Sat 14 Sep 2019, 15:00
Abbey 3’s v High Wycombe 3’s match report
Missing a number of regulars, Abbey’s Friars eventually ended up with a squad of 16 for their first game of the season. A number of players selflessly took up positions they were very unaccustomed to.
They welcomed back club veteran Lassie ‘Viking Power’ along with debutants Patrick ‘The Salmon’ Lound and Sean ‘Joe Wilkinson’ Kennedy.
The Friars started well - with the set piece and breakdown work solid.
The tackling remained stoic until 25 minutes when the home side finally breached the defensive dam.
Unfortunately the Friars were struck by a number of crucial injuries in the pack in quick succession, and were down to 14 men for the rest of the first half. During this time High Wycombe used their heavyweight pack to dent some holes and score two more tries resulting in a 19-0 score line at half time.
Despite the score line the visitors believed they could still get something from the game.
Unfortunately another few injuries straight after half time meant the Friars played most of the second half with 13 men. On a hard pitch, in very hot and sunny conditions each player emptied themselves - but couldn’t stop the High Wycombe side exploiting the holes left. This was despite an excellent defensive display from fullback Mark Oldfield who had a lonely day at the back trying to make try saving tackles. The home side then generously lent Abbey a prop to keep the scrums competitive.
With the game gone but a determination not to be niled - Abbey’s young Oli ‘O’Driscoll in disguise’ took a quick tap and go in his own half, kicked and then dribbled on to collect a kind bounce and run in under the posts.
Centres Jon ‘even played 10’ Neil and Adam ‘my sister took a shine to you’ Webb continued to run hard and gain yards, marshalled brilliantly as ever by Dav ‘still not dead’ Anfield. Abbey had the final say with one of the forwards - poss Zac ‘Ketchup’ Mayo crashing over.
A tough day - but a scratch side which demonstrated all of the best values of rugby. Both coaches and management were encouraged by the effort shown.
Final score 43-14
MOTM - Patrick ‘The Salmon’ Lound
