Dubs Trials Game vs Old Freemans (06/09/08)
A squad of 24 Wandsworthians travelled down to Old Freemans on Saturday for our now traditional, pre-season trials match against the Surrey 1 side. Attired in our brand new “away” kit the team was determined and optimistic about the oncoming 80th season. We displayed a mettle that did the kit justice.
The Dubs dominated possession in the first 10 minutes of the first quarter. Quick recycling of the ball at the breakdown was supported by steely defence to put us close early on. The wind was strong and working in favour of the Old Frees and their squad of 45. They used this well to set up field position for a try toward the end of a quarter where it was the Dubs who looked the strongest.
This was again the case in the second quarter, again with the wind against, with the Wandsworthians making some excellent runs in the forwards and through the centres. Neither side broke the duck in the second quarter; however the front up defence and quick support play certainly gave the Dubs the quarter on points.
With yet more changes to personnel made in the second half, we continued the positive form. Good line-out jumping secured good ball to attack from, which the backs used well. We were unlucky to concede a second try when a stray kick gave Old Freemans breakaway possession and they converted. Again, the efforts of the Dubs were excellent, with each man stepping up to do his job in attack and defence and leaving few scraps.
Now against Old Freemans first team, with no wind to speak of, the Dubs stepped up and moved into good attacking form. Another try from Freemans taking advantage of an overlap out wide only spurred on a determined performance. Following 10 minutes of constant Dubs pressure through the forwards and backs, Edd Groves broke from a ruck to blast at their defence, some excellent support play led to a well-earned debut try for Conrad Coetzee.
The match finished 3 tries to one for Old Freemans but it is the Wandsworthians who played the rugby in attack and defence. The benefits of the coaching we have received were clear and the hard work over the summer showed in the way we played. It is with confidence that we look forward to Saturday’s opening league fixture at home to Egham.
Report by 1st Team Captain Ash Ali.
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