Paviors RFC

Paviors HORNS vs. East Leake 1st's XV - Match Report

Date: October 07 
Kick-off Time: 14:00
Venue: East Leake Playing Fields, Costock Road

On an unusually warm day for this time of year, rugby fans gathered at East Leake Pavilion to witness an exciting clash between Paviors HORNS and East Leake 1sts. The pitch, situated on a hill, posed an early challenge as Paviors HORNS kicked off facing uphill, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter.

The match got off to a slightly frustrating start as the first scrum, awarded to Paviors, was turned over due to safety concerns, despite the scrum appearing fully under control with the ball ready at the back. Nevertheless, the game continued with East Leake seizing the first opportunity to score. A well-placed kick into the corner was followed by a swift chase from the wingers, resulting in East Leake securing the opening try.

As the first half progressed, East Leake demonstrated their dominance, accumulating 33 points to Paviors HORNS' zero by halftime.

The second half brought a change in fortunes as Paviors HORNS had the advantage of playing downhill. Their first try of the match showcased brilliant teamwork. J. Goodwin, positioned at inside centre, showcased his skills by evading two East Leake defenders before being tackled low by the third. With his arms free, he delivered a precise pass to J. Kendall, playing at second-row, who then dove over the try line in the corner, eluding two more East Leake players.

Paviors HORNS continued to rally in the second half, with their second try coming from S. Vickers, who was playing on the wing. Once again, J. Goodwin, exhibited his tenacity by taking on three East Leake players and refusing to go down easily. At the last possible moment, he popped the ball up to S. Vickers, who was about 5 meters from the try line. S. Vickers then embarked on a determined run towards the goal posts, finding a gap in East Leake's defensive line and executing a diving finish.

All conversions were successfully converted excellently by A.Kuma as fly-half.

In the end, the final score stood at East Leake 66, Paviors HORNS 14. The Man of the Match award went to J. Goodwin, recognized by East Leake for his outstanding performance. However, the D*** of the Day (DOTD) crown was humorously awarded to J. McCarten, who mistakenly went to the home grounds, thinking the game was at Paviors' turf when it was actually an away game at East Leake. He'll proudly wear the DOTD crown for a week until the next match.

A special shout-out was extended to the sons and daughters of the HORNS players who consistently support their fathers and actively participate in the game as lines boys\lines girls or waterboys\water girls.

One heartwarming highlight of the day was the participation of Rugby Father D. Boutler and Son E. Boutler, who played together for the first time.

The match exemplified the true spirit of rugby, with East Leake displaying excellent sportsmanship, respect, and hospitality to their guests from Paviors. Both teams eagerly anticipate a rematch later in the season, when Paviors will have the opportunity to host East Leake and continue this spirited rivalry. Rugby, as always, brought people together, creating memorable moments on a warm October day.

HORNS Squad - D. Wisdom, R. Walker, B. Bragg, L. Saunders, S. Vickers, J. Kendall, M. Cross, J. Goodwin, J. Tones, J. Fairhurst, A. Gilbert, T. Greeley, E. Lee, A. Kumra, J. McCarten, A. Jacques, N. Clarke, R. White, C. Ward.

The HORNS come together to train on a Thursday evening from 7:00pm till 8:00pm every week and welcome senior players of all ages and skill. Feel free to come up and join!