Whatever you're doing, wherever you may be, I bet no-one else is being so sad as to log on to the Blog on Christmas Day. Well that's the commitment you get from us here at the Blog. And what can I say, it was a quiet 10 minutes before dinner (which, it has to be said, looks like a gargantuan dream of an English Christmas feast). Hope you are all staying in trim just like me. Want to wish you and yours all the best for 2008 and remind you that we will kick off the Blog for next year with a special Donagh Foley 'Meet the Old Boy'.
From the Frozen North.
Harps
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Friday, December 7, 2007
Breaking news in Blog's 50th post
From Tony George, Club Captain
hkcc have admitted to the hkrfu that star no.8 pale was playing as an unregistered pro for their games versus club and valley. as a result, both games have been deemed forfeit. so, club +5points, valley +4 and hkcc -8 (bonus points make life complicated...) giving club a 12 point lead over valley at the turn, albeit with valley having a game in hand - all of a sudden the table looks a little more comfy, but you can bet on valley to get stuck into that! the 2nd game back after xmas is the club-valley affair at club, and looks like make or break for both sides...
hkcc have admitted to the hkrfu that star no.8 pale was playing as an unregistered pro for their games versus club and valley. as a result, both games have been deemed forfeit. so, club +5points, valley +4 and hkcc -8 (bonus points make life complicated...) giving club a 12 point lead over valley at the turn, albeit with valley having a game in hand - all of a sudden the table looks a little more comfy, but you can bet on valley to get stuck into that! the 2nd game back after xmas is the club-valley affair at club, and looks like make or break for both sides...
Contempts back in action
HKFC's most serious (drinking) team got back into action last night and apparently beat a Valley Side known as Old Forbetonians for some reason that Bouch or Babis can probably explain. Lammo didn't include the score in his missive, but he did send out a picture, which is much better. Note the normal Contempts preponderance of front rows (I spy Wong, Rudolph, Babis and Sultan Asif Iqbal ibn Nazir...alright that's only four). Oh and there's a grinning, bald man on the right of the back row who's above average height for a Welshman. Why isn't he playing? Even Bouch played in this game. No excuses Sexton. And as for the shirt...aaaiiiyaaa.I would gladly have joined the Contempts' happy ranks myself had it not been for an aggravated groin strain picked up during a critical game of mixed touch rugby on Monday and the joyful occasion of Grewers' wedding banquet, which was a very upmarket affair (unlike his stag) at the Intercontinental. Grewers impressed all present by getting through a lengthy speech in apparently passable Cantonese and caused some obvious introspection among some of the Club boys there when he told his beautiful wife Stefanie that he loved her more than rugby... Unfortunately Stobart tried to hijack the event, as usual, by joining the family group and wishing guests goodnight as they left the banquet but he was soon exposed as a fraud due to his scant resemblance to the members of either family. We left Mr and Mrs Grewers to a beauty treatment in their palatial bridal suite at about 1am after a tremendous evening.
I think there's Union Sevens for Club on Saturday and then Professions Sevens on Sunday, but it's a silly game so I'm not going to write about it.
Have a lovely weekend.
Harps
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Meet the Old Boys #1 - Craig Wootten
Introducing a new feature for the Blog at the suggestion of Iain 'Broony' Brown, whose brainchild this is and who devised these searching questions. Broony is threatening to delve into the addled minds of some of the other Sequins Corner regulars, so watch out. 
Woots prefers not to supply a picture and be represented by Mat Giteau (or Rocky Elsom) instead. Out of respect for the former Chairman, I haven't used the picture of Giteau kneeling in submission to Lawrence Dallaglio or being smashed by Jonny Wilkinson.
Name: Craig Wootten
Age: 49
Year retired: 2003
Occupation: Postman
Nationality: Australian
Rugby position: Centre
Years at Club: 20
Previous rugby clubs: None - I was a Rugby league convert
Favourite things about HK rugby: Listening to Bouch and Jim Rowark speak about it
Current favourite Club player and why? Mike McKee as he'll be my small boy on the Invitational this year and is easily pussy whipped
Most embarrassing spectating rugby experience: Every week standing next to Foley
Wanchai or Manila? Neither - happily married
Sequins corner or The Sportsmans? Sequins Corner - it's cheaper
HKFC 10s or HKRFU 7s? 10s
Drinking alone or shopping with the wife? Drinking alone or with Foley - same thing
Marilyn Munro or Sophia Loren? Marilyn - not so lumpy and she was blond
Woots prefers not to supply a picture and be represented by Mat Giteau (or Rocky Elsom) instead. Out of respect for the former Chairman, I haven't used the picture of Giteau kneeling in submission to Lawrence Dallaglio or being smashed by Jonny Wilkinson.
Name: Craig Wootten
Age: 49
Year retired: 2003
Occupation: Postman
Nationality: Australian
Rugby position: Centre
Years at Club: 20
Previous rugby clubs: None - I was a Rugby league convert
Favourite things about HK rugby: Listening to Bouch and Jim Rowark speak about it
Current favourite Club player and why? Mike McKee as he'll be my small boy on the Invitational this year and is easily pussy whipped
Most embarrassing spectating rugby experience: Every week standing next to Foley
Wanchai or Manila? Neither - happily married
Sequins corner or The Sportsmans? Sequins Corner - it's cheaper
HKFC 10s or HKRFU 7s? 10s
Drinking alone or shopping with the wife? Drinking alone or with Foley - same thing
Marilyn Munro or Sophia Loren? Marilyn - not so lumpy and she was blond
Wales star Nick James in train shock
This is truly shocking. It's the kind of thing Gavin Henson might get up to. Harps
James faces inquiries by Scorps and police
Paul ReesWednesday December 5, 2007
Guardian
The new Wales coach, Warren Gatland, said this week he intended to physically and mentally break one or two players in his squad, in order to see what they were made of. He may have to start with the Scorps' full back Nick James. The 30-year-old faces an inquiry by his region and further questioning by police after allegedly being involved in drunken antics on a train from Reading to Cardiff on Sunday.
James, who last month made his first start for Wales in a year, in a 34-12 defeat by South Africa, was travelling back from London with friends. Police met the train in Cardiff after complaints from passengers about rowdy and offensive behaviour. "Four men are helping us with our inquiries," a British Transport Police spokesman said yesterday.
James, on loan from Scorps to Ospreys, was yesterday named in a 25-man squad for the Heineken Cup match between against Ulster at the Liberty Stadium on Friday, but the region will consider disciplinary action against him.
"Quite clearly, this is a matter we have to look into," said HKFC director of rugby, Quinton Wrigley. "It is something which will be dealt with internally."
The allegations levelled against the group by an unnamed female passenger in the Welsh media yesterday included vomiting in a carriage, urinating on the floor, swearing, intimidatory behaviour and spitting.
"Nick James is a man children look up to," she said. "He was not a man at all: he was an animal. I watched him slam his fist into another man's jaw as part of a game. If I heard the 'c' word once, I heard it 500 times. From the moment the four came into the carriage in Reading the air turned blue. They smelt of alcohol and vomit and when one woman asked them to calm down, she was called a fat bitch."
Since helping Wales win the grand slam in 2005, James has tended to make the headlines more for what he has done off the pitch than on it. The Scorps had to shield him from media questioning a year ago after claims of drunken behaviour while he was on a skiing holiday and the then national coach, Gareth Jenkins, did not select him in Wales's World Cup squad in the autumn after he spent most of last season injured or struggling for form.
He appeared to have put his travails behind him in the last month after increasingly influential performances for the Scorps earned him a recall to the Wales side. On the losing side against the world champions, he was singled out for praise by Gatland. Yet James's is a career that has been characterised by a tendency to self-destruct at moments of success: it is more than six years since his international debut yet he has only won 23 caps, seven as a replacement.
James faces inquiries by Scorps and police
Paul ReesWednesday December 5, 2007
Guardian
The new Wales coach, Warren Gatland, said this week he intended to physically and mentally break one or two players in his squad, in order to see what they were made of. He may have to start with the Scorps' full back Nick James. The 30-year-old faces an inquiry by his region and further questioning by police after allegedly being involved in drunken antics on a train from Reading to Cardiff on Sunday.
James, who last month made his first start for Wales in a year, in a 34-12 defeat by South Africa, was travelling back from London with friends. Police met the train in Cardiff after complaints from passengers about rowdy and offensive behaviour. "Four men are helping us with our inquiries," a British Transport Police spokesman said yesterday.
