Medway 41 Tonbridge Juddians IV 5
The final match of the season was played on a warm sunny afternoon, ideal conditions for expansive rugby and appropriately it pitted the league winners against the league runners up. Despite the final standings having already been decided, it was clear from the start that both teams wanted to win this game, this was about pride. Medway went onto the pitch with a desire to finish the season on a high note and prove they were worthy champions.
Judds were one of the strongest opposition the Development squad have faced all season, showing up not only with a strong, experienced pack, but also an agile back line who were not afraid to run the ball. Medway’s defence was strong and their pack rose to the challenge, ultimately getting the upper hand.
In the opening minutes, it was clear that the Judds pack was stronger in the set piece, pushing Medway back; but Medway kept most of the play in the opposition half. The opening score came from a poor defensive kick by Judds which was taken by Jason Henderson who ran it back and drove into their defensive line; he offloaded to Ryan Brimstead on the 5 metre line, who cut inside and then powered to the line with three defenders attempting to bring him down, but his strength and determination saw him in for the score. (5-0)
Judds began to make moves into Medway’s half, but were unable to create any gaps. Medway used the wind that was just in their favour well to push Judds back into their own territory. The continued chase and pressure resulted in a second score for Medway following a Judds handling mistake; Ryan Brimstead recovered possession and ran wide, offloading to Simon Rumsey who accelerated into a gap for a clear run at the line. (10-0)
A mistake from the kick off gave Judds a scrum on the Medway 22, from which they gained a line out on the 5. They adopted for the expected catch and drive, but were held short by Medway’s strong defence; a couple more drives at line eventually produced a gap which their scrum half took advantage of. (10-5)
Medway pushed back quickly and again set themselves up in Judds territory. Another defensive kick gave TomMarkham a chance to run at them; he brought the ball wide and hit their line about 5 metres out at pace breaking the initial tackle and maintaining enough power to drive over. (15-5)
Just before half time Medway were dealt what could have been a decisive blow, having one of their front row yellow carded. It seems that he was in the wrong place at the wrong time when a handbags incident erupted involving a number of players, being the only one the referee thought the saw doing something illegal.
By half time, despite being a player down, Medway’s forwards realised they were getting the measure of Judd’s pack and started to take the upper hand. They capitalised on this in the second half, winning more and more possession. One of the highlights was, from a line out, to see Judds attempted a driving maul driven backwards by Medway. Steven Lowrey did an excellent job as stand in prop.
Medway’s first score in the second period came whilst they were still a player down. They won a ruck out wide on the left in Judds 22 and moved the ball crisply across the line for James Avery to scrape in at the corner. (20-5)
Judds didn’t let up the pressure, but Medway’s defence was solid and they kept pushing Judds back into their own half. The next score was the first of a Jon Rumsey hat-trick of tries. All three were impressive solo efforts, where he sidestepped and weaved through a number of defenders. The only downside being that on every occasion he had supporting players outside him who were in clear space; but Jon is ever the showman and had to take on every opportunity himself. There should have been a fourth try but on that occasion he did get caught, losing possession, leaving a bemused colleague who was in space outside him. Simon Rumsey took over conversion duties as Jon had failed previously and was successful with all three, resulting in the final score of 41-5.
This was an impressive team performance worthy of the league champions. They showed how far the squad had developed since the beginning of the season,
particularly in coping with a bigger more experienced pack.
Congratulations and well done to everyone involved with the Medway Development Squad 2010-2011!!
Medway scorers:
Tries: Ryan Brimstead, Simon Rumsey, Tom Markham, James Avery, Jon Rumsey
(3)
Conversions: Simon Rumsey (3)
Leigh 10 Medway 38
Medway's youthful development squad's first season has proved to be a success. With this win they secured the League winner's title, although in a none too convincing manner.
Having managed to adjust their Sat Navs to a rural setting and eventually finding Leigh's attractive ground they found their older and larger opponents in a very competitive frame of mind. From the start the break down was very competitive and vigorously contested by all.
From an early contest Medway were awarded a penalty for their opponents killing the ball and Rumsey (J) calmly converted. 0 -3. Shortly afterwards quick ball saw Tom Bourne get into the corner only for the referee to disallow the try on the advice of his volunteer linesman - Micky Hutton - who correctly stated that the final pass was forward. Coach Essenhigh did not know whether to hug or strangle Mickey for his sporting gesture, although his future selection must be in doubt.
It took a further 10 minutes before Medway surprised their heavier opponents with a well drilled line out and good forward drive that resulted in scrum half and town crier, John Rumsey, darting down the blind side to score a real team try. 0-8. Further determined attacks from Leigh were repelled and a passage of play resulted in a penalty that Rumsey (J) converted. 0-11.
Shortly afterwards from a further penalty the crowd (15) were silenced as the prominent Medway hooker - Coveney - showed quick feet and sidestepped several defenders who could not, or did not want to, lay a hand on him as he raced in from many meters out (7) for the score. Rumsey converted. 0-18.
After a spirited Leigh attack Medway turned the ball over and what turned out to be the best passage of play in the game saw Medway players running straight, unselfishly moving the ball and this finally saw Jack Carlin (what supporting players?) slice through for a try. Credit in the build up must go to Vegetarian Jordan who was using his considerable frame to great effect. HT 0-23.
Having promised themselves that they would not let the opposition score in the 2nd half the game deteriorated as Medway lost their focus and shape and the referee's whistle became a more prominent feature of the game. Indeed even the sheep in the neighbouring field wandered off as the game lost all continuity and the quality ebbed away from the play. Their dogged opponents started to take advantage of some less than committed tackling and scored 2 tries. Then John Rumsey showed what he can do when he concentrates on his game and read a back pass from the Leigh winger and intercepted it and ran away for the try. 10 -28.
Whilst the game was by now very much stop start it was still very competitive and it took some while before Medway showed some composure for number 8 Jason Henderson to crash over from a scrum and John Rumsey to once again "go blind" and crash over in the corner. FT 10 -38.
This was a hard fought win and one that means that the players know that they have a lot to work on to improve the intensity and level of their own performances. The coaching team are justly proud of their charges achievements, although they feel that there is a lot more to come from this team in all aspects of their play. Team Manager - Jane Wadhams - celebrated the win in typically understated fashion, although why she should choose these surroundings for a beer shampoo and set is any one's guess.
E.I. Addio (Your Man on the Sheep Dip terrace with a puzzled expression).
East Peckham 12 Medway 18
This was a hard earned but vital win for the Development squad that could prove pivotal in the outcome of the League. After two relative easy high scoring wins, Medway came up against a side that had equal determination and commitment to take the victory. It made for a tense but scrappy game that could have gone either way; the sort of game that the coaches can’t afford too many of, as Ess is already significantly grey and Chris can’t afford to lose any more hair.
Both teams started strongly, but Medway had the slight upper hand and made some hard yards into Peckham territory, but wasted opportunities with minor errors in handling and loose passes. This became a feature of the game for both sides. Peckham took full advantage of one such error and against the run of play. They put the ball long, winning a scrum close to Medway’s 22 and then were able to move the ball wide to find a gap in the usually strong defensive line. (7-0)
There was no further score in the first half. Medway were still the dominant side, but through frustration were trying to force the play, resulting in a continuation of errors undoing the advantages they had worked hard to gain.
