Rugby Review: MANAGERS Report (RURU 'CHALLENGE'
- Saturday, 7th of September 2002).
vs. DT's
Not the result I had prepared myself all season for a 33-25 loss to
the 'Premadonners' of OBU social rugby grade. Merits on winning the
second half of catch up football, even against some 'ole hands' whom
predictably 'killed' the ball (pun intended!#%)...condolences to
Jeremy Gardiner for being sent off for finally sorting these continuous
discretion out. Congrats to the team on behalf of the Managem-ANT and
again the many supporters Singe, Bossy, B-Eyes, Blue, Coops, Pukeko
Legs, Ben P and Ben G, and Mrs Bossy, Robyn, Karen, Julie, Tracey Locke,
Giselle, Anna-McK' (cheers to Homer, Bundy and co.)....all!
Satisfying feeling over a $2 pint at the Fat Ladies (Turf-Root
Rugby again) with 30+ devi-ANTs, all that we had in speed, strength,
size, and 'smarts' was on displayed by our TEAM...it was simply mistakes
that cost us the RURU, missed chances both on attack and defence in
the 30 min spell each side of half-time (similar traits to the Tall
Blacks?). Given that the DT's played 2 senior 2002 players, and a dozen
wankers with lips. They now appreciate the meaning even more after our
tussle of this special grade of NZ rugby.
Player-of-the-Day - Chris Comber, 1 try 5 line-out takes against the
throw, and a 'bloodied' mouth...original pride, and well deserved. There
were 8 debut-ANTs on the starting line-up, and I will endeavour
to 'educate' the significance of the RURU Shield and its mana. A special
note to F.M, Matt O, Matt Mahi, Nathan Searle, and Chip whom have
played each over 5 years of RURU ruggers, the passion and effort well
demonstrated to their newer Colleges.
Time now to plant the bulbs, plan 'Jason Blockhead's Stag-do',
feed the pets (oh, and the Kids). Management request that you save
1 months of 'brownie points for the Ant Dinner and Suburb-of-Origin
(details to come) prior to Workers-day in October...(not acknowledged
by Matt O or myself!). Appreciate some email feedback on your rugger
season and suggestions..last years effort for 'beer flavoured'
birth control tablets for the Ant-ettes was a huge flop, awesome
efforts to Coopers, Chip-pers, Singers, Soft-ettes, Q-Tahau's, Cross-es,
Stocks, and Jones (huge effort!), Simms, and the Khellerers(Jackal).
Thanks assistance on the sidelines to Ray Tidy (Waterboy-2002),
Ben Potaka (Analyst), Clint, and Singe. Individual players performances
will be merited at the Ant dinner. Speedy recoveries to Stealth,
Dennis, Ben, and Rob F.
Otherwise train well, sleep peaceful on your palms, and relax....Dead
Ants team trip is not in Karori!!
Dead
Ants depth of talent and abilities was ever evident against the Teddy
Bears on Sat, 24th August.
Of the 17 ANT's
to grace the paddock, 8 Ant's endured their first experience of RURU rugby.
In winning our 5th straight game secured 2nd in Reserve 3 3rd Division.
The Bears pair of Bag-pipers ushered them onto the paddock for their 4th
loss of the season. As with any end of season rugby fixture both teams
benefited from the presence of a top level referee whom allowed a free-flow
(frozen conditions?) game with few infringements or necessary technical
interpretations.....a true 80-minute code again!!
Result: 27 -17 to Dead Ants. A hat-trick of tries to Pere Rodgers from
the base of either scrum or ruck. Also a push-over try to Chris Comber.
Kicking duties in the absence of Chip were aptly replaced by Frazer. The
shoreline was 20-17 with 7 minutes left to play, when Matt Carter snatched
a intercept pass, then ran 20 metres to be tackled, forming a ruck assisted
by our now dominant forwards to push Pere over for his 3rd decisive try.
The post-match celebrations that were planned by the Bears were dampened
(southerly rain) further after the whistle when their BBQ ran out of gas?.....as
did there sausage-feasting forwards at half-time.
