Due to the recent adverse weather, Bournville asked if we were able to host them and thus an home fixture was duly arranged. Veseyans, fielded their strongest squad of the campaign and with 21 players available on the day were in buoyant mood of a positive outcome and potential first victory of the season. Unfortunately, as it is often the case, things didn’t quite go to plan. Bournville started with a very simple game plan and adopted a strong direct carrying game which, as soon as the defence was breached or defenders committed, they moved the ball wide allowing them to open up a 0-10 lead with 2 well taken tries in the first 10 minutes. Veseyans continued to struggle to get a foot hold in the game and for the first time this season their defensive work wasn’t up to the normal standard and Bournville were able to dominate the first quarter taking a 0-15 lead. Veseyans then started to awaken from their slumbering start and a good period of pressure enabled us to be camped in the oppositions half but something which has become a theme this season, poor ball retention, resulted in Bournville breaking out from 50M to end the half 0-20 ahead.
Not deterred or disgruntled, Veseyans started the second half much more positively, both defensively and with ball in hand. But once again, possession was spilled and a fantastic 40M run from the opposition loose head made the score 0-25. The character of the home side was now to be tested and another try from the visitors put us 0-30 behind with little more than 20 minutes to play. Then, the once again excellent Jamie Higinbotham made a scintillating break from our own half and quick recycling of the ball, coupled with excellent composure and decision making allowed Sam Stone to cross in the corner, 5-30, was the comeback back on.........
Veseyans really had the bit between their teeth and another scything break by Jamie resulted in skipper Max Powell crossing, with Jamie topping his outstanding performance by adding the extra 2, 12 -30. Unfortunately, despite continued pressure Veseyans could not add to their score and the game ended with a well deserved victory to Bournville, running out 12-30 winners.
On the positives all 21 players contributed and the team spirit and effort was excellent. The message received from Bournville’s Colts manager of how they enjoyed the way we played the game, hard but fair is testimony to the group of players we have. However, if someone can work out how to start the first half the way we play the second I would be very grateful.........answers on a post card please!!!!
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