Match Reports 2011-2012
Saturday 29th Oct
South West 2
Witney 35 - 13 Reading (PHOTOS - thanks Fin)
By Ed Mezzetti (Oxford Mail)
A STRONG all-round performance saw Witney take all five points in their South West 1 East clash at Hailey Road.
The match was preceded by Wasps wing Tom Varndell and acting RFU chairman Paul Murphy officially opening Witney’s new pitch – and a large crowd were well entertained.
The hosts showed a greater intensity and never really lost the grip they gained, especially in the tight phases.
Reading’s line-out began very shakily and on seven minutes, they were punished for another inaccurate effort when Witney hooker Sam Collins was driven over.
Full back Ed Mitcham, who kicked well throughout, slotted a useful conversion, and his side continued to press.
Wing Dan Purkiss went close on the left after a floated pass from fly half Henry Lamb, then Mitcham’s penalty made it 10-0 on 19 minutes.
Reading had barely mounted a decent attack before Witney managed a second try – prop Alan Richens powering over on the left after some good controlled possession in the 22.
Henry Lamb kicked well with the wind behind him, while Witney’s line-out continued to pay dividends.
This time, captain Jez Hicks applied the finish to a slick move that had Reading at sixes and sevens after flanker Carl Campbell’s catch.
Mitcham converted for 22-0, but Reading replied almost immediately with a well-struck penalty from fly half Clinton Gibson.
It was 25-3 at the break after another Mitcham penalty.
Witney had a brief wobble early in the second half as Reading came out fired up, full back Sean Lynch bagging their opening try on 43 minutes.
Mitcham hit a post with a penalty and Purkiss almost pounced on the rebound.
Once Mitcham landed a penalty on 52 minutes, there was no way back for Reading.
Two quick steals from Hicks indicated the visitors’ line-out still wasn’t clicking, while Witney lock Richard Haire put in some big carries.
Both sides rang the changes before Witney secured a four-try bonus point when Purkiss squeezed over following Haire’s drive and Mitcham’s quick hands.
Mitcham converted expertly from the touchline.
Reading had the final say with a try from wing Mark Roca after Purkiss chased back to haul down lively replacement Jordan Gomez, who raced clear from half way.
But it could not take the gloss off a fine home win.
1st XV
Mitcham, Monks, J Lamb, Harper, Purkiss, H Lamb (Dubost 75), G Campbell, Burke (Fuller 60), S Collins, Richens, Haire, Bennett (Caffekey 65), M Copperwheat, C Campbell, J Hicks (capt).
Referee: J Clarke (Warwickshire).
Man-of-the-match: Haire
WITNEY’S coaching team reflected on a job well done after their victory over Reading.
Head coach Phil Harper said: “We are pleased. It was a very good performance. We were a bit more clinical today. We have let a few teams get back into the game this season, but once we got on top we built the pressure well. We got the points and came away.“I thought Reading defended well in the backs, but we were patient enough.”
Forwards coach Andy Gosling added: “We had more control up front than in previous games. We looked after the ball a lot better.”
Marlow 2nds 21 - 15 Witney 2nds (PHOTOS .... thanks Ray)
2 trys from Charlie Quarterman plus a penalty and conversion from Ollie Smith.
Repl: Manning (Luke) (Lewis)
Berks, Bucks & Oxon 2
Witney 3rds 0 - 20 Oxford Harlequins 3rds
Another great effort by the third team but the score did not represent the effort and the way the game was played. There were six new appearances to the team with fresh blood coming through from the colts, all in the starting line up and showing great promise with confidence growing throughout the game.
Witney conceded the first try only minutes into the game, with Harlequins scoring out wide catching Witney on the back foot. The second Harlequins try followed shortly after, only ten minutes in to the game, but once again their kicker missed the conversion.
Witney started to ‘up their game’ in attack and defense, Dave Smith once again showing his physical presence on the field, with some big tackles along with Gregg Smith (man of the match) and Ben Guest. For a very small set of forwards, Witney gave it their all but were unable to secure a solid platform which they had been able to utilize in previous weeks. Sam Costley played very well at 9 giving fast clean ball out to the backs but unfortunately to no prevail.
Harlequins scored another two tries by the end of the first half but it was not made easy with more strong defense by Witney meaning they had to put the ball wide, scoring in the corners which led to more missed kicks.
In the second half Witney dominated, playing the last fourty minutes in the quins half, winning two penalties in front of their posts, However, once again the wind denied Witney from getting onto the score board. Several substitutes were made ten minutes into the second half with Elliot Deacon, Larn Jones and Dave Smith coming out of the forwards being replaced by Tim Hands going into the row, Pete Holiday moving to prop and Alex More relieving Ben Guest at 8 so he could move to 6.
Witney continued the pressure but were lacking the confidence in handling in the backs to finish. Two more substitutes were made this time in the backs, bringing on Trampy and Paul White to replace the two colts Olly Parsons and Jack Smith, who had both proven themselves. Witney continued to pile on the pressure but the final whistle came too soon, finishing Oxford Harlequins 20, Witney 0.
Man of the match went to Gregg Smith for having a great physical game.
Tit of the day was awarded to Leo Freechild for a couple of interesting kicks, this was then equaled by his ability to drink or lack of, should I say spilling most onto the floor.
A great effort from such a young side, showing tons of promise. Lets get ourselves to training so we can build and improve from this and move forward as a team.
3rd XV
1.*Ben (Biscuit) La Costa, 2. Cherry Ryan, 3. Dave Smith, 4. Larn Jones (Colt), 5. Gregg Smith, 6. Elliot Deacon (Colt), 7. Brad Back, 8. Ben Guest, 9.Sam Costley (Colt), 10. Leo Freechild (Colt), 11. Tim Buckingham, 12. Olly Parsons (Colt), 13. Dave Moriarity, 14. Jack Smith (Colt), 15. Paddy,
Repl: 16. Tim Hands, 17. Trampy, 18. Alex More, 19.Pete Holliday, 20. Paul White. – all got on
Berks, Bucks & Oxon 4
Newbury 3rds HWO Witney 4ths
Unfortnately, the injuries and unavailabilities resulted in the 4ths being unable to field a side and they had to default the match.
Saturday 22nd Oct
South West East 2
Reading Abbey 10 - 39 Witney
Witney build
On a blustery but sunny day, Witney showed that last week’s stellar performance against Coney Hill was no flash in the pan by comfortably seeing off Reading Abbey, aided and abetted by some nervous handling from the home side.
Abbey kicked off and soon had Witney under pressure. It did not take long before the home side’s pressure told and after 3 minutes we were pinged in front of the posts for not releasing.
3 : 0
Back the boys came and put the boot in (figuratively speaking) down the other end, resulting in a penalty award for killing the ball. Pierre Dubost stepped up and took the points
3 : 3
Our boys now dominated up front and Abbey had an uncomfortable period when they were pushed all round the park at the scrum, culminating with being pushed off their own ball. The home side wilted under the pressure and Pierre Dubost stepped up again to stretch the lead after 16 minutes.
3 : 6
Captain Jez had his afterburners on and was everywhere – the rest of the pack never far behind. Abbey were rocked by the onslaught but it took to the 27 minutes before Witney could add some more pain – this time a penalty for diving in (slightly unfortunate on the poor guy – he was on his feet). Pierre was in form today and bisected the uprights to take the score to
3 : 9
3 minutes later, Buckie showed that new found turn of speed and headed for the line seemingly unopposed but was called back for an infringement. 2 minutes later Pierre, who was fearless and inventive, seized on one of the many home side’s handling errors, kicked through, followed his own kick – he was bundled into touch but not before keeping the ball in play. Henry Lamb, playing in the unfamiliar no. 14 shirt picked up, made good ground and managed to get the ball away to Carl Campbell as the tacklers came in. Carl needed no second invitation and sprinted beneath the posts to make it
3 : 16
thanks to Pierre’s conversion. The Abbey no. 12 was sin binned for a late tackle on Pierre 2 minutes later but this time the Coq Sportif was off target. As the half time neared, Tom Harper finished off another strong Witney move and went over to make it
3 : 23
at half time. The coaches made some personnel changes to take the walking wounded out of the firing line: Pierre, who had had a storming 40 minutes, came off and was replaced by James Monks on the wing with Henry Lamb moving into the no. 10 slot. Matt Calley, who impressed again, was replaced by Mark Fuller. Abbey started the half as if they meant business and Witney had to weather early pressure. Witney then got to work on the home side but could not add to the lead. After 10 minutes, Abbey produced their best move of the match: some great passing skill saw the ball go through the hands of the backs before outpacing the visitors’ defence for a very well taken try, duly converted.