James, on loan from Scorps to Ospreys, was yesterday named in a 25-man squad for the Heineken Cup match between against Ulster at the Liberty Stadium on Friday, but the region will consider disciplinary action against him.
"Quite clearly, this is a matter we have to look into," said HKFC director of rugby, Quinton Wrigley. "It is something which will be dealt with internally."
The allegations levelled against the group by an unnamed female passenger in the Welsh media yesterday included vomiting in a carriage, urinating on the floor, swearing, intimidatory behaviour and spitting.
"Nick James is a man children look up to," she said. "He was not a man at all: he was an animal. I watched him slam his fist into another man's jaw as part of a game. If I heard the 'c' word once, I heard it 500 times. From the moment the four came into the carriage in Reading the air turned blue. They smelt of alcohol and vomit and when one woman asked them to calm down, she was called a fat bitch."
Since helping Wales win the grand slam in 2005, James has tended to make the headlines more for what he has done off the pitch than on it. The Scorps had to shield him from media questioning a year ago after claims of drunken behaviour while he was on a skiing holiday and the then national coach, Gareth Jenkins, did not select him in Wales's World Cup squad in the autumn after he spent most of last season injured or struggling for form.
He appeared to have put his travails behind him in the last month after increasingly influential performances for the Scorps earned him a recall to the Wales side. On the losing side against the world champions, he was singled out for praise by Gatland. Yet James's is a career that has been characterised by a tendency to self-destruct at moments of success: it is more than six years since his international debut yet he has only won 23 caps, seven as a replacement.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
HKFC Blog reaches global audience
Fame. It's a fickle thing. But "we" at the Blog are enjoying our five minutes here. I wrote into the UK Guardian's online over-by-over coverage of this rather depressing England v Sri Lanka test match and also asked the commentator to mention the Blog. Well, he only did. Take a look below. I would cut and paste the Guardian's banner but I'm afraid they would sue me.
The Guardian Online, 4 December 2007
"118th over: Sri Lanka 403-5 (Sangakkara 141, P Jayawardene 10)
Sri Lanka continue to milk Panesar: four singles off that over without any alarms. In theory there are 34 overs to go after this one, but we'll be lucky to get 20 of those in. "I am struggling to get excited about any sporting event since the rugby world cup," weeps Adam Harper. "Once you've supped on the extreme tension and all-or-nothing drama of the knockout stages, everything else seems bland fare. What can possibly compare to beating a bunch of Aussies who really believed they would smash us (rather like Glenn McGrath in 2005)? This series ought to be a good one so I hope it will help me let go of RWC 2007 and start the long preparation for the Ashes 2009, but it's going to be tough."
Then he reaches the real purpose of his email: "If you think anyone out there might be interested in rugby in Hong Kong, please feel free to direct them towards my blog: www.hkfcrugbysection.blogspot.com. It's a whole world of fun..."
But then - feedback from some whiner who I fear is probably English:
"121st over: Sri Lanka 413-5 (Sangakkara 144, P Jayawardene 17) Sangakkara is moving towards that landmark 150 in singles: there's another one down the ground off Collingwood. It's one of those less-than-thrilling stages of a Test match where one side is basically toying with the other. Sri Lanka have enough runs, they just want to eliminate the 2% chance of an England win. Four to Jayawardene through the covers, despite a brave chase from Owais Shah, the sub fielder.
"Adam Harper is clearly quite easily pleased," scoffs Tom Hopkins. "Wasn't RWC 2007 even more pointless and tedious than might be expected of a rugby tournament? England's games offered, what, three tries in the whole tournament? If Adam's looking for a similar level of excitement, he could always give Pro40 a go?" Not a rugby fan, then?"
Oh dear oh dear. Sometimes your countrymen just let you down. The average Pro40 game is about as exciting as standing at a bus stop in the rain. So I replied:
"125th over: Sri Lanka 423-5 (Sangakkara 150, P Jayawardene 20) Will Sri Lanka declare once Sangakkara gets to 150? I think they might, given that play has ended around 5.20pm local time so far - just 40 minutes away. The batsmen trade singles off Collingwood, which means Sanga is facing Colly on 149 (forgive the abbreviations: it's been a long day). And there it is: a steer to deep point and one of cricket's more obscure records is his - the first player to make 150 or more in four successive Tests. But on they bat! And then... WICKET! P Jayawardene b Collingwood 20 (423-6) The ball goes through the gate and clips the bails. A hollow victory. "If Tom Hopkins only measures the quality of a game by the number of points scored, I would direct him towards basketball," rages Adam Harper."
That did for Mr Hopkins, from whom no more was heard. But then another eccentric who clearly watched a different tournament chipped in. At least he wasn't English...
"127th over: Sri Lanka 428-7 (Vaas 1, Malinga 2) At last some urgency as Lasith Malinga slogs his first ball off Collingwood for two. The lead is 335 and the sun is setting. Declare, Mahela! "As a life-long Kiwi rugby fan, I'm thinking of converting to league or all in tiddlywinks after the most boring rugby tournament imaginable," says in-no-way-bitter Martin Mathews. "I think the Guardian described the state of rugby today as 'sophisticated stagnation'. Too right!"
That, ladies and gentlemen, was a result. I already have mates from the UK bugging me by email about it and going to the site...we're going global...
Harps
The Guardian Online, 4 December 2007
"118th over: Sri Lanka 403-5 (Sangakkara 141, P Jayawardene 10)
Sri Lanka continue to milk Panesar: four singles off that over without any alarms. In theory there are 34 overs to go after this one, but we'll be lucky to get 20 of those in. "I am struggling to get excited about any sporting event since the rugby world cup," weeps Adam Harper. "Once you've supped on the extreme tension and all-or-nothing drama of the knockout stages, everything else seems bland fare. What can possibly compare to beating a bunch of Aussies who really believed they would smash us (rather like Glenn McGrath in 2005)? This series ought to be a good one so I hope it will help me let go of RWC 2007 and start the long preparation for the Ashes 2009, but it's going to be tough."
Then he reaches the real purpose of his email: "If you think anyone out there might be interested in rugby in Hong Kong, please feel free to direct them towards my blog: www.hkfcrugbysection.blogspot.com. It's a whole world of fun..."
But then - feedback from some whiner who I fear is probably English:
"121st over: Sri Lanka 413-5 (Sangakkara 144, P Jayawardene 17) Sangakkara is moving towards that landmark 150 in singles: there's another one down the ground off Collingwood. It's one of those less-than-thrilling stages of a Test match where one side is basically toying with the other. Sri Lanka have enough runs, they just want to eliminate the 2% chance of an England win. Four to Jayawardene through the covers, despite a brave chase from Owais Shah, the sub fielder.
"Adam Harper is clearly quite easily pleased," scoffs Tom Hopkins. "Wasn't RWC 2007 even more pointless and tedious than might be expected of a rugby tournament? England's games offered, what, three tries in the whole tournament? If Adam's looking for a similar level of excitement, he could always give Pro40 a go?" Not a rugby fan, then?"
Oh dear oh dear. Sometimes your countrymen just let you down. The average Pro40 game is about as exciting as standing at a bus stop in the rain. So I replied:
"125th over: Sri Lanka 423-5 (Sangakkara 150, P Jayawardene 20) Will Sri Lanka declare once Sangakkara gets to 150? I think they might, given that play has ended around 5.20pm local time so far - just 40 minutes away. The batsmen trade singles off Collingwood, which means Sanga is facing Colly on 149 (forgive the abbreviations: it's been a long day). And there it is: a steer to deep point and one of cricket's more obscure records is his - the first player to make 150 or more in four successive Tests. But on they bat! And then... WICKET! P Jayawardene b Collingwood 20 (423-6) The ball goes through the gate and clips the bails. A hollow victory. "If Tom Hopkins only measures the quality of a game by the number of points scored, I would direct him towards basketball," rages Adam Harper."
That did for Mr Hopkins, from whom no more was heard. But then another eccentric who clearly watched a different tournament chipped in. At least he wasn't English...
"127th over: Sri Lanka 428-7 (Vaas 1, Malinga 2) At last some urgency as Lasith Malinga slogs his first ball off Collingwood for two. The lead is 335 and the sun is setting. Declare, Mahela! "As a life-long Kiwi rugby fan, I'm thinking of converting to league or all in tiddlywinks after the most boring rugby tournament imaginable," says in-no-way-bitter Martin Mathews. "I think the Guardian described the state of rugby today as 'sophisticated stagnation'. Too right!"
