Sat 6 Nov 2021
This weekend Pavs welcomed Sheffield RFC to Burntstump in Round 8 of the Midlands Premier Competition. Pavs were forced to make a number of changes upfront, but were able to call upon the good services of youngster Jake Baldry, stalwart Conner Tomlinson and highly popular returning front rower Luke “Shev” Majewski. Pavs were also able to recall powerful wing Christian Murphy as well as Alex Rimmington to join his fellow Under 19s in the very young, but talented the back line.
With another large crowd in attendance, Sheffield kicked off. Pavs gathered the ball well, drove forward and attempted to clear their lines. The ball was caught by the open side wing, however, who then evaded a number of tackles before touching down in the corner to take Sheffield 5-0 in as many minutes. After this rather disconcerting start, Pavs quickly grew into the game. On virtually their first venture into the Sheffield half, the ball was swiftly moved through the backs for Christian Murphy to finish the move off in the corner and level the score at 5-5. The referee then strangely awarded a penalty to Sheffield who were as mystified with the decision as were the home side. This took Sheffield in front at 8-5 after ten minutes. The game then ebbed and flowed with both sides displaying high levels of skill. At this level, however, experience also plays a huge role in achieving success. Pavs youngsters soon found that any error was pounced upon by Sheffield and used to good effect. The away side scored two more converted tries to them 22-5 up before Pavs again struck back with a fine handling move, which put wing Alex Barton in at the corner. Fly Half George Billam, added the extras to bring the score to 22-12 at the break.
Pavs started the half with a refreshed intensity and sense of purpose. They pressed hard for the opening score, but were repelled by stoic Sheffield defence. Unfortunately, all of this effort went unrewarded as Sheffield gathered up a loose ball before working their way to the Pavs line and scoring to bring the score to 29-12 in the favour. A further penalty was added to them out of sight at 32-12 before adding another try to go 37-12 up. Pavs’ resilience revealed itself as again fought their way back. Pavs forwards created a series of phases before the “kindergarten” in the backs, moved the ball wide with precision and pace for wing Alex Barton to again score in the corner with Billam adding the extras to bring the score 37-19 in Sheffield’s favour. As Pavs chased a bonus point the game became stretched with Sheffield scoring in the last minute to bring the score to 42-19.
In this season of no relegation, Pavs are consistently taking the opportunity to give experience to as wide a group as possible from with the club itself. The many youngsters coming into this very competitive league have acquitted themselves with aplomb, whilst the more mature members, most of who are still under or around thirty continue to battle away and offer their support. Pavs remain a very tight unit who not only play together, but also socialise energetically and vociferously together; win or lose. The squad are moving forward, with occasional backward steps, which is only to be expected given their tender years. All in all, Pavs remain a popular family club imbued in the best traditions of the game; a rare commodity in these days of paid players and moveable loyalty.
Pavs next game is away at Bridgnorth on 21st November. Onwards ………………………….!!
Nigel Youl
1st XV Manager