10 : 23
The fear of the great unwashed on the touchline was that Witney would take their foot (feet?) off the gas and let a solid lead slip away. But Jez was keeping everyone’s nose to the grindstone and a renewed onslaught led to a Witney penalty as the home side’s no. 13 blatantly prevented the ball coming out of a ruck. He got the yellow for his troubles and gave Witney another 3 points.
10 : 26
It was all Witney now. It took another 3 minutes for Louie Collins to showboat his way past 4 tackles before touching down out left (memories of David Campese?)
10 : 33
Charly Bennett came on for Richard Hare and soon made his presence felt. 27 minutes into the half Tom Harper took a pot at a drop goal and Witney was now in an unassailable
10 : 36
lead. Abbey had a penalty after 30 minutes but the touch kick went into the deadball area – symptomatic of a bad day at the office for the home side. This was their last realistic chance of a score gone. Witney came back down the other end and put the home side’s line under renewed pressure. Tom Harper waited his time before popping over his second drop goal to end the scoring at
10 : 39
Our lads showed commitment and skill. Following last week’s great performance this was another performance out of the top drawer. Everyone deserves a mention but Jez in particular had a standout afternoon – leadership, commitment and skill. Thank you for a great afternoon’s entertainment!
Another performance like this and the lads are back in the groove after a bit of a stop-go start to the season. Its the official pitch opening next week and it would be nice to see some serious support as the lads take on Reading, their nemesis in previous encounters.
1st XV
Lamb(H), Collins(L), Lamb(J), Harper, Monks, Dubost, Campbell(G): Burke, Collins(S), Calley, Copperwheat(M), Haire, Muller, Campbell(C), *Hicks(J)
Repl: Fuller, Bennett(C), Mitcham - all got on
Berks, Bucks & Oxon 1
Witney 2nds 14 - 7 Maidenhead 2nds (PHOTOS) ... thanks Ray
Where do I begin? Lets start with Maidenhead and the fact that we usually batter their three’s in this league, but not this season, it was their very useful two’s we faced on Saturday. We started with the wind behind us and spent most of the first period in their half. Now considering we were playing with our fourth different scrum half of the season (well done Martin), we looked to have the beating of the visitors in midfield as both Thom and Will broke through and Tom J kept us going forward with a useful kick or two. So it was not long before Thom charged through to score under the posts, for a well deserved try which he converted. Seven nil, and us experts on the side line thought the lads would need more points before half time, as the strong wind would become a deciding factor. But injuries then played their part and disrupted the back line. Thom left the field after one hit too many and Tom James gave the coaches palpitations, as his heart and breathing raced away.
After the restart Maids came back stronger and scored a converted try. So at seven all, it looked like the visitors would take control. The captain then left the field and Toby joined in, to “work harder than he ever does with the three’s” (he actually did say that Aldo)! More changes in the backs saw Russ came on as did Pete Minch and both were to make their mark. But it was the forward who were to win us the game. “Bomber” then counter rucked like a demented kiwi and we were then going forward. Trent, Rich and Wayne kept us going and we arrived in the Maidenhead twenty two for a scrum. The ball was hooked back, but sped past Martin who recovered it, but then held on too long and got a shoeing and a yellow card for his trouble. Still we were in the right area, and with two minutes to go the next scrum was crucial. The pack turned on the power to demolish the visitors and we then had the put in. “Bibs” now at scrum half new the call, Trent did as he was told for once and “Minchy” scored in the corner. So into the near gale force wind, who would take the kick? With both regular kickers off, who could take the huge responsibility of this pressure touchline conversion. Step forward prop and property developer Daniel Godfrey. The history books will tell us, (as Dan will) that he nailed the kick, for his only points in many a long season.
In the combined two’s and three’s after match awards, Wayne was given the “Rubber Chicken”, but all involved deserve credit for this hard earned win.
Try scorers were Thom Murton and Pete Minch. Thom also kicked one conversion, as did Danny Godfrey.
2nd XV
Godfrey (D), Kerr, Harris, Copperwheat (S), Mortimer, Rihan, Caffekey, Matchett, Jones (M), James (T), Taafe, Bibby (W), Murton, File, Purkiss
Repl: Perry, Minch (P), Gurney - all got on.
VIEW FROM THE TOUCHLINB
Decent first 20 but so much territory was not capitalised on and Maidenhead were given a lifeline. Some quick ball out wide seemed a good option with some good runners available but it never came to fruition until we were forced to up the anti after Maidenheads deserved score. The replacements all made an impact with Pete Minch excellent showed the passion, desire and no shortage of ability to his team mates whoi seemed to be going through motions. Martinsunlucky sin bin kick started the team into action and then the winning try which was perfectly executed basic rugby, nothing fancy, just the basics and it worked! Danny's conversion will become the stuff of legend if he has anything to do with it and in the end a victory the boys just about deserved but they need to believe in their ability, do the basics and then results will come easier than this one did!
Below: The 2nds & 3rds Awards (plus "no photos" Wicksy) and Owen kisses the kicking guru's boot!
Berks, Bucks & Oxon 3
Witney 3rds 32 - 10 Marlow 3rds
Another fantastic effort from the team, now making it three victories on the bounce. There were many whole hearted efforts all round with impressive work from the forwards with John William putting in some surging runs and big hand offs also getting his name on the score sheet towards the end of the first half. Ashley Clinkard (man of the match) and Dave Smith had great games getting themselves around the pitch for the full eighty minutes.
The solid platform provided by the forwards allowed some fast footed open play by the backs, the Manning brother’s battle for points continues, Leigh scoring one but Luke ran up three tries and a conversion. Jason had another great game at nine also adding his name to the list of scorers with a try. Olly at ten had a very strong game keeping the rest of the backs in line and instigating some well orchestrated moves.
Tit of the day went to Taff for last week crying off to baby sit but then being seen worse for wear in Nortons, but also checking himself in on Facebook.
Try scorers : Jason x1Luke Manning x3John Williams x1Leigh Manning x1, ConversionsLuke Manning x1
3rd XV
Team list to follow.
Berks, Bucks & Oxon 4
Aylesbury 3rds 33 - 21 Witney 2nds
The Witney IV unbeaten run in the league came to an end at Aylesbury on Saturday although other results mean the 4th XV stays second in the league due to the large positive for and against record. This was a very similar game to last week with a dominant pack and the ability to score but the inability to shut down some fast wide running backs.
Also familiar was Witney starting slow and giving away a flurry tries before waking up and fighting back after finding themselves staring down the barrel of an improbable 21-0 down score line. Aylesbury scored relatively early with three touchdowns which shocked the visitors as we had been having a great time in the loose and set pieces roughing up the big but not that technically proficient Aylesbury pack. Witney dominated territory and possession right through the game, hitting the rucks nicking the ball at will in the loose, trampling over scrums and getting Lukas hands so far up into the atmosphere at lineouts we needed a pair of binoculars to see the ball. Aylesbury never once had a period of pressure in the Witney 22 and all tries were run in from long distance on counter breaks. You have to hand it to them, they figured out what they were good at and stuck to it.
At 21 nil down it was time to turn the forward dominance into points so Witney resorted to the 50 metre rolling maul which rumbled aimlessly up field for long periods. Witney at last got on the scoreboard through the reliable boot of Tex Telling after yet another Witney half hour rolling maul (seemed like it) was brought illegally down by Aylesbury. 21-3 is marginally better so off we went again and a similar thing happened. Aylesbury had no answer and again skipper Karl Anders asked Tex to claw a bit back with another long range penalty. Once again Tex produced the goods and it was back to 21-6. Witney then completely dominated the middle stages of the game and Aylesbury were starting to get wary of collapsing the unstoppable mauls and Witney ground their way up to the line and the try machine that is Mike Hourigan rumbled over assisted by his marauding pack of black and blue wildebeest. The problem we had was that possession did not reflect scoring as Witney took ages to score each try, slowly and methodically working up field in a tight game and Aylesbury just needed to ball for 2 minutes to unleash the dart down the side lines and bang in a 5 pointer. 21-11 at half time saw this turning into a close game.