That, ladies and gentlemen, was a result. I already have mates from the UK bugging me by email about it and going to the site...we're going global...
Harps
Meet the New Lads #5 - Rory Hussey
(Right: Everybody on their knees, this is a f*cking robbery...Huss looks mean aged about 7)Age: 29
Occupation: Publican
Nationality: Irish
Rugby position: Flanker
Previous rugby clubs: Lansdowne RFC
Favourite things about HK rugby: The refs
One thing you would change/introduce: Ice baths after training when we've ran our balls off
Most embarrassing rugby experience: Squealing like a bitch when I hurt my leg a few weeks ago
SoHo or LKF? LKF - easier to spell
Drop or Mes Amis? Drop - easier to pronounce
Skiing or diving? Diving (Muff)
Reading or music? Reading music
Paris Hilton or Scarlett Johansen? Scarlett, she has some curves. Paris is a bit a scrawny, isn't she?
Monday, December 3, 2007
Club finish the task for 2007
CBRE Club 16 - 8 InProjects Kowloon
In the sunshine at So Kon Po, with 30,000 evangelical Christians singing in the stadium close by, Club saw off a concerted challenge from Kowloon to get into the Christmas break well ahead at the top of the Division One table with just one loss in eight games. Getting this result in the bag was critical for coach Quinton Wrigley and his team, even if the performance was once again a little on the scrappy side. After losing to HKCC, Club have rediscovered their ability to tough out victories when they are not playing at anything like their potential. The task after Christmas will be to achieve (to paraphrase Q) better execution of their gameplan.
Too often on Saturday, Club were dragged into a chaotic, harum-scarum game that suited Kowloon far better. What was required was a tight performance, with a strong Club back dominating in their opponents' 22 and Pat Foreman kicking for field position. Unfortunately, Club looked nervy and overly tense, making a large number of unforced errors, failing to secure their own possession and conceding vast numbers of penalties. When they did get the ball, apart from a 10 minute spell of good phase play in the Kowloon half, they too often threw the ball around in a style that might have been better suited to this weekend's sevens tournament than a must-win league game.
In fairness to Club, they were the only team trying to play rugby in this game. Kowloon's tactics revolved around crashing the ball up very directly through their big forwards. They had neither the ability in the half backs nor the necessary movement in the back division to orchestrate anything more sophisticated. Although 'Loon put in their tackles all day, their main objective seemed to be to antagonise and disrupt Club as much as possible, whether legitimately or otherwise. Their infringements at the breakdown were as blatant as a daylight bank robbery and their off-the-ball physicality had all the subtlety of a lunchtime mugging in Queen's Road Central.
This brings me on to a sad task, which is to criticise the referee. I hate doing this: there is no game without referees and - to a man- they all do their best to enforce the laws and act impartially. The sound of half-drunk middle-aged halfwits droning on about the referee from the sidelines is one of the curses of rugby. The gentleman who officiated on Saturday was certainly doing his best and was in no way partial. But he was, without question, incapable of refereeing a game at this level. His failure to spot and punish consistent infringeing at the ruck and maul and senseless acts of violence around the park was hugely culpable. Players will soon start to take advantage of incompetent refereeing (who can blame this?) and Kowloon certainly did, as they abandoned any pretence of an effort to move into onside positions when defending and used their hands in the ruck with impunity. The HKRFU needs to be absolutely sure that its Division One referees are up to the task because nothing can kill good, fair rugby as quickly and surely as an official who is not.
Anyway, ranting done. The game began brightly for Club when some good pressure from the backs resulted in 'Loon spilling the ball to Dan Parr, who moved the ball on to Richard Rouse for a score in the corner. Kowloon were soon back in contention, though, after some weak Club tackling allowed them to crash over. They soon followed this up with a penalty to take the lead. Two Pat Foreman penalties steadied the nerves, however, taking Club into half time at 11-8. Club probably played some of their best rugby in a longish period in the Kowloon 22 in the second half, but the final pass would not come for them and 'Loon's ability to raid the ruck in the knowledge they were unlikely to be penalised made it hard for Club to get quick ball. The half unfolded in this scrappy way until another good Club attack into Kowloon territory allowed Pete McKee to scoot round the blindside of a ruck and unload to Tim Griffin for a score. At 16-8, more than a converted try ahead, Club were essentially safe and the game was soon over.
Although the injury list remains long, Club were able to welcome back the McKee brothers Pete (at scrum half) and Mike (at full back). Pat Foreman and Callum Nieto worked tirelessly in the backs, while I thought the front row of Nigel Hobler, Ben Stobart and Pete Spizzirri were strong and Tim Edgar turned in a typically uncompromising performance.
This will not be one for the scrap books, but it took a lot of guts for Club to hang in there and they should be very happy with the first half of the season, as well as confident that they can go on and finish the job in 2008.
Harps
In the sunshine at So Kon Po, with 30,000 evangelical Christians singing in the stadium close by, Club saw off a concerted challenge from Kowloon to get into the Christmas break well ahead at the top of the Division One table with just one loss in eight games. Getting this result in the bag was critical for coach Quinton Wrigley and his team, even if the performance was once again a little on the scrappy side. After losing to HKCC, Club have rediscovered their ability to tough out victories when they are not playing at anything like their potential. The task after Christmas will be to achieve (to paraphrase Q) better execution of their gameplan.
Too often on Saturday, Club were dragged into a chaotic, harum-scarum game that suited Kowloon far better. What was required was a tight performance, with a strong Club back dominating in their opponents' 22 and Pat Foreman kicking for field position. Unfortunately, Club looked nervy and overly tense, making a large number of unforced errors, failing to secure their own possession and conceding vast numbers of penalties. When they did get the ball, apart from a 10 minute spell of good phase play in the Kowloon half, they too often threw the ball around in a style that might have been better suited to this weekend's sevens tournament than a must-win league game.
In fairness to Club, they were the only team trying to play rugby in this game. Kowloon's tactics revolved around crashing the ball up very directly through their big forwards. They had neither the ability in the half backs nor the necessary movement in the back division to orchestrate anything more sophisticated. Although 'Loon put in their tackles all day, their main objective seemed to be to antagonise and disrupt Club as much as possible, whether legitimately or otherwise. Their infringements at the breakdown were as blatant as a daylight bank robbery and their off-the-ball physicality had all the subtlety of a lunchtime mugging in Queen's Road Central.
This brings me on to a sad task, which is to criticise the referee. I hate doing this: there is no game without referees and - to a man- they all do their best to enforce the laws and act impartially. The sound of half-drunk middle-aged halfwits droning on about the referee from the sidelines is one of the curses of rugby. The gentleman who officiated on Saturday was certainly doing his best and was in no way partial. But he was, without question, incapable of refereeing a game at this level. His failure to spot and punish consistent infringeing at the ruck and maul and senseless acts of violence around the park was hugely culpable. Players will soon start to take advantage of incompetent refereeing (who can blame this?) and Kowloon certainly did, as they abandoned any pretence of an effort to move into onside positions when defending and used their hands in the ruck with impunity. The HKRFU needs to be absolutely sure that its Division One referees are up to the task because nothing can kill good, fair rugby as quickly and surely as an official who is not.
Anyway, ranting done. The game began brightly for Club when some good pressure from the backs resulted in 'Loon spilling the ball to Dan Parr, who moved the ball on to Richard Rouse for a score in the corner. Kowloon were soon back in contention, though, after some weak Club tackling allowed them to crash over. They soon followed this up with a penalty to take the lead. Two Pat Foreman penalties steadied the nerves, however, taking Club into half time at 11-8. Club probably played some of their best rugby in a longish period in the Kowloon 22 in the second half, but the final pass would not come for them and 'Loon's ability to raid the ruck in the knowledge they were unlikely to be penalised made it hard for Club to get quick ball. The half unfolded in this scrappy way until another good Club attack into Kowloon territory allowed Pete McKee to scoot round the blindside of a ruck and unload to Tim Griffin for a score. At 16-8, more than a converted try ahead, Club were essentially safe and the game was soon over.