Injuries on the field (not including Dennis Rodgers 'spit' in the car-park
- just returned with Hamish and Erin from Taupo conference) are bruised
knee joint to Simon Samu (hopefully fit for RURU final?),'black' eyes
to Erin, Matt Mahi and Kyle (in order of least severity...and factored
for ugliness in the individual).
Next weekend - Sat, at Kelburn at 1.15pm is the Reserve 3, Division one
Ruru challenge between holders the DT's and the 69-ers. I propose we to
meet at Kelburn for a game of touch/tackle between ourselves and them
watch the RURU opposition....then 9th Sept, game on!
Well done team Oscar
Ants
v Pink Ginners: Ants win 28 -13!
On a brilliant day in the capital the Dead Ants turned up with the hope
of making it past the elusive 60th minute mark. They would prove later
that when given the chance to actually play rugby they are pretty bloody
good. History was not in the Ants favour with the last encounter with
the Ginners ending in a loss. (It must also be noted that during this
encounter a great wingers season was cut short in the most dire of circumstances)
So with revenge on their minds the Ants took to Kelburn Park.
Straight from the kick-off the Ants drove up field with dogged determination.
They looked to move wide early but incumbent Matthew Carter on debut showed
some early nerves knocking the ball on the first three times he touched
the ball. With the Ants pressuring the line and the call of 'get it wide'
Matt shook off the nerves and crashed over the line for a try on debut.
Continued pressure and good back play saw Sean and Si score to put the
Ants 15 - 3. Then came try the try of the match and arguably of the season
when a one-two-dummy cut saw Simon go in and out and dart 40m downfield,
the Ants went out to a 17 point lead [note that no conversions have been
kicked]
The second half saw a resurgence from the Ginners, early on Matthew Carter
was bounced off in a one on one tackle with the Ginner winger [also note
that if you are a friend of the reviewer every mistake you make is going
to be pounced on] The Ginners dotted down soon after when the ball popped
out of the side of the scrum to reduce the lead to 7. Then History repeated
itself in a brutal fashion establishing that the Ginners are our bogey
team in relation to injuries, Dennis in a desperation tackle popped his
shoulder out and had to be taken to the hospital.
Now the Ants had an incentive to win. Putting on another debutant on in
the centres saw Petone premier hooker Eugene Smith take the field. Although
his arms were a little too short to catch the ball at times Euge showed
good defence and fine execution of M2. A nice penalty nudge from Chip
and then a solid sneak from him at the fringes saw the Ants move out to
a 15-point buffer. The conversion attempt by Matt Carter was quite possibly
the worst kick ever witnessed by man and deservedly earned him 'dick of
the day' Nonetheless it was a great win and the Ants will look forward
to the upcoming matches. I would also like to wish Dennis a quick and
full recovery.
Ants vs. Wainui 25-18 (Game called off due to biffo)
In what is becoming a tradition for the Ants saw the second game
in two weeks called off because off what can only be described as savagery.
Many, including myself were sceptical about making the journey over the
hill into the valley. Parking the car in a small cul-de-sac and walking
through an alley with all valuables secure this mild-mannered reporter
began to ponder whether this memo was worth the risk.
A reasonable turnout for the Ants was soon diminished as Ben Gardiner
managed to injure himself before the game had started. It became apparent
that being called Ben and playing on the wing for the Ants comes with
certain injury. (note to self: on return either change name or position)
The Ants started off strongly and looked to dominate early. A back line
move with an injection from Hamish saw Dennis dot down and an explosive
run from Pere secured a strong lead build for Ants. Defensive lapses late
in the second and early in the first saw Wainui edge closer.
While Wainui did come close they never looked like snatching victory,
so adopting the traditional villager attitude if you cant
beat em fight em the game, like milk on a hot day turned sour fast.
Not being on the field I cannot tell what the exact cause of the entire
disturbance was, but I could certainly tell that the Wainui boys enjoyed
their fighting. I can understand taking offence to vigorous rucking once but
four occasions? I think the power of self-control has not crept over the
hill as yet. Lets hope next week I can write about an 80 minute game of
rugby.