In the second half, Medway had the advantage of the slight slope and the breeze, which they used to good effect to gain territory. Six minutes into the half, Si Rumsey put a kick into Peckham territory that was strongly followed up and the possession regained. A rare (in this game) slick move down the back line gave Peter Cole space to use his pace to go over in the corner. Rich Coney converted from out wide to level the scores. (7-7)
Peckham replied soon after from a poorly controlled line out in the Medway half. Although Medway won the ball it was not controlled and ran loose, as Medway players seemed to wait for each other to react, Peckham broke through the line kicking the ball into the goal error and won the foot race to touch down. (12-7) Medway retained the upper hand and continued to force Peckham back into their half through well placed kicks. Medway were awarded a rare penalty by the poor, indecisive referee, which Rich Coney put away. (12-10) He followed this was a further penalty on 22 minutes to give Medway the lead for the first time. (12-13) Medway capitalised on this minutes later when a further kick and chase resulted in turn-over ball and again Peter Cole went wide, but was held up by two defenders as he cut inside, but was able to offload to Rich Coney who was in support for a score in the corner. (12-18)
Peckham knew they were only a converted score down and were determined to get this back. They were nearly successful when a blatant knock down interception was missed by the referee, the ball bouncing straight into the Peckham player’s hands and he looked to be clean away to line. Si Rumsey had other thoughts and found superb pace to take him down short of the line. Although Peckham tried hard to force the play back at Medway, Si Rumsey’s tactical kicking eased the pressure on his team mates and kept pushing them back into their own half.
Despite the errors and panicky play that were there throughout the game, this performance shows how the Development squad has progressed during this year. There is a stronger maturity about their play, which comes from the confidence that they know they have the ability to score good tries and the opportunities will come if they are patient and stick to their game; which was exactly what they did today.
Medway scorers:
Tries: Peter Cole, Rich Coney
Conversions: Rich Coney (1)
Penalties: Rich Coney (2)
Medway 62 Weavering 3
Whilst Weavering only arrived with 14 players they provided this young Medway side with an at times physically hard and competitive contest, which did them credit. Unfortunately for them the work that this squad has put in with the coaching team is now showing signs of reaping the dividends. The last three months has seen them grow a greater awareness of support play, running angles, letting the ball do the work and selfless teamwork. For this match they were asked to show respect to their opponents and demonstrate a more ruthless streak and despite some robust physical play by Weavering they found themselves unable to cope with the higher tempo Medway play.
Early on the Medway forwards drove the play into the Weavering pack and this left a gap for scrum half John Rumsey to dart away. Showing vision he kicked inside where his older brother picked up he ball to score a try which he converted. Rumsey, sporting a fine tan from his new sponsors, had one of his best games for a long while. Weavering replied in strong fashion and earned a penalty which they converted. 7-3. Then a sign of things to some. A loose kick forward by Weavering saw it returned strongly by full back Tom Markham, who linked well with centre Jack Carlin who ignored his two supporting players and scored under the posts. 14 -3.
As Medway became able to bring some structure to a some time frantic game they won a line out cleanly and a fine back move saw the strong running right wing Tom Bourne break the line convincingly, despite an attempted decapitation, with the ball moved to left wing brooding hulk Pete Cole to finish well in the corner. 19 -3. Medway continued to apply the pressure and from a line out close to the Weavering line the pack showed encouraging composure and drove over the line for the prominent Mark Coveney to crash over. 24 -3. The next score came surprisingly from a Weavering attack. As their prop forward made a determined drive into the Medway 22 he was met full square by man of the match Richie Petch who knocked him clean off his feet. The ball broke clear and was moved quickly down the field for John Rumsey to finish under the posts. 31 -3. There was one more score before half time when from a line out the ball was won by Medway and quick hands saw Cole race in the corner. HT - 36- 3.
You could be forgiven for thinking that Weavering had thrown in the towel but they continued to play with pride and passion and were dogged opponents. So they were understandably disappointed when a loose kick was charged down by John Rumsey who gathered the ball to score. 43 -3. It was at this point in the game when the spectators thought that the floodlights had been switched off. They then realised that the sudden blocking out of daylight had been caused by prop Alex Waterman's efforts to change his shorts (XXXL) and he was finally reduced to playing in some skin tight, distinctly unattractive underwear. This seemed to give Medway greater energy to move the ball away from the forwards and a kick ahead saw the ball regathered and a fine left shift saw Cole complete his hat trick. 50 -3. Two further back line efforts on the back of fine forward interplay saw centres James Avery and Jack Carlin (what supporting players?) score tries.
Final score 62 - 3.
A good all round team effort with every man doing his job complimented by much improved execution of play.
Medway 64 Leigh 0
Whilst this may look like an easy and unconvincing win that would not be a fair reflection on the effort their opponents made. Going through a bad spell of injuries and absences they arrived with only 14 players. However they tried their best to impose their greater physical presence and experience on the more youthful Medway team. Unfortunately this Medway side was in a more clinical mode than recent weeks and showed little desire to let their opponents off.
Clearly the lack of a "thought for the week" from coach Essenhigh meant that their minds were not cluttered with deep thoughts and so their play was straightforward, simple and effective rugby. After five minutes a right shift by the backs, quickly followed by a left shift saw the ball moved efficiently to debutant Danny Williams to score in the corner for a well executed try. 5-0. Then an ambitious cross kick was picked up by Rumsey, who with good footwork made the score 10 -0. Shortly after a neat blind side move from a scrum, Rumsey scored again. 17 -0.
There was then a period of indecisive and messy play, not helped by Williams dropping a try scoring pass and failing to pass to his supporting, unmarked player. Clearly nerves were getting to him and this saw him replaced by the unforgiving Essenhigh at half time. A welcome feature of the Medway play was the willingness of Rumsey to be the play maker and link between forwards and backs. This meant that the back play flowed freely and he became far more prominent in the broken play. Just before half-time emergency scrum half Micky Hutton capped a fine half by scoring a good darting try, quickly followed by Williams scoring after decent work by the inside backs. HT 29 -0.
Urged on at half time by the handsomely greying Essenhigh to be unrelenting and more clinical in their play their opponents' valiant efforts to stem the flood of Medway attacks were all to no avail. Again what was pleasing was the simplicity of play they executed, which saw players sacrificing chances to score by giving the ball to better placed team mates. Apart from a dogged 3 minutes on the Medway line the second half was all about Medway breaking their opponents hearts from fine running and passing. Long runs saw Tom Bourne and Rumsey score. Then good interpassing saw Tom Markham and James Avery finish well as the pack relentlessly got over the gain line in all phases. Again Richie Petch was prominent, along with Mark Coveney.
FT - 64 -0.
In a match were they could easily have dropped off the pace the Medway side showed a hunger and improved team ethic and if they build upon this they can begin to become a real force and pleasure to watch.
