and seem to be defending better.  This league is quite tight enough without them getting involved Wink
Clifton did pick up the win, but a much more narrow one than I had expected.  Big game away at The Rugby Park next week. 

Another good 5pts for the Hawks.....who with their game in hand are now well in contention.  Dings again show they have a few tries in them, home or away, and picked up a good LBP.

OA's are a real curiosity to me, and perhaps the most difficult team to predict ? Ouch  They have had a number of outstanding wins, but some unexpected defeats  ?  That said.....Lions have won a succession of tight, low scoring games.  I've not seen them play yet but it seems that only Redruth have a better defence,  They are up to 6th now and well in contention themselves.

As ever, I am hoping that posters who were at games today can give us a better insight.

 


Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 28 Nov 2021 at 11:05
I missed yesterday, power cut for 28 hours, just getting back to normal, though roads and rail lines still closed in places.
All I can say come on the Lions


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 04 Dec 2021 at 18:44
More outstanding exchanges in our league today.  Hoping as ever for some eyewitness accounts.

Result of the day for me was the crushing win for OA's in Guernsey.  After a very good start, the islanders seem to be falling away.  I did say I thought that they would finish outside the top 4......and that looks increasingly likely to be the case.  
I remain confused by OA's consistency but this was great win on the road.
Esher continue to look impressive and that must have been a stunning game to watch at the Haberden. 
A 12 try extravaganza for the lucky fans.  Esher now perhaps looking favourites ?

I was expecting a similar high scoring affair at The Rugby Park, but witnessed an incredibly intense, high tempo exchange between two very good sides.  The consistent level of physicality, right across the park, made it look much more like a Nat1 game to me.  
In fact, i would have to say I cannot a recall s season with so many very good sides in it.  The top 8 are so close and will no doubt, continue to beat each other as the season progresses Big smile  

FWIW.....I thought Raiders were the better side on the day, and after dominating both territory and possession the first half, should have been at least two scores clear at the interval.  But our lineout malfunctioned yet again at key moments and attacking opportunities were squandered.  
The Clifton front row were quality, but arguably matched by Raiders.  The two most impactful opponents for me though, were the 5 Harper, and the 12 Nel, who was outstanding.
A game of tight margins and we had both a conversion and a penn hit the post.  no complaints though.....Clifton took their chances, punished our mistakes and edged a good game of rugby.

Are there a few cracks starting to show at Redruth ?  A good 5pts from them today and Rochford is not an easy place to visit, but i think we all expected them to win this one more easily ?

Another efficient job by the Hawks.....by no means a given winning 5-0 at Barnstaple....I suspect that the addition of Will Crow to their match day team has been an tremendous fillip Ouch.   
As expected......Hawks too are well in contention now.OuchOuch

The Hinckley lads had another good day on the road, scoring another 4 tries, but Dings had the better of another entertaining encounter with 4 tries of their own.

The City side did their job against Westcliff......not much else to say there.

overall......i think that there are 7 sides that still think that they can win this league.  it's going to be fun Big smileWink  




Posted By: sweatysock
Date Posted: 04 Dec 2021 at 19:15
yes Darth - one that got away re Worthing - always thought it would be a tight game and so it proved. I came away thinking it was one of those games that could have gone either way - fine margins (hitting the post with a penalty for example)

Normally I can pinpoint where things went wrong in a defeat but struggling this time


Posted By: Wigwam
Date Posted: 04 Dec 2021 at 19:19
Some uncharacteristic dropsy moments by Worthing today. Three excellent opportunities dropped by cold fingers. Chuck in twice hitting the posts it was one of those days. Luck runs some fine lines at times that’s for sure. 
Clifton to their credit kept at it and took their opportunities so well done them. 




-------------
Pace Power Perfection


Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 05 Dec 2021 at 12:42
I also expected a high scoring but close game at Worthing.

As DR states the Worthing line out did not function at all well (not for the first time this season).

Probably the best game this season at Rugby Park, with defences on top for the most part.

Anscombe's long range penalty hitting the inside of the post but staying out just before the break ended up being the difference between a win and the defeat.

Bounce of the ball into touch when Levi was leading the chase to score also just showed how fickle the bounce of a rugby ball is.

Congratulations to Clifton on their win.

-------------
RAID ON


Posted By: Halliford
Date Posted: 05 Dec 2021 at 13:58
Esher kicked just one conversion of 7 tries at Bury yesterday. It was definitely windy but one of those off days for our normally reliable kicker.


