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Friday 4th February
Wales v England
7.45pm on the
BIG screen
Followed by
The Biggy
Blues Club present
Big Mamma’s
Door
Live blues music £5 entry,
tickets will be available on the night from John Thoday
St Ives 0
Biggleswade 57
Midlands
4 East (South)
Biggleswade
completed a comfortable win against St Ives running in another eight
tries. It was the seventh time this season that they have topped
forty points. There could have been more but the chilly wind often
caused the final scoring pass to elude the waiting hands. But an
injury to centre Michael Hall late on is a worry with three important
games coming up in successive weeks.
James
Caulfield (man cold) was rested and Tom Farron came back from injury
to replace Tom Hill in the second row. Michael Haddow (work) and
Michael Hall (late shift) were also absent from last week’s starting
line-up. The chunky Sri Lankan centre was able to get away for the
second half.
George
Matthews was the star of the show with three tries, seven conversions
and a penalty to take his season’s tally past 200 points. Although on
the wing he was often on hand in the centre to receive the scoring
pass. Wing forward Dean Bartlett got the man-of-the-match award for a
brace of tries and an excellent all round afternoon in both attack
and defence.
Charlie
Darlow, Matt “Skittle” Smith and Jonathan Hamilton were the other try
scorers. Hammy Hamilton’s score was just reward for an afternoon when
he often made the first breach of the other side’s line creating
space for the support to pour through. But he was also adept at the
quick off-load as play switched direction and kept the defence
guessing.
Charlie
Darlow’s try came after a cross-kick from Matt Smith. The coach’s
first comment on the touchline was “Wrong option” but it quickly
changed to “Good try” as the flying full-back gathered the ball and
scorched over the line.
Dean
Bartlett’s two tries were at the start and finish of the first half.
In his second there was a lovely show of the ball that wrong footed
the defence and opened up the gap for him to slide through. This week
Dean was in flanker mode but he is equally at home on the wing.
The
match marked the debut for Zak Pates who went on at flanker when Karl
Marshall replaced the rested Sasha Heath at hooker. Zak made a
promising start with some powerful tackles at close quarters. Veteran
Karl showed all his old skills but there is no record of whether he
won more strikes against the head than Sasha. He is sure to let us
know!
All
the forwards had their moments. Sam Thomas and Tom Farron won some
good ball at the top of the throw quickly releasing the backs to get
the ball moving down the line. Adam “Tink” Fage had several powerful runs.
In one he had fifty metres to go to reach the try-line but luckily
support arrived swiftly as he realised the enormity of the effort
required!
Biggleswade’s
points tally was the fifth highest in the day’s round of league
matches. Both Stoneygate and Stamford clocked up over a hundred
against lowly placed opposition teams. St Neots managed just
eighty-five who Biggles play next Saturday at home. Then it is
Stoneygate and Stamford. Biggleswade will have to work very hard if
they are to retain their position at the top of the table.
Team:
A Fage, S Heath (S West), C Avison (Z Pates), S Thomas, T Farron, K
Marshall, D Bartlett, D Nott, R Taylor, M Smith, W Roake, J Hamilton,
G Taylor (M Hall), G Matthews, C Darlow.
Saffron
Walden 0 – 0 Biggleswade Pirates
In
a game that could have lasted as long as an Ashes test match with no
score, the Pirates failed to finish their first league game of the
season without a win. That said, at least they remain
undefeated. The Pirates travelled across country to the return
fixture against Saffron Walden having won at home against them 39-0.
On
a firm and frosty pitch, Walden won the toss and elected to play up
the slope and receive the kick off. The Pirates started the
game in much more dynamic mode this week and the young mobile pack
were everywhere, beating Walden to the breakdowns to secure good ball
for the backs. Despite being much bigger, older and more
seasoned, the Walden pack struggled initially to cope with the pace
of the Biggy forwards. Biggleswade’s young backs (with the
exception of Grandad at Full Back and Raz at Fly Half) also appeared
to be half the ages of most of their opposite numbers and should have
used their youth and pace to much greater effect by running round the
defence instead of trying to crash through it. There were
however some moments where the backs looked threatening with some
great runs by Jimmy Hart and Luke Haverley, both being tackled or
shepherded off the pitch close to the Walden line on a number of
occasions. Haverley also made a try saving tackle in the first
half when one of Waldens Flankers found himself with some space in
the Pirates twenty two. Defensively the Pirates were solid and
Raz lead by example, smashing the Walden left wing in a tackle after
he had taken a quick tap penalty. The resulting collision hurt
both players but at over 16 stones, Raz was always likely to come off
best. Waldens winger showed true grit and continued with the
game once he’d got his breath back, so no real harm done.
In
the second half, the home team got into their stride and used their
key strength of picking and driving to grind their way up the
pitch. They had several five metre scrums, which Biggleswade
defended stoutly and despite crossing the line at least three times,
the Pirates threw their bodies under the ball to ensure it couldn’t
be grounded. Grandad had to retire shortly after half time due
to a twisted knee giving Reece Holmes a run out on the wing.
Harry Dix also injured his knee putting his body on the line
defending the five metre scrums but soldiered on. The Walden
Full Back also missed the only kickable penalty of the game. It
was a relief when the referee blew the whistle for the end of the
match.
The
game was played in good spirits and the Pirates would like to thank
Saffron Walden for their hospitality. Walden have sent a
message to the rest of the league over the last few weeks.
They’re back and they mean business.
