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BackSat 21 Dec 2024 · Counties 2 Midlands East (South)
Brackley
1st XV Men
Tries: N Gusto (2)Conversions: N Gusto (2)Penalties: N Gusto
17
21
Tries: O Raine, M Newman, P FaheyConversions: C Mandley (3)
Bulls nick it at the death
Phil Brown22 Dec 2024 - 12:57
Table topping Christmas for St Ives
The first half of the match belied the lowly league position of the hosts as Ives skills were all at sea.
From the off, a simple handling move by Brackley saw their young winger into space. He showed the Ives defence a clean pair of heels to score in the corner. In a strong wind, the first of 100% success off the tee for both kickers was landed.
The Bulls struggled to complete a multitude of chances as the ball simply did not go to hand, or drifted forward. The hosts defence showed how up for the game they were in front of a raucous Christmas lunch crowd.
On the stroke of half time, Ives managed to protect the ball through many phases and Ollie Raine was on hand to dive over. The conversion by Charlie Mandley tied the score, 7-7.
Ives started the second half as they had the first. The Brackley stand-off, whose kicking from hand was exemplary all game, chipped the Ives defence. Unable to gather, it gifted Brackley a second try.
Minutes later, Ives defence was caught offside. Sensing the close nature of the game, Brackley decided on a long shot at goal, which was superbly struck to take the lead to ten points.
As the game entered its final quarter, Ives began to play as they have been most of the season. Good driving runs from many, but noticeably from props Dan De’Ath and Tommy Newman gained momentum.
Brackley’s defence held firm for several minutes, until Mitch Newman dived over from the base of a ruck.
With only 3 points in it, the tension ratcheted up as Ives could find no way through. With coach Pete Fahey joining the fray, a with only 3 minutes to go. Ives finally strung passes together to stretch the defence. Fahey rounded the last man and swept to the posts to score the winning try.
DoR Duncan Williams was delighted with the progress of the squad. “I am so proud of the coaching staff. To be top of the league at Christmas is absolutely amazing. With the 2nds having won the H&P Cup and improving massively in the league it has been an unbelievable step forward for the club. We have rebuilt both teams and I couldn't be prouder.”
From the off, a simple handling move by Brackley saw their young winger into space. He showed the Ives defence a clean pair of heels to score in the corner. In a strong wind, the first of 100% success off the tee for both kickers was landed.
The Bulls struggled to complete a multitude of chances as the ball simply did not go to hand, or drifted forward. The hosts defence showed how up for the game they were in front of a raucous Christmas lunch crowd.
On the stroke of half time, Ives managed to protect the ball through many phases and Ollie Raine was on hand to dive over. The conversion by Charlie Mandley tied the score, 7-7.
Ives started the second half as they had the first. The Brackley stand-off, whose kicking from hand was exemplary all game, chipped the Ives defence. Unable to gather, it gifted Brackley a second try.
Minutes later, Ives defence was caught offside. Sensing the close nature of the game, Brackley decided on a long shot at goal, which was superbly struck to take the lead to ten points.
As the game entered its final quarter, Ives began to play as they have been most of the season. Good driving runs from many, but noticeably from props Dan De’Ath and Tommy Newman gained momentum.
Brackley’s defence held firm for several minutes, until Mitch Newman dived over from the base of a ruck.
With only 3 points in it, the tension ratcheted up as Ives could find no way through. With coach Pete Fahey joining the fray, a with only 3 minutes to go. Ives finally strung passes together to stretch the defence. Fahey rounded the last man and swept to the posts to score the winning try.
DoR Duncan Williams was delighted with the progress of the squad. “I am so proud of the coaching staff. To be top of the league at Christmas is absolutely amazing. With the 2nds having won the H&P Cup and improving massively in the league it has been an unbelievable step forward for the club. We have rebuilt both teams and I couldn't be prouder.”
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