What a game and what a result last week against League leaders Hartpury College RFC last week, with a 16 - 15 win for Old Patesians.
Since their formation in 2004 Hartbury have lost only one league game and have never been beaten at their impressive home facilities. The Echo reported the ' Old Patesians dispelled the myth of the aura of invincibility surrounding Hartpury College with a cracking away win..' and it was indeed an outstanding team performance, where every player gave their all and produced a historic result. As well as great credit to the players the role of the coaching and management team should not be forgotten, who spent training the previous week working on a number of tactical issues.
One very noticeable feature of the game was the large number of Pats fans who had followed the team and also their vocal support. I know the players on the field also noticed this and thank you all. It really does make a difference in such a close game.
Less good news was the elbow injury to Matt Jones who was man-of-the-match. It is feared this is a break and will keep him out of action for 16 weeks. Barney Pascall also took and heavy knock and will be absent for a couple of weeks. We wish them both a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing them back in action.
It was a good week all round as both the 2nd and 3rd XV's produced their first league wins of the season. If you are not following the 1st XV away why not come and lend your support to the lads in these teams.
However, you are only as good as your last result and therefore we must focus on today's visitors, Newton Abbot RFC, to whom we extend a warm welcome. Promoted last season Newton Abbot have made a very good start to life in National League 3 South West with 3 wins, a draw and 2 defeats. Men to watch are Thor Norman and Marc Dibble, who are their top try scorers and Alex Jeffrey who has contributed 32 points from his boot. Last weekend saw Newton Abbot lose at home to Weston-super-Mare by 13 - 11 and so they will be keen to return to winning ways today.
Two new players made their debuts in the last home game against Exmouth RFC, Craig Ballinger from Coney Hill RFC and Matt Mudway from Cheltenham RFC. Both have long been regarded by those in the game as exceptional players and we trust they will enjoy being part of the Old Patesians.
It was good to see that Steve Webley, who does so much for the club in his quiet and efficient manner, won the last beer draw. Well worth a go so please speak to Neil Hyde who will be only to happy to take your money!
Michael Angell Chairman - OPRFC