Next
week the Pirates are away again for the return fixture against Harlow
4’s. Biggleswade beat them comfortably at home but they have
had some huge wins in recent weeks and this will be a very
challenging top of the table clash.
Pirates:
Mudge, Rogers, Howell, Pickering, Hill, Foresythe, Dix, Claypole,
Gadsby, Rastrick, Hart, White, MacKenzie, Haverley, Elcock (Holmes).
Biggleswade Rugby & Squash
February E-News
This E-News is sent to blind
copied club members. The consensus is that it should be left simple
and without wizzy graphics. Please forward to anyone who may be interested
in what is going on at Biggy.
First XV fixtures, Top
of Midlands 4 East (South)
Including the rearranged matches #
Saturday 5th February
vs St Neots, KO 2.15pm
# Saturday 12th February
vs Stoneygate, KO 2.15pm, The RBS Six Nations games will be on the
B I G screen
# Saturday 26th February
vs Vauxhall, KO to be announced,
preceded by the Six Nations Buffet and followed by England vs France
on the B I G screen.
Saturday 5th March
vs Stamford College Old Boys KO 2.15pm
Biggleswade Pirates fixtures. Top
of Greene King Deuxieme Sud
# Saturday 5th February
vs Upper Clapton
Saturday 12th February
vs Datchworth 3s
Saturday 26th February
Greene King Cup
Third XV fixtures Only home
game scheduled in February is on Saturday 26th February
vs Biddenham.
RBS Six Nations Championship
2011
Biggy will be
showing the games on the B I G screen starting on Friday 4th
February with
Wales
vs England
at
7.45pm followed by
The Biggy
Blues Club presents…….
‘Big Mamma’s Door’
"Fiona McElroy whipped the crazy crowd
into a clamor’ ‘Her gutsy vocals were matched by playful Irish banter
between numbers and she ably fronts the band and engages the crowd.
Sharing a few songs with Malcolm gives Big Mamma’s Door breadth and
interest and the crowd had no choice but to enjoy things enormously’ "
Tickets for B.M.D after the match
will be £5 and available on the night. see John Thoday for details of
this great evening!
RBS Six Nations Championship
2011
Friday 4th
February. Wales v England @ Millennium Stadium 7.45pm
Saturday 5th
February. Italy v Ireland @ Stadio Flaminio. 2.30pm
Saturday 5th
February. France v Scotland @ Stade de France 5pm
Saturday 12th
February. England v Italy @ Twickenham. 2.30pm
Saturday 12th
February. Scotland v Wales @ Murrayfield . 5pm
Sunday 13th
February. Ireland v France @ Landsdown Road (Aviva Stadium) 3pm
Saturday 26th
February. Italy v Wales @ Stadio Flaminio. 2.30pm
Saturday 26th
February. England v France @ Twickenham. 5pm
Sunday 27th
February. Scotland v Ireland @ Murrayfield. 3pm
Saturday 12th
March. Italy v France @ Stadio Flaminio. 2.30pm
Saturday 12th
March. Wales v France @ Millennium Stadium. 5pm
Sunday 13th
March. England v Scotland @ Twickenham. 3pm
Saturday 19th
March. Scotland v Italy @ Murrayfield. 2.30pm
Saturday 19th
March. Ireland v England @ Landsdown Road (Aviva Stadium) 5pm
Saturday 19th
March. France v Wales @ Stade de France. 7.45pm
Biggy Mini’s Home games are on Sunday
6th February vs Towcestrians and Sunday 20th
February vs (Opposition TBA) Games will start at 10am, all
support and help welcome!
The additional game on 20th February brings
the Mini fixtures back to the original number, have the Old Scouts
home game and Ely home game cancelled, but gaining Huntingdon!
Mini, Youth & Colts Fixtures 2011-2012.
Thanks to Neil Gregory, who blitzed the fixtures last weekend, we
have the template for next seasons Mini & Youth games. Once these
are confirmed, they will be put on the website. The Herts &
Middlesex League dates are in place but not the opposition. Neil has
selected a good level of opposition for the Minis which includes
a welcome return of the Olney fixture and the introduction of
Thorney both home and away. The older Youth sides are expected
to play in the Herts & Middlesex Colts Development league, this
is to be confirmed.
Minis Parents…….Your help is
needed. Next season is a big one for the Mini’s, with a Tour in
the planning stage. Craig ( Minis Coordinator) and Jane (Minis
Secretary) are looking for YOUR
help. …there are also so positions on the Minis committee that need
filling…Craig can be contacted on 07757 081008
The U17s had a confidence building 17 - 20 win
away to Wasps last weekend in a friendly fixture, a superb result
considering the opposition!
U15s to host touring side.
Biggy U15s will play St Marys Old Boys (Gloucestershire County
Champions) on Saturday 19th March with a 12 noon
kick-off. Details to follow, it is expected that the
tourists’ will stay to watch the Seniors game followed by Ireland
vs England at 5pm.
Biggleswade Squash. The Handicap
is still progressing into the 3rd round & entries are needed
for going into the Championship & Veterans competition. Tick
against your name on the leagues on notice board if interested.
Current standing Hertfordshire Squash League:
Biggleswade 1s are Third in Division One while Biggleswade 2s are
second in Division Three. Over all, Biggleswade Squash are
ranked Seventh fro 24 teams in the League.
 Saracens
Coach Education Programme.
The final sessions this season are as below. The cost
are just £10 per coach and are open to all club coaches as part of
the Saracens club partnership. They will be held at either Old
Albanians RFC or The University of Hertfordshire.
