Punished at Ports

What a week it was trying to put a team together to play Hastings outfit Cinque Ports in the league. We finally arrived on the coast with a bare 15 players, to find Hastings’ weather surprisingly calm and almost balmy. Determined to extend our 12 match unbeaten run, we received the kick off and stormed up the pitch. Huge pressure was exerted on the Ports line, but heroic defence from our hosts kept out wave after wave of G’s attack - We were left to rue not scoring as 10 minutes later we were two tries down and another was to follow, all these were unconverted however and a great finish to the half saw Ben swoop into the attack, provide quick ball for Jamie to crash over, leaving the scoreboard showing 15 - 5 and real hope.

We knew if we scored first in the second period, we had a real chance of turning this game around, sadly however, it was not to be, as Ports scorched over for two more excellent tries to put the game out of reach. Just to make things even harder, poor Giles, playing his first game back after breaking his wrist in the same fixture last season, fractured his shin which made a very loud and alarming noise. He was having a stormer of a game up until that point with great carries and defence. He says he is never playing Cinque Ports again!!! We really started playing some good aggressive rugby for the first time in the match which was rewarded by Halligey smashing over the line in trademark fashion, unfortunately he then limped off with a leg issue, leaving us looking a very sorry sight. Luckily, Cormac and Mark had arrived and joined the fray.

Although we pressed, we just couldn’t find a way through the impressive Ports defence and the final whistle went to give us a serious promotion setback, and to break our unbeaten run. Although disappointed, I was so proud of all the third team players who bravely stepped up to give us a squad this week. You were all awesome and I hope I will see you in a blue shirt again soon. I must congratulate the Cinque Ports boys again on a terrific game of rugby - Well played!

Jon Seal was so impressive in his first second team game, but MotM goes to Chris Franklin who stepped in at hooker and was awesome all match (Apart from putting his contact lenses in!). DotD goes to Giles, not for breaking his leg, but for letting me drive his car back. Wonder how many speed cameras I tripped on the way? We caused quite a stir in Hastings A&E getting him settled, much fun was had by all, even to the extent that I got one lady to ask for his phone number! Have you been in touch with her yet mate?