Although the injury list remains long, Club were able to welcome back the McKee brothers Pete (at scrum half) and Mike (at full back). Pat Foreman and Callum Nieto worked tirelessly in the backs, while I thought the front row of Nigel Hobler, Ben Stobart and Pete Spizzirri were strong and Tim Edgar turned in a typically uncompromising performance.
This will not be one for the scrap books, but it took a lot of guts for Club to hang in there and they should be very happy with the first half of the season, as well as confident that they can go on and finish the job in 2008.
Harps
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Club v DEA in (four) pictures
Er, apologies for the non-existent layout of these photos. Frankly the technical side of blogging is a bit much for me (I am still overexcited about putting that incredible panoramic picture by Tim Edgar's friend Bryan up as the banner, even though it is way too wide for the average screen). Anyway, enjoy these photos of Club v DEA kindly provided by Mike McKee. Harps
From top to bottom:
- The lonely life of the goalkicker: Pat Foreman appears to contemplate sticking the ball into row 6
- The less lonely life of a forward: Spizz goes over after an impressive rolling maul
- Club lineout near the DEA line, looks like a good throw from Cowhead
- Ditto
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Injury-ravaged Club stand firm against DEA
CBRE Club 20 - 3 DEA Tigers
It wasn't pretty. But, and it's as big a but as Ramsay Carter's, the result was absolutely what mattered. With eight frontline players missing through injury, Club were never going to achieve the kind of fluency they managed earlier in the season. And although DEA were not without their own casualties (including captain and coach Nigel Clarke), this was just the kind of game in which they might have sensed weakness and turned Club over. Club will be relieved to have returned to winning form after their disappointing loss to HKCC Aberdeen the previous weekend, although I feel reasonably certain that coach Quinton Wrigley will feel there was room for improvement in the execution of Club's gameplan.
First the positives. A weakened team stuck together well and played for each other. Tenacious defending meant DEA did not score a try. Pat Foreman showed his versatility (and an enormous boot) by filling in at fly half. Phil Reid, called into the side after Pete McKee broke down in training on Thursday, was a doughty replacement. Alex Gibbs returned to the side in decent nick. And Ben Stobart, who came into the side to deputise for hooker Tom Cameron, showed an accurate throw-in at the line out and good mobility around the park (as well as his ever-surprising ability to wind up opponents with decidedly average banter...). Indeed, the whole side played with commitment and energy; they simply lacked the degree of cohesion and control people have come to expect.
Club will admit that this was not a hugely convincing display and more an example of gritting the teeth and winning ugly than anything else. DEA dominated possession for long periods of the game and were perhaps unlucky not to break through. Their one penalty does not accurately reflect the balance of the game. Both sides were guilty of ill-discipline and both were reduced to 13 men at times. For Club, Tim Edgar was yellow-carded for not rolling away while Stobart was sinbinned for holding on, although it looked more like hands in the ruck to me. Both were perhaps harshly treated, but both were nonetheless booked and two yellow cards within moments of each other left Club dangerously exposed with a two man disadvantage. Oddly, this was when they conspired to play some of their best rugby of the match.
Some good forward pressure enabled loosehead Pete Spizzirri to crash over in the first half, Kris Marin also crossed and Foreman - who was well on target - added two penalties and two conversions. Fixtures at this stage in the season are always affected by injury, but Club will need to rally again and get as many players as possible out of casualty and back on the park before next weekend's clash with a powerful Kowloon team that ran a full-strength Club side close in October. Make no mistake, Club have had a fantastic start to the season with seven wins from eight games and they go into the final match of the first round in a well-deserved first place, 11 points ahead of HKCC. But they will be desperately keen to be sure they do not take the gloss off round one by finishing 2007 with a defeat. Club's strength in depth and ability to draw on the rest of the Club's players will be critical.
Harps
CBRE Club v DEA Tigers
HKFC, 6pm, Saturday 24 November 2007
1. Pete Spizzirri
2. Ben Stobart
3. Nigel Hobler
4. Tim Robinson
5. Tim Griffin
6. Tim Edgar
7. Jared Smith (AQ)
8. Kris Marin
9. Phil Reid
10. Pat Foreman
11. Callum Nieto
12. Richard Rouse
13. Nigel D’Acre
14. Dan Parr
15. Alex Gibbs (AQ)
Replacements
16. Kahn Rudolf
17. Ben Stobart
18. Steve Matthew
19. Duncan Robertson
20. Ramsay Carter
21. Adam Raby (AQ)
22. Troy Hogan
It wasn't pretty. But, and it's as big a but as Ramsay Carter's, the result was absolutely what mattered. With eight frontline players missing through injury, Club were never going to achieve the kind of fluency they managed earlier in the season. And although DEA were not without their own casualties (including captain and coach Nigel Clarke), this was just the kind of game in which they might have sensed weakness and turned Club over. Club will be relieved to have returned to winning form after their disappointing loss to HKCC Aberdeen the previous weekend, although I feel reasonably certain that coach Quinton Wrigley will feel there was room for improvement in the execution of Club's gameplan.
First the positives. A weakened team stuck together well and played for each other. Tenacious defending meant DEA did not score a try. Pat Foreman showed his versatility (and an enormous boot) by filling in at fly half. Phil Reid, called into the side after Pete McKee broke down in training on Thursday, was a doughty replacement. Alex Gibbs returned to the side in decent nick. And Ben Stobart, who came into the side to deputise for hooker Tom Cameron, showed an accurate throw-in at the line out and good mobility around the park (as well as his ever-surprising ability to wind up opponents with decidedly average banter...). Indeed, the whole side played with commitment and energy; they simply lacked the degree of cohesion and control people have come to expect.
Club will admit that this was not a hugely convincing display and more an example of gritting the teeth and winning ugly than anything else. DEA dominated possession for long periods of the game and were perhaps unlucky not to break through. Their one penalty does not accurately reflect the balance of the game. Both sides were guilty of ill-discipline and both were reduced to 13 men at times. For Club, Tim Edgar was yellow-carded for not rolling away while Stobart was sinbinned for holding on, although it looked more like hands in the ruck to me. Both were perhaps harshly treated, but both were nonetheless booked and two yellow cards within moments of each other left Club dangerously exposed with a two man disadvantage. Oddly, this was when they conspired to play some of their best rugby of the match.
Some good forward pressure enabled loosehead Pete Spizzirri to crash over in the first half, Kris Marin also crossed and Foreman - who was well on target - added two penalties and two conversions. Fixtures at this stage in the season are always affected by injury, but Club will need to rally again and get as many players as possible out of casualty and back on the park before next weekend's clash with a powerful Kowloon team that ran a full-strength Club side close in October. Make no mistake, Club have had a fantastic start to the season with seven wins from eight games and they go into the final match of the first round in a well-deserved first place, 11 points ahead of HKCC. But they will be desperately keen to be sure they do not take the gloss off round one by finishing 2007 with a defeat. Club's strength in depth and ability to draw on the rest of the Club's players will be critical.
Harps
CBRE Club v DEA Tigers
HKFC, 6pm, Saturday 24 November 2007
1. Pete Spizzirri
2. Ben Stobart
3. Nigel Hobler
4. Tim Robinson
5. Tim Griffin
6. Tim Edgar
7. Jared Smith (AQ)
8. Kris Marin
9. Phil Reid
10. Pat Foreman
11. Callum Nieto
12. Richard Rouse
13. Nigel D’Acre
14. Dan Parr
15. Alex Gibbs (AQ)
Replacements
16. Kahn Rudolf
17. Ben Stobart
18. Steve Matthew
19. Duncan Robertson
20. Ramsay Carter
21. Adam Raby (AQ)
22. Troy Hogan
Dragons defend fortress HKFC against strong PLA attack
PLA warm up before taking on Drags
Dragons 24 - 17 Laxton PLA
Dragons go into the Christmas break as HKFC's most successful team and its only unbeaten one after Club succumbed to HKCC Aberdeen two weeks ago. Without question, the well-drilled soldiers of the PLA offered Drags' sternest challenge so far, but that challenge drew - in spells - Drag's most disciplined and professional performance of the season.