•
Sunday 20th February
Saracens vs. Leeds –Observation &
Analysis
•
Tuesday 15th March
Video Analysis
•
Monday 11th
April
Specialist session for Backs
•
Wednesday 1st June
Preparing Players Preseason & In Season
•
To book a place please contact Alex at alexausterberry@saracens.net
Saracens Easter Intensive Skills Course a
one day course coasting £28 per player, this is for Mini and Youth
age groups the date is to be confirmed, either 11th/12th
or 21st April, but we need to have an idea of numbers from
players / parents before committing to the course. Please email martin@biggleswaderugby.co.uk
From Richard Gregg at Saracens…..As a parent or
guardian of an U13 – U17 year old rugby player for next season I
wanted to make you aware of this summers Saracens RAF Residential
Camp.
The Saracens RAF residential camp is aimed
specifically at U13 - U17 playing age groups for the 2011- 12 season
and will provide over 25 hours of rugby coaching in addition to team
building and leadership activities. With the support of the RAF and
Saracens coaching staff, the course will allow participants to
develop themselves as individuals both on and off the pitch.
Book via www.rugbycamps.com/saracens
Course:
Saracens RAF Residential Camp at RAF Halton
Arrive:
Tues 2nd Aug
Depart:
Fri 5th Aug
Venue: Ages:
U13 – U17
Online Price 10% off: £260.00
Northampton Saints will be
running a similar course at Stowe School on August 8th to
12th for the same age group, the cost will be £410 x
player, this can also be booked via the Rugby Camps website.
RFU Grand Draw 2011.
First Prize of £10,000! Many other prizes, all are listed in the
clubhouse. Remember, Biggy get to keep 90p in the pound for every
ticket sold. This is the only direct funding we get from the RFU and
the proceeds go into all sections of the club. Tickets are widely
available from Stan (Chairman) Martin (Membership) and Martin
Wright (Squash) and also from Jane Seymour (Minis)
LAST DAY FOR TICKET SALES IS 15th FEBRUARY
Kit Store January Sale
We have a limited supply of a previous design (navy/grey) of Kooga
Vortex tops and bottoms, with Biggy Logo.
Sizes and prices are as follows
LGB - £15 each
Adult: S, M, L (trousers only), XL, £17.50 each.
This is up to 50% off our normal prices. These are very limited
so strictly on a first come first served basis.
Club to host schools games
Wednesday 9th March
East Beds SSP year 3 & 4 Tag final 10am to 12 noon
Friday 25th March
Bedfordshire County SSP Finals year 3 & 4 Tag 12 noon to 4pm
More details in the next E-News.
Bedford vs Birmingham-Solihull
on Friday February 11th at 7.45pm. Friday rugby at
Goldington Road is always a good night out!
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Saracens Ladies Night
Ladies Night is back and will be
taking place on Wednesday 30th March at the Watford
Hilton Hotel.
Please see the attached flyer for full
information
Please pass this on to any ladies
you know who would love a great night out all for a good cause!
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Try this weeks guest beer!
 Six
Nations Rugby!
Watch Biggy and the
Six Nations Championship
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England
v Wales
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Friday
4th February
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8pm
*
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France
v Scotland
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Sat:
5th February
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5pm
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England
v Italy
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Sat
12th February
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2.30pm
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Italy
v Wales
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Sat
26th February
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2.30pm*
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England
v France
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Sat
26th February
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5pm*
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Club games K.O at 2.15pm with the exception
of the cup game v Vauxhall which is at 2pm
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Biggleswade
v St Neots
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February
5th
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Biggy
Pirates v Upper Clapton
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February
5th
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Biggleswade
v Stoneygate
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February
12th
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Biggy
Pirates v Datchworth 3s
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February
12th
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Biggleswade
v Vauxhall
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February
26th
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Biggy
Pirates Greene King Cup
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February
26th
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Biggleswade
3s v Biddenham
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February
26th
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 ‘Six Nations Buffet’ on Saturday 26th February
at 12.30pm
Biggleswade
U11s vs Northampton Old Scouts U11s (Sunday 23rd January
2011)
Match 1 - Northampton Old Scouts (30) vs
Biggleswade U11s (10)
Despite
last ditch tackling by Luke and Finlay, Old Scouts scored three
unanswered tries in the first five minutes of the match to take an
unassailable lead. Ellie and Joe W combined in defence with Aaron B
(holding the ball up over the line) slowed down the try count, but
continued Old Scouts pressure resulted in two more tries. Four quick
substitutions brought Biggleswade back to life and Jonah went on a
long run to score Biggy’s first try of the day. The second half saw
Biggy ‘stop the rot’ keeping the Old Scouts down to a single try and
matching them with their own try by John, picking up and diving over
to score. Scrum half Henry brought more ‘zip’ to the backs, enabling
the line to move forwards and Biggy’s tackling (particularly in the
second half and especially by John) was much improved.
Match 2 - Northampton Old Scouts (15) vs
Biggleswade U11s (7)
Biggleswade raised their
game for this second match, with fly half Jake’s clearance kicks
frustrating the home side and allowing Biggleswade to spend more time
in the Old Scout’s half. Joe W stopped a certain try with a big hit
on his opposite number, but Northampton rallied and scored their
first unconverted try of the match shortly afterwards. Not to be
outdone, Jonah moved the ball up-field to within the Old Scout’s 15
meter line. Biggy moved the ball closer to the try line, but the Old
Scouts infringed, and Aaron B’s quickly taken tap penalty was stopped
metres from the line. A second penalty saw Jacob come close to
scoring, but Aaron was on hand to dive over and score for Biggy.
