Humbled by Hellingly

A tumultuous week for the selectors, due to call ups, injury and unavailability, saw a very different side take to the field than we have seen over the last few weeks, to face the challenge of Hellingly. Nevertheless, the sun was shining once again and we were confident our unbeaten run would continue.

This was boosted considerably when lovely hands down the right saw several deft off-loads, and the ball in Gibbo’s hands for a great early score which should have settled any nerves nicely. However, it was the power and passion of the Loonies which changed things around, and three well worked tries put the visitors firmly in control at the half. I was still sure we could turn this around, and when Marriott senior went over to cut the deficit, there was hope again. However, the yellow and blacks kept plugging away to score themselves, and even another scorcher from Oli Brown couldn’t turn the tide!

I have always loved playing Hellingly because of the physical challenge they bring to the field, and they were worthy winners this time. Lets hope the league split at the end of the season allows us to play them again.

Massive thanks to all the boys who bravely stepped up to fill the holes this week - much appreciated. MoM goes to Crazy, as the oldest man on the pitch, he put the rest of us to shame! DotD is collective I’m afraid. We were quiet from the changing room, through the warm up and into the game. If we had shown even half the passion and aggression of our opponents, I think we would have seen a different result.

One last mention for Unsy, who left the field for hospital after a ferocious blow to his cheek! His text to me after, reads; “The cut was all the way through. When she asked me to blow my cheeks out, the air came out the hole!!!!” Man up brother!!