Hats off to the coaches for their the pre match warm up routine, with Pats coming out strongly from the kick off. An early try followed a driving run up the middle, an offload and a strong individual finish and Pats added three further scores in a dominant first quarter.

Brockworth utilised the full depth of their large squad and rallied well before half time, pulling back two tries as the game developed into a tight, hard fought contest. A superb last gasp try saving tackle into touch preserved a narrow lead at the midway point.

After half time, however, Old Pats reasserted themselves and stretched their lead with some driving runs, including a great solo try directly from a kick off.

As the game entered the last quarter, Brockworth made the depth of their squad count and pulled back a late try as Pats started to tire and the cold took its toll. Nevertheless Pats came through worthy winners with a well deserved victory.

Positives were the strong running and tackling, and at times some great ball presentation and quick rucking. On occasions we turned the ball over after our runners got isolated, emphasising the importance of supporting play even when you don’t have the ball.

The team is to be congratulated for coping with the cold and putting in some excellent periods of play. Everyone thoroughly deserved their post match hot dog.