Jacob duly converted (just as well since he’d persuaded the referee
to allow conversions just before the second game)! Credit must go to
second rower Zac, playing his best game in a Biggy shirt, offloading
superbly and making the hits at ‘ruck time’. Biggy went into the
interval ahead for the first time in the day.
The second half saw Biggy’s
scrum solid with their backs fronting up, stopping two certain tries
on the line. Ashley got ‘stuck into’ the Old scouts and Tawanda’s
pace took him clear through the Old Scouts line on two occasions.
Max’s great pass allowed Ashton to run within 5 meters of the
opposition’s line, but he was stripped of the ball before he could
score. The Old Scouts managed to break out down the left wing to
score their second try, again unconverted. Biggy pressed hard to
score next with Ben H coming close and Max’s dive coming up just
short of the try line. Finlay’s solid defence saved a try in the last
few minutes, but Biggy were stretched and Old Scouts’ forwards drove
Biggy back over the line to score again.
The Top Tackler Award was
shared by Joe W and John (with 13 tackles each), backed up by Aaron
and Finlay (with 10 tackles each) as well as Max, Morgan and Tawanda
(with 9 tackles apiece).
The Grafter of the Day was
awarded to Finlay for his superb overall play, but also for the
double tackle that he made to save a certain try. Despite losing
twice, players, parents and coaches alike were pleased with
Biggleswade’s determination and teamwork. Rolling
substitutions allowed the players to play together in new
combinations and thanks must go to Northampton Old Scouts, who were
superb hosts, applauding good play from both sides and upholding the
spirit of rugby.
Squad:
Aaron B, Andrew, Arun R, Ashley,
Ashton, Ben H, Ben S, Callum, Chris, Ellie, Finlay, Henry, Jacob, Joe
W, John, Jonah, Liam, Luke, Max, Morgan, Nathan, Tawanda, Zac
Russ
Suter (Head Coach)
Biggleswade
Pirates 46, Wendon Ambos 22.
 In
a first half that mirrored last weeks game against the Black Horse,
Biggleswade went behind by three tries before they started playing
rugby and came back to win comfortably.
Wendon
won the toss and elected to play with the strong wind behind
them. Their forwards dominated in the early stages and their
Fly Half used his boot to good effect kicking deep into Pirates
territory. Their first try was a result of some good rucking
and they scored out wide on the left. Their second came from
their backs slick passing down the line to create an overlap to score
in the opposite corner and their third came from a mistake by
Biggleswade close to their own line. Wendon turned the ball
over in the ruck and dived through the Biggleswade forwards who were
all standing off popping the ball down over the line.
Fortunately for the Pirates, only one of these tries was
converted.
Biggleswade
finally started scoring points of their own when the forwards came
alive and started to dominate. Strong running in the centre
from Zack Pates created a chance for Jimmy Hart on the wing, who
passed it back inside to Pates who scored near the corner. Hart
then scored two of his own in quick succession. Biggleswade
finished the half the stronger but still trailing by 2 points.
Wendon
came out in the second half having changed their game plan to keep
the ball tight in their forwards and pick and drive. Initially
Biggy allowed them to gain crucial yards and another great kick from
the Wendon Fly Half caught the Pirates backs up too flat in defence.
Wendons gangly outside centre caught the ball on the bounce and
scored in the corner. The Biggleswade defence protested he had
put his foot in touch but the referee disagreed and awarded the try.
Having
realised that the visitors had changed their game plan, the Pirates
then pressed the wind advantage to take them down into the Wendon
half. Some impressive backs moves, strong running from Andy
Claypole and Dave “Go faster hair” Howell and superb support play
from forwards and backs resulted in some very impressive tries.
Stuart West back at prop after his run out in the centres last
week scored the first, breaking down the blind side to score in the
corner. He then made a break down the other wing, running half
the length of the pitch and dummying the Wendon scrum half to score
his second in the opposite corner. Andy Claypole scored his
third try in two weeks from yet another quick tap penalty. Man
of the match, Harry Dix scored his second in two weeks following some
great interlinking between backs and forwards and Ian Beckitt scored
in his first game for the Pirates this season when he pounced on a
cross-field kick, beat two men and scored under the posts.
Next
week the Pirates are away to Saffron Walden who have had a mixed
season and are sitting 5th in the league.
Midlands 4 East (South)
Biggleswade 13 Oundle 8
Biggleswade marched on with another win.
But it was a close run thing and they did not have an easy ride.
Oundle had been unbeaten since losing to Biggleswade by forty points
in early October. The visitors to Langford Road had enjoyed a good
run being undefeated in seven matches. They had a narrow win over
Stoneygate and a draw with Stamford who Biggleswade lost to. Because
of the bad weather Biggleswade have yet to play Stoneygate.
Biggleswade kicked off and straight away
put Oundle under pressure. This flummoxed the Oundle fly-half who
tried to scramble away a clearance. Dean Bartlett charged down the
kick on the edge of the “22”and gathered the ball for the touchdown.
Most of the first half was played at
Oundle’s end. But in a rare break out Oundle’s winger slipped away up
the blind-side for their only try. Biggleswade cancelled this out
when winger Gavin Taylor was at the end of a three-quarter move with
a try in the corner his fourth of the season.
The Biggleswade three-quarters always
looked the most threatening with Jonathan Hamilton back in the centre
after injury spinning out some slick passes. On another day George
Matthews on the wing could easily have had a couple of tries. Full
back Charlie Darlow had some explosive runs from deep but could not
quite find a way through the Oundle defence.