DT.
Medway 20 East Peckham 5
If you had seen Coach Paul Essenhigh leaving Priestfields after the match you would have been forgiven for thinking that his team had lost. His bewildered expression and rapidly greying locks were the result of his side's frustrating performance. Perhaps his message of the week this week - "Straight with Pace into Space" - is confusing his youthful charges as they appear to do exactly the opposite to what he asks them.
After last week's tough match East Peckham provided equally stern opposition, with a robust front 5 in the pack, strong back row and all round strong running. As all teams who have faced this Medway team they quickly realised that it may be young but it is brave and not easily intimidated. So with Medway playing with the wind on the show pitch it was surprising to their followers that they managed to contrive to play a fair proportion of the match in their own half and having to defend their line more than they should. Poor decision making, poor skill execution and a generally frantic approach to the game kept encouraging East Peckham's ambitions. Typically of this was a butchered 2 on 1 10 yards out when the ball was dropped by the Medway receiver with the line at his mercy. So it was 25 minutes before a fine kick by Simon Rumsey led to a line out in their opposition 25 and from the line out Joe Jelfs managed to crash over for an unconverted try. 5 -0.
Medway's cause was not helped at this stage by seeing scrum half John Rumsey take his by now usual 10 minute rest in the sin bin for a rash challenge, which presumably was designed to impress his watching girl friend? It did not impress anyone else. Then during a phase of inconclusive play suddenly Medway strung together some fine interpassing only to drop the vital pass, East Peckham tried to counter attack, turned the ball over and thanks to a generous interpretation of the advantage law by the referee the ball was moved to winger Pete for him to score wide out. HT 10 -0.
Facing into the wind and sun in the second half Medway had no choice other than to run the ball back to their opponents and to be more careful with the ball. With outstanding prop Richie Petch and Number 8 Will "PG" Smith leading the way in the loose a shape and pattern began to slowly emerge in Medway's efforts. The first score of the half though went to East Peckham, who, after a number of heavy forward drives near to the Medway line crashed over for a well worked try. 10- 5. Medway responded by butchering several try scoring opportunities as impatience led to individuals taking the wrong option. Again East Peckham, who were proving themselves to be very determined opponents took encouragement from these errors and several times broke through the Medway defensive line. Unfortunately for them full back Tom Markham showed what a strong defender he can be and his hit on the break away tight head prop was a highlight.
The longer the game went on the more the pace and fitness of the youthful Medway team told and they began to string sections of play together. From a finally well executed line out, Dean Coney drove into midfield and the ball was moved wide to the backs, where good interpassing between Jack Carlin and Rich Coney saw Carlin split the defence for a decent try. 15 -5. The final quarter saw greater composure from Medway and some of their undoubted talent appear. With scrum half John Rumsey executing some fine kicks and contenting himself with linking the play East Peckham found themselves on the back foot and defending heroically in their own 22 for long phases. Having conceded yet another penalty, a quick tap by John Rumsey, who saw the space out wide and threw a fine long pass to the unmarked wing Coney, meant that Medway won 20- 5.
A decent hard fought win but this development squad still has a lot of developing to do. Club members now await with interest coach Essenhigh's next thought for the week.
Club selector - Dave Tasker.
Medway 15 Sevenoaks IV 24
To an outsider this result may look surprising. However the reasoning behind Medway's bold experiment to have a squad of young players playing week in week out against older more experienced players was there for all to see today. Whilst coach Paul "minimal contact" Essenhigh was undoubtedly disappointed with the outcome of this top of the table clash his long term vision of seeing this squad grow into more mature and rounded players that will go onto play higher standard rugby is there for all to see.
The game itself featured 2 very committed sides who gave everything in terms of physicality and desire to win. The difference was that the Sevenoaks team was full of experienced older and heavier players. Indeed spectators could have been forgiven for thinking it was an end of term parents against pupils game. So unsurprisingly Sevenoaks did all they could not to see the ball moved away from the heavy and well drilled pack, whereas Medway wanted to use their undoubted speed and agility whenever they could. What Medway lacked was the composure to do some of the basics well enough to keep their wily opponents in the right parts of the field, on the back foot and deal calmly with any of the tricky moments.
From the kick off the Medway catch receiver dropped the ball. Result a 5 yard scrum which Sevenoaks which expertly walked over the line to score. 0-5. Then shortly afterwards from a scrum on the Medway 22 the crafty Oaks wing forward slapped the ball out of scrum half John Rumsey's hands as he tried to put it in the scrum and the ball was lost and Oaks drove over for another score. 0 -12.Unfortunately the referee was the only person on the ground who did not see this indiscretion and this led to Rumsey giving him a running commentary on what he thought of the official's performance for the next 20 minutes. Many penalties resulted, including the correct sin binning of Rumsey and the Medway 14 found themselves unable to get out of their 22.
Great defensive efforts by everyone in the team frustrated the opponents but inevitably one more score was conceded before half time. 0 -17. A final flurry just before half time saw Medway break out and with a fluent attack take play to 3 yards from the Oaks line. With the defence in total disarray and Medway's potent back line waiting for the ball the same wily flanker killed the possession and he rightly was sin binned. With the try scoring opportunity lost the penalty from 12 yards out was missed. HT 0- 17.
What this squad of youngsters is developing is self belief and determination no matter what they face. Straight from the kick off a very well placed kick saw Oaks having to defend a line out in their 22. This they could not do and Medway's flanker Joe Jelfs crashed over for a good try. Game on. With better tactical kicking by Simon Rumsey Oaks now found themselves having to run back from their own 22, which was not in their game plan. Harrassed by the younger team eventually a quick release of ball saw Medway's Jack Carlin make a searing break from the half way line, beat 3 defenders and score. Simon Rumsey converted. 12 -17. Further fine breaks by Tom Markham and his team mates gave the momentum to Medway and more penalties conceded. One of these from 35 yards out was well converted by Simon Rumsey. 15 -17. Just when Medway thought that the game was theirs a few hasty decisions and wrong play choices saw them losing possession and the Oaks team drove the ball to the line. Heroic defence kept them out but once a scrum 5 yards out was awarded to Oaks the outcome was almost inevitable as they cleverly drove over the line for a try by their inspirational skipper. Into the wind a fine conversion followed. 15 -24.
A final frantic 2 minutes ensued but to no avail. Medway were taught a few harsh lessons and yet were not disgraced. If they keep working hard and learn to play a less frantic, smarter game they will still have a season to remember.
Dave Tasker - Club Selector
Medway 57 Maidstone IV 15
Considering that Medway were missing four of their regular forwards through injury, this was a creditable performance from the Development squad. Yet again they were up against a stronger pack who initially dominated the scrum and the loose, but that domination reduced throughout the game as the fitness and determination of the Medway side wore the opposition down. Particularly noteworthy was the performance from Ben Dance, a scrum half, who stepped in at the last minute to play in the back row.
