OGRFC Match Report
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OGRFC Match Report - Reigate 07.01.12
An outstanding showing from one of rugby’s newest club sides sees them through to the quarter-finals of the Surrey Bowl in their inaugural cup campaign.
After what can only be described as a ‘relaxed’ Christmas for most of the senior members of the squad, the inclusion of several recent leavers from SGC (affectionately known as the OGRFC Academy) provided a huge physical and psychological boost for the team. They were welcomed with open arms and gave OGRFC their first full set of substitutes this season, a great way to start the new year for the club who are always keen to welcome new players to the club.
With a week of training sessions focused on how to cope with the forecasted ‘torrential rain’ and ‘gale force winds’, it came as a pleasant surprise when we were greeted by clear blue skies at the picturesque ground located at the foot of the North Downs. Without doubt, one of the most attractive amateur sporting locations in the area.
OGRFC started the game strongly with skipper James Pipe showing the opposition that he and his team meant business. With his first tackle of the game, which later required twelve stitches to his left ear, Pipe sent the opposing player flying backwards and definitely set the tone for the first half. Half back Chris Hanson, caused the home team problems with his kicking game as twice in quick succession he forced the opposition back into their 22 with well placed kicks.
After an early penalty for Reigate, the scores were soon levelled by the ever present co-founder of the club, Alex Willis. In a new look side, Willis turned back the years and found himself at his once preferred position of scrum half where he marshaled the forwards with composure and ensured they maintained the controlled aggression necessary to keep the visitors on the front foot.
As half time approached, the superior fitness of the youthful Weybridge side began to shine. With another smoothly worked lineout, the ball was fed through the hands and found its way to Matthew Bennett. With 60 yards of open ground ahead of him, all the young winger had to do was pick up his knees and calmly place the ball down to put the visitors ahead.
Hopes of any flood gates opening in the second half were foiled by the strong opposition scrum, albeit without seriously threatening the try line. Nevertheless, it wasn’t long before the Old Boys crossed the white wash again. University of Exeter student Richard Keeble forced his way through several strong tackles to give OGRFC an 18-6 lead. The home side managed a late try but the damage had already been done and the Old Georgians recorded an impressive 18-11 victory against a side several leagues above them.
OGRFC, one of the newest clubs in the world will meet Streatham Croydon RFC founded in 1871, one of the oldest clubs in the world in the next round of the Surrey Bowl on the 25th February 2012 at St Georges College. All support will be hugely appreciated against an opposition who lie unbeaten 5 leagues above OGRFC.
Squad:
Forwards: Hawkins, Hitchcock, Keeble, Irons, Pipe, Hall, Ludlow, Georgiou, Wheeler
Backs: Willis, Hanson, Sutton, Lowes, Pillay, Bennett, Jeffrey, Colville, Brown, Sweeney, Harriss
For any information on OGRFC please look for us on Facebook and Twitter or alternatively contact Alex Willis at alexwillis88@gmail.com.
Written by Mike Hawkins (@mike_uobhc)