Neither side took control up front. The
scrums were very equal with Biggleswade winning one strike against
the head. In the gusty wind the lineouts were a lottery with many
ending in scrums. Tom Hill out for so long with an ankle injury made
a welcome return and made an impact at the front of the lineout in
the second half. Sam Thomas as always competed for everything in the
number four spot.
Once again it was a forward who was
nominated as man-of-the-match for Biggleswade. Carlton Avison got the
accolade for a solid game. He started at second row and moved to prop
when James Caulfield was rested. He also put some stick about his own
side calming hotheads and demanding “No penalties!”
The second half was very even and was
punctuated by many breaks for injuries. There were also four yellow
cards, two for each side, for “technical offences in the red zone”.
After one card the match had to go to uncontested scrums. Oundle had
used all their replacements and had no-one to play hooker to replace
the “binned” player. The miscreants for Biggleswade were Sasha Heath
and Dom Nott. If there are many more games like this where tensions
were high on the touchline tranquilisers may have to be added to
Megan’s bag of tricks.
The only scores in the second half were a
penalty apiece with George Matthews slotting home the one for
Biggleswade. This calmed the nerves as Oundle had got within two
points with a penalty in front of the posts at the other end.
Team: A Fage, S Heath, J Caulfield (T
Hill), C Avison, S Thomas, D Bartlett, M Haddow, D Nott, R Taylor, M
Smith, G Taylor, M Hall, J Hamilton, G Matthews, C Darlow. Will Roake
and Karl Marshall were also on the bench but not needed.
Next week Biggleswade travel north-east
to St Ives. The home tie in October was a 29-3 victory but on the
sloping pitch in the windswept steppes anything is possible.
Biggleswade
Pirates 27 – 22 Black Horse (Green King Super Deuxieme Sud)
In
their eleventh league outing of the season, the Pirates travelled
over to Hertford Rugby Club to play the Black Horse; a pub team
without their own ground and judging by the distance the pub is from
Hertford Rugby Club, both sides were playing away!
After
a particularly lethargic warm up, the Pirates won the toss and
elected to play into the strong wind that was blowing almost straight
down the length of the pitch. Within minutes, some sloppy
defence let the ‘home’ team in for their first try. Biggleswade
replied with a try of their own at the other end when Andy Claypole
took a quick tap penalty and found the Black Horse players napping.
Biggleswade had worked their way up the pitch against the wind
with some good interlinking and hard running. The Black Horse
players could only stop the onslaught by giving away the
penalty. Rastrick converted Claypoles try.
Defensively
the Pirates were in complete disarray for much of the first half and
allowed the Black Horse in for a further three tries before scoring
one of their own out on the wing by Zack Pates who received the
scoring pass from winger Luke Haverley as he was being tackled into
touch. Biggleswade could have scored another try earlier on
when a player who shall remain nameless to protect his last shred of
dignity crossed the line in the corner and dropped the ball as he was
tackled trying to get nearer to the posts.
At
half time captain Rastrick made some tactical changes, which though
unpopular with those players taken off gave an extra level of pace in
both the forwards and backs. This would be needed as the
Pirates used the wind to great advantage, pinning the Black Horse in
their twenty two for most of the second half. The first of the
tries came from Andy Claypole, who used his bulk to drive over the
line. The Horse made occasional surges into the Biggy half but
some solid defence turned the ball over or reduced their options
forcing them to kick to touch. When they did this, Biggy
invariably won the line out and Rastrick sent the ball back into
their twenty two.
Biggleswade
had some close chances to score in the centres with the pairing of
Damien White and Tom Worboys making some elusive runs into the
defensive line. Some good loops and miss moves also created
spaces which saw Grandad make a break through a gap between the
centres only to be pulled down by the studs. A great tackle
from the Horses number 12. The fourth try came from Tom Worboys
after Damo broke through the line and popped the ball to Tom to
score.
The
winning try went to Super Sub Harry Dix who after narrowly killing
four of the team on the way to the match in a car that would need
some assistance from Jimmy C to pass its MOT found himself playing on
the wing instead of his usual hooker position. The forwards
worked hard to suck in the defence with more quick rucks.
Gadsby playing at scrum half spotted a mismatch on the blind
side and passed to Rastrick who drew two defenders before passing the
ball to Dix who ran in unopposed.
In
the strong wind, kicking was a complete lottery but the Black Horse
gave away three penalties in quick succession with five minutes to
go. Rastrick elected to kick for goal and used up almost the
full allotted minute to kick each one, though none of them went over.
This
was a difficult game against an opposition that don’t deserve to be
at the bottom of the table. The Pirates need to dig deep if
they want to come up with some spoils in the coming weeks with tough
games against Wendon Ambos at home, Harlow 4’s away and Upper Clapton at home.
Pirates:
Adams (Tysom), Foresythe (Rogers), Howell, Pickering, Hill, Pates,
White, Claypole, Gadsby, Rastrick, Haverley (Price), West (Dix), Hart
(Worboys), Holmes
Midlands
4 East (South)
Biggleswade
67 Westwood 0
As
expected Biggleswade had a comfortable win against 11th
placed Westwood scoring eleven tries. Despite all the rain the pitch
was in good condition although the blustery wind made handling
difficult.
Westwood
had an experienced pack that was strong at close quarters but less effective
in the open spaces. Young Tom Farron came in to replace the injured
Boff Smith and shown plenty of commitment tackling well.