Maidstone’s advantage in the scrum was apparent immediately when Medway knocked on from the kick off. Maidstone pushed Medway’s pack back a number of yards before distributing the ball out to their backs. Maidstone progressed slowly towards the Medway 22 eventually winning a penalty which they converted for the opening score. (0-3)
Medway quickly responded from the restart taking play to the Maidstone 22. The Medway forwards were able to recycle possession to get the backs running; Jack Carlin took the ball on and created space out wide for Tom Bourne, who stepped inside his opposite winger and then powered through a closing gap to touch down. (5-3)
Maidstone kept the ball within the forwards for periods, but had to open play out and Medway were able to put pressure on their back line forcing regular errors. From one of these errors in Maidstone territory, Medway stole possession. Dean Avery took the ball forward and found a gap opening up in front of him to give him a clear run under the posts. (12-3)
Medway are still prone to put themselves under pressure through unforced errors. They allowed Maidstone to move the play back into their own 22 through a series of mistakes and penalties. Maidstone were opting for the scrum on any penalty in Medway’s half and eventually the pressure paid off when they achieved a clean no. 8 pick up and off load, moving the ball out wide to find the extra man who scored in the corner. (12-10)
Medway increased their tempo and had a sustained period of play in Maidstone’s half that resulted in two scores for Pete Cole. The first came from a line out five metres out; the ball was taken into the backs then switched back inside to Mark Coveney who offloaded to Pete Cole running through at pace off his wing. (19-10)
Pete’s second try three minutes later came from a Maidstone error in Medway’s half. Having won the scrum, Maidstone’s no. 10 attempted to switch play to the blind side, but a poor pass went to ground to be scooped up by Pete Cole who then sprinted a good 60 metres beating their defence to the line. (24-10)
Neither side was able to dominate play during the second quarter with mistakes coming from both sides and Maidstone’s forward dominance reducing. However, they did pull a score back 5 minutes from half time when they a series of Medway errors allowed them to win a scrum 5 metres out. Although Medway kept out four or five drives at the line, Maidstone eventually found a gap. (24-15)
The development squad started the second half with renewed pace and vigour and immediately took play to Maidstone’s 22. From a cleanly won line out, the backs ran a set move which worked perfectly giving Tom Bourne a clear run out wide to the line. (31-15) Medway kept up the pressure and shortly after the restart they forced Maidstone to spill the ball; the turnover ball was moved wide giving Pete Cole yet another run for the line and his third try of the game. (36-15)
Simon Rumsey used the slight wind advantage well during the second half with some excellent kicking into space giving Medway regular territorial gains. A poor defensive kick from Maidstone gave Medway a line out just outside their 5 metre. Another clean win allowed Medway to run a set move with Tom Bourne coming in off the blind wing, which almost paid off. Although he was held up short of the line, he was able to keep the ball alive and give Rob Longstaff a score under the posts. (43-15)
Rob Longstaff added his second score 5 minutes later from yet another cleanly won line out on Maidstone’s 5 metre line. This time the forwards attempted to drive over, but were kept at bay by Maidstone; Medway kept the ball alive a recycled it through a series of phases which eventually opened up the space alongside the ruck for Rob to dive over. (50-15)
Maidstone managed a brief rally and threatened Medway’s line with a series of strong drives and rolling mauls. The Development squad worked superbly as a unit to hold Maidstone up, drive them back and eventually clear their lines.
Medway’s final score came after a crunching tackle from James Avery creating loose ball, which Joe Jelfs recovered to give himself an unopposed run under the posts. (57-15)
Medway scorers: Tries: Tom Bourne (2), Dean Avery, Pete Cole (3), Rob Longstaff (2), Joe Jelfs Conversions: Simon Rumsey (6)
Aylesford III 10 Medway 31
This was another hard fought win by the Medway youngsters against another forward dominated side. Medway played into a strong wind in the first half which was going to give Aylesford an advantage; but again, Medway made it hard on themselves through unforced errors that gave Aylesford the opportunities to take the game into the Medway half and 22. Aylesford took advantage of one such opportunity within the first ten minutes and used their forward pressure to drive over for the opening score. (5-0).
Medway played a patient game and played for territory when they could. They also pressurised Aylesford errors and used the backs to progress up the field. Jack Carlin and Simon Rumsey made a break, but lost control of the ball. Although Aylesford won the resulting scrum, they were slow to move the ball and Will Smith charged down the kick from their no. 10 and recovered the ball to score under the posts; giving Simon Rumsey a straightforward conversion. (5-7)
Aylesford continued to pressurise Medway’s 22, but were unable to break the strong defence. Medway made opportunities to break out but squandered most through handling errors. The deadlock was eventually broken when Rob Longstaff made a break from the rear of a ruck in their own 22 down the blind side, supported by Greg Woodward, they took play into the Aylesford half. Medway won the next phase and moved the ball wide to Tom Bourne whose pace was too much for the defence, scoring in the corner. (5-12)
Instead of capitalising on this lead, Medway handed the initiative back to Aylesford through a series of errors ending up defending their line yet again. Although they stopped a number of Aylesford attacks on the line, eventually the pressure paid off and Aylesford were able to drive over again. (10-12)
Once the teams turned around at half time and Medway had the wind behind them, they looked a different team. They immediately played a territory game and pushed Aylesford back into a defensive position. Mickey Hutton recovered a poor kick on the Aylesford 22 and set up strong attack and although Aylesford defended strongly, Medway kept recycling the ball and were able to move it wide through a series of hands ending up with James Avery appearing out on the wing to make the overlap and the score. (10-17)
Aylesford began to play a tight forward game attempting to retain possession and make short yards. Medway’s forwards showed their bravery in continuing to put in big tackles and limit the progress. Eventually they forced errors from Aylesford and then used the opportunities to take the play back to the opposition. Medway should have had a further score when Dean Avery broke from loose play, handing off at least two Aylesford forwards and diving over the line with two further tacklers clinging on to him; however, the referee decided he had lost control of the ball on the line (Dean insists he got downward pressure – unfortunately the ref. has the last word).
Medway maintained the pressure and kept the play in the Aylesford half. Will Smith went down with a twisted ankle, but play continued around him; Medway won good ball that they were able to move wide to put Tom Bourne into space again, which he converted into a score. Simon Rumsey judged the conversion perfectly in the strong wind. (10-24)
Aylesford continued to try to keep the ball in the forwards and Medway continued to pressure them into errors. Medway made further opportunities and continued to
move the ball around. They were kept from scoring for some time by some good defence but also by a loose pass on more than one occasion. The final score came at 70 minutes into the game with Medway attacking the Aylesford 22. Simon Rumsey saw that their full back had moved into the line and put a grubber kick beyond their defence; he followed up his own kick for a score under the posts and taking the conversion. (10-31)
Aylesford continued to attempt to rumble the ball forward during the final ten minutes and did progress into Medway’s 22 on two occasions, but Medway’s defence held solid.
Medway scorers: Tries: Will Smith, Tom Bourne (2), James Avery, Simon Rumsey Conversions: Simon Rumsey (3)
Gillingham Anchorians 3 Medway 12
This was the first game after a lengthy lay off due to weather and festivities and it
showed through rusty skills and not quite firing on all cylinders. That said, Medway
were up against an experienced Anchorians side with a game plan that was intent on
keeping the ball tight and utilising their forward dominance. The score shows that
Medway restricted Anchorians to a first half penalty score and despite their numerous
attempts to trundle a maul over the line, they were help back time and time again by a
valiant Medway team.