Witney lifted again in the second half to creep closer and once again the long slow haul slowly crept forward like a tectonic plate and this time it was the power of Neil Taylor who scored among the blue tide. Tex managed to bounce the ball off the cross bar (again) but Aylesbury broke out again with another well taken long range raid with their backs linking well at speed and the target moved further away. However, Witney did it again and a long period of possession brought another 5 pointer to Mike Hourigan (his 4th try in 3 games) and the 26-21 score line for a lot of the second half meant this was a close game right to the end. However, all that rucking and mauling saw a very tiring Witney Plan A and right on full time, Aylesbury sprung from the enclosing steel trap deep in their own territory to run in a final long range try down the left wing to seal the game and deny our plucky heroes the deserved bonus point .
Man of the match deservedly went to Cherry (Ryan Harris) for being absolutely everywhere like the little livewire fizzing bomb he is, disrupting the Aylesbury pack all day and growing into the role of leading from hooker. And to repeat the quote from last week, this was a bit of a frustrating game with long periods of good hard graft work being undone with some short periods of comedy tackling but once more it was fun pushing that big pack around the park at will. We really could have won this game and stayed top of the league with just 2 more tackles at crucial times but it was not to be and the final try flattered the hosts but they played well to their strengths and deserved the points as a result.
It’s a top of the table first versus second next weekend as new leaders Newbury travel to Hailey Road looking to continue their unbeaten record with 5 points every game. This will be a very big challenge as Newbury’s two away games so far have seen them score 60 and 70 points so they are reasonably handy at scoring away from home. Witney have the scoring ability but with 8 of the 10 tries over the past here weeks coming from the pack, need to develop a sharper attack out wide for a Plan B that does not take ages to score.
4th XV
1. Trevor Wicks, 2. Ryan Harris, 3. Neil Taylor, 4. Pete Holliday, 5. Lukas Schutt, 6. Karl Anders*, 7. Mike Hourigan, 8. Larne Jones, 9. Tom Nicholls, 10. Roy Telling, 11. Seb Morris, 12. John (?), 13. Elliot Bradley, 14. Fabian Schmidt, 15. Nick Mason.
Repl: 16. Mike Lynn 17. Phil Romaine, 18. Rob Pratley
Saturday 15th Oct
South East West 2
Witney 20 - 21 Coney Hill
The visitors arrived at the Hailey Road ground flying high with a "six from six" record and full of confidence, they departed with a "seven from seven" but knew they had got out of jail after a fine performance from the home side. Playing on the new pitch for the first time and in bright sunshine, there was a decent sized crowd along to watch and Jez Hicks and his team did not disappoint. After three minutes, the first chance came after good work from Gareth Campbell and the visitors conceded a penalty. Pierre Dubost (right) struck it well from 40 metres out but it just drifted wide.
Witney were playing with commitment and confidence though and Marc Copperwheat stole a ball in the lineout and the Witney momentum continued. A nice line from Tom Harper put Coney Hill under more pressure and they conceded another penalty and this time Dubost struck it sweetly and it was 3-0 to Witney after ten minutes. The visitors started to mount their own pressure and kicked the ball deep into Witneys 22. Full back Henry Lamb ran superbly out but when he was stopped, he was penalised for holding on. 
Coney Hill kicked to the corner but Witney skipper Jez Hicks stole the ball in the lineout and Witney cleared their lines. The ball pinged first way then the other with the defences of both sides forcing handling errors. The biggest cheer of the afternoon came from a Coney Hill kick out wide which found Witney prop Jamie Burke (left) covering the onrushing winger. Burke gathered the ball and then showed alarming pace for a front row forward to charge 50 metres up the park before being bundled into touch. Suffice to say, some deep breaths were taken for the next few minutes!
Witneys forwards were being effective in the lose exchanges but Coney Hill had some dangerous runners too and a couple of times, they almost broke through, so Witney knew they had to keep things watertight at all times.
Jez Hicks stole another lineout ball but it was obvious the visitors defence was pretty impressive and Witney struggled to open them up. A kick upfield was returned with an up and under from the Coney Hill winger and he chase his own kick. Witney second row Richard Haire covered across superbly but the winger leaped high and his own momentum saw him crash to the floor. Luckily the referee was well placed to see there was no intent there and thankfully the winger was fine after a couple of minutes of getting the wind back in his sails! It was cut and thrust stuff and Witneys tackling was excellent with James Lamb and James Burke both making good cover tackles and flanker Carl Campbell as usual leading the defence effort. An ambitious Pierre Dubost drop goal effort went well wide and you got the feel there may not be any more scoring in the half, despite the endevours of both sides. With 5 minutes to go flanker Tim Muller had a typical storming run but the wrong option was taken after the next phase and it looked like the chance was gone. A clever Tom Harper kick over the defence saw Coney Hill cover back but they were a bit ponderous in clearing the ball and James Monks charged down and scored. Pierre Dubosts conversion was the last action of the half and Witney could feel well pleased going into the break 10 points to nil up.
Good sides know the 5 minutes after the break are crucial to gain the early ascendancy and Coney Hill came firing out of the blocks. They had a couple of chances as the pounded Witneys line but a mixture of superb defence and wrong options looked to have kept them out. The visiting forward regrouped though and eventually forced their way over. The kick was spot on and at 10-7, it was anyones match.
Good work by Carl Campbell from the kick off forced a penalty and Dubost kicked well to the corner. Witney started to make a few mistakes with a a not straight in the lineout followed by a couple of knocks ons. There were plus points too as Jamie Burkes continued to make good ground with ball in hand and importantly the Witney scrum began to gain the upper hand. Fair play to the visiting number eigt though as he continued to make good ground off the base, even though he was under pressure. It was Witney who mounted the next serious phases though as Dubost's excellent kicking put the Coney Hill back three in difficulty and another chargedown could have gone anywhere but this time the visitors got away with it. A silly penalty allowed Coney Hill to clear their lines and they then put Witney on the back foot but the defence held up well. Alan Richens came on for Matt Calley in the front row and the scrums remained edged by the home side as we reached the midway point of the half. A great tackle by Carl Campbell saw Witney get possession in the Coney Hill 22 and good handling saw Pierre Dubost scamper over for a try. He coverted to make it 17-7 and an upset really started to look on the cards. Good work from Gareth Campbell at the breakdown forced another Coney Hill error and another penalty. The referee's patience was running out and he warned the visitors "no more". Perre Dubost kicked a beauty from the 10 metre line and at 20-7, Witney really were in the driving seat.
After so much good play, it was frustrating that Witney then chose to put themselves under pressure by not clearing the ball when they has the chance. They were penalised and Coney Hill kicked to the corner. A classic catch and drive sucked Witneys defence in and when they span the ball their centre cut an excellent lineto score. The conversion made it 20-14 and with just under 10 minutes left, it was once more back in the melting pot. The nerves showed as Henry Lamb knocked on a kick but the Witney scrum caused the visitors to give away a penalty, only for Dubost to miss the touchline. Coney Hill countered and were awarded a penalty which they tapped quickly only to be stopped by a Richard Haire tackle. The referee spotted he had not retired 10 metres and he was yellow carded. To the letter of the law, totally correct but a bit unfair on Witney who had being given far fewer penalties away than their opponents. It was backs to the wall for Witney as the visitors again kicked to the corner but after stopping the initial couple of phases, the defence was stretched too far and Coney Hill scored out wide. The conversion was struck and never looked like it would miss and for the first time with two minutes left, the visitors took the lead.
Witney mounted one last surge but when cool heads were needed, they tried to take the drop goal opportunity too quickly when another couple of phases would surely have given them better field position. The kick failed and with it, Witneys last chance as the final whistle blew. A bonus point was all Witney could muster from a whole hearted effort and they know if they play with that sort of attitude in future weeks, the results will surely come. They also know that they put themselves under pressure when had the opportunity to clear their lines was there and in the end, that cost them dear.
1st XV
Lamb(H), Purkis, Lamb(J), Harper, Monks, Dubost, Campbell(G): Burke, Quarterman, Calley, Copperwheat(M), Haire, Muller, Campbell(C), *Hicks(J)
Repl: Richens (Calley-55), Bennett(C), Murton (both not used)
VIEW FROM THE TOUCHLINE
Superb game of rugby between two sides giving their all and well done to all the lads who deserved more than they got on the day. Bucky had a cracker and Rich Haire was not far behind but the whole team came off with heads held high, even in defeat.