The
average age of the three-quarters was markedly increased by Russell
German getting the nod for the first time this season. He was often
the dummy runner in the line with the ball being flashed past him as
quickly as possible. But all joking apart he did have a good game and
one quick off-load led to a try.
Biggleswade
scored early on through Dom Nott taking the direct route to the line.
Winger Gavin Taylor added the second in a more circular route that
included several sidesteps and hand-offs before crossing in the
corner. Soon after he could have had a second falling just short of
the cross-bar. Hooker Sasha Heath was at his shoulder and flopped
over the line from two metres out.
Others
quickly followed from full-back Charlie Darlow, flanker Dean Bartlett
and winger George Matthews. In the tricky wind conversions were a
lottery but George still managed three to give Biggleswade a thirty
six point lead at the break.
The
venerable Carlton Avison who probably looks far older than he
actually is retired at the break to give Michael Haddow a half. After
shaving everything off Michael now has a respectable head of hair.
Biggleswade
kicked off at the start of the second half with the wind behind them.
They were only back in their own half when Westwood re-started after
another score. Biggleswade added five more tries with Sam Thomas getting
his first try at first team level. It was a forward drive with the
ball ending up in Sam’s hands.
There
were others for Matt Smith, (from the German off-load) Dean Bartlett,
(a kick and chase of a dropped ball) Dom Nott (a quickly taken
penalty twenty metres out) and Charlie Darlow (finishing off a
planned move).
Biggleswade’s
Man-of-the-Match award went to prop James Caulfield for his
undercover work at close quarters. This is never seen by the
spectators on the bank but is so important to the success of the
team.
Next
week Oundle are the visitors to Langford Road. In the away tie
Biggleswade scored over forty points against them but Oundle have
been enjoying some spectacular results lately. The game kicks off at
2.15pm and is preceded by a lunch and a youth rugby display.
Team:
A Fage, S Heath, J Caulfield, C Avison (M Haddow), S Thomas, T
Farron, D Bartlett (K Marshall), D Nott, R Taylor, M Smith, G
Matthews, R German, M Hall (W Roake), G Taylor, C Darlow.
Biggleswade Rugby & Squash
Club E- News
A brief E-News
for January with some diary dates etc, more will follow in the
February including Squash Club news and final totals from the
Calendars and Santa Night charity events.
Saturday 15th
January Biggleswade v Westwood ( Midlands 4 East .S) K.O at
2.15pm
Saturday
22nd January
Biggy
Triple Header!
Biggleswade v
Oundle (Midlands 4 East .S) at 2.15pm
Biggleswade
Pirates v Wendens Ambo Rugby ( G.K. League)at 2.15pm
Biggleswade
Third XV v Molesworth Maulers ( Merit Table) 2.15pm
preceded by
Mini Rugby Exhibition match (U9s) and January
Dinner. Tickets for the three course dinner are just £15 and
are available from Chairman Steve Matthews ( 07971 650281) or
Kara. At the bar.
All club
members, Minis & Youth parents, Vets V.Ps etc and guests are
invited to the
January
Dinner.
Biggy Minis
Presentation & Awards Day is on Sunday 10th April.
Biggy Senior
Club Dinner & Awards Night is on Friday 13th
May!
Sunday 23rd
January Biggy Minis vs Northampton Old Scouts AWAY at 10am.
Next Minis HOME game is on Sunday February 6th vs
Towcestrians
Wednesday 26th
January: Bedfordshire U15s vs East Northants U15s, K.O 7pm
For all other
Biggleswade Youth games please see the Website,
Friday 4th
February
RBS
Six Nations Wales v England
7.45pm
Kick-off
followed by The
Biggy Blues Club live music from
‘Big Mamma’s Door’
"Fiona McElroy whipped the crazy crowd into a clamor’ ‘Her
gutsy vocals were matched by playful Irish banter between numbers and
she ably fronts the band and engages the crowd. Sharing a few songs
with Malcolm gives Big Mamma’s Door breadth and interest and the
crowd had no choice but to enjoy things enormously’ "
Diary Date: Saracens
Intensive Skills Course at Easter.
We will be
hosting Saracens again at Easter on either 11th –
12th April or 21st April for a one day
Intensive Skills Course at the club. The cost will be just £28 per
player.
Once again
Saracens will be sending their club and community coaches to deliver
the course.
More details
to follow!
More Diary
Dates: please note that the clubhouse and ground will be
being used on Sunday 8th May for a County
U15s Tournament: Saturday 13th August for the East
Anglian Air Ambulance Charity Day: Sunday 12th
September Charity Rugby Match ( all club involvement). Please do
not book anything else for these dates.
Coach
Education Courses
Last Chance to book:
2011 sees Andy Farrell take up
his new role as Saracens First Team Coach. It also sees him 'stepping
up' to deliver the first session in the 2011 Saracens Coach Education
Programme.
Skills Jazz with Faz is the fourth installment of this season's
Coach Education Programme. The session will focus on skill
development through game play; and backline attacking moves and
options.
As a dual code international and an established member of both
the Saracens and England Saxons Coaching Teams, the expertise that
Faz can share make this a not to be missed opportunity.
The session will comprise of a short presentation with a
Q&A element proceeded by an hours practical using the Saracens
Academy players.
Title: Skills Jazz with Faz
Venue: University of
Hertfordshire – Sports Village, AL10 9EU
Date: Tues 18th
January
Time: 19:00 – 21:00
Cost: £10
Normally this is booked via Neil Gregory but as he has
business commitments please book directly with Alex at Saracens or
via Martin martin@biggleswaderugby.co.uk
For further details contact alexausterberry@saracens.net
or call 07894783136.