The first half in which Medway were playing into a strong wind produced little to talk about other than the penalty score, which was the only score.
Medway started the second half with more enthusiasm and made progress into the Anchorians half. A strong kick ahead and chase forced Anchorians to concede a five metre scrum, from which they conceded a penalty. This was quickly taken and moved wide for Jason Henderson to challenge the line but be held up short; the next phase was moved to Jon Rumsey who ducked under a tackle for the score. (3-5) Medway consolidated the lead with a second score shortly afterwards when Tom Bourne caught a high ball just inside his own half and stood up the tacklers to offload to Jon Rumsey who hit the gap in front of him to break the line. With supporting runners he was able to offload to Rob Longstaff who in turn put Jack Carlin in under the posts. Jon Rumsey converted. (3-12)
The game then reverted to its original script of Anchorians keeping the ball within the forwards for most of the game and when they did occasionally become expansive they suffered from poor handling. Medway had little ball to play with but maintained a strong and determined defence, holding out for the win.
Medway scorers:
Tries: Jon Rumsey, Jack Carlin
Conversions: Jon Rumsey (1)
Weavering 0 Medway 44
Although this was a comprehensive win by the Development Squad, they played well within their potential, doing just enough to keep the scoreboard ticking over. There were some good individual performances, but only glimpses of the team cohesion that they are more than capable of and is great to watch when they produce it. Both teams were guilty of poor handling in the damp conditions. Medway were stronger in the scrum but didn’t make the most of their opportunities.
Simon Rumsey adopted kicking duties as his brother Jon started the game on the bench following his recent nose job (Was it really worth it???) and opened the scoring with a penalty after 12 minutes.
On 23 minutes, Jason Henderson made a break from the back of the scrum, but was held up short; quick ball allowed the backs to work a move that put Jack Carlin into space for the opening try. (0-8)
Both sides struggled to control the ball in the scrum, but on 33 minutes, although Weavering won the ball it shot out from the pack. Joe Jelfs scooped the ball up and ran unopposed under the posts. (0-15)
With the last play of the half, Jason Henderson made another run from No 8 and on this occasion he shrugged off at least four tackles for another score. (0-20)
Medway went onto the attack again from the restart taking play into Weavering territory. The early pressure provided a further score after 7 minutes; from a cleanly taken line out the ball was moved crisply along the back line giving Jon Rumsey (who put his new found good looks at risk by coming on at half time) a clear gap to sprint through. (0-25)
Medway produced a further three tries over the next ten minutes during what was their best period of play. Simon Rumsey got the first of these following good turnover ball, strong rucking and good supportive play. (0-30) Jon Rumsey took his second try following more good ruck work providing quick ball for the backs to move wide; Jon put in his signature sidestep, followed by a spin out of a tackle to walk over the line. (0-37). Yet another strong backs move gave Pete Cole the opportunity to outrun the opposition along the wing for Medway’s final score. (0-44)
Medway eased off during the last quarter of the game, which ended as stalemate with neither side getting the upper hand.
Medway scorers:
Tries: Jack Carlin, Joe Jelfs, Jason Henderson, Jon Rumsey (2), Simon Rumsey, Pete Cole
Conversions: Simon Rumsey (3)
Penalties: Simon Rumsey (1)
Medway 66 Lordswood II 3
This was a classic game of two halves that had a lacklustre group of Medway players on the pitch in the first half, but a much more dynamic Medway team appeared for the second period.
Jon Rumsey opened Medway’s account with a penalty after 6 minutes; but there was a lack of urgency and little coordinated play from the home side. They added to the score when Tom Markham used his strength and speed onto a short ball to power through from 10 metres out. (10-0)
Medway continued to play at Lordswood’s pace and failed to seriously trouble Lordswood’s defence. Lordswood kicked a penalty after 23 minutes and Jon Rumsey replied with a Medway penalty for the last play of the half. (13-3)
A more focussed and determined Medway side came out in the second half and started with enthusiasm and clear team spirit. With only two minutes gone, they called a set move from a line out, with Tom Bourne coming in off the blind wing, to break the Lordswood defence; he stood the full back up and cleanly offloaded to Jon Rumsey who was on his shoulder in support for Jon to score unopposed. (20-3)
Medway were soon back on the attack again, running another move in the backs; a long miss pass to Jack Carlin gave hi space to run and he proceeded to glide through or round at least four attempted tackles to run the ball in under the posts. (27-3)
Jon Rumsey kept the scoreboard ticking over with a long range penalty from well outside the opposition 22 metres line. (0-3) From the kick off Medway regained possession and provided Jason Henderson with an opportunity to run from No 8. He is another strong runner that Lordswood failed to bring down, allowing Medway another score. (35-3)
On 60 minutes, Lordswood made one of their few incursions into Medway’s 22, but lost control in a drive for the line. Medway kicked from defence and with a strong follow up, regained possession; the ball was given to Jason Henderson who had another strong run, breaking tackles to score again. (40-3)
About this time, Lordswood went down to 14 men through injury, shortly followed by a yellow card to reduce them to 13 for 10 minutes. Medway kept up the pressure and made regular scores. They worked a set line out move from the Lordswood 5 metre line which put Ritchie Petch in for a score at the posts. (47-3) Four minutes later, Medway took a quick line out on their 10 metre line, Mark Coveney made the initial break, then quick ball was moved down the back line to give Jack Carlin another score. (61-3)
Medway came straight back from the kick off and ran through a demoralised Lordswood team with Joe Jelfs scoring. Although there was 5 minutes to play, the referee had seen enough and it was clear that Lordswood had little left in them. Final score 66-3.
Medway scorers:
Tries: Tom Markham, Jon Rumsey (2), Jack Carlin (2), Jason Henderson (2), Ritchie Petch, Joe Jelfs
Conversions: Jon Rumsey (6)
Penalties: Jon Rumsey (3)
Sevenoaks IV 22 Medway 18
This was a game Medway should have won, having built up a good lead in the first half; but they were beaten once again by a big pack playing nothing more than rumble rugby.
Sevenoaks indicated right from the start that they were up for this game, winning the ball from their own kick off then using their heavy forwards to maul and ruck close to Medway’s line and having made some space they moved the ball down the short side for an opening score two minutes into the game. (5-0)
Medway stuck to their game plan to move the ball wide and took play back to Sevenoaks. Jon Rumsey put them on the scoreboard with a penalty after 12 minutes. (5-3)
Medway continued to use their opportunities wisely by kicking for position making Sevenoaks run around the pitch. A kick through from Simon Rumsey was fumbled by Sevenoaks allowing Rumsey to kick through again and then retrieving the ball to go over in the corner. (5-8)
Sevenoaks mounted their own attacks but their handling was poor and Medway put in a series of strong tackles to keep them at bay. Sevenoaks began to use their forwards more in an attempt to retain possession, only occasionally moving the ball to the backs. One attempt resulted in a long pass falling straight into the hands of Ben Dance who had a clear run from his own 22 to score under the posts. (5-15)
Medway continued to challenge for another score, but squandered a couple of clear opportunities through not using the overlap and Sevenoaks were strong in defence of their line. Jon Rumsey kicked another penalty before half time giving Medway a reasonable 5-18 lead.