On a more positive note it was good to see the Ants out at the Premier
final on Sunday, and even more enjoyable to see them indulging in a few
at the Cambridge before and after. I must say that I took full effect
of the free champagne breakfast. As a student hearing the words free,
champagne and breakfast in the same sentence was
a pretty solid reason to get there early to support the Lads. Needless
to say I was feeling worse for wear come Monday morning and the lectures
were subbed out for well-earned rest. It was a pity about the loss for
the Prems, but shows that OBU is a club on the rise!
Ben Potaka
Ants
vs. Poneke
Victory yet again!!! 17-0.
Game abandoned at half-time due a Poneke forward's continuous verbal abuse
of the official referee both on/off the paddock.
For the 30 minutes of game time on the paddock a fine display of counter
attacking rugby was shown by the Ants, mainly due to a committed defensive
line from our forwards. Our ball skills being 'fine tuned' for the pending
RURU 'Challengers' game on the 24th Aug. Keep up the gym fitness, and
cot sprints.
Players efforts of note against Poneke. Rodgers trio each showing individual
skills Pere (strength in tackling and stripping opposition forwards of
their ball), Chip kicking game all season standout for our grade, Dennis
speed both on his feet and pass of the ball in unleashing our outside
backs. Si, Ben and Kyle benefiting from these skills to score with their
own strength in speed to bust the one-on-one tackle. Si scored a further
two tries out wide. Best-for-last! Forwards leadership from FM, as we
have very few reserves in the front row, but determination of Greg Dank,
Erin, Al Hill, and Matt O enough to nullify and contest in every game
this season (NO! to golden oldie scrums). Mention to 'Gerry' Maguire's
standard game at blindside with several runs behind the oppositions defensive
line and linkages to Dennis to result in the first of our outside back
tries. The 'Neal' factor spurring Will (senior) to his strongest season
to date.
DISCIPLINARY HEARING (Poneke Player) Dead Ant Rugby Social Club has forwarded
an official 'Letter of Complaint' to the WRFU for the abusive behaviour
demonstrated by the individual Poneke player towards the referee. FM and
myself are to attend a disciplinary hearing this Thursday. No one individual
is bigger than our hallowed game!
Ants
vs. JVille Cripples
What looked to be a promising
game and a possible victory soon evaporated as the JVille Cripples backline
took it to the Ants. The only thing really going for the Ants on this
particular day was the great weather and the great turnout of supporters
at Kelburn Park.
To give credit where credit is due the Cripples played, if not somewhat
a bit dirty, good running rugby which eventuated in them scoring several
tries.
This is not too say that the Ants did not play well themselves, we had
moments of brillance & three tries were scored, player of day going
to Andy!!
Numbers again were a minor issue, it would be great to see more players
at the games!!!
Bring on the Super 6s and
lets see if we can turn things around as only Ants can do!!
Ants
vs. Cloacas
Great start
to second round with a resounding 36-12 victory over fellow OBU social
team - Cloacas (West, J-ville, Eastbourne and Onslow mercenaries). Also
a pleasant victory on our newly selected social grade club ground of Nairnville
Park.
Given the absence of rugby to our social calendars over the last 5 weeks
(2 games only), enthusiasm to play was evident....or was it the need to
keep warm in sub 10 degree temps? Good numbers allowed 4 reserves to shelter
from the rain and wind (prelude to Bledisloe Cup hours later!).
Chip as 'Skip', electing for the wind behind our backs in first half,
deservedly resulted in a 17-5 lead at half time. But strong loose
forward runners from our pack nulls their obvious game plan to pin us
deep into the wind assisted RHS corner. Then the fleetness of 'feet' for
the Rodger Bro's (>75kgs each) on a muddy and sticky ground...unselfishly
unleased our three-quarter back to score initially out wide, then
up the 'Wayne Jones' track and under the posts. All tries scored by the
backs, due to strength and mobility of our the forwards.
Player of the Day - Hamish Stallworthy (Debut-ANT), closely by MAZZA.
Swede-Caroline - Dennis Rodgers (Conversion missed from in front after
ball fell of tee...excuse?)
Ants
vs. DirtTrackers
A romping victory at 43-0 (14-0 at half time).