Biggleswade
U11s vs Peterborough (Sunday 9th January 2011)
 On Sunday, Biggleswade U11’s
encountered a very strong Peterborough squad, playing away and found
it hard to match Peterborough’s aggression and cohesion. Biggleswade
were provided with a 'backs to the wall' defensive game and a huge
‘well done’ must go to Biggy’s top tackler Aaron B with 10 tackles
(Backed up by Joe W & Finlay (9 tackles each), Luke & Arun (6
tackles) and Nathan & Kate (5 tackles)).
Although Biggleswade lost
both matches (30-0 and 24-7), individually Biggy’s players had solid
games, especially Kate, Luke, Morgan and John. No one let themselves
down, which was pleasing, but more aggression, more awareness, less
missed tackles at crucial times and quicker arrival to the breakdown
would have allowed Biggleswade to have competed with the home side on
even terms. Hopefully all of the players will take this message on
board and learn from the two games this weekend.
The score line could have
been even higher, if it hadn’t been for John, Jacob, Arun R and Aaron
B for making try-saving tackles - Aaron B actually stopped
Peterborough from scoring two tries after they had crossed the try
line! Biggleswade did make inroads into the Peterborough defence,
with Tawanda, Jacob, John and Kate making strong runs and Jonah and
Aaron B storming very close to the Peterborough line. Liam and Zac
drove the ball on well, ably supported by accurate passing from the
half-backs Ben H and Nathan in the first game; Henry and Luke in the
second. Biggleswade did manage to cross the Peterborough line late in
the day, with Luke converting John’s consolation try at the end of
the second game to show that Biggleswade wouldn’t give up despite the
‘hard day at the office’.
 Further positives came from
how Biggleswade players 'fixed' the opposition and offloaded before
the tackle, a skill which had been developed in training earlier in
the week, and the fact that 25 boys and girls played in the
Biggleswade u11s team during the two matches, allowing them to run
off the extra turkey, mince pies and chocolate eaten over the Holidays!
The Grafter was awarded to
Kate for her improved tackling and superb efforts in attack. Thanks
to all the players, parents and coaches for their continued support.
Squad:
Aaron, Alex, Twydell, Arun,
Ashley, Ashton, Ben H, Ben S, Callum, Ellie, Finlay, Henry,
Jacob, Joe W, Joe B, John, Jonah, Kate, Liam, Luke, Max, Morgan,
Nathan, Tawanda, Zac
Russ
Suter (Head Coach)
Biggleswade
U16s 26 Welwyn U16s 14
Biggy
got their year off to a great start with a hard fought and keenly
contested league win against Welwyn.
Having
not played for 6 weeks due to numerous cancellations, the coaches
were worried that the team would be rusty, given that they are not
known for their quick starts at the best of times! The concerns were
unfounded as Biggy soaked up some early pressure and then hit back
with a well worked try for Del. More pressure on the Welwyn line
resulted in a charge down by man of the match Will Shep which was
pounced on by Haz and Cam with Haz claiming the try and the
subsequent conversion to put Biggy 14-0 up.
Welwyn
fought back hard with their well drilled forwards frequently beating
Biggy to the breakdown and making good gains. Their efforts were
justly rewarded with a converted try just on the half time whistle.
The
second half saw both sides playing some effective rugby with the
Biggy backs making some good breaks and moves that kept the Welwyn
team pegged back as they pushed for an equaliser. A couple of
decisive breaks should have put Biggy further in front but the
support and decision making let them down just before the try
line. Welwyn then spent 5
minutes camped near biggys line but were unable to make it count
themselves as Liam managed to steal the ball from the middle of a
Welwyn maul and clear with an excellent touch find. Biggy weathered
the storm and just as they were getting the upper hand Welwyn broke away from their own 22
with an excellent solo run to touch down under the posts to level the
score.
Having
given away leads in their 1st 2 league outings it looked
as though there could be a repeat but the forwards rallied and 2
periods of intense pressure lead to forward tries from Cam and
Seymour in the last 10 minutes.
A
really good squad effort with 3 new boys, Borgie, Bradley and Mason
taking the pitch for the 1st time and playing their part
to the full and a number of lads playing out of position doing
themselves and the team proud.
Tries:
Tribbeck, Worboys, Henry, Seymour.
Cons: Worboys(3)
Midlands 4 East (South)
Aylestone Athletic 6 Biggleswade 15
Biggleswade finally laid the bogey and
beat Aylestone away. After winning by over sixty points at home they
might have expected an easier ride. But having played only once in
the last six weeks Biggleswade looked decidedly rusty and lacking the
try scoring habit.
George Matthews opened the scoring for
Biggleswade with a penalty but despite several close calls
Biggleswade could not cross Aylestone’s line. After a lengthy lay off
with a back injury skipper Ross Taylor returned to the fold. Wife
Teri by now is used to Ross putting his body on the line for the Club
but was unable to be present. But by player acclamation the captain
was adjudged to be man-of-the-match for his inspiring leadership.
From the selected side Biggleswade were
without flanker Michael Haddow (work) Jonathan Hamilton (shoulder)
Carlton Avison and Simon Bannister. So Adam Fage got a recall with
Taig Norman and Will Roake summoned from the A XV as well. Forty
something Stan Matthews was also persuaded to be a replacement just
in case. He performed well in the warm-up doing the karaoke move with
panache but he didn’t get the nod from the coach.
Richard Phipps was also surprisingly
absent from the touchline so your correspondent took the flag so
details of what went on in the game are rather sketchy. Being a male
he cannot multi-task!