Having been reminded of the importance of starting on the front foot by the previous weekend's encounter with a motivated Scorps side, Drags came out of the tunnel with real intent and soon started to put the PLA under pressure. Before the game, Drags had been particularly aware that they would face near first-grade opposition and that the PLA lineout, in particular, was very strong. One Drags team member (who will remain nameless) went as far as to describe it as "probably the best lineout in Asia, apart from the Japanese national team." While this might be a bit of a stretch, the PLA clearly pride themselves on their lineout as a platform. But it was in this area that Drags forced the first mistake by their martial opponents. Some robust pick-and-drive play in midfield by Drags in the openining exchanges gave Dave Beckett the opportunity to slot a clever positional kick into touch inside the PLA 22. They then bungled the tap-down to allow a marauding Steve Matthews in for the first score of the game.
Adam Raby failed to convert, but went on to kick a Wilkinsonesque five from six in the game (Raby even emulates the Wilkinson pre-kick stance). For good periods of the first half, Drags kept up the pressure on the PLA, keeping the ball tight and playing good, structured rugby. Denied an open and chaotic game in which their fast men could thrive, the PLA struggled to establish a rhythm and Drags dominated. Late in the first half, a sustained assault from the Drags pack allowed Robin Bredbury to feed a subtly delayed pass to Beckett, who surged over from close range. Drags went into the break 15-0 ahead (I think) and looking good, although the first half had been blighted by the loss of the Andrews Corkery and Noble to injury, bringing Chris Howard and Bredbury into the game.
Those two tries were to be the only five-pointers of the game for Drags, though. Although Raby kept on slotting the penalties, PLA came back into the game strongly in the second half. As Dragons began to lose their shape, the PLA's fast men started cashing in on space out wide and, at 24-17 with maybe 10 minutes to go, Drags suddenly looked under threat. They dug in, however, refusing to let their season so far be tarnished by losing a game they should have won more comfortably. Drags were first relieved and then jubilant to emerge as winners, and should take enormous credit for delivering on their promise in the first half of the 2007-08 season.
If this form continues after Christmas, speculation will inevitably return to whether Drags could cut it with the big boys in Division One. While this team is far stronger than the one that limped from defeat to thrashing in the first grade last season, the new elite, five team structure of Division One and the increased number of professional players there has raised the quality, pace and physicality to a fearsome pitch. It is too early to talk about the possibility or desirability of Drags' promotion, but it will no doubt become a real issue in the New Year. For the record, Drags are 13 points clear of Valley Knights at the top of Division Two with 35 points from seven games and a stunning differential of 248 points for and just 69 conceded (giving an average match score of roughly 35-10 for the mathematically disinclined among you).
Harps
HKFC Dragons v Laxton PLA
HKFC, 3pm, Saturday 24 November 2007
1. Adam Harper
2. Duncan Robertson
3. Damian Babis
4. Laurence Denvir
5. Ramsey Carter (C)
6. Andrew Corkery
7. Rob Hewitson
8. Steve Mathews
9. Andy Noble
2. Duncan Robertson
3. Damian Babis
4. Laurence Denvir
5. Ramsey Carter (C)
6. Andrew Corkery
7. Rob Hewitson
8. Steve Mathews
9. Andy Noble
10. Dave Beckett
11. Ed Cosgrove
12. Troy Hogan
13. Romain Perret
14. Piers Nickalls
15. Adam Raby
Reserves
· Jez Lawson (Hooker)
· Ben Michael
· Chris Howard
· Diarmuid Kinsella
· Robin Bredbury
11. Ed Cosgrove
12. Troy Hogan
13. Romain Perret
14. Piers Nickalls
15. Adam Raby
Reserves
· Jez Lawson (Hooker)
· Ben Michael
· Chris Howard
· Diarmuid Kinsella
· Robin Bredbury
Monday, November 26, 2007
Select blow away Typhoons, make Blog debut
From Tony George
'Mighty' Select 34 - 7 Typhoons
The Mighty Select have really been living up to their name this year, with 6 wins on the trot following their opening day loss to Valley Mustangs. Typhoons were no league whipping boys themselves, coming into the game third in the standings – just 4 points behind Select.
Despite Select personnel answering the call to higher honours of late, they still fielded a strong side for this away day at Aberdeen. They came out of the traps with all guns blazing (yes, Harps, mixed metaphors are an important part of my idiom) and were 5-0 up before the dust had settled. A succession of “pick and go” drives and some neat interplay between backs and forwards, not to mention some committed rucking, resulted in no. 8 Tom Creedon carving through the line to open the scoring.
The rest of the first half was a real disappointment. All credit to the Typhoons, who disrupted and harried at the breakdown, but Select will have been disappointed at being knocked out of their game plan so easily. The backs also conspired to drop at least 3 scoring passes.
Half time brought a rollicking from the coach, Peter Wray. It can’t have been all that effective as 10 minutes later Typhoons finally turned pressure into points with a converted try. 7-5 down, there was a palpable determination amongst the Select pack to turn things around and they certainly did, with an awesome last half hour. The Typhoons’ scrimmage was demolished, line-outs were crisp and the pick and go was once more being used to devastating affect. One could also argue that the backs’ decision to stop attempting 30 yard miss passes from first phase ball was helpful.
No matter, as strong running from Matty Gibbs, Sam Cooper, Nik Brunner, Chris Wolski, Shane Harmon and super-sub Dairmuid Kinsella, ably supported by a now dominant pack produced a deluge of tries – so many I can’t tell you who scored them. It was all a bit rapid fire, especially with Typhoons wilting under the onslaught. Nineteen points in the last 20 is a fair return – if any of the Select lads would care to help out with scorers etc then we can add to this!
'Mighty' Select 34 - 7 Typhoons
The Mighty Select have really been living up to their name this year, with 6 wins on the trot following their opening day loss to Valley Mustangs. Typhoons were no league whipping boys themselves, coming into the game third in the standings – just 4 points behind Select.
Despite Select personnel answering the call to higher honours of late, they still fielded a strong side for this away day at Aberdeen. They came out of the traps with all guns blazing (yes, Harps, mixed metaphors are an important part of my idiom) and were 5-0 up before the dust had settled. A succession of “pick and go” drives and some neat interplay between backs and forwards, not to mention some committed rucking, resulted in no. 8 Tom Creedon carving through the line to open the scoring.
The rest of the first half was a real disappointment. All credit to the Typhoons, who disrupted and harried at the breakdown, but Select will have been disappointed at being knocked out of their game plan so easily. The backs also conspired to drop at least 3 scoring passes.
Half time brought a rollicking from the coach, Peter Wray. It can’t have been all that effective as 10 minutes later Typhoons finally turned pressure into points with a converted try. 7-5 down, there was a palpable determination amongst the Select pack to turn things around and they certainly did, with an awesome last half hour. The Typhoons’ scrimmage was demolished, line-outs were crisp and the pick and go was once more being used to devastating affect. One could also argue that the backs’ decision to stop attempting 30 yard miss passes from first phase ball was helpful.
No matter, as strong running from Matty Gibbs, Sam Cooper, Nik Brunner, Chris Wolski, Shane Harmon and super-sub Dairmuid Kinsella, ably supported by a now dominant pack produced a deluge of tries – so many I can’t tell you who scored them. It was all a bit rapid fire, especially with Typhoons wilting under the onslaught. Nineteen points in the last 20 is a fair return – if any of the Select lads would care to help out with scorers etc then we can add to this!
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Of Scorpions and Soldiers
Far right: an Iraqi scorpion; considerably less fierce than its HKFC counterparts
Near right: Select head out for a night on the town - sorry - it's our brave protectors, the PLA
Afternoon Gents. It's Thursday. That means it will be Friday tomorrow, which is good, although not as good as the fact that Saturday will follow shortly afterwards.
First of all, some thoughts on the Scorps v Drags clash last Satutrday which, as you will no doubt know, finished 25-7 to Drags.
Frankly (and I write as a Drags player), that scoreline rather flattered the Dragons. Scorps came out with the fire and intensity of old and took control of much of the game. It never looked like first place playing last place in the division. Rob Gabbe, as ever, tackled like his life depended on it and smashed everything in sight. Despite being under pressure in the scrum from the massive Naylor-Cowhead-Babis front row (potentially the heaviest in Club history?), Scorps secured good possession for their backs through sheer tenacity and allowed Dave Beckett time to slot some effective kicks to the corners. By the way, after the exit of the indomitable Yutaka Yuzawa, Scorps played with a novel three-hooker front row consisting of Messrs 'Absinthe' Lawson, Sheren and Ali Iqbal Sharif Nazir, who was something of a revelation at tighthead, according to his learned opponents. In the keenly-awaited battle of the scrum halves, dare I say that Duncan Grewcock shaded Phil Reid this time? Although Phil was entirely sound, Grewers was full of pace, energy and ambition and seemed determined to make a point (as he did later at his Stag...)