Posted By: Golden Jackal
Date Posted: 05 Dec 2021 at 18:51
Its true if Esher had made their kicks they would have been out of sight as they schooled Bury in the firtst half, capitalising on silly mistakes and interceptions...But windy....no, Reed landed 5 out of his 6 kicks as Bury staged a great second half comeback


Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 07 Dec 2021 at 11:27
I hope the Barnes players are all ok after the call off last weekend due to covid, I'm guessing that game will be re-scheduled for later in the year?


Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 07 Dec 2021 at 16:38
Originally posted by tigerburnie tigerburnie wrote:

I hope the Barnes players are all ok after the call off last weekend due to covid, I'm guessing that game will be re-scheduled for later in the year?


Unfortunately, I suspect a lot of other games will be postponed for the same reason during the next few months with the spread of the new variant.

Scarlett have conceded their Champions Cup match at Bristol because they haven't enough senior players available

-------------
RAID ON


Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 07 Dec 2021 at 16:56
The professional team try to squeeze in so many matches, 36 to 43 I believe for the premiership depending on how far they go in the knock-out rounds, it was inevitable that games would be conceded rather than postponed.


-------------
Sweeney Delenda Est


Posted By: honestinjun
Date Posted: 08 Dec 2021 at 00:00
Very kind of you Tigerburnie, training is cancelled tomorrow as we assess how many men we have down…London has a low vaccination rate overall and the tube and buses are a serious spreading risk with this new version…I think there will be a work from home order in London within the week…worrying times!

-------------
HonestInjun


Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 08 Dec 2021 at 17:49
Originally posted by honestinjun honestinjun wrote:

Very kind of you Tigerburnie, training is cancelled tomorrow as we assess how many men we have down…London has a low vaccination rate overall and the tube and buses are a serious spreading risk with this new version…I think there will be a work from home order in London within the week…worrying times!
No problem the guys health is the most important thing.


Posted By: honestinjun
Date Posted: 10 Dec 2021 at 23:08
We have 7 lads from the 2’s playing tomorrow to get a side to play OA’s - the show must go on!

-------------
HonestInjun


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 11 Dec 2021 at 19:43
I think I need to give up on this Nat2S prediction stuff......seems beyond me Ouch

OA's doing my head in again.  how did they manage that ?  Though I confess I was probably influenced by Honestinjun telling us they had seven second teamers out.......even more surprising or low animal cunning from Injun ? Tongue

That said.....there were several other scores of note.
Hawks seem to be struggling against sides that can match their impressive pack.....and back row in particular ?  They are still well in contention but this was a second surprise home defeat (for me) Big smile
Very well done Lions and a TBP too ?  rare for them.  Are they too now setting their stall out for a title 
challenge.  I thought that very unlikely as they don't score enough points (usually).

Choppers and Esher.....both with a game in hand, seem to be building a bit of a gap at the top now ?
That said, the former are not winning as impressively as they did in the earlier part of the season and Esher are starting to look favourites for me.  They will probably bring significant travelling support to the Rugby Park next week

The City side have been on a decent run of performances of late and i expected them to give a good account of themselves at Molsey Rd.....but Esher put a nil on them while scoring a bonus point themselves......impressive.

Another 8 tries for our league top scorers Clifton.....Rochford are no pushovers and the Bristol boys remain well in the hunt.  They have a great deal of pace and power out wide if they can win enough ball.

in form Hinckley dispatched Barnum as expected and continue to move up the table.

I hope that both of our northern visitors are enjoying their Nat2S experience this year....i believe it prepares them very well for success when they decide to return north.

I did not get to Westcliff today......pleased to hear from anybody who did actually join the Raid.  shocked to see us go 12-0 down but also pleased with the recovery.  FWIW.....i suspect my lot will be a stronger side in the second half.....we have an unusually big squad (for us) this year and may yet bring it to bear.

so we reach half way in our season......and a great one it has been so far.  I change my mind most weeks about how it will end up.  but for now at least......i think the bottom three will stay where they are and also the top 6 .....though much as we have seen in seasons past can change after xmas.

good luck all.....TongueWink






Posted By: honestinjun
Date Posted: 12 Dec 2021 at 00:11
Brilliant performance from Barnes on the road at OA’s, I was not hopeful beforehand but the younger lads really stepped up in the rain.  

-------------
HonestInjun


Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 12 Dec 2021 at 11:17
Lions v Hinckley will not be a game for the feint hearted, quite a lot of history  here.........................


Posted By: sweatysock
Date Posted: 15 Dec 2021 at 20:29
any games COVID threatened yet?


