Weekly Report - On and Off Field Successes Continue:
1st XV Finish 2nd in the League:
This is the highest placing our 1st XV have achieved since the inception of the leagues back in the 90s. It’s a truly fantastic achievement and testament to the hard work and effort that the players, coaches and management have invested, not just this season, but in the past decade to get us to this position. The 27-12 win vs Aylesbury cemented our 2nd place in the league and sets us up nicely for the playoffs.
On the actual match itself it was a very scrappy affair, with strong winds and a lot of start stops, with neither side really exerting any dominance early on. However in the second half we started to put some more phases together and we definitely moved up a gear, scoring our fourth and crucial bonus try midway through the second half. The match was actually called early due to a potential nasty injury to an Aylesbury player, who thankfully we discovered was nothing too serious post match, albeit some ligament damage in his back. Man of the match was awarded to current Colt and 18 year old Ethan Horne, who has his first start in senior rugby, playing at fly-half.
Presidents Day:
Pre-match we had a double celebration of not only Presidents Day but also our President, Mr Michael Hall, had his 80th birthday on Saturday. It was a fitting celebration to someone who has given so much to the club over the years with many old faces returning for the occasion, a number of whom travelled long distances. In addition to a very healthy number of Aylesbury RFC guests we had both the County Chair and President in attendance along with the Town Mayor and Town Clerk. To top the day off Mike’s 15 year old grandson Rory Hannay, who plays the bagpipes, piped the teams out onto the pitch. A fitting tribute to our special President.
Teenage Cancer Trust:
However one of the most impressive moments of the day was the 14 year old Leizel Dons, who is shaving her head in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust. She was introduced at lunch and she managed to raise on the day a staggering £4,300!! Not only a fantastic thing for her to do but what a response from the club to this thoroughly deserving cause. Well done Leizel and to everyone who was so generous!!
Connie Powell - Plays For England Roses:
To top off the special Saturday our Panthers Co Head Coach, Connie Powell was selected for the England Roses vs Ireland in front of a record 77,000 at Twickenham. She had a very competent 15 minutes when introduced off the bench and helped the team close out their win against a strong dogged Irish side (no bias there I promise).
Mens 2nd XV Continue their Push for League Victory:
The 2nd XV squad had a comprehensive victory over Bracknell on Saturday. It was a very one sided affair and hats off to Bracknell for never giving up and staying in the fight. We remain 4 points ahead of Amersham & Chiltern two league matches remaining, Chesham 1st XV next Saturday and a home match vs Reading on the 25th. We also had two Colt players playing, with both Freddie Taylor and Alfie Charlie putting in strong displays.
Matt Ratana Foundation:
Next Sunday the Matt Ratana 7s squad have an open training session at the club at 12:30pm. The foundation was set up in response to the tragic death of police sergeant and rugby coach, Matt Ratana. The foundation supports community rugby initiatives and focuses on assisting disadvantaged young people from all backgrounds. There will be a BBQ and its open to all - so please drop down and join in if you are about.
Paul Campion - RIP:
A number of people will remember Paul “Kiwi” Campion who sadly passed away last week. Paul was a regular supporter of the club and used to run our bar for just over two years, pre and post Covid. He was a great character, always had a lovely smile and a lifetime of adventures that would put most of us to shame. If anyone wants to pay their respects his funeral is scheduled for Green Acres Natural Burial Ground on Friday 17th at 3pm and refreshments afterwards at the club.
Next Saturday:
The 1st XV first have now been given a bye in the 1st round play-off match vs Aylesbury. So we now have two weeks to prepare for the winners of Old Priorians vs Belsize Park, at home on the 25th. Unfortunately Aylesbury decided not to play as they had availability issues and they weren’t looking to be promoted.
As mentioned the mens 2nd XV are playing Chesham away and the Panthers have their last outing of the season with a festival on Sunday.
Finally we received so much positive feedback on Saturday from supporters, visitors and guests alike. A huge thanks to everyone for helping to make the club such a special place to play or visit.
Thanks again for all your support
Noel
chair@beaconsfieldrfc.uk