Friendly
Oxford Harlequins 2nds v Witney 2nds
Cancelled ..... well sort of cancelled, our boys turned up there and the home side didn't!
Berks, Bucks & Oxon 3
Witney 3rds 48 - 31 Buckingham 2nds (
PHOTOS - thanks Ray)A real rollercoaster of a match which ebbed one way, then the other before Witney eventually sealed it.
Friendly
Banbury 2nds 62 - 17 Witney 4ths
The Witney IV unbeaten run came to an end up at Banbury on Saturday, luckily in a friendly so no points lost but the 4ths will need to lift a gear when they return here for the league fixture in a few weeks.
It took a while for the visitors to wake up and start this match as Banbury actually opened the scoring within the first minute as some very fast and well drilled backs managed to plant the ball out wide before Witney had even touched the ball. It looked a bit of a mismatch for the first 15 minutes as several tries banged in but Witney started to show a bit of pride and revert to the tried and tested forward based game. Witney started driving the Banbury pack backwards in each scrum and our 7 foot German secret weapon Lukas meant the home side rarely got the altitude to get anywhere near our lineouts though some light aircraft passing by possibly reported a possible obstruction to airspace to air traffic control. In fact, both our new young German players on debut (both Fabian and Lukas had only ever seen a game on TV up until today) did well. Lukas also did brilliantly well contributing a lot of power in the second row for a big stringy beanpole who had never been in a competitive scrum before. They got the hang of this strange alien sport very quickly.
The Witney pack was starting to fire and got into rumble forward mode and a great bullocking run from Mike Hourigan came to an end when big Mike comically planted the ball over the 5 metre line and claimed a try. Luckily the ball was not lost and the pack recycled it back to the irresistible force that is El Tel Hickman (right) who set off and skittled the defence to go over under the posts, ably converted by the mercurial Tex Telling to bring up our first 7 points. Banbury were a bit more wary and less cavalier from this point as this Witney team obviously had teeth and were capable of hitting back. We did struggle in the breakdowns at times as Banbury were committing numbers to the rucks and each time we pushed them off the ball, managed to lose it back again a few phases later when a Witney player got isolated and the Banbury hordes came back over to win it back. We had the power, just not the speed to get to each breakdown in time.
The half time score stood at 37-7 and to be honest, the second half was much closer as Witney got a bit of belief. Banbury’s scrum really went into collapse mode but they got better at firing it out the back direct from hooker to win ball before their rapidly reversing scrum went over it and they splintered. Banbury still ran in a few tries out wide but their 30 point difference in the first half was halved to just 15 in the second as Banbury’s scoring slowed and Witney’s increased. The second Witney try came from a period of pressure on the left hand flank. A Banbury scrum fell again fell apart and from the resulting free kick, the pack drove forward with a series of pick and drive attacks ending with that Hickman bloke again picking up and blasting over, unfortunately a bit too wide for Tex to slot over the conversion. Third try also came from a scrum deep in the Banbury 22, but this time up the right hand side, which turned into a rolling maul that Banbury simply had no answer to. The rampaging herd went well into the in goal area before Mike Hourigan decided to plant the ball right under the referees nose to make sure the correct decision went the right way. It felt like we were wandering about behind the try line for ages looking for somewhere to land. My leg were really getting tired, someone put that bloody thing down.
Man of the match deservedly went to Terry Hickman for his brace of tries and carnage caused whenever he stuck the ball up his jumper and went for a wander through the Banbury lines. Bit of a frustrating game this one with some good work being undone with some lacklustre tackling at times but it was fun pushing that big pack around the park.
It’s back to action in the league next Saturday as we travel to our old friends at Aylesbury, hoping that it is their 3rds this time which is usually a good competitive match.
4th XV
1. Terry Hickman, 2. Ryan Harris, 3. Neil Taylor, 4. Karl Anders, 5. Lukas Schutt, 6. Mike Hourigan, 7. Clive Manning (c), 8. Phil Romaine, 9. Nick Mason, 10. Roy Telling, 11. Dan Casey, 12. Rob (?), 13. Caspar Morris, 14. Fabian Schmidt, 15. John Blacker.
Repl: 16. Mike Lynn 17. Pete Moriarty (all got on)
Scorers: Terry Hickman (2 tries), Mike Hourigan (try), Roy Telling (conv)
Saturday 8th Oct
South West East 2
Maidenhead 23 – 3 Witney
(from Mike Lamb)
Witney overpowered
A tough afternoon at the coal face as Maidenhead overpowered Witney with superior speed, hunger and technique in the first half hour. We appeared to lack a yard of pace and the confidence to mix it with a slick outfit. The lads did get more into the game but the greater urgency of the home side was always evident.
It did not take the home side long to establish their intent with a try after 1 minute 5o seconds!
5 : 0
Our lads looked shell shocked and so it was that the defence were reduced to a shambles as the pressure came on. Maidenhead won a penalty and from the resulting lineout set up a dangerous maul ( one of their most potent weapons) only to be reprieved when the powerful inside centre fumbled with the try line at his mercy. But after 8 minutes they made on mistake: the monstrous home No. 5 gathered the ball and crashed through 3 (or was it 4) tackles before touching down under the posts. The conversion was added.
12 : 0
We did get back into the game a little and after 28 minutes pulled back some of the deficit with a Henry Lamb penalty
12 : 3
Could we build on this? But poor discipline gave the opposition an opportunity to stretch their lead on 40 minutes and half time.
15 : 3
Maidenhead came out after the interval with real intensity and Witney’s try line was under siege. 43 minutes in, Maidenhead crossed but some valiant defending held the ball up and the lads escaped. But it did not take long for Witney to gift another penalty and the home side stretched their lead to
18 : 3
On 50 minutes came Witney’s best move of the match. The ball moved through the backs and Monksie pinned his ears back, broke 2 tackles but was finally hunted down. He slipped the ball to Struttie but he knocked on as the covering tackle clattered in. He suffered a leg injury in the process and Pierre Dubois came on, Tom Harper moving to inside centre and James Lamb to outside centre. Monsieur Dubois, clearly buoyed by the humiliation inflicted earlier in the day on the ‘Rosbeef’, got into some fisticuffs with someone three times his size for interfering on the ground. Credit to the ref for not getting the yellow cards out.
65 minutes in Henry Lamb had the opportunity for some consolation points but the kick drifted wide.
With the game well into injury time, some lacklustre Witney defending gave Maidenhead the chance for a final hurrah!
23: 3
Mark Fuller and Mark Copperwheat came on for Al Richens and Charly Bennett respectively but could not influence the outcome. No doubt the better side on the day took the honours. Our boys host Coney Hill next week. They will have to be a yard faster than today and no silly penalties!
1st XV
Lamb(H), Collins(L), Strutt, Lamb(J), Monks, Harper, Campbell(G): Burke, Quarterman(C), Richens, Haire, Bennett, Muller, Campbell(C), *Hicks(J)
Repl: Fuller, Copperwheat(M), Dubost (all got on)
Berks, Bucks & Oxon 1
Witney 2nds 15 - 27 Windsor 2nds
Well beaten by a Windsor side that played together and wanted it more. The seconds lacked belief in themselves and the visitors took full advantage. We leaked a soft try after a minute, some heads went down and it seemed that few players were on top of their game. Their were a couple of exceptions, Thom Murton was one, as he ran hard, tackled all afternoon and fully deserved his man of the match award (known as “Kevin the rubber Chicken“). Winger Ben File also looked the part and took his try well. All the bench came on early and they did improved things, so well done to Jack, “Woody” and Sam, next week they should all start, controversial I know.
“Tit of the Day” went to Trent. Its been a few weeks since he had it, so dropping the ball when he was over their line and about to score, means it was fully deserved. What also could have influenced the judges was his after match team talk, which went along the lines of “lads we weren’t as bad as England were this morning”. By the way how Australia are in the semi’s I’ll never know!
Back to the game and we did score the best and final try of the match, finished off by the not so mighty Taafe. That score showed that keeping the ball and running hard does work. The coaches take on this below par team performance, was that you are not going to score fifty points each week and we have had some easy victories so far. Also, all the seconds are expected to train regularly, as harder test are sure to come, turning up on a Saturday is obviously just not good enough. Finally, thanks to big Nick for refereeing at short notice, he seemed to enjoy the match much more than the Witney lads.
