| 30 January 2009, 7:02 pm |
| SpoonA-As remain unbeaten after their visit to the principality |
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| A cold wind and frequent rain showers made for unappealing conditions for players and spectators alike, as the Wooden SpoonA-As entertained Ceopledd Cymru (North Wales) for the first time, at Birkenhead Park on Wednesday evening 14th January. |
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The pitch held up surprisingly well, but the ball was so wet that errors on both sides, were regular and consequently many promising chances were squandered. Nevertheless, an entertaining game, with both sides trying to involve their backs was enjoyed by a goodly number of brave hearted souls.
In the first half, the balance of play was with the North Welshman. Their pack seemed better organised and certainly stronger in the set piece, including the line-out. That said, committed defense kept them out and scoreless until the 30th minute when they kicked an easy penalty goal. This stirred the SpoonA-As into some more offensive action and within three minutes, Briggs of Fylde, completed almost the first visit to the North Wales line by scoring a try; Tom Foden, Chester’s Fly half, kicked the goal, so somewhat against the run of play, the SpoonA-As found themselves leading by 3 at half time.
It was pretty much more of the same during the second half, although gradually the SpoonA-As, with a supply of fresh legs, began to exert more pressure. Tom Foden scored a good solo try which he improved, making the score 14-3. Then more end-to end stuff, with the North Walians’ backs looking dangerous, but making mistakes at crucial moments. This applied to their defence as well and one such event led to Foden scoring again, wide out just before full time.
So, 19-3 at the end - a shade unkind to Ceopledd Cymru, who had played a full part in a closely fought contest.
SpoonA-As wish to acknowledge the efforts of all players;-it is not easy midweek and with League and Cup commitments to consider - Thank you gentlemen.
Roger Blake acted as Officer of the Day and Phil Mahon raised the side. Well done both. Our thanks are due too, to the host club, Birkenhead Park for presenting the pitch in such good order, and for feeding and watering us all so well.
During the course of the evening, members of the New Brighton Under 15 Group, led by their coach Dwayne Perkins, presented to the President of Wooden Spoon Anti-Assassins, Malcolm Phillips, a cheque for £75.00 as a donation to Wooden Spoon. This being the proceeds of a recent fundraising effort. All involved deserve congratulations and gratitude - it is the physically, mentally and socially disadvantaged children who will benefit.
Kenton Morgan, Manager of Ceopledd Cymru also made a presentation to Malcolm Phillips for Wooden Spoon of their Penalty box (the total of fines collected during the season for misdemeanour various). The box was not opened on the night, so the actual amount remains a ‘secret’!
And so onwards to our annual appearance in the Capital: Richmond, on Sunday February 8th (k.o 1 pm). Let us hope we have a similar reservoir of quality players and a large crowd to appreciate their skills. |
| Author: Sarah Griffiths |
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