Sevenoaks changed their game in the second half and kept the ball tight within the forwards at all times and reverted to ruck, maul, scrum and lineout. Most of the rest of the game was played in Medway’s half. Medway lost their shape and composure and were unable to break Sevenoaks’ dominance. The little ball they did get was squandered through poor handling, poor kicking and unforced errors, effectively handing the initiative back to their opponents. Sevenoaks got a push over try following a Medway error on their own 22. (12-18) This was followed up by a score from a rolling maul 6 minutes later, (17-18) and another from a rumbling maul on 25 minutes to give them the lead. (22-18)
Sevenoaks could have gone further ahead from a run by their No. 8 who made the line but was foiled by an excellent tackle from Tom Bourne turning him onto his back before he grounded the ball.
Medway rallied in the final few minutes and did get into Sevenoaks territory. Jon Rumsey appeared to have made the break through Sevenoaks defence at one stage, only to slip in the muddy conditions as he side stepped the last defender going down on their 5 metre line.
This was a victory of experience over youth. After the game Sevenoaks were full of praise for the Medway players and acknowledged that they had only won through, as they put it, ‘ball up the jumper rugby’. The development squad are going to have to deal with this style more in coming games as the playing conditions get worse through the winter. If they can work on countering this style from opposition, cut out the unforced errors and maintain their game plan throughout the 40 minutes, they have the skills and ability to overcome most opposition in this league.
Medway Scorers:
Tries: Simon Rumsey, Ben Dance
Conversions: Jon Rumsey (1)
Penalties: Jon Rumsey (2)
Tonbridge Juddians IV 12 Medway 17
This was a hard earned away win from Medway, but one that they nearly gave away. The match had the potential to be a good contest, but it was spoiled by poor control from a referee who clearly loved the sound of his own whistle. Neither side was able to develop their game plan due to the constant start – stop; plus there were two yellow cards for each side and a red for Tonbridge in the first half.
Medway made there usual strong start and challenged the Tonbridge but without success. Judds fought back but were unable to maintain control of the ball. They challenged the Medway line with a strong forward drive but Medway kept them out, earning a penalty. Simon Rumsey put a magnificent kick into their 22; Medway took the lineout and moved the ball through three good phases to give Micky Hutton a score in the corner on 21 minutes. (0-5)
The rest of the first half was continual disrupted play with neither side gaining any advantage.
Medway increased their lead within two minutes of the restart. Winning the ball from an early scrum, they moved it along the back line to Jack Carlin who appeared to glide through Judd’s defenders untouched to reach the line. (0-10)
Medway went through a patch of poor decision making. A misaimed defensive kick gave Judd’s an attacking opportunity. Although Medway held them up, from the resulting 5 metre scrum, Judds scored under the posts. (7-10)
Medway replied with their best move of the game when they took a scrum against the head; Simon Rumsey brought the ball blind and put Peter Cole away for clean run to the line. (7-17)
Judd’s increased their tempo and kept much of the play in Medway’s half. Medway maintained a strong defence, although at times the tackling was poor, keeping their supporters on tenterhooks. From a penalty on their own 22, Medway inexplicably decided to run the ball rather than going for touch. A fumbled pass delivered the ball straight to Judd’s who ran in for a easy score. (12-17)
Judds kept up their pressure during the last ten minutes, but a combination of their handling mistakes plus strong defence from Medway kept them at bay. On 39 minutes, Judds fumbled on Medway’s 22; the ball was hacked down pitch and chased up by Peter Cole. He kicked on again getting clear of the defence, but the ball wouldn’t sit up so he kicked through again and pounced on it for what appeared to be a clear score. In an unbelievable decision, the referee disallowed the try because (in his own words) he “couldn’t keep up with play”. To add insult to injury he gave a scrum to Judds.
Medway kept the ball within Judd’s 22 for the remaining three minutes to come away with a nerve-wracking win.
Medway scorers:
Tries: Micky Hutton, Jack Carlin, Peter Cole
Conversions: Ben Dance (1)
Maidstone IV 17 Medway Development Squad 72
Medway travelled to Maidstone to take on a bigger and more experienced team; but showed their pace, power and superior fitness. As early as the third minute full back tom Markham made a huge hole in the home sides defence to score a converted try. (0-7) In the eighth minute Jon Rumsey kicked a penalty. (0-10) Maidstone forward pressure on the Medway line came to naught as the away side turned the ball over, went blind and Markham sprinted the length of the pitch for a converted try. (0-17).
Maidstone rolled a maul over the line on 21 minutes. (7-17). Jon Rumsey replied with
another penalty on 24 minutes. (7-20). The Maidstone forwards slowed the game
down with Medway trying to raise the tempo; from a quick ball Jack Carlin made a
superb break outside the full back for another converted score. (7-27) As the referee
was looking to end the first half Maidstone lost the ball in a knock on, but Carlin
snapped it up and touched down in the corner. (HT 7-32)
Medway showed their array of handling skills during the second half with tries coming at regular intervals. Maidstone added to their tally with two further tries both from forward rumbles, but the day belonged to Medway’s young team.
Medway scorers:
Tries: Tom Markham (2), Jack Carlin (3), Jon Rumsey, Ben Dance, Joe Jelfs, Jason
Henderson, Micky Hutton
Conversions: Jon Rumsey (6), Simon Rumsey (2)
Penalties: Jon Rumsey (2)
Medway 53 Aylesford III 7
Another impressive performance by Medway Development Squad results in another 50 point plus score including another 28 point haul from Jon Rumsey which includes another hat trick of tries (just a shame he can’t catch cleanly).
Medway were up against another older but heavier side who again wanted to play a tight slow game limiting Medway’s opportunities to run the ball. This performance showed that they are learning how to cope with such sides and they are beginning to take better control of the game plan.
Medway had to make changes due to injury and non availability, but also welcomed Simon Rumsey back from injury; so Jon Rumsey moved into the no 9 position with Simon taking the no 10 shirt.
Medway made their usual strong start from the kick off and immediately took play into Aylesford’s 22 and maintained pressure forcing Aylesford to make a poor defensive kick, which Jon Rumsey charged down for the opening score and conversion. (7-0)
Medway knocked on from the kick off giving Aylesford a scrum inside the 22. They took the scrum and their large No 8 picked up and went for the line. Poor high tackling allowed him to score without any realistic opposition. (7-7)
Medway pushed back into the Aylesford half and from a penalty moved the ball wide quickly. Tom Bourne made a strong run but was held up short of the line; Medway won quick ball creating a clear overlap but Simon Rumsey cut back inside for the score. (14-7)
Aylesford maintained a strong forward challenge limiting Medway’s opportunities and making regular forays into Medway territory, but the defence kept them from the line. Medway were now starting to put pressure on Aylesford’s forwards in the loose; Aylesford won poor ball from a ruck and shipped out a loose ball straight into Jon Rumsey’s hands. A good kick and chase took play close to Aylesford’s line; a poor kick away by their defence resulted in a second charge down and score, this time by James Avery. (19-7)
Jon Rumsey landed a penalty on 30 minutes to take the score up to 22-7.