Scorers were Ben File and James Taafe. Simon Copperwheat kicked one conversion and a penalty.
2nd XV
D.Godfrey, R. Todd, R.Kerr, S.Copperwheat*, S.Mortimer, W. Caffekey, W.Hook, T.Matchett, R. Smith (Trampy), O. Smith, J. Taafe, T. Murton, J.Thomas, B. File, T.James
Repl: S.Collins, R.Woodward, J.Birks (all got on).
VIEW FROM THE TOUCHLINE
That dream start from Windsor really lifted them and it took the stuffing out of Witney who couldn't then step up. It didn't help losing Jake who got injured after an electric break in midfield and the reshuffle of players certainly didn't help Witneys cause. The Windsor defence was committed too and after Ben's initial break, Tom was charging for the line but was hauled down just short, the visitors certainly had the appetite for it. A great try at the end showed what might have been but the boys really have to start putting the hard graft in at training to avoid a few more banana skins happening in the future.
Berks, Bucks & Oxon 2
Maidenhead 3rds 12 - 27 Witney 3rds
While the 1st XV dressing room was abit down, the 3rds one was buoyant as they recorded their first League victory of the season.
Full report, team and scorers to come.
Witney 4ths 25 - 22 Hungerford 2nds
A cracking match which was a credit to both sides and could have gone either way but a great Witney come back saw them gain the win which sends them to the top of the table!
Full report, team and scorers to come.
Saturday 1st October
South West East 2
Witney 21 - 21 Swanage & Wareham (PHOTOS - From Fin)
(from Mike Lamb)
"Honours Even"
On a seriously hot afternoon, Witney and Swanage fought themselves to a standstill. In the end, the honours were shared though both sides had the opportunities to put the match beyond reach. From a home point of view, the penalty count would have made England proud: we gifted the opposition too many points again. The effort was always there but too often promising breaks fizzled out as the runner, having made the yards, found himself isolated and the move broke down.
After 2 minutes from the start, Swanage infringed in an eminently kickable position, but Henry Lamb could not replicate his form of the previous week. The home team surged down the other end, Buckie showing what a potent ball carrier he can be as he broke 3 tackles before being stopped. Swanage cleared and play was down the home end again. Confusion amongst our defence let the visitors in for an unconverted try after 12 minutes.
0 : 5
The boys felt this affront and took play back to the visitors’ end, pressure forcing a penalty dead in front. Henry Lamb definitely had mislaid his kicking boots and the score remained unchanged.
Again Swanage came and were rewarded with a try after 20 minutes, duly converted.
0 : 12
Witney surged back and put the visitors under the cudgel. Finally Snazz had enough and roared over for a well deserved try, unconverted.
5 : 12
Game on! Witney narrowed the gap after 37 minutes when Tom Harper, who had a very good game at no. 10 popped over the penalty, Henry Lamb having stood down.
8 : 12
But Witney’s momentum was stopped in its tracks when yet another penalty for offside was awarded and Swanage’s no. 14 made no mistake.
8: 15
HALF TIME
The second half began with the home side looking like they meant business and were duly rewarded with a penalty when Swanage this time went offside.
Tom Harper made no mistake and we were back in the hunt.
11 : 15
Witney piled on the pressure with Louie Collins weaving his magic, James Lamb battering the opposition in attack and defence, Snazz snipping and Tom Harper probing. After 16 minutes Henry Lamb ended what was probably the best passage of play of the game as the ball passed through numerous hands (Tom Harper, James Lamb et al). Unfortunately the conversion attempt did not make it.
16 : 15
But Swanage were not done yet; back they came and Witney conceded yet another penalty for offside.
16 : 18
Louie Collins picked up a pass on the left wing, beat most of the Swanage (and Witney) team before he was finally brought down. Swanage were defending for their lives now and infringed at a ruck. Buckie had taken exception to a Swanage body lying firmly on the wrong side and tried to kick it into the next county. The ref did not like this too much, reversed the penalty and sent Buckie to the bin. He added the Swanage player for good measure so it was 14 against 14. Tom Harper was next on the scoreboard with a lovely try but could not add the conversion.
21 : 18
All credit to the visitors for their fighting spirit. If the boys thought they had done enough to scrape a home win, Swanage had other ideas. They came right back at the home side and camped on the try line for 7 or 8 minutes. Our lads were hanging on for grim life and nearly made it till a desperate infringement led to keep the visitors out led to Al Richens being sent to the bin and Swanage salvaged a draw with the last kick of the match.
A fair result on balance. Swanage had the better of the opening and closing minutes, Witney had their moments in between. But the cognoscenti on the touchline agreed that we would have a better chance in the league if we could stop giving away silly penalties!
1st XV
Lamb(H), Collins(L), Strutt, Lamb(J), Monks, Harper, Campbell(G): Burke, Quarterman(C), Richens, Haire, Copperwheat(M), Muller, Campbell(C), *Hicks(J)
Repl: Godfrey(D)(Burke), Mortimer(Haire), Mitcham
VIEW FROM THE TOUCHLINE
As Swanage bettered our line at the end, while being very impressed with the Witney defence, I felt the visitors would get a score if they showed some patience. After a few forward rumbles, they decided to spin the ball and their number 8 appeared at the bottom of the previous ruck to have seen the backs being driven back 20 metres, the look on his face a was a picture and reminded me of an old Witney Number 8 who would have been similarly "impressed" with the lesbians attempts to score!
Some excellent rugby from Witney but early pressure saw 10 points go begging and we must learn to turn pressure into points. As for the penalty count, enough has already been said!
Friendly
Witney 2nds 52 - 0 Chinnor 3rds
In July like conditions Witney 2nds took on a Chinnor side that had earlier in the season cancelled what was our opening league match. As the score suggests they were suitable punished for cancelling that fixture! To score 50 points against them was enjoyable, however the most pleasing aspect of our game was our defence, which did not let Chinnor score a point, with excellent commitment from every member of the side. From the moment Wayne crashed over we were pretty much dominant in most aspects of the game. Once again the lineout functioned well, Charlie Bennett and Wayne Caffekey regularly being found by the steady young arm of Russell Todd. The scrum was very solid considering the size difference between the two front rows, Ashley Clinkard and Richard Kerr handling their bigger props well. Ashley in particular celebrated by drinking as if we had won the World Cup and later on was seen dancing to the Izi beats with an equally drunk first team skipper and fellow prop Godfrey. A new look backline was beginning to gel, as we had given two second team debuts this week. Firstly scrum half Richard “Trampy” Smith was passing well and providing decent ball to the rest of the backs and new winger Ryan Lewis was showing his speed, with a couple of good breaks, capping his first half performance with a long distance try! Thom Murton added more first half misery to the visitors, following a classy Joe Collins break. Pierre then came on and added his French flair to the proceedings, setting up a try for the “mighty” Taafe, with a well executed cross field kick. Ben File then cruised in from distance, Ollie “longface” Smith also cantered in. But the biggest cheer of the day was reserved for Toby Perry, as he sprinted in from somewhere near the 10 metre mark, following a blind side break from Russ Todd. “Kevin the chicken” could have been awarded to a few people, but it was decided that Charlie Bennett fully deserved the award!! The “tit” was presented to our charismatic Frenchman Pierre, for any number of reasons. The best one being he brought his own match balls! “Copper“.
Trys from Thom Murton, Wayne Caffekey, Ryan Lewis, Oliver Smith, James Taafe, Ben File, Pierre Dubost, T. Perry. Simon Copperwheat kicked Three Conversions and Pierre Dubost also kicked Three conversions.
2nd XV
A.Clinkard, R. Todd, R.Kerr, S.Copperwheat*, C. Bennett, M. Jones, W. Caffekey, A. Moore, R. Smith (Trampy), O. Smith, J. Taafe, T. Murton, J. Collins, R. Lewis, B. File
Repl: P. Dubost, D. Smith, T. Perry (all got on).
Saturday 24th September
South West East 2
Salisbury 23 – 21 Witney
(By Mike Lamb)
So near and yet so far
The weather was glorious and it was Ladies Day. What more could you ask for? But our lads’ faces bore a thunderous look at the end of a hard fought match, which really they should have put out of the host’s reach early in the second half. Notwithstanding some uncompromising tackling and great running, promising positions were wasted by over - anxiety and sexy little flips out of the back of the hand, which were not sexy at all when they ended up in green hands!
