There is no doubt that if you want a nail biting, nerve tingling afternoon then watching Old Pats 1st XV is the place to be!
Following the heart stopping one point win at Hartpury College RFC the previous week, this weekend say the tightest of wins by 15 - 10 against Newton Abbot RFC. 10 - 8 down for much of the second half the Old Pats withstood tremendous pressure on their own try line before a typical dazzling run by birthday boy Henry Bird resulted in his second score of the game. James Markey then added an excellent touchline conversion ( to go with his first half penalty ) and then it was back to outstanding defence from the whole team before the final whistle.
The game showed the depth of talent in the club as the team showed 5 changes from the previous week and also the excellent team spirit with an outstanding defensive display, but also an ability to play fast expansive rugby. The injury jinx that has cursed the club this season continued with Giles Potter suffering a broken finger that will sideline him for 6 weeks. We look forward to seeing Giles return to action but on a more positive note James King ran the line last week and hopes to be playing again in the New Year.
A warm welcome is extend to the players and officials of Weston-Super-Mare RFC who themselves are enjoying an excellent season and who are on a 3 match unbeaten run. Last week they beat Cheltenham 30 -27, and prior to that they beat Newton Abbot 13 -11 and local rivals Bridgewater & Albion 27 - 15. Another close game can be expected and Old Pats will need to maintain their focus and commitment.
The 3rd XV were also in action this weekend and recorded an outstanding 87 - 7 win at Malvern RFC. Congratulations to Ian Hopkins and his colleagues. The clean sweep was completed by the Colts on Sunday who travelled to Slough to play Drifters RFC in the first round of the National Colts Cup. Their 18 - 10 victory was another close fought game and the result is a great credit to the Colts and the club and we wish them well in the next round against Matson RFC.
A reminder that on the 11 December the Vice Presidents hold their first pre match lunch of the season and as usual this is likely to be a sell out event. I therefore suggest you ' book early ' by contacting Keith East on 01242 251077 or keithgeast@hotmail.co.uk.
Our sponsors today are the Taffia, a well know group from the Principality, bound together by their love of the game of rugby and OPRFC. Distinguished members include Taff Powell, Dick Lewis and Gavin Hughes - Jones to name but a few. Their generous support is much appreciated.
Our next home game against Redingensians RFC on the 13 November will be a 2.00pm kick off as will all home games in November, December, January, February and March.
Michael Angell Chairman - OPRFC