Medway started to use accurate long kicks to relieve the pressure and force Aylesford forwards to move around the pitch. Their resulting fatigue gave Medway more opportunities to move quicker ball. On 35 minutes they took the ball on the half way with Joe Jelfs making a strong run down the blind side offloading to Jon Rumsey to give him his second try. (27-7)
Aylesford started the second half more strongly, again playing a tight spoiling game. Medway made a number of opportunities, but unforced errors and poor handling saw them come to nothing. Their defence remained strong, denying a number of Aylesford challenges, including forcing a knock on when they had crossed the Medway line. Medway broke the stalemate on 18 minutes when they ran a pre-planned move from a line out on the Aylesford 22 in which Tom Bourne powered through a number of tackles to score under the posts. (34-7)
Medway continued to put Aylesford’s now tiring players under regular pressure keeping most of the game in their half. From a scrum on the Aylesford 5 metre, Jon Rumsey hit a gap with his usual show and go style for his hat trick. (41-7)
Fatigue resulted in poor handling by both sides, but from one of these plays Medway took the ball wide into space giving Tom Bourne another good run at the line for another score. (46-7)
The final score again came from scrappy ball which was eventually controlled by Medway’s pack to set the backs running again, this time giving Joe Jelfs the clear run into the posts. (53-7)
This was a better performance by the young Medway side, but if they learn to have a little more patience in the early stages, there is much more to come.
Medway scorers:
Tries: Jon Rumsey (3), Simon Rumsey, James Avery, Tom Bourne (2), Joe Jelfs
Conversions: Jon Rumsey (5)
Penalties: Jon Rumsey (1)
Medway Development Squad 53 Gillingham Anchorians II 15
Medway were comprehensive winners in their second league game of the season by 8 tries to 3.
Medway were up against an Anchorians team that was not dissimilar to last week’s opponents, Vigo, in that they wanted to slow the game to their pace and game plan. However, Medway had learnt a number of lessons from the previous defeat and were more aggressive in the loose and gained the benefit of having a referee who was quick to penalise infringements around the ruck. This allowed Medway to get quicker ball and use their speed and agility in the backs to great effect.
There are still areas to work on, in particular tackling; Anchorians made most ground through occasional isolated runs that made significant yards due to poor tackling. Their first score came from such a move. Their forwards were also able to use the rolling maul with effect, with both their other scores coming from these moves. Medway started strongly from the kick off taking the game straight into the Anchs. half, winning themselves a penalty in the first few minutes, which Jon Rumsey put away for 3 points. (3-0)
Their opening try came from another penalty, winning them a 5 metre line out. A clean take was put crisply down the backline giving Jack Carlin a clean run to line. (10-0)
Anchs replies 5 minutes later when their full back collected a kick from Medway and ran through at least 5 tackles to link up with his back line giving them a score in the corner. (10-5)
Anchorians had a period of possession and used their forward strength to keep the play in Medway’s half. Their forwards got within striking distance of the Medway line once again, when they moved the ball wide, but a slow pass was seen early by Jon Rumsey who intercepted and ran the length of the field to score, converting his own try. (17-5)
Anchorians had the wind in their favour during the first half, but didn’t make best use of it, until they put a good kick from defence for a line out on the Medway 5 metre line. They took the line out and used their rolling maul to gain the score. (17-10) Medway came back from this with renewed enthusiasm and worked their way back to Anchs half and giving them little room to play. They won a line out on the 5 metre and again moved quick ball across the backs to cross the line, but the referee decided that the ball was held up. From the resulting scrum, Jason Henderson took the ball from N0 8 and drove over. (22-10)
Medway scored again just into first half injury time when Matt Wadhams made a break through the line out. Tom Markham was in support to take a good pass and beat their last man. (27-10)
There was no score in the first twenty minutes of the second half. Both sides were evenly balanced, but neither getting the upper hand. The stalemate was broken following a poor kick from defence by Anchs, which was taken in mid field by Matt Wadhams; he brought the ball wide and committed their first line of defence, linking up to put Jon Rumsey who proceeded to execute his usual flamboyant side step to fox the remaining defenders for a run under the posts. (34-10) Medway conceded a penalty shortly after the restart giving Anchs another line out opportunity 7 metres from Medway’s line, which they converted into their third and final score from another rolling maul. (34-15)
Medway’s fitness and enthusiasm were the telling factor in the last ten minutes with three further scores. Jason Henderson made yet another strong run from a no 8 pick up, but was held up short of the line. Medway recycled quickly and Jon Rumsey had a three man overlap outside him; much to his coach’s angst he decided to ignore this advantage and instead execute an even more flamboyant hop, skip and jump which fortunately opened up a clear gap in the defence to allow him his hat trick. (41-15) (Most of coaches comments unprintable, but the gist was that it was a good job he scored!).
Jason Henderson got his second try four minutes later from a scrum on Anchs’ 22 when he broke from the back and held off the attempted tackles to make the line. (46- 15)
The final score came two minutes later from a line out on Medway’s 22. Matt Wadham’s took the ball at scrum half but was unable to move it out, so he attacked the line and found enough of a gap to go straight through. He side stepped their last defender for a clear run to the line. (53-15)
A great result for Medway.
Medway scorers:
Tries: Jack Carlin, Jon Rumsey (3), Jason Henderson (2), Tom Markham, Matt Wadhams
Conversions: Jon Rumsey (5)
Penalties: Jon Rumsey (1)
Vigo II 35 Medway Development Squad 19
Mid-Kent Division A, 18 September 2010
This first excursion into League rugby was an eye-opener for Medway’s development squad when they came up against a very experienced and well organised Vigo side.
Medway wanted to play quick expansive rugby to use the advantage of their youth and speed. They showed this straight from the kick off by winning the ball and moving it wide with support from a number of runners putting Matt Wadhams over for the opening try within 2 minutes. (0-5)
Vigo had the stronger pack and more experience in the loose and they used these skills well throughout the game to slow the pace down to one that more suited their experience and style of play. Vigo worked their way into Medway’s 22, where Medway conceded 3 penalties in a row; although they repelled two strong forward attacks, on the third, Vigo moved the ball wide to find a gap for the score. (7-5)
Medway came back immediately from the kick off, again regaining possession, only to lose it close to the Vigo line. A poor defensive kick from Vigo returned possession to Medway’s Jon Rumsey, who set the backs moving down the short side. Jack Carlin broke through he initial tackles to offload to James Avery for a run to the line. (7-12)
A quickly taken penalty 4 minutes later gave Medway another score; again they moved the ball wide to the wing quickly where Tom Markham used his speed and strength to avoid the attempted tackles for another try. (7-19)
Vigo stuck to their game plan and pushed Medway back into their own half at every opportunity, where they could then apply their forward dominance. Although Medway’s young pack challenged well, Vigo used their experience to engineer three scores in the last ten minutes of the half from within Medway’s 22. They worked a push over try from a 5 metre scrum; scored again from a 5 metre line out and just in added time, moved the ball wide from a 22 metre scrum. All three scores were converted giving a 28-19 half time score.