Posted By: Even Older Hooker
Date Posted: 15 Dec 2021 at 23:27
Just Parliament Cry

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Another one against the head


Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 16 Dec 2021 at 20:41
Originally posted by Even Older Hooker Even Older Hooker wrote:

Just Parliament Cry


Sounds like Labour front bench are a few down

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RAID ON


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 17 Dec 2021 at 13:02
it is a good thing that the fixtures secretary tries to reduce travel near the festive period by arranging as many 'derbies' as possible, but how strange to see that one of the closest in National 3 South  is Leicester v Hinckley ?  Who'd've thought eh ?  TongueWink

I am really hoping that covid issues do not presage another foreshortened season.  It is a worry, though we have a month long break coming up.  With a bit of luck things might calm down over this period and we can return to relative normalcy ?


Posted By: sweatysock
Date Posted: 17 Dec 2021 at 18:55
yes me too - have really enjoyed getting back to watching live rugby after a long lay off - would hate to see a suspension of proceedings (and we have a potential thriller at the top)


Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 18 Dec 2021 at 10:18
There's a funny post on Leicester Lions facebook page, I couldn't possibly comment..........................snort......chortle...............guffaw................LOL


Posted By: backrowb
Date Posted: 18 Dec 2021 at 11:03
Originally posted by tigerburnie tigerburnie wrote:

There's a funny post on Leicester Lions facebook page, I couldn't possibly comment..........................snort......chortle...............guffaw................LOL
I'm sure the 6 Lions fans are gutted Wink


Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 18 Dec 2021 at 11:53
It is funny though........................


Posted By: Even Older Hooker
Date Posted: 18 Dec 2021 at 11:55
Very BitchyBeer



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Another one against the head


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 18 Dec 2021 at 18:46
i wonder what the record is for most drawn games in a season ?  The Barn Elms boys recorded their 4th today.......amazing.  
Thanks to Nick for the latest scores today.......were you at either Barn Elms or Barnstaple Nick ?
If not, perhaps Honestinjun can tell us more about that game ?

I can imagine that the Dings lads will be a bit cheesed off losing at home to Clifton today, after scoring 4 tries before HT....it seems that a dogged Clifton edged the game through the boot of Luke Cozens.

yet another win for Choppers and although Barum are no rollover at home, i suspect that the Redruth side from earlier in the season would have wrapped up an TBP with some ease.  But still top, though they may be looking anxiously over their shoulders in the new year.

A decent and expected win for Rochford against Westcliff.....who battle on admirably.  it does seem strange to me to to see bot these sides in our league but no Southend ?  what has happened to them ?

looking forward to the 8/1 when the league resumes.....and hoping Covid is coming under control.
happy xmas and new year to all.  


Posted By: Raider999
Date Posted: 18 Dec 2021 at 23:27
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:

i wonder what the record is for most drawn games in a season ?  The Barn Elms boys recorded their 4th today.......amazing.  
Thanks to Nick for the latest scores today.......were you at either Barn Elms or Barnstaple Nick ?
If not, perhaps Honestinjun can tell us more about that game ?

I can imagine that the Dings lads will be a bit cheesed off losing at home to Clifton today, after scoring 4 tries before HT....it seems that a dogged Clifton edged the game through the boot of Luke Cozens.

yet another win for Choppers and although Barum are no rollover at home, i suspect that the Redruth side from earlier in the season would have wrapped up an TBP with some ease.  But still top, though they may be looking anxiously over their shoulders in the new year.

A decent and expected win for Rochford against Westcliff.....who battle on admirably.  it does seem strange to me to to see bot these sides in our league but no Southend ?  what has happened to them ?

looking forward to the 8/1 when the league resumes.....and hoping Covid is coming under control.
happy xmas and new year to all.  


Most of today's games were a lot closer than I expexpcted.

Performance of the day would go to Canterbury IMO.

With out doubt this is one of the most competitive seasons of N2S in the last 10 or so years.

Unfortunately Esher had to cry off today, so I my rugby viewing was limited to the TV - although the fog at Glasgow prevented a lot of that.

Hopefully, we will be back to something like normality come the 8th January - however unfortunately I suspect we might be in lockdown again by then.