The game began with promising Witney pressure. Louie Collins so nearly got away but the ball did. Play was largely between the 22’s but after 14 minutes, Witney incurred the ref’s displeasure for not rolling away at the ruck. Salisbury needed no second invitation an popped the penalty over to go
3 : 0
up. The lads took it to Salisbury and Jez piled over for a rare but well deserved try, ably converted by Henry Lamb from the touch line.
3 : 7
Witney now hit a purple patch. Matt Calley stole the ball at a maul, fed Tim Muller who slipped it to Louie Collins, who easily outstripped the defence and over he went. Henry had his kicking boots on and popped over the conversion to make it
3 : 14
after 27 minutes. On 30 minutes, Matt Calley, who was having a busy and productive afternoon, fielded a huge Salisbury punt, fed the ever present Tim Muller, on to Carl Strutt then into the safe hands of Louie Collins: he switched on the afterburner and disappeared out of sight with the desperate Salisbury defence watching him go. Henry Lamb added the conversion to make it
3 : 21
But the hosts were not done yet. A slick move along the backs on 37 minutes ended with the ball in the winger’s hands and he scuttled over for the try. The conversion failed.
Half Time
8 : 21
The second half started very promisingly for Witney. The lads piled on the pressure but all credit to the home defence for some determined rear-guard actions to keep Witney out. Salisbury eventually cleared their lines and galloped up field. Our boys were looking a little knackered after their exertions and failed to cover. Salisbury gratefully took the try on 14 minutes of the half but failed to convert.
13 : 21
The hosts were lifted by the score and their belief surged while Witney wilted in equal measure. On 22 minutes Salisbury were back at Witney’s door. Our tiredness showed at this point and the hosts went over for try number 3, adding the conversion for good measure
20 : 21
Another cliffhanger for the travelling support. Play went down the other end and Witney worked themselves into a great position to score and hopefully seal the result but some less than clever interplay between a back and a forward, who shall both remain nameless, botched a certain try and gave the hosts a penalty for crossing. This surely would have knocked the stuffing out of the home side and given Witney the adrenalin they needed. Matt Calley was replaced by Danny and James Taaffe came on as well. But the hosts smelt victory could yet be theirs and went at a somewhat dispirited Witney with a vengeance. They inexorably gained ground and worked themselves into a position for the drop goal. Heartbreakingly for Witney it sailed between the posts.
23 : 21
The second half ground to a close and the lads trudged off, knowing full well that they let this one get away. It is not the first time this season that an encouraging first half performance turned into a desperate scramble in the second.
1st XV
Lamb(H), Collins(L), Strutt, Lamb(J), Collins(J), Harper, Campbell(G): Fuller, Quarterman(C), Richens, Haire, Copperwheat(M), Muller, Campbell(C), *Hicks(J)
Repl: Calley, Mortimer, Taafe (all got on)
Berks, Bucks & Oxon 1
Wallingford 2nds 5 – 60 Witney 2nds (
PHOTOS - thanks Ray)Some good bits, some bad bits and some carelessness this week. I’ll start with the careless and this means the captain. Simon, it’s always a good idea to take the teams kit with you when you travel away, “Harry” will never trust you again!
The bad part of the afternoon was leaving the changing rooms unlocked and having various items stolen. The lesson is that ALL players should put their wallets, phones, keys etc in the manager’s valuables bag, that’s what its there for. Lecture over.
The good stuff was all about the rugby and a return to last season’s top form. From the start we dominated with Trent galloping around like some crazed stallion. Wayne and “Woody” were winning plenty of ball and George was kicking us into attacking positions. New boy Tom Buckingham scored on his second debut and in defence Thom was immense, tackling all that came his way. I’ll list all the scorers at the end (thanks Trev), but all you need to know is that we ran away with the first half, scoring five tries. HT 0-34.
The second half was much more even, as “Wally” started to make a game of it. But four more Witney tries shows the lads were always in control. Things did get tougher towards the end of the game, especially as both the bench players were then on. The injuries started to mount, Trent off, Lee patched up, Nathan off, Tom J off, which meant we finished with twelve on the field and that allowed Wallingford to score their only try. Physio Clair really earned her money this week, but one has to ask is there any need for her to photograph their bruises?
This week’s try scorers were Nathan 2, “Bomber”, George, Tom B, Lee, Jack, “Copper” and Charlie. “Copper” also kicked six conversions and a penalty.
“Kevin the Chicken” was awarded to the dynamic Wayne Caffekey and “Tit of the Day” went to Thom Murton, now sadly minus his Blackberry. And if you were wondering, the playing shirts got to Wallingford before kick off, thanks to the club Secretary and President.
2nd XV
Tom James, Tom Buckingham, Lee Douglas, Nathan Phillips, Thom Murton, George Bibby, Jack Birks, Dave Smith, Russel Todd, James Harris, Simon Copperwheat, Charles Bennett, Richard Woodward, Wayne Caffekey, Trent Matchett.
Repl: Ben File, Sam Collins.
Berks, Bucks & Oxon 2
High Wycombe 2nds 106 - 0 Witney 3rds
High Wycombe were bigger, faster and fitter than Witney. Ironically Witneys best Rugby was in the second half when they shipped most points, mainly from breakaway length of the field trys. Good tackling from Damian and Ryan probably kept the score down in the 1st half. 41-0 at half time. There were alarmingly big holes in the defence and with High Wycombe winning most scrums with and against the head Witney had no ball to play with. Luckily I doubt we will play a better team this season.
3rd XV
1. Rikki Dore, 2. Biscuit De Costa, 3. Ashley Clinkard, 4. Toby Perry, 5. Neil, 6. Josh Rhyan, 7 Damian Brown, 8. Taff Davies: 9. Sam Walker, 10. Pete Moriarty, 11 Paddy Carveth, 12. Declan Duffy, 13. Ryan, 14.Sam the colt, 15. Tex Telling
Repl: 16. Cherry, 17. John Williams, 18. Steve Aldridge, 19 Tom the Teacher (All Got On)
Saturday 17th September
South West East 2
Witney 22 - 16 Bletchley
(By Mike Lamb)
The Monkey is off our back!
Witney’s track record against these doughty opponents has not been too impressive these past few years. It was great to finally register a win and keep the season on track. Again Witney struggled with their consistency – the scrum was dominant in the first half and was back-peddling in the second. Our tackling was solid and a definite improvement on last week, the overall penalty count was sharply down – a little more composure and we can start to unleash the potential. It did not help that the pack had to be reshuffled due to injuries to Jez, Owen, Joe, Tim.
The game started evenly with both sides contesting between the two 22’s. Witney took the first strike against the head after 11 minutes and began to exert real pressure on the visitors’ pack and but could not convert the pressure into points. Bletchley were getting the wrong end of the ref’s decisions and the penalty count against them reached double figures after 25 minutes of play. I stopped counting after that. On 26 minutes, Bletchley made a rare foray into Witney territory and got a penalty for their efforts. The vistors’ No. 10 struck the ball beautifully between the posts and our boys were down
0 : 3
But the lads picked themselves up and a classic backs move after 31 minutes ended with Struttie crossing for the try , duly converted by Eddie.
7 : 3
Snazz so nearly intercepted a wild Bletchley pass but knocked on or he would have been away. Play drifted back into the Witney half and the boys had some serious defending to do. Regrettably, someone who shall remain nameless came into a maul from the side and the ref had no hesitation in awarding the penalty.
7 : 6
HALF TIME
3 minutes into the second half, the ref sent Mark Copperwheat for a 10 minute breather for what we think was consistent infringement. He had obviously got the two sides mixed up! Bletchely were not going to argue and duly took the points
7 : 9
This was not going according to script! But then maybe the ref recognised the error of his ways and duly sent the Bletchley No. 3 for a much needed 10 minute breather. Witney piled on the pressure and it was not long before Eddie got the opportunity to put Witney back in front after 14 minutes of the half.
