| The annual match against Cambridge University at Grange Road on Wednesday 27th February was notable for three very different reasons: disappointingly the Wooden Spoon A-As lost their unbeaten record when they were beaten by the hosts 27-12; we were able to share in the celebrations for the respected New Zealander John Blaikie who was playing his fiftieth match for the Light Blues, a feat that is not often repeated these days - congratulations JB; and for the first time ever a Mozambican appeared on the score-sheet for our famous club when left wing Tavela Kwilimbe scored our second try - well done Tav.
Former England full back Simon Hodgkinson did well in raising a most committed and talented squad and the boys did Wooden Spoon A-As proud. Cambridge, captained by the former Harlequins prop Jon Dawson, included 12 Blues from the squad that were successful in the Varsity match and were the deserved victors. However it was agreed that the final score of 27-12, (with five penalties), did not truly reflect the difference between the two sides. The match produced some cameos of excellent running Rugby and was enjoyed by the crowd and all the participants. It also helped to raise the profile of Wooden Spoon.
The match was played in excellent conditions and an even first half ended with the hosts 13-12 ahead. Steve Nutt converted his own try following a charge-down by Dan Salzman and this was followed by Tavela Kwilimbe’s opportunist effort which was not converted. Sandy Reid scored for Cambridge. Ross Broadfoot’s conversion and two penalties ensured the lead for the students. However this could easily have been a deficit if a penalty kick by Steve Nutt, on the stroke of half-time, had not tantalisingly drifted wide of the upright.
The second half swung Cambridge’s way when on two occasions hard pressed Wooden Spoon A-As’ defenders were adjudged to have intentionally offended. Following the consequential award of yellow cards, we had to play with only 14 men for 20 minutes. Also the inspirational Steve Nutt had to leave the field with an injury which disrupted our attack. The unerring boot of Ross Broadfoot rubbed salt into our wounds by kicking a further three penalty goals. In the closing minutes, after a series of probing runs, the incisive James Greenwood appropriately scored a second try for the hosts. The evening’s entertainment thus closed at 27-12.
The Wooden Spoon A-As’ party greatly appreciated the hospitality both before and after the match. It was good to catch up with old friends again. We are also most grateful to the Cambridge University RUFC committee for their generous donation to cover our expenses and enable us to make a contribution to Wooden Spoon.
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