Match Report (archived)
Match reports 2005/6: 1st XV | Stacks | Gnus
Match Report - 27th August 2005
Score: 12 - 29
With Writtle Wanderers crying off, the club was fortunate enough to get a game against London North 3 Division - Eton Manor, for its pre-season selection match. Unfortunately, with only one opposition team the remaining players had to play with each other ! As this was a 'friendly' game, it was split over 4, 20 minute periods with plenty of rotation of players in differing positions.
The game was both fast paced and physical from the first whistle. Eton Manor are a well drilled side, with an aggresive set of forwards who always push the laws of the game, especially in and around the ruck! Their backs have good lines of running and are skilled ball handlers. Just the challenge Canvey needed.
Being 2 leagues below, Canvey knew it was going to be tough, and although there was a gap in divisions, there was no gap in class. The first quarter saw an excellent display from the Canvey pack, equally competing against a physically bigger pack. The front 3 (Brummers, Delboy & Kingee) were 'quality' and showed that training really does pay off ! The backs were solid in defence and all the set pieces were good. An unfortunate 'charge down' saw the first try of the game go to Eton Manor, which they duly converted. This was soon followed by a strong run from Alex Breading, running from his own 22 to score between the posts. Bret Smith made the conversion. The score at the end of the first quarter was 7 -7.
The next quarter saw Canvey make several changes. Continuing the great play, Canvey kept with the fast pace of the game. Eton Manor managed to score a try and convert it, and just before the end of the second quarter scored again. The half time score being 7 - 19.
Again, Canvey made several changes and were rewarded with a second try. The boot of Bret Smith not able to convert this time. Eton Manor replied with a try and just before the whistle for the end of the quarter, scored in the corner. After 3 gruelling 20 minute periods the score was 12 - 29.
More changes for the final quarter saw some new faces to Canvey making their debuts. Continuing the hard hitting, fast pace of the game Canvey dug in and managed to compete all round the pitch. Both sides were now running on empty and composure was being lost. With 80 minutes on the clock the final whistle was a welcomed sound. The final score being 12 - 29 to Eton Manor.
Well done to Matt Lay (it was as if he had never been away!) and to Lloyd Miller, Alfie Webster and Steve Powell who had their first game for Canvey.
With this being a selection game the score was irrelevant, it was how we played that counted. Coaches Jamie Saunders and Carl Wakefield both praised how well the Canvey side did and how strong the depth of players is. 'Aspects of the game which have been worked on during the off season worked well and this game has highlighted certain areas that need attention, it's just what we needed'.
Many thanks to Eton Manor for a well played, physical game and we wish them all the best in London North 3 for the season.
Man of the match: Dave Dennis