The second half continued much as the first ended with Vigo spoiling much of Medway’s ball giving them limited opportunities. Most of their good possession came from Mike Davies’ dominance of the line out, but even this was often wasted by poor handling. Vigo’s backline showed a lot of agility and stopped many of Medway’s potential runs. As the second period developed Medway became more frustrated and they lost their shape. They still broke through the Vigo defence at times, but the support was not there or the vital pass was poor and went to ground. Vigo made the only score in the second half with a push over try after 29 minutes. (35-19).
There were some good performances from individuals and some promising passages of play by the Medway team as a whole. They are going to have to learn how to make their game plan work and to counter teams that want to slow the play down, as they will meet a number in that category throughout the season.
Medway Scorers:
Tries: Matt Wadhams, James Avery, Tom Markham.
Conversions: Jon Rumsey (2)
Medway Development Squad 29 Dartfordians 3XV 5
4 September 2010
Although this was a comprehensive win for Medway, they made hard work of it; they should have put 40+ points on the board. Medway’s forwards lost a lot of ball in loose situations and although they occasionally set up a counter ruck, they lacked the coordinated drive that would have won them possession more often. When they did win the ball, the distribution to the back line was laboured and failed to use the speed and ability out wide. These are areas that they will need to improve on before their first league game in two weeks time.
Having said all that, this was still a win with some good passages of play. All 24 of the squad were given a run out and some of the younger players showed that they will be in contention for the starting line up.
Medway’s first score came 15 minutes into the game when Matt Tonkin followed up Jon Rumsey’s attacking kick from in his own half; Matt caught their full back in Dartfordians 5 metre area and took him down. Quick support on this occasion won turnover ball allowing Jon Rumsey to step over to score. (5-0).The second score ten minutes later again from turnover ball when James Avery stopped their attack with a strong tackle. Jack Carlin came away with the ball and found space to break through the defence, he offloaded to his support player and then received a return pass to take him clear for a score; Jon Rumsey converted. (12-0).
Just before half time, Dartfordians tried to turn and disrupt Medway’s scrum but the move nearly backfired when Michael Davies picked up at No 8 and broke free, he popped a short pass off the Greg Woodward who was tackled into touch inches from the line.
Medway started the second half strongly with an attack straight from the kick off, but yet again they lost control to turnover ball that should have been easily secured. Medway kept Darfordians in their 22 and a poor defensive kick was taken by Matt Tonkin just outside their 22; he set the back line moving and although there was some laboured passing, Tom Bourne crossed the line to score in the corner. (17-0).
Medway applied pressure again from the restart and worked their way back into the Dartford half. From a line out on the Dartford 22, they worked a new move, which saw Michael Smith make the break, supported by Richard Petch, who took a short pass and drove for the line taking three defenders over with him. Matt Wadhams converted. (24-0).
Medway dropped their pace after this score and allowed Dartfordians the opportunity to mount some attacks of their own. On three separate occasions a Dartfordian player was allowed to make a clean break through and only failed to score through the aggressive tackling from full back, Alex Thompson and latterly Matt Tonkin.
Dartford managed to get on the scoreline after 38 minutes. Medway had failed to clear their defensive line and were caught offside on their own 5 metre line. Dartford ran the ball at them, but despite driving them back three times, Dartford managed to find a gap and cross the line. (24-5).
At last Medway seemed fired up as a unit and regained possession from the restart, but in their renewed enthusiasm, they were penalised. Although the referee called last play, Dartford kicked for touch and they were allowed to take the line out. Medway stole the ball, which was then moved quickly and cleanly wide. They won second phase, which the forwards drove forward with some excellent interposing and support. Mark Coveney found a gap to take the ball close to line, but offloaded to Michael Davies who appeared in his favourite position on the wing yet again to go over for a final score. This was move of the match and showed the full potential of the team, once they get a bit more game time under their belts.
Medway scorers:
Tries: Jon Rumsey, Jack Carlin, Tom Bourne, Richard Petch, Michael Davies
Conversions: Jon Rumsey (1), Matt Wadhams (1)
Medway Development Squad 19 Dover 3XV 14
21 August 2010
Medway’s Development Squad started the 2011-12 season with a ‘friendly’ against Dover. Although it was tagged as a pre-season training game, it was played with the commitment of a full season fixture.
During the first twenty minutes Medway showed that they had lost none of the
commitment and spirit from last season, but the skills, not surprisingly, were lacking
match practice. There were attacks from both sides and regular errors, which kept the
game moving up and down the pitch. Medway’s defence was strong against both a
much heavier pack and weighty back line.
Deadlock was broken just after twenty minutes from a Medway counter attack. The
move started with a crunching tackle on the Dover wing from Medway’s full back,
Alex Thompson, on their own 22 metre line from which they gained possession. The
ball was kicked deep by Jon Rumsey and followed up at pace by Peter Cole, who
took down the Dover receiver on their 22 line. Medway won the ball again from the
ruck and moved it down the short side, putting Mike Davies in for the opening score,
which was converted by Jon Rumsey.
Dover tried to come back on the attack from the restart, however, they quickly lost
possession again and Medway counter attacked moving the ball wide crisply to again
find Mike Davies in space on the wing for an easy run in. The only question for the
coaches at this stage is why their second row is acting as the winger and scoring the
points?
The game settled into a period of stalemate. Medway eased off the pressure and
Dover took the opportunity to attack through he forwards with occasional forays by
their back line, all of which were stopped by good defence. On the stroke of half time,
Dover’s pressure paid off from a scrum in Medway’s 22. Their superior weight told
here and they were able to engineer a push over try for seven points.
During the second half, Dover had the upper hand for much of the time; they kept
the ball tight using their forwards extra weight and limited Medway’s possession.
However Medway benefitted again from Dover mistakes, when Jon Rumsey charged
down a kick on the half way line and had only their fullback ahead of him, but little
support behind. As Rumsey attempted to out pace the defender, who stubbornly stuck
with him, Jack Townsend sprinted to support to take a long pass from Jon and score in
the corner. Rumsey converted.
Dover’s heavier pack were held up on a couple of occasions in the later second
half when close to Medway’s line in an impressive display from Medway’s pack.
However, that superiority did tell, when despite great defensive efforts, Dover’s
forwards managed to drive over in one maul too many to bring them within one score
of Medway, but they were unable to close that gap. Medway ran out 19-14 winners.
This was a good opener for the season. Being a training game, Medway made a
number of changes throughout the game to ensure all in their large squad had an
opportunity for a run out; this unsettled their balance at some stages. However it is
clear they have a strong squad with the potential to produce some good results in the
league during the season.