Tries Scorers (Total 7): Will Neal Jnr (2), Dennis Rodgers (2), Jeremy
Gardiner, Si Samu, Ben Gardiner. Conversions: Dennis Rodgers (4) .
Proud moment in ANT rugby history, the playing of first Father-Son combination.
Both team and Dad proud of 17 year old Will Neal (Jnr) debut game,
celebrated with his debut two tries in the 25 minutes on the paddock.
Whilst father, Will Neal (Snr) a little short of breath managed a
wry smile and recaptured his shortening breath. Congrats to the Neal
family...pedigree ANT stock!
After a belated start due to ground transfer from Kelburn Park to a pristine
(un played) Ian Galloway No.5 the two 35min half's provided the forwards
lead by F.M to gallop the simple lanes, and scrummage as Ole faithfuls
would relish....mud and all!!no whinging on-behalf about ball-grip
(held tight like a 7oz vessel). Tackles all made at the advantage line...excell-ANT
rugger!!
Also mention of on-field efforts by all, especially Nathan Searle
(walks on mud), Jeremy Gardiner (pace of a lock), Wayne Jones &
Al Hill (bullocking runs), Rodger Bro's (more passes to hand without
bro Steve)....everyone showing good fitness for pending Ruru Shield...and
more difficult to starting player selections!
TEAM MEETING
Tues, 25th June - Magill's @ 6.30pm
Planning for Social Events (Club Ball, Ant Ball, Others....kiddies
Xmas Picnic)
Ruru Shield Challenge
Finances (Subs and Sponsorship)
Dead
Ants vs. West's
NON-CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
Incomplete comms from W.R.F.U provided 10 'weathered' ANTS the opportunity
to gather at Ian Galloway Park to sip a few team brews prior to embarking
to Magill's. Good commitment. The process if unsure if a game is on/off
or transferred please contact myself on (025) 915 754 or 479 1822 to clarification.
As we experienced the 0800 FORRUG was not updated, and the radio cancellation
services were informed by W.R.F.U that grades 3 & 4 non-championship
games were cancelled?......what is a non-championship game
in social grade?
Other OBU Results: 15/6/2002
69ers 0 vs. Avalon Sinners 21
Old
Boys Dead Ants v Old Boys Teddybears: courteous of Ben Poteki
Ever since I broke my leg in the fateful game against the Ginners a month
ago, I have had nothing on my hands but time and Vaseline. As Oscars
time management skills are lacking and the managers memo has become
non-existent over the past few weeks it was only practical to let the
token cripple take over the duties.
Playing a team that was inferior on paper to the mighty Ants proved to
be a challenge to the lads on a fine Wellington day. In the spirit of
upsets being experienced at the Soccer World Cup in Japan/Korea, the Ants
felt it only sporting to encompass soccer fever and allow
an upset in the gruelling reserve grade 3 championship.
Starting off with some good forward movement by Al Hill and the ever-present
Matt Oliver the Ants looked to dominate possession early in the game.
The tables were turned and the Teddybears camped on the Ants try line
for what seemed like the entire first half. However due to some good defence
the Ants got out of trouble and moved up the field with some good continuity.
At the end of the half the try of the game was scored through the natural
flair of Brother Rodgers in the much-loved move of Double D. The move
was finished of by Simon Samu and converted leaving the Ants 7
0 up at the end of the half.
They say that rugby is a game of two halves, but what happened next can
only be described as a debacle. I dont know what Oscar said at the
break but I know that it sure as hell didnt work. While the move
of Double D paid off in the first half, ironically the two Ds proved
to be the Ants downfall in the second Defence and Discipline. With
the Ants giving away a host of penalties and falling off a number of tackles
the Teddybears found gaps and capitalised scoring 36 unanswered points.
