Sunday saw our newly merged Colts take on their first Kent Colts Trophy match against Bromley at Horn Park. The sun was shining and conditions were perfect for running rugby.
Having merged our 16s & 17s, we were suddenly in the favourable position of a full match day squad. In fact we were so blessed that the coaches had to make some very hard calls which meant a few lads missed out. Their attitude was however spot on and with hard work in training, EVERYONE will get game time as the season progresses. With competition for places this will hopefully push the group forward. Back to the game…
Early signs showed it would be a tight match, both teams recycling well but both also guilty of some unforced errors too. Having commanded much possession, Bromley were the first to score after 10mins, conversion missed. No panic yet..
A few minutes later, and three driving mauls later (classic OCs rugby!), OCs levelled the score through Frank. Tails were up.
We then saw a large part of the game where the scoreboard wasn’t touched. Good drives by Bromley forwards were countered by the more dangerous OCs backs. It looked like 5-5 would be the HT score but disappointingly Bromley jinked through to score their second before the HT whistle. 5-10.
The second half saw us pick up our tempo and we quickly turned the game within 8mins. First Christian ripped the ball off his opposite man then generously put Leo under the sticks. Second Christian went over himself after some great phase play.
Bromley were far from out though, and hit back soon after and it was game on with 15mins to go. 17-15.
There was once again a period of jostling where both teams played some great rugby, until the game was put to bed. Christian picked up his second of the day, and converted(!), before Jake went over in the corner – a great team try! Again converted from wide out.
At 31-15 we wanted to see the game out, but fair play to Bromley, they kept going, and their prop went over under the sticks on the stroke of the FT whistle. 31-22.
Ultimately, a win was our target today, and that’s what we got. Everyone’s attitude was exactly what we wanted so well done all. Clearly there are areas on the pitch to work on, so we look forward to seeing everyone at training next week to push on again.