10 : 9
Wayne Caffeky made way for Scott Mortimer after a lively performance. Our boys were now in the ascendency: a clean line out take in Bletchley’s 22, some smart hands through Struttie and Eddie before a well timed pass to Louie Collins and the flying winger was over, Eddie adding the points
17 : 9
Struttie came off for Joe Collins and Matt Calley, who impressed again, was replaced by Mark Fuller. The visitors began to pressure the Witney line after 22 minutes – the boys did well to hold on for another 3 minutes before finally crossing the home side’s line after 25 minutes. The reliable No. 10 adding the points
17 : 16
This was getting a bit too close for comfort; memories of past defeats came flooding back when we so often snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. Henry Lamb had a shot at a penalty from his own half which only just past the post. James Lamb was obviously not here just to make up the numbers and was giving his gifted opposite number a run for his money. The second half was edging to a close with the sparse crowd chewing their fingernails. Could we hold out? Snazz to the rescue! On the stroke of full time he put the result out of reach for the visitors with a typical feisty try. Nerves frayed but overall happiness.
22 : 16
Well done guys! To lose so many regular first teamers and still beat a strong Bletchley side deserves a real “ata-boy!”. Real strength in depth these days. Salisbury next week.
1st XV
Mitcham, Collins(L), Strutt, Lamb(J), Monks, Lamb(H), Campbell(G): Calley, Quarterman(C), Richens, Mortimer, Haire, Caffekey, Campbell(C), Copperwheat(M)
Repl: Fuller, Hook(W), Collins(J) (all got on)
Berks, Bucks & Oxon Div 1
Witney 2nds 40- 17 Bracknell 3rds
This was not vintage 2’s rugby, but a wins a win. Seven nil down after a minute and it could have been more. Danny G then fires out a huge banana shaped pass and Tom J finishes off, conversion missed. Various penalties are missed and Tom H is relieved of all kicking duties. He can now concentrate on running into their big forwards. Bracknell score again and it could have been more. The lineout is a shambles and the scrum not much better. Martin J says more forwards at training would really improve things, I have to agree. As half time approaches the captain demonstrates his ball skills and Trent bent to touch down. “Copper” converts.
HT 12 -17.
With some choice words and the wind at their backs the lads improved, a bit. All out attack sees Matchett catch it and the conversion sail over. Full steam ahead and a penalty is kicked. Tom J then scores his second and Monty Harris flops in for a props try. Senior player and second team “director of rugby” N.Phillips having been replaced, then gives a verbal lashing to ref Terry, from the safety of the hedge. This costs our players on the pitch a penalty, which is missed. We kick another penalty and this feast of feisty flawed rugby finally ends with Thom M breaking tackles to score a well deserved final try.
Next week will see the return of manager Harry (cash rich from his trip to Newbury Races).The after match tea and coffee will return and hopefully an improved performance. I look forward to it.
PC.
Awards. “Tit of the Day” Nathan. “Kevin the Chicken” Trent.
Scorers. T.Matchett 2, T.James 2, J.Harris, T.Murton. S.Copperwheat kicked two conversions and two penalties.
2nd XV
T.James, D.Purkiss, T.Murton, T.Harper, J.Taafe, N.Phillips, W.Bibby, D.Godfrey, R.Kerr, J.M Harris, S.Copperwheat, G. Smith, M.Jones, R.Todd, T.Matchett.
Reps: R.Woodward, D.Smith, O.Smith (all got on)
Berks, Bucks & Oxon Div 4
Abingdon 2nds 0 - 96 Witney 4ths
A good afternoon for the 4s, a great start to the season and nice to be on the other side of a score like that! Witney started early on the board with the first of Lukes collection of the afternoon, Followed not long after by brother Leigh, Abingdon didn’t seem to have any answers and the only strong part of their game was the scrum when they won the first on our put in, then surprisingly after the 2nd they called for uncontested!! While we wondered why it emerged that it was all strong apart from there tight head who was being murdered by new Witney loose head Neil, however it did then lead to Dave Moriarty loosing the ability to say he’s never propped!
In all it can be summed up by saying we had a lot of team tries or they came a lot quicker when we played as such great afternoon finished by a good night out thanks for all who came,
Man of the match was Biscuit who played well and hard carried over the gain line every time he got his hands on the ball, Tit went to Neil as it was clearly his fault there prop was made of butter and being his first game for the club it got him a pint,
4th XV
1-Neil Taylor, 2-Sam Collins, 3-Ben La Costa (Biscuit), 4-John Williams, 5-Toby Perry,
6-Ben Guest, 7-Clive Manning, 8-Pete Moriarty : 9-Sam Walker, 10-Olly Roper,
11-Luke Manning, 12-Roy Telling (Tex), 13- Dec Duffy, 14-Tom Buckingham,
15-Leigh Manning
Repl: Trampy, Mike Lynn, Dave Moriarty, Toby Morris, Caspar Morris, all used,
Tries - Sam Collins, Ben Guest, Luke Manning x5, Tex, Dec, Tom Buckingham x2, Leigh Manning x2, Trampy, Mike Lynn,
Conversions Leigh x4, Luke x4
Saturday 10th September
South West East 2
Buckingham 24 – 27 Witney
(By Mike Lamb)
A WIN’S A WIN FOR ALL THAT.
After last week’s great performance this was a workmanlike one, which the boys were lucky to win. Too many penalties by far again: better conditions and the Buckingham kicker would have nailed us. Also an uncharacteristic lack of passion, some defensive howlers and at times non existent tackling are not Witney hallmarks. Very blustery conditions (but only one brief rain shower thank heavens) made kicking a lottery.
The first sign of trouble for Witney came after 2 minutes when Buckingham took a scrum against the head. Play was largely restricted to the middle of the pitch but Buckingham were certainly building the pressure. However, after 24 minutes and against the run of play, Matt Calley broke through the home side’s defence and cantered in for the first score of the match.
0 : 5
A minute later, Jake Thomas who had showed some real enterprise at full back, took a knock to the head and had to be replaced by Lee Douglas. After 32 minutes Buckingham were awarded yet another penalty after our prop (?) was deemed to have bored in at the scrum. The home side went for touch and from the ensuing line out, went over for the try, gratefully converted.
7 : 5
Our boys were under some pressure at this stage but held on manfully. The siege to the Witney line was eventually lifted and play went into the Buckingham half at last. Some slick handling from the backs and Louie Collins shot over in the left hand corner for the try after 37 minutes, impressively converted by Henry Lamb from the touch line.
7 : 12
Play seesawed back and forth with neither side able to impose themselves. After 40 minutes Witney incurred the ref’s displeasure yet again but the Buckingham penalty came back off the posts.
Half Time
The second half began with a trademark Monksie try after Buckingham produced a howler of a restart. Loiue Collins and Tim Muller were heavily involved in the build up before Monksie kept up his impressive scoring record. Henry Lamb hit a beautiful conversion to take the scores to
7 : 19
After 8 minutes of the half Witney won a rare penalty in the Buckingham half and Henry Lamb needed no second invitation
7 : 22
Buckingham upped the tempo which coincided with our lads going AWOL in defence. A second strike against the head gave Buckingham the initiative and over they went as Witney’s defence disintegrated, Buckingham adding the conversion.
14 : 22
Tim Muller, who had another great game, was replaced after 14 minutes by Scott Mortimer. Aside from some woeful tackling, our lads gave away yet more penalties, which handed the momentum to the home side. Pressure told and Buckingham went over for the try after 20 minutes, which was well converted.
21 : 22
There followed a passage of play reminiscent of Dunedin earlier in the day as Witney infringed time and time again. In some ways the boys were lucky that they escaped a yellow but Buckingham reaped some reward for our transgressions with a well taken penalty after 24 minutes.
24 : 22
The travelling faithful were baffled by the lack of real passion and the frailty of the defence. Matt Calley was replaced by Mark Fuller on the half hour but it did not look good for the visitors just then. But Louie Collins had not finished for the day: on 38 minute following some great interplay he crashed over for the winning try.
24 : 27
Buckingham threw everything at the boys and duly won a penalty after 39 minutes. The kick looked good but in the end slid past the post.
It was a win but only just. What was worrying was the unacceptable penalty count (again) and the uncharacteristic defensive frailty. Still congratulations to the lads as they make it 2 out of 2. Upwards and onwards.
1st XV
Thomas, Collins(L), Strutt, Collins(J), Monks, Lamb(H), Campbell(G): Calley, Quarterman(C), Richens, Copperwheat(M), Haire, Muller, Campbell(C), *Hicks(J)
Repl: Fuller, Mortimer, Douglas (all got on)
Berks, Bucks & Oxon 1
Witney 2nds HWO Chinnor 3rds
Very odd to see a Chinnor side scratch!