There were however some highlights for the lads with Matt Os bustling
runs earning him player of the game, and Bens knack of retrieving
the ball at most of the Ants kick-offs. Not a good result but as Mick
Jagger so finely put it You cant always get what you want
Final Score: Dead Ants 7 Teddybears 29
Other OBU Social Teams:
Dirt Trackers WBD vs. Wgtn
Hammers 15 vs. UH J8s 19
DTs 31 vs. HOBM Rams 29
Cloacas 0 vs. Ories 24
69ers 8 vs. Petone 15
Ants
vs. HOBM Hisspeads
Versus a team yet to be
beaten in our grade, and having conceded less than 4 tries prior to Saturdays
efforts....a hard game was to be expected. With the Dead Ants somewhat
diminished in ranks on the field from injuries the warm and sunny weather
helped adorned the sidelines, and delayed the arrival of 0800, Simo, Kurt,
and Soft (usually punctual and regular starters?).
We had conceded 2 easy tries,
and had two efforts ourselves 'held-up over the line' at the half time
break, also Captain off injured signs, a few bickers by reserves by Hisspeads...signs
were ominous to a possible Ant victory? (down 12-5 at Halftime).
Turning point to the game
came at non-call by non-linesman to a obvious lineout resulting in a try
under the posts, this then brought upon the 'sportsman spirit' of substitutions'
to the DA's line-up (5 subs initially). This seemed to upset the defensive
lines and continuity of play between backs/forwards. Resulting in a flattering
39-12 loss.
Tries scored by Archie and
Soft, 'Player-of-the-Day' Quentin. Superb effort from forwards again (tight-heads,
rolling mauls, secured and won line-outs). Need to tackle the ball
carrier before the advantage line, thereby allowing second phase defence
or attack by our vs.. mobile loose forwards (locks included). We look
elusive when attacking with the ball in the hands of Frazier and Simon
Samu.
Enjoyed the 30+ mates &
mate-ess at Magill's, I have finished 50% of necessary documentation to
securing Pub Charity sponsorship.
Social drinks (committee
meeting) at Magill's next Thursday (30th May)..mixed with billiards or
a prior quick gallop (TBC)
Final Score: Ants 12 vs.
Hisspeads 39
Other Grade Results:
Ories J8s 16 vs. Ginners 7
Norfs 0 vs. Cripples 55
Pare vs. Bears - no result published
Other OBU Social Teams:
DTs 29 vs. Petone 22
69ers 40 vs. Ories 21
Cloacas 57 vs. Poneke 19
Hammers 87 vs. Pare 7
Ants
vs. Pink Ginners
A hard tussle between two
good rivals, which resulted in a loss to Dead Ant's both in score and
two players with serious injuries (score 19-5).
Thank you to our amateur Paramedic/Coach Clint for able assistance from
a busy sideline. To follow up with news to injuries to Stealth and Ben
Potaka (Erin and Will aok). Stealth will sit-out the rest of the season
with a strain to recently reconstructed knee. Ben Potaka (broken ankle)
will be 'bailed' from Hutt Hospital on Wednesday. I'd appreciate emails
(directly) of support to Ben's recovery and rehabilitation. I've promised
I'll train him with the art of 'Waterboy' activities.
Attended the Old Boys Varsity AGM on Thursday. Comments and summary to
this meeting is the whole clubs and 16 teams reliance to Pub Charity for
financial support. Social Teams (8 of) apportion highly in the $63K secured
last year, but since 'Internal Affairs' administering the distribution
it will be come as rare as a Dave Prentice try.....therefore can we ensure
we make tracks to Magill's on Saturdays... reimbursement of Shirts rely
on this. OBV have no immediate objection to social teams frequenting their
nominated Hoteliers.
Finally, no monies will be paid out to any of the four OBV social teams
who attended to last February's 10's tournament (underwrite the initial
success of tournament). Thereby we still have $97 in our kitty...any ideas
to bolster team fund much appreciated!
Oscar
Ants 5 vs. Pink Ginners
19
Ants
vs. Norths da Norf
Sweet is victory, 37-0 (correction
to previous media released 39-0) against North's. The team mix is near
right, with fitness, technique, knowledge, and leadership being demonstrated
in this comprehensive result.
The 21 players who took to the paddock with 'flair' and 'passion' made
a spectators delight from both teams.
