Game Report: Sat. August 28, 2004

Senior Mens 1sts
ABRFC 22 Brantford 10
Commentary to come

Senior Mens 2nds
ABRFC 45 Brantford 33
Although the score indicates that this was a relatively close game, it was likely decided in the opening 10 minutes who would win this game.

A solid pack ( made up of 3 Props along the front row contributing to over 1800 lbs of force in the scrums ) took the field against smaller opposition whose front row had already played much if not all of a 3rd team game just prior. This made for very clean ball in scrums, and several goal line opportunities that were pushed over for tries.

The back line was a wealth of experience ( the average age may well have been over 32 ) , peppered with some youth and speed at scrum half and wing. Communication was improved in this game as a result, and some exciting runs involving both backs and forwards created scoring opportunities throughout the game.

Tries were scored by all three front row starters ( Leighton, Hoss and Millar ) , with a couple by Paul Payne from the back of the scrum. The backs not to be outdone, also added some tries by Mark Healy and Jay McLachlan. Somehow Bart was kept off the scoring sheet, although he certainly helped set up several of the scoring chances. We welcomed back Simon Hirtenstein after a month away to get married, and also welcomed Doug Lit to his first 2nd XV game. Stu Hulbert had another great day kicking for goal converting many of the tries that had been scored out wide.

Mental breakdown in the last 20 minutes of the game allowed a very determined Brantford side to get back in to the game a little. A lack of focus on the basics, a little too much chatter amongst the players and to the ref also contributed to some easy points for the opposition. Something that should be cleaned up before the next game...

Comments after the game were that "we hope to keep much of this starting 15 together for the next few weeks". A sentiment that is echoed by team captain and selector Nick Taylor.

The second team has seen a lot of players come and go through the ranks this summer... A testament to the nature of this "development" side that hopes to promote guys to the 1st XV on a consistent basis. It does however mean that the 2nd XV rarely if ever have the same 17 guys to train and play with more than 2 weeks in a row.

Results show the system works... as all three side sit in 4th position across the three divisions of the Marshall. Well done lads!

Senior Mens 3rds
ABRFC 24 Brantford 17