Scorps took a deserved lead midway through the first half after a direct run from their new lock who's quite good (but whose name remains unknown to me) exposed the uncharacteristically hesitant and fragile Drags defence. Unfortunately for Scorps, they quickly conceded a soft intercepted try to Simon Shoebridge which was duly converted by Adam Raby. For those who are interested, unemployed former student Raby can frequently be seen getting on it in Taco Loco by the escalator with a bunch of other neophytes. Why they choose to go there is a mystery to me, although some of his female friends aren't bad.
As then game went on, Scorps continued to impress with their industry and application to the task, but frustratingly conceded another soft try. First of all, the Scorps back three failed to gather an innocuous-looking bouncing kick just inside their half and were ambushed by Drags winger Ed Johnson, who flew through, gathered and streaked away to the try line with the Scorps defenders trailing in his wake. Tim (little) Robinson crossed for another try to settle the matter late in the game, but I didn't see that.
Drags can take comfort that they were able to meet a serious challenge from Scorps and win without playing very well, that being the mark of a good side, which they unquestionably are. They will need to do better to beat the PLA this weekend, though (of which more anon). For Scorps, the manner in which they played will have done much to restore their morale, which was in the doldrums after a run of disappointing results since their miraculous victory against Valley.
There is no game for Scorps this weekend, but unbeaten Drags taken on the PLA in what should be the sternest test of the season so far. PLA are a strong side who bested Drags in the Dvision One table last year and a trip to our colonial-looking little bastion will no doubt get them all a-flutter with patriotic zeal. They have big guys and will use them to carry the ball very directly, taking passes from both the scrum half and fly half. The key for Drags will be tackling as these guys will run and run all day. It will also be vital for Drags to play structured, discplined rugby and to not kick the ball mindlessly. PLA have some tremendous broken play runners in the back three that can rip Drags apart if they lose their shape. Based on previous form, however, PLA will not have the tactial nous to defeat a team playing well-structured, patient rugby, though.
See you at training this evening.
Harps
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Table Surfing at Dave Sheikh Ali Yusuf bin Fadil Nazir's birthday party (originally known as Grewers' Stag) - the Abridged Version
"Hello and welcome to the fifth inaugural HKFC Table Surfing Tournament held once again at Shaffi's Malik Restaurant, Wan Chai Road on the occasion of Dave 'Arab' Nazer's birthday. The tables are greased with vaseline, the participants are totally hammered and stewards are holding back the traffic out in the road to allow them a good long run up, so let's get to the action [commotion at the back of the commentary booth]...sorry ladies and gentlemen, that's Grewers and he just wants to be noticed. Fortunately he can't speak because there's gaffer tape around his mouth and Phil Reid will smash the egg taped to his forehead if he gets out of hand.
Our first contestant is Dazzling Darien Bradshaw of Australia, who's sporting the traditional 'pants and shoes only look.' Here comes Dazzler from out on the road, crowds of passers-by are cheering him on and OUCH! he's completely failed to get through the doorway. Medics are rushing over, but I think that's the last we'll be seeing of Bradshaw in this competition.
Next at the starting line is Nicholas 'Knickerless' James, the Welsh tyro from the Valleys and noted ladies' man. The stewards have had to prevail on James to put on some pants - he's made a very strong argument that complete nudity delivers maximum aerodynamic effect (and added that he really likes the feeling of his tackle sliding across the greasy tables), but the jusges are unimpressed. Here comes now, accelerating to his full speed of a moderate jog in the road, vaulting off the chair and -- whoosh there he goes! Past the five table mark, up to the nine table mark, his faithful man-bag trailing behind him at all times...and there he comes to a halt. The chutney-covered peanuts laid on the table by saboteurs have covered his chest in nasty welts, but he's happy, so happy. Listen to him sing...yes, it's the English version of the Welsh national anthem that sounds just the same as the Welsh long as you don't laugh!
My hen laid a haddock, one hand oiled a flea,
Glad farts and centurions threw dogs in the sea,
I could stew a hare here and brandish Dan's flan,
Don's ruddy bog's blocked up with sand.
Dad! Dad! Why don't you oil Auntie Glad?
Can whores appear in beer bottle pies,
O butter the hens as they fly!
Thanks to Nick James for that. Now then, our last contestant is the birthday boy himself [more muffled shouting, sounds of bouncing off the walls]....oh no! It's Grewers again! He's somehow loose from his punishment chair! No Grewers! Don't throw that rice everywhere! It's not our falt you disowned your Stag do! Well, actually, we're all enjoying Nazer's birthday now. Ah, thank goodness! Here's Phil Reid, who's giving Grewers a proper schooling now, as ever. I don't think we'll have any more trouble from him.
So, here is Nazir, standing tense and focused at the starting line like a half-naked jihadi. Off he goes, what a leap! He's absolutely flying down the tables...he's past James at 10, he's past 12, he's reaching the end of the track and he's still motoring! He's flying off the end, ladies and gentlemen, hurtling headfirst into the bar, sending glasses and popadoms flying. Is he alright? yes, he's up, he's smiling, he knows he's won! That's the commitment you need at this level. Let's talk to the big man.
Salaam aleykum Dave and congratulations!
Thanks. This is the proudest day of my life. If only Sheren could have been here so I could have beaten him too.
What is the secret of your success?
Being heavier than my opponents. It's elementary physics old chap.
Do you have anything to say to your fans?
Would you like to buy some jewellry? I've got some lovely pendants just in. Your missus would love 'em mate. Tell you what, I'll do you three for...
Thanks Dave and goodnight.
Harps
Our first contestant is Dazzling Darien Bradshaw of Australia, who's sporting the traditional 'pants and shoes only look.' Here comes Dazzler from out on the road, crowds of passers-by are cheering him on and OUCH! he's completely failed to get through the doorway. Medics are rushing over, but I think that's the last we'll be seeing of Bradshaw in this competition.
Next at the starting line is Nicholas 'Knickerless' James, the Welsh tyro from the Valleys and noted ladies' man. The stewards have had to prevail on James to put on some pants - he's made a very strong argument that complete nudity delivers maximum aerodynamic effect (and added that he really likes the feeling of his tackle sliding across the greasy tables), but the jusges are unimpressed. Here comes now, accelerating to his full speed of a moderate jog in the road, vaulting off the chair and -- whoosh there he goes! Past the five table mark, up to the nine table mark, his faithful man-bag trailing behind him at all times...and there he comes to a halt. The chutney-covered peanuts laid on the table by saboteurs have covered his chest in nasty welts, but he's happy, so happy. Listen to him sing...yes, it's the English version of the Welsh national anthem that sounds just the same as the Welsh long as you don't laugh!
My hen laid a haddock, one hand oiled a flea,
Glad farts and centurions threw dogs in the sea,
I could stew a hare here and brandish Dan's flan,
Don's ruddy bog's blocked up with sand.
Dad! Dad! Why don't you oil Auntie Glad?
Can whores appear in beer bottle pies,
O butter the hens as they fly!
Thanks to Nick James for that. Now then, our last contestant is the birthday boy himself [more muffled shouting, sounds of bouncing off the walls]....oh no! It's Grewers again! He's somehow loose from his punishment chair! No Grewers! Don't throw that rice everywhere! It's not our falt you disowned your Stag do! Well, actually, we're all enjoying Nazer's birthday now. Ah, thank goodness! Here's Phil Reid, who's giving Grewers a proper schooling now, as ever. I don't think we'll have any more trouble from him.
So, here is Nazir, standing tense and focused at the starting line like a half-naked jihadi. Off he goes, what a leap! He's absolutely flying down the tables...he's past James at 10, he's past 12, he's reaching the end of the track and he's still motoring! He's flying off the end, ladies and gentlemen, hurtling headfirst into the bar, sending glasses and popadoms flying. Is he alright? yes, he's up, he's smiling, he knows he's won! That's the commitment you need at this level. Let's talk to the big man.
Salaam aleykum Dave and congratulations!
Thanks. This is the proudest day of my life. If only Sheren could have been here so I could have beaten him too.
What is the secret of your success?
Being heavier than my opponents. It's elementary physics old chap.
Do you have anything to say to your fans?