Special mention to:
Soft, Simon S, Scotland, and Frazier (outside backs) for their honest
tackling, result less than 2 breaks past the advantage line. Mobility
is a key to our success in this level and grade, with lighter and fitter
loose forwards Mazza, Comb, Sean Mck, and Big All. These fella's are well
linked with the leaner looking tight 5 of F.M, Ray, Wilbur, Sim-o, Erin,
Danksy and Matt O. Line-out are being contested and our ball secured,
setting for backs set-plays, hence possession stats favouring Dead Ants
to date...well done to Stealth, Archie, and Shane. Then the dynamic-duo
(soon treble), the Rodger bro's....Pere and Steve has produced a back-line/loose
forwards domination not seen since the Invincible Ants of early 90's.
The youthful stride and side-steps of Ben (Tex) and Kyle keeping the ole
hands honest for starting XV positions.
PPM (Player Performance Meter) rating for Sat, 4th May = 9.5/10.
Enjoy this weekends game against the Pink Ginners (to whom we lost embarrassingly
to the last time we met in 2000). Clint shall manage the side-lines. Please
assist with water distribution and flag duties.
Received only 5 subs, and 3 jersey orders...appreciate your financial
endeavours for full-payment within the next fortnight. Refer to web page
for mail addresses for Combs and myself.
Lets get down to Magill's, bring the family down...I'll catch up the following
Saturday with Andy (Manager) and get feedback to our 'Hotelier' support
and clinch the deal for a future tab ($$ & food)
Lastly congrats to newly weds Giselle and Dennis Rodgers. Married in Raratonga
last week.
Oscar
Final score: Ants 37 vs.
Da Norfs 0
Other Grade Results:
Cripples 20 vs. Bears 12
Hisspeads 19 vs. Ginners 13
Ories J8s 23 vs. Pare-Plim 0
Other Club Social Teams:
69ers 12 vs. HOBM Rams 21
DT's 26 vs. Avalon Sinners 14
Onslow Cloacas 8 vs. Petone 29
Hammers 7 vs. Wests 43
April
27th - vs. Pare-Plim.
The following is my best
recollection
It turned out to be a great day to play rugby, dry weather & not too
much wind. (mind you based on missed kicks from in front of the posts
you would have thought that there was a crosswind) The only major concern
for the Ants was the lack of front rowers before the game.
It was apparent from the outset that the Ants had to be on their game,
size/ weight wise we were the smaller team with the bigger ticker.
After a few hard grafts and some titanic battles up front the Ants discovered
the boot, which in the end was the downfall of Pare-Plim.
First try was scored by Fraser. After some great forward play down the
field and then some quality ball which swiftly went out the backline,
enable to Fraser to crash over close to the line for the first try of
the day.
The next 2 tries scored by Stu (Aussie) & Pere involved some fancy
footwork and perhaps a bit luck with the bounce, both great scores to
the Ants. Ray you deserve a mention for your foresight and soccer skill.
No points were scored in the second half by the Ants as Pare-Plim brought
on some young fresh legs to play catch up football which they did well
but not constantly enough to topple the Ants.
Special mention goes to Stealth for his all inspiring half time speech,
Fraser for putting his body on the line (literaturely) to stop the mini
Jonah Lomu & to player of the day Chip who produced some great runs
and a great kicking game.
Ants celebrate a hard & well deserved win.
Ants 20 vs. Pare-Plim 14
Other Grade Results:
HOBM Hisspeads 26 vs. J/Ville Cripples 16
Teddy Bears 10 vs. Ories J8's 12
Pink Ginners 27 vs. Norths Da Norf 0
Other Social Team results:
Division 2
Stokes Valley 19 vs. 69ers 13
Petone 25 vs. Ories 20
Dt's 53 vs. Upper Hutt 24
Poneke Super 6s 6 vs. HOBM Rams 24
Division 4
Hammers 8 vs. Tawa 43
Dirt Trackers 31 vs. Pare-Plim Red 7
Wests 37 vs. U Hutt J8s 0
Wellington 22 vs. Wainui 24
Manager's
Memo (Sat, 20th April - 3pm @ McAllister 1 vs. 'Hammers')
Obviously the fine weather brings the best out of the ANT's. Though we
had the minimum compliment of 15 players at 3.05pm....and given that 30
players feature on the team card...Manager, will adopt first there, first
to play over the ensuing weeks.