Berks, Bucks & Oxon 2
Bletchley 2nds 12 - 10 Witney 3rds
With JC and Nick filling Steve Aldridge’s boots it was off to windy Bletchley. On arrival it was agrred we could role our subs as Bletchley had a lot of players. The first half started with Bletchley on top, but good defence kept them at bay for 20 mins. Bletchley continued to go through the phases and eventually Witney ran out of men and conceded close to the posts. 7-0
If Bletchley thought that was game over they couldn’t have been more wrong. Witney upped the work rate and got among them. This resulted in better pitch position and more bell. The pressure resulted in a penalty on the 22 which Lee Manning slotted. 7-3
On 30 minutes Russell Todd came on to give Ben Guest a breather. 5 minutes later and Russ was taking a quick penalty and crashing over in the corner. Lee Manning slotted from wide 7-10
The second half followed the same pattern as the first with big Witney defence keeping Bletchley at bay.
Bletchley cracked defence after 15minutes 12-10.
Ben returned to the fray in place of Josh. Witney again started to make inroads into the Bletchley defence.
Russell replaced Cherry at hooker with Clive Manning taking his place in the back row. Josh replaced perpetual motion man Dave Moriarty after a clash of heads and a fair amount of claret.
Lee was unlucky after beating 3 players his chip over the full back drifted on the wind into touch. He also missed a long range penalty and probably would have won us the game if we hadn’t taken a quick tap whilst on the 22 in front of the posts.
Good performances all round with everyone putting in a shift. JC now knows that Russell’s name isn’t Ben.
3rd XV
1. Dave Smith, 2. Cherry Harris, 3. Ashley Clinkard, 4. Richard Woodward, 5. John Williams, 6. Josh Rhyan, 7. Ben Guest, 8. Dave Moriarty: 9. Sam, 10. Lee Manning, 11. Luke Manning, 12. Roy Telling, 13. James Taafe, 14. Neil Carveth, 15. Trampy
Repl: 16. Russell Todd, 17. Clive Manning (both got on), 18. Pete Holliday (not used)
Saturday 3rd September
South West East 2
Witney 34 - 3 Olney (PHOTOS)
(By Mike Lamb)
BACK IN THE SADDLE
Players and supporters alike were grateful that Saturday afternoons have assumed a true meaning and meaningful purpose again. The weather was benign and the sides looked evenly matched so we all looked forward to a good afternoon’s entertainment.
It did not take long for some of our boys’ less clever attributes to surface and Olney were awarded the first (of too many) penalties after 4 minutes but Witney were off the hook when the kick at goal was bodged. But our charitable nature resurfaced and Olney were invited to make amends 3 minutes later after another Witney offence. No messing this time as the ball sailed over the bar.
0 : 3
Our lads now got into their stride and some wonderful interplay between the backs ended with Monksie touching down after 14 minutes, Eddie Mitchum adding the bonus points.
7 : 3
Our bad habits crept back in and Olney were awarded a very kickable penalty from in front but hit the posts. What a let off! A minute later Olney had another chance after Witney were pinged for not releasing. Fortunately, the Olney kicker was having a mare with the boot and the score remained at 7 : 3. After 28 minutes the backs went through another great phase of interplay ending with Henry Lamb touching down to make it
14 : 3
thanks to Eddie’ trusty boot. 2 minutes later followed another outstanding move with a brilliant pass from Struttie to Monksie taking out two defenders before the latter offloaded to Tim Muller, who had a stormer of an afternoon, who crossed for Eddie to convert.
21 : 3
Although Olney were enjoying more of the territory throughout the half, it was our lads that had the killer edge. The only criticism was the high number of penalties conceded which a more accurate kicker would have punished us for. The half ended on a slightly sour note when the Olney number 12, arguably their best player, was crocked and hobbled off in some distress. Best wishes for his recovery.
The second half began with yet another penalty against Witney but again Olney failed to take advantage. After 6 minutes Olney’s number 10 suffered a match ending injury. Again, our best wishes for a speedy recovery. Our forwards were going through their paces now - Matt Calley showed a real turn of speed in following up a kick ahead. Owen so nearly scored when he crossed the line but the attentions of a score of Olney defenders forced the ball out of his arms as he was about to touch down. Richard Haire took exception to the Olney no. 3 coming at the side and there followed a skirmish between the two them, ending up with both having to cool their heels for 10 minutes. Ozz had done himself an injury in his efforts and was replaced by Charlie Bennett. Wintney were awarded a rare penalty after 15 minutes and Eddie needed no second invitation.
24 : 3
Our boys were in the ascendancy but the game had become disjointed with the injuries. But then some wonderful interplay amongst the back again for Monksie to cross for another great try lit up the second half.
29 : 3
The coaches decided that 2 tries were enough for Monksie and replaced with Nathan Phillips before he could score again. Al Richens also got a well - deserved rest and Mark Fuller took over his duties at prop. As the clock wound down the Witney backs showed us one more time what they are made of. A great passing movement along the line ended with Max Winpenny touching down out wide. The move was all the more beautiful for its simplicity but near perfect execution at speed.
34 : 3
A great start to the season. Defence was awesome and the boys looked (and were) dangerous with the ball in hand. Everyone deserves a mention but for me it was Tim Muller who edged it for his work rate, his positioning and his killer try. Well done everybody and thanks for awonderful afternoon’s entertainment.
P.S. Watch the penalty count!
1st XV
Mitcham, Winpenny, Strutt, Lamb(J), Monks, Lamb(H), Campbell(G): Calley, Quarterman(C), Richens, Fowler, Haire, Muller, Campbell(C), *Hicks(J)
Repl: Fuller, Bennett, Phillips (all got on)
Friendly
Abingdon 1sts 7 - 57 Witney 2nds
(by River/Trent)
The 2s travelled to Abingdon to wrap up their pre-season preparation before the first league game this Saturday against someone (clearly I have no idea who we’re playing). Witney made the best of what can only be described as a weaker opposition, entertaining the ground of about 10 people with an array of points as a result of seeming un-British running rugby.
The opening 10mins saw a couple of half breaks involving the world slowest No# 6, before Louie was able to convert pressure into points. Said No# 6 was soon carried off with heartlidge only to be quickly followed by the taller, smarter, better looking Bibby whom had tried to tackle an opposition prop with his knee. A quick reshuffle and no one seemed to notice the difference – which for this part time correspondent isn’t too surprising however worrying.
Abingdon defiantly had the verbal advantage on the Witney boys with many belligerent words of encouragement which seemed to do nothing for their rugby, but did get them angry at one Will Hook. Who after a quiet game at No# 8 (defiantly a 7!!) was asked to leave the pitch for placing a foot firmly up someone’s... well you get the idea.
Whilst Abingdon were busy with Will’s foot the other Witney Players were busy playing some running rugby. Wayne providing some sniping runs, out did himself by throwing what can only be described as the ball of the day. JC probably would have ripped him off the paddock, 5points under the posts was the net result. Danny Godfrey proved that he shouldn’t warm-up as his best efforts of the day were spent in the pre warm-up touch game. Tom and shorter, fatter, dumber Bibby where good in spouts however looked a little worse for wear after a week of sunshine and lemonades. Funny that Louie (who was on the same holiday) looked his usual self, with some good carries and solid work rate. Joe Collins looked very relaxed on his weekend away and should push for a 1st team position once we work on his confidence, speed and fitness (I’d give him about 7 or 8 months).
Scott looked a little dazed after the trip down to Abingdon with Taffy – who would have thought you could spend 30mins talking about the fuel efficiency of a jaguar. However the little fellow was full of beans and carried on his Wednesday night form, hitting angles what would have any girl excited.
On a serious note – Witney’s lineout looked solid, the scrum needs some work, and the backs proved they have the skill, diversity and awareness to do what’s needed. First league game next week – unfortunately the trials have produced some injuries however that is rugby. However the league is there to be taken with just a little bit of commitment, some music, and maybe schooner or two. Trys from Lewis Collins x2, Joe Collins x2, James Taafe, Tom James, James Harris, Jack Birks and 6 conversions from Simon Copperwheat.
2nd XV
Godfrey (D),Todd, Smith (D), Copperwheat (S)*, Mortimer, Matchett, Caffekey, Hook (W), Birks (J), Bibby (G), Collins (L), Harper, Douglas, Taafe, James (T)
Repl: Bibby (W), Collins (J), Harris (J), Jones (M) - all got on!