Charlie Darlow had some good runs and
Michael Hall in the centre made several half-breaks. But the support
was either slow arriving or the final pass was delayed just that
little bit and the player in possession was wrapped up by the
defence.
Aylestone never threatened at the other
end until they grabbed an equalising penalty on the stroke of
half-time. Earlier Andrew “Boff” Smith had been forced to leave the
pitch with a knee problem. Dave Grubb moved to second row and Tink to
prop.
The referee was pretty poor at best C
minus but Biggleswade did not help themselves by accepting the
decision even when infuriated by it.
The Law Book says that the referee is the “sole arbiter of
fact”.
Biggleswade started the second half
strongly and it was a relief when Dom Nott took a short pass at a
ruck and powered through the defence for a try under the posts.
George Matthews added the conversion.
But Aylestone refused to lie down and
added a penalty to reduce the deficit. They could have had a couple
more but both drifted wide. Instead Biggleswade made sure of victory
with another try this time from George Matthews who finished off a
three-quarter move in style.
Next week Biggleswade play Westwood at
home having won in Peterborough 48-12 and feeling that they had not
played very well. The match kicks off at 2.15pm.
Team: D Grubb, S Heath, J Caulfield, A
Smith (A Fage), S Thomas, G Taylor, K Marshall (W Roake) D Nott, R
Taylor, M Smith, T Norman, M Hall, G Matthews, D Bartlett, C Darlow.
Steve “Stan” Matthews was also a replacement but not required!
Biggleswade
Pirates 35 – 26 Hitchin 3’s
After
a seemingly endless Christmas break, the newly named Pirates had
their first encounter of the New Year against local boys Hitchin 3’s.
Having narrowly won the first league encounter and narrowly
lost the friendly at Hitchin, Biggleswade knew this wasn’t going to
be easy. The Pirates received the kick off with the wind at
their backs and were soon in the Hitchin half from some pinpoint
kicking from skipper and fly half Raz. Hitchin conceded a
penalty in front of the posts and the home team took the lead.
Shortly
after, Hitchin gave away another penalty, this time much further out
and Raz again produced the goods. Stuart West was the first to
cross the line for a try, which Raz failed to convert, missing by a whisker.
Hitchin realised they had a game on their hands and rallied
pushing the Pirates back up the pitch to defend their own line.
The visitors missed a penalty but were eventually rewarded with
a well worked try. Their prop-like inside centre bashing his
way through the defence to score their first converted try.
After
a sloppy second quarter, Biggleswade turned round at half time in the
lead but only just.
It
was Hitchin that started the second half the stronger, kicking to
gain territory and then using the bulk of their pack to suck in the
defence. When they did spin it wide to their outside backs they
had pace to equal the Pirates flying wingers Luke Haverley and Tom
Worboys and Hitchin were the first to score in the second half.
Russ German scored two in quick succession before Hitchin
replied with another of their own. Their winger kicked long and
it was a race to the line between him and Grandad. The referee
awarded the try from at least 30 metres away despite protests from
Grandad that the ball had gone dead.
Ben
Caulfield came close to scoring after Tom Farron (man of the match
for the second game running) picked from the base of the scrum, drew
the defence and popped the ball back inside to Ben who had a clear
run to the line, only to be called back by the referee deeming the
pass from Farron to have been forward.
Tries
then came from each team in turn. Westy got his second after
making a break down the blind side wing managing to batter his way
through defenders behind the line to score under the posts.
Hitchin replied with another series of quick rucks from their
forwards. Jimmy Hart scored a great individual try when he
chipped over the top down the right wing and beat his man in the
chase to score in the corner. It was Hitchin that finished the
stronger, again using their packs’ weight to great advantage but by
then time had run out and Biggleswade played the remaining minutes
out for the victory.
Everyone
played their part but players deserving of a mention include Dave
Foresythe at Hooker, who had a solid game and Damo playing slightly
out of position (no one knows what his position actually is) chasing
the ball like an over eager puppy. Special thanks also go to
Reece Holmes for patiently waiting until the last 5 minutes for his opportunity
and Graham Gadsby for turning out but not actually getting on the
pitch.
This
was a typical spirited local derby with neither side wanting to give
an inch. Thanks to Hitchin for a great game. Good luck
for the rest of the season.
Next
week the Pirates are away to The Black Horse who are currently
sitting second from bottom in the league. Places are tight and
with players in the 3’s looking for opportunities, everyone will need
to make training if they want to keep their positions.
Biggleswade:
West, Foresythe, Howell, Pickering, Hill, Pates, White, Farron,
Caulfield, Rastrick, Worboys, German, Hart, Haverley (Holmes), Elcock
New for 2011…..Biggleswade RUFC
‘Alternative Strip’
The new Senior’s ‘Terminator’ strip has been bought to
replace the old white change strip that had begun to look all of its
age! Many thanks to the following for their contributions: Biggy Minis, Mike Williams, Martin Harwood, Graham Haddow,
Richard Phipps (ADI)
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RFU GRAND DRAW 2010/11
Biggy
keep 90p from every £1 ticket sold.
Many
local clubs use the GRAND DRAW as their main fund raising event!
First
Prize: £10000!
Total
Prize pool worth £40K including prizes from all England Rugby
sponsors.
See
poster in the club for a complete list of the prizes.
Proceeds will help ALL sections of the club from
Squash members,
Minis, Youth and Seniors.
Please help improve
facilities & equipment at the club by buying tickets
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