Would you like to buy some jewellry? I've got some lovely pendants just in. Your missus would love 'em mate. Tell you what, I'll do you three for...
Thanks Dave and goodnight.
Harps
Aberdeen end Club's fine run
CBRE Club 5 - 15 HKCC
Club's amazing run of seven unbeaten matches came to a disappointing end on Saturday when a highly motivated Abderdeen team, stengthened by imported players in key positions, outmuscled a weakened Club side and added injury to insult by adding to HKFC's list of casualties. Club remain nine points ahead of Valley in second place, but will need to raise their game now that chasing pack has the scent of blood.
To achieve this, Club's strength in depth will be vital because a long list of key players are now sidelined by injury, including Rob Mills, James Kibble, Rory Hussey, Mike McKee and Andrew Chambers.
All good teams lose from time to time - even great ones do (need I mention the 2007 All Blacks?). What counts, of course, is how a team responds - whether it turns in on itself and implodes or comes back with a stronger sense of unity and ready to fight. Club should not beat themselves up too much about losing one game, but they should burst a collective blood vessel to be damn sure they come back stronger. Captain Nigel D'Acre and hooker Tom Cameron struck the right note after the game when they asked the team to stick together in the evening after the game: if you win together, you have to lose together and the shared experience of both is what binds you together and makes you a better unit.
The manner of the defeat was disappointing indeed, and that if nothing else should sting Club into doing better next time. The scrum came under pressure on the engage and when Abderdeen put the wheel on, often with devastating effect. Regardless of whether you think that law allowing a team to gain the put-in if they can twist a scrum through 180 degrees is easily the most brainless law in rugby (and I do), teams have to be able to defend against it at this level. Club were found wanting and must work hard to address this. To add to the problems in the scrum, lineout possession was not as reliable as ususal either. With so much potentially quality ball choked at source, the backs came into the game under pressure and without momentum, making it easier for Aberdeen to pick off isolated ball carriers. Kibble battled away admirably at fly half, but he was too often a solitary figure.
Despite Abderdeen's dominance, they were only able to put away one penalty in the first half to lead 3-0 at the break. However, they made their possession count in the second half with two tries, including one, embarrassingly, from a disrupted five metre defensive Club scrum. Club answered in the last 10 minutes with an unconverted score from Richard Rouse, but it was too little, too late.
In many ways, Abderdeen's victory was a lesson in making pressure count. They were more physical and more aggressive, putting Club on the back foot from the word go. And, having put themselves in the box seat, they did not ease up until the end. In truth, they did to Club what Club have done to many other teams this season. Clearly, what Club need to do is rediscover the aggression and intensity that allowed them to put this kind of squeeze on Abderdeen, Valley and Kowloon et al earlier on. With a diminished pool of players, it will be tough. But that is when Champions really emerge.
Harps
CBRE Club v Synovate HKCC
HKFC, 6pm, Saturday 17 November
1. Adam Harper (rep. Rudolf, 50 mins)
2. Tom Cameron
3. Pete Spizzirri
4. Angus Washington
5. Tim Griffin
6. Tim Edgar
7. Jared Smith (AQ)
8. Kris Marin
9. Peter McKee
10. James Kibble
11. Callum Nieto
12. Richard Rouse
13. Nigel D’Acre
14. Pat Foreman
15. Mike McKee (AQ)
Replacements
16. Kahn Rudolf
17. Ben Stobart
18. Steve Matthew
19. Tim Robinson
20. Ed Johnson
21. Adam Raby (AQ)
22. Timothy John Robinson
Club's amazing run of seven unbeaten matches came to a disappointing end on Saturday when a highly motivated Abderdeen team, stengthened by imported players in key positions, outmuscled a weakened Club side and added injury to insult by adding to HKFC's list of casualties. Club remain nine points ahead of Valley in second place, but will need to raise their game now that chasing pack has the scent of blood.
To achieve this, Club's strength in depth will be vital because a long list of key players are now sidelined by injury, including Rob Mills, James Kibble, Rory Hussey, Mike McKee and Andrew Chambers.
All good teams lose from time to time - even great ones do (need I mention the 2007 All Blacks?). What counts, of course, is how a team responds - whether it turns in on itself and implodes or comes back with a stronger sense of unity and ready to fight. Club should not beat themselves up too much about losing one game, but they should burst a collective blood vessel to be damn sure they come back stronger. Captain Nigel D'Acre and hooker Tom Cameron struck the right note after the game when they asked the team to stick together in the evening after the game: if you win together, you have to lose together and the shared experience of both is what binds you together and makes you a better unit.
The manner of the defeat was disappointing indeed, and that if nothing else should sting Club into doing better next time. The scrum came under pressure on the engage and when Abderdeen put the wheel on, often with devastating effect. Regardless of whether you think that law allowing a team to gain the put-in if they can twist a scrum through 180 degrees is easily the most brainless law in rugby (and I do), teams have to be able to defend against it at this level. Club were found wanting and must work hard to address this. To add to the problems in the scrum, lineout possession was not as reliable as ususal either. With so much potentially quality ball choked at source, the backs came into the game under pressure and without momentum, making it easier for Aberdeen to pick off isolated ball carriers. Kibble battled away admirably at fly half, but he was too often a solitary figure.
Despite Abderdeen's dominance, they were only able to put away one penalty in the first half to lead 3-0 at the break. However, they made their possession count in the second half with two tries, including one, embarrassingly, from a disrupted five metre defensive Club scrum. Club answered in the last 10 minutes with an unconverted score from Richard Rouse, but it was too little, too late.
In many ways, Abderdeen's victory was a lesson in making pressure count. They were more physical and more aggressive, putting Club on the back foot from the word go. And, having put themselves in the box seat, they did not ease up until the end. In truth, they did to Club what Club have done to many other teams this season. Clearly, what Club need to do is rediscover the aggression and intensity that allowed them to put this kind of squeeze on Abderdeen, Valley and Kowloon et al earlier on. With a diminished pool of players, it will be tough. But that is when Champions really emerge.
Harps
CBRE Club v Synovate HKCC
HKFC, 6pm, Saturday 17 November
1. Adam Harper (rep. Rudolf, 50 mins)
2. Tom Cameron
3. Pete Spizzirri
4. Angus Washington
5. Tim Griffin
6. Tim Edgar
7. Jared Smith (AQ)
8. Kris Marin
9. Peter McKee
10. James Kibble
11. Callum Nieto
12. Richard Rouse
13. Nigel D’Acre
14. Pat Foreman
15. Mike McKee (AQ)
Replacements
16. Kahn Rudolf
17. Ben Stobart
18. Steve Matthew
19. Tim Robinson
20. Ed Johnson
21. Adam Raby (AQ)
22. Timothy John Robinson
Friday, November 16, 2007
No complacency for Club, more sting for Scorps
Friday night is here again, which can only mean one thing - tomorrow is Saturday, the day consecrated to rugby and beer (preferably in that order).
Club, unbeaten and 14 points clear of Valley at the top of Division One, will play HKCC at the Football Club, kicking off at the usual time of 6pm. Club are without Nigel Hobler, Dan Parr and Andrew Chambers this weekend, bringing Pat Foreman, Callum Nieto and your correspondent into the side. 'Big' Tim Robinson (the lock), thereby distinguised from 'Little' Tim Robinson (the winger), marks his return to Hong Kong rugby by making the Club bench (after playing for Drags). Jared Smith makes his starting debut at openside for the injured Rory Hussey, while Kris Marin returns to replace Rob Mills, also injured, at number eight.
With no other side having any realistic hope of catching Club in the league phase of the season, they will have to be sure to maintain the levels of intensity and determination that have carried them this far. Aberdeen may not be able to win the league, but Club remain the ultimate scalp in this division and you can be sure their opponents will come out with tomahawks in hand.
In Division Two, it's a 3pm Club derby for two teams with contrasting fortunes. Dragons have been in effervescent form, with a powerful set of forwards that have dominated every pack they have encountered, and a lightning backline. Plus they have Phil Reid. Scorpions, on the other hand, are having a miserable season. Last year's Division Two Grand Champions are languishing at the bottom of the table this year, with just one win (that remarkable 28-22 fightback win over Valley on 6 October). Scorps will know that they badly need to show some spirit and aggression to restore a sense of pride in their season. But what better occasion to start a turnaround than against their Clubmates from Drags? Scorps will need to dig deep but they can challenge here if they come in with the right attitude and get off to a good start.
