Outline:
This year's match, another of the regular matches played at Crondall since the 90's, was between The Chequers and The Plume of Feathers, Crondall. For our first time we were invited to take the challenge against the Feathers and, with a rapidly developing team list, we hoped we had a chance to win
The collection this year was to support the purchase of new equipment at the Crondall doctor's surgery. The sale of hot and cold drinks were on offer thanks to the organisers of the event. Well done to everyone who had made this afternoon a real success. I am sure next year will be just as entertaining!
Rugby Match - Boxing Day 2008
The Chequers V The Plume of Feathers
From the start the Chequers team (wearing the green Badgers colours) worked forward leaving the Feathers needing to defend firmly. Much of the first 10 minutes was played in this way until the Feathers found a way out of their back corner and, with a very fast run forward down the line, they scored the first try.
The Chequers continued to push and their efforts paid off before the half time whistle sounded. At half time the scoreline was 5 - 5.
The second half needed the Chequers team to play up the pitch and we worked hard to make a move. The Feathers took charge early in to this session and scored their second try at the end of a flash run from mid-field.
The opening phase of the match was fast and entertaining. There was no shortage of bravery and determination to win - on both sides.
The setting was fantastic; bright and dry with just a wisp of chill in the air. Over two hundred people turned out from the local villages to watch the match in the bright winter's sun, giving the teams the encouragement to work hard and win.
The Feather's third try (and then second conversion) came after some very fierce scrum work and a well-worked break across the team. The Chequers fought well and, although never having played before as a team, worked well passing and pushing well together.
The Chequers did not give up the fight. Even following an injury to one man, we gave the Feathers a good run. A well-timed kick forward from the Chequers was almost grounded as a try but it was just out of reach as it crossed the line behind the posts. Encouraged on by the cheers from the spectators, both teams maintained their competitive spirit but played fairly under the watchful eye of the referee. At about 5 minutes before full time The Chequers scored their second try.
The final score was a respectable 19 - 10. Then, judging by the numbers of people who then went back to The Plume of Feathers and The Chequers, we were the two busiest pubs in the area!
Music and match commentary was provided by ???. We were even provided with some light entertainment in the form of some Christmas Cracker jokes.
Thanks go to all those who organised and supported this match. Put a note in your diary for next year and remember to come along and support the teams taking part in the Crondall Rugby match next Boxing Day, 2009..