Merry Christmas to all and a happy New Year

-------------
RAID ON


Posted By: honestinjun
Date Posted: 18 Dec 2021 at 23:46
Well if there is a record we must be on the way to overtaking it, today’s result being our 4th draw of this season, so far..despite the gloomy overcast weather, it was a cracking game, no quarter given by either side, incredibly even throughout . In the last few minutes, Barnes missed a v kickable penalty and as full time loomed, it looked like Henley would win, with a penalty given against a Barnes player for not rolling away. The fact was he couldn’t roll away as he was knocked out. Despite the referee being unable to change his decision, the Henley players took it upon themselves to resolve the situation, kicking the ball into touch directly, and thus ending the game graciously whilst protecting all we love about rugby: honour, and deep-down respect. Thank you the Hawks! It was a gesture we won’t forget, one wonders how many other clubs would have done this?





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HonestInjun


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 19 Dec 2021 at 00:20
thanks for that Injun....i'd like to think that most rugby teams would have done the same.....but outstanding sportsmanship from the Hawks......exceptional....ClapClapClapBig smile


Posted By: Even Older Hooker
Date Posted: 19 Dec 2021 at 12:31
After all that Henley have gone through this season as well !!!!!
Wonderful to see such sportsmanship. A fine example of what our wonderful game is about Thumbs UpClap


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Another one against the head


Posted By: marigold
Date Posted: 19 Dec 2021 at 12:34
EOH a fine comment. Maybe their experience this season has for them highlighted that at best our game is not all about results, promotion and money but about doing the right thing at the right time for the right reason.


Posted By: Even Older Hooker
Date Posted: 19 Dec 2021 at 12:45
Very well put Marigold

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Another one against the head


Posted By: Sir_Q
Date Posted: 19 Dec 2021 at 14:46
Clap Clap Henley


Posted By: The Hawks
Date Posted: 19 Dec 2021 at 21:50
Originally posted by Darth Raider Darth Raider wrote:

i wonder what the record is for most drawn games in a season ?  The Barn Elms boys recorded their 4th today.......amazing.  
Thanks to Nick for the latest scores today.......were you at either Barn Elms or Barnstaple Nick ?
If not, perhaps Honestinjun can tell us more about that game ?


Hi Darth,
I didn’t go to Barnes, but I did go to Barnstable. Good result for us in North Devon, it took 25 mins for the first score!Barnstaple looked dangerous on the break, but it was our outstanding defence and the pack was the difference.

I did go to Henley last weekend to see us against Leicester Lions. After the previous week I had good expectations of a good win? Lions were outstanding and well deserved winners, one stage we were 14? points behind and came close at the end.

Didn’t know about the Barnes incident yesterday, but full credit for the lads of what they did, especially what had happened to us on the first game of the season. Like someone said earlier, it’s not about winning and money it’s sportsmanship and friendship, that’s what rugby is all about?

Nick


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'Go The Hawks!'


Posted By: Darth Raider
Date Posted: 08 Jan 2022 at 19:20
Another question for Honestinjun.........what is Barnes (formerly a yo-yo side) best ever league position ?Is that 6 games unbeaten now and up to 8th Big smileClap
cracking result at the Recreation ground and as I said, i was tempted to predict it (epic fail again Ouch)
Hardly a disaster, but are the wheels loosening on the Choppers wagon ?

OA's are a pain in the ar$e......i get their result wrong every week  ......i wish they would make their minds up Ouch    very good win at Merton Lane....that place turns into a bog when it is wet and normally, the City Side are adept at using the conditions and the slope to their advantage.  So OA's moving into contention or just trying to fool me again (not difficult). 

A convincing 6 try win for high scoring Clifton.  I thought that in form Lions might press them very close. but appears not to have been the case.  Sitting on top again now.

Esher are very close behind and edged another high scoring home game .....this time against Dings, despite being outscored by 5 tries to 4.  It is now looking like Esher and Clifton are the form sides......though there is still a long way to go and many of the top 6/7 play each other in the weeks ahead.

Quick segue.....about this time of year, i normally ask if anyone has opinions as to the overachiever and underachiever of the year in our league ?
For me, the underachiever is not obvious, though I would pick BSE, whom many often expect to do better than they actually do.  I think that they themselves will have fallen well short of their ambitions this year. 
But great credit should go to Hinckley.  They are free scoring and have amassed an amazing 15 bonus points Clap  As ever.....fine margins in this league, but not much would have needed to change for them to have been in the top 6.  They have outscored a few good sides only to come out on the wrong end of the result.

Lastly......my lot.  We took a slightly depleted side (from my uninformed perspective) to the Haberden....battled hard and somehow managed to come away with a result.....despite playing the first 10mins of the second half with 13 men and all of it with 14.  Very well done to all of our lads wearing the shirt today.....kept us in some sort of contention. punch on lads Big smile
 



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