This was our last grading game, the numbers on the side line testament
to a successful recruitment drive. Methods proven were:
1) Simon Samu and Web page (Ben and Greg secured) 2) Stealth for offers
of 'white-mans-fire-water '(Archie and 'fullback)...though he sabotaged
their efforts by getting both themselves and himself 'wrecked' on Friday
night, hence unavailable.
With 8 confirmed V.O.B social grade teams in reserve-3 this season the
RURU will be as ever cherished event (and team goal to secure!). With
3 games now played there is good optimism for a 'fun' season both on and
off the field. Great to See Robyn, Claire, Janie and partners both at
the grounds and other ANT-ettes later at Magill's....(will confirm team
social facilities soon).
To the game played. Hammers (ex-Canterbury Varsity students) provide fair
and a rewarding 'skills' game...spoilt only by inability of the Hammers
to field a fit front row to push in the second half (golden oldies rule
will not be as agreeable next time - non grading games).
A game of two half's (ANT 7-3 lead...40min half's this season fella's).
An experienced ANTs team swooped onto the paddock, lead by Chip. Andy
Marriott securing any loose ball in the mid-back lineout, tight five bound
well to take two tight heads, also outside backs busting (3 x without
securing the pass first) to breaking the advantage line at speed...eventually
this produce a worthy try to Simon Samu (good tackle game also).
With the belated arrival of the Clint 'Coach', and ability of grading
games to make team changes rather than tactical position changes, brought
new blood to all but 4 positions. Golden Oldies scrum enabled the youthful
Hammers to compose themselves with better combinations in defence. However
what could be said to be 'vintage' forward play by ANTs saw 3 scintillating
runs from Andy Sims (Player-of-the-Day) and assisted by F.M, Andy Marriott
and Matt O. Try resulting from quick tap penalty by Al Hill (Ant-the-Year
2001). Two closely matched teams...it was to then only our own mistakes
(1 tackle, 1 misdirected pass) which provided a final resultant 12-15
loss.
Note: Appreciate Dale -'Waterboy' for ample on-field refreshments on a
warm enjoyable day out.
Final Score: Ants 12 - Hammers 15
Other Social Team Scores
DTs 52 vs. Dirt Trackers 17
69ers 27 vs. Wests 20
Clocas 15 vs. Wellington 12
Pink ginners 18 vs. Poneke Super 6s 14
Teddybears 5 vs. Ories J8's 48
6/4/2002 vs. Ories J8's
Great turn out by the boys
on a fairly miserable Wellington day for the Ants first grading game.
Great to see all
the new & old faces.
Unfortunately for the Ants it was not our day, not even having all 3 Rodgers
on the field was able to help the team.
There were patches of great forward play and the odd run by the backs.
Score: Ories 20 Ants 0
Other Social Team Scores
TeddyBears 0 Stokes Valley 40
Cloacas 23 HOBM Rams 22
DirtTrackers 0 Wests 35
DT's 19 Wainui 8
69ers 7 HOBM Moahunters 5
Pink Ginners 5 J/Ville Cripplers 17
13/4/2002
- vs. HOBM Rams
A superb day for rugby it was!! Unfortunately for the Ants we were pipped
at the post in this encounter. Trailed for most of the game, were able
to finally claw our way back into it only to have the Rams find one last
gasp of energy to take it away from us.
Great debuts made by the new recruitmANTS!!, special mention to Fraser
scoring 2 brilliant Ant tries!!!
Chip love the way you ensured with those kicks that we stared clear of
the 1st division.......hahaha
Score: Ants 17 Rams 22
Other Social Team Scores:
Hammers 33 vs. Tawa 25
Bears 12 vs. Pare.Plim 12
Clocas 21 vs. Ories 30
DTs 64 vs. Pare.Plim Red 7
Ginners 0 vs. West 7
Trackers 12 vs. J/Ville Cripples 24
69ers 50 vs. Norths Da Norfs 5
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