It's a similar story in Division Two, where Select bestride the table like a colossus, while Sequins bring up the rear. Sadly, no-one tells me anything about these teams so I can provide no further illumination. Animal's back hair could have fallen out and Sam Cooper could have become anorexic for all I know... In any case, Select's game against SJM Macau has been postponed while Sequins will take on the Kowloon Pussies at So Kon Po. If someone would like to tell me what happens in that game, I'd be much obliged.
Also... PLEASE TAKE SOME BL*ODY PHOTOS AND SEND THEM TO ME SO I CAN PUT THEM UP ON THIS BLOG. Send them to adam.harper@asia.ing.com
I'm off for a quiet dinner and an early night after something of a night of it with Nick 'Jamesy' James & co last night. Bring on tomorrow!
Harps
Club v HKCC, 6pm, HKFC
1. Adam Harper
2.Tom Cameron
3. Peter Spizzirri
4. Tim Griffin
5. Angus Washington
6. Tim Edgar
7. Jared Smith (AQ)
8. Kris Marin
9. Peter McKee
10. James Kibble
11. Pat Foreman
12. Richard Rouse (c)
13. Nigel D'Acre
14. Callum Nieto
15. Mike McKee (AQ)
Replacements:
Damian Babis
Ben Stobart
Tim Robinson (BIG)
Adam Raby (AQ)
Ed Johnson
Tim Robinson
Drags v Scorps. 3pm, HKFC
1. Rob Naylor
2. Ben Stobart
3. Damien Babis
4. Peyton Burnett
5. Tim Robinson (Big)
6. Shannon Ford
7. Rob Hewitson
8. Steve Mathews
9. Phil Reid ( C)
10. Robin Bredbury
11. Ed Johnston
12. Simon Shoebridge
13. Tim Robinson (not so Big)
14. Adam Raby
15. Ed Cosgrove
Replacements:
Ben Harris
Ben Michael
Andy Walters
Troy Hogan
Romain Perret
Diarmuid Kinsella
Club, unbeaten and 14 points clear of Valley at the top of Division One, will play HKCC at the Football Club, kicking off at the usual time of 6pm. Club are without Nigel Hobler, Dan Parr and Andrew Chambers this weekend, bringing Pat Foreman, Callum Nieto and your correspondent into the side. 'Big' Tim Robinson (the lock), thereby distinguised from 'Little' Tim Robinson (the winger), marks his return to Hong Kong rugby by making the Club bench (after playing for Drags). Jared Smith makes his starting debut at openside for the injured Rory Hussey, while Kris Marin returns to replace Rob Mills, also injured, at number eight.
With no other side having any realistic hope of catching Club in the league phase of the season, they will have to be sure to maintain the levels of intensity and determination that have carried them this far. Aberdeen may not be able to win the league, but Club remain the ultimate scalp in this division and you can be sure their opponents will come out with tomahawks in hand.
In Division Two, it's a 3pm Club derby for two teams with contrasting fortunes. Dragons have been in effervescent form, with a powerful set of forwards that have dominated every pack they have encountered, and a lightning backline. Plus they have Phil Reid. Scorpions, on the other hand, are having a miserable season. Last year's Division Two Grand Champions are languishing at the bottom of the table this year, with just one win (that remarkable 28-22 fightback win over Valley on 6 October). Scorps will know that they badly need to show some spirit and aggression to restore a sense of pride in their season. But what better occasion to start a turnaround than against their Clubmates from Drags? Scorps will need to dig deep but they can challenge here if they come in with the right attitude and get off to a good start.
It's a similar story in Division Two, where Select bestride the table like a colossus, while Sequins bring up the rear. Sadly, no-one tells me anything about these teams so I can provide no further illumination. Animal's back hair could have fallen out and Sam Cooper could have become anorexic for all I know... In any case, Select's game against SJM Macau has been postponed while Sequins will take on the Kowloon Pussies at So Kon Po. If someone would like to tell me what happens in that game, I'd be much obliged.
Also... PLEASE TAKE SOME BL*ODY PHOTOS AND SEND THEM TO ME SO I CAN PUT THEM UP ON THIS BLOG. Send them to adam.harper@asia.ing.com
I'm off for a quiet dinner and an early night after something of a night of it with Nick 'Jamesy' James & co last night. Bring on tomorrow!
Harps
Club v HKCC, 6pm, HKFC
1. Adam Harper
2.Tom Cameron
3. Peter Spizzirri
4. Tim Griffin
5. Angus Washington
6. Tim Edgar
7. Jared Smith (AQ)
8. Kris Marin
9. Peter McKee
10. James Kibble
11. Pat Foreman
12. Richard Rouse (c)
13. Nigel D'Acre
14. Callum Nieto
15. Mike McKee (AQ)
Replacements:
Damian Babis
Ben Stobart
Tim Robinson (BIG)
Adam Raby (AQ)
Ed Johnson
Tim Robinson
Drags v Scorps. 3pm, HKFC
1. Rob Naylor
2. Ben Stobart
3. Damien Babis
4. Peyton Burnett
5. Tim Robinson (Big)
6. Shannon Ford
7. Rob Hewitson
8. Steve Mathews
9. Phil Reid ( C)
10. Robin Bredbury
11. Ed Johnston
12. Simon Shoebridge
13. Tim Robinson (not so Big)
14. Adam Raby
15. Ed Cosgrove
Replacements:
Ben Harris
Ben Michael
Andy Walters
Troy Hogan
Romain Perret
Diarmuid Kinsella
Blogging, Caution
The moral of the posting below is never, ever attempt mobile blogging after three pints and five rum and cokes. It seemed like such a good idea at the time. My apologies to Mr Hussey, the washrooms at Solas are actually delightful, even if the washbasins are a little challenging.
Bouch is threatening to contribute some of his inimitable wit to this humble blog but is not available to do this before next week. Such are the lives of important people. We wait with baited breath...
Harps
Bouch is threatening to contribute some of his inimitable wit to this humble blog but is not available to do this before next week. Such are the lives of important people. We wait with baited breath...
Harps
The bogs in Solas are crap
Dear Rory Hussey
I write to complain about the lamentable state of the washrooms in Solas. In particular, I deplore the wash basins. They won't work unless you get down nearly on your knees and wave your hands around like a supplicant to Hare Krishna. Please instal some taps.
I remain, Sir, your humble and obdedient servant,
A. Harper
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Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Blue Jacket winner Cameron speaks to the Blog
Cameron (left) celebrates as Club win the Grand Championship in 2004. Is that Nick Tempest in the background? It could be, you know. 2004 was Club's last win at the top level - will 2007-08 be the next glory season?Last Saturday, former Club and Hong Kong Captain Tom Cameron became the first recipient of the Hong Kong Football Club's Blue Jacket, which can have come as no surprise to anyone familiar with rugby in Hong Kong. The award, which will be given out annually, honours the player whose contribution best exemplifies the spirit and values of the Club. Tom Cameron speaks to The Blog about the award and what playing rugby in and for Hong Kong means to him.
Blog: How does it feel to be the first recipient of the HKFC Rugby Section's Blue Jacket?
TC: It is a great surprise and a massive honour.
Blog: The award is for a player whose "contribution best exemplifies the spirit and values of the section." What do you believe those values to be?
TC: I just love playing rugby and there is no better place than the Club. The social life around the rugby section is great and there is always someone that can help with a problem. Play hard on and off the pitch.
Blog: Who were your rugby heroes as a lad? And why?
TC: Uli Schmidt - He was a small but tough Springbok hooker. He scored great tries on the wing - the original Seagull!
Blog: What made you join HKFC rather than any of the other clubs in Hong Kong?
TC: There was no choice! Donough Foley and Craig Wootten said there were no other clubs in Hong Kong ...... and then there were the white towels!
Blog: How would you compare your first season with Club to this season?
TC: Now we are going back a long time... Every year had its great moments and awesome players. This year we have some young blood in and the boys are focused on what they want to achieve.
Blog: What are your outstanding memories of playing for Club, and for Hong Kong?
TC: Getting an eight week suspension after my first Grand Championship Final must stand out. It's a great honour every time to put the 1st team jersey on or run out for the country you represent! That is a great feeling! Beating Korea was also a massive highlight.
Blog: Any regrets?
TC: Never.
Blog: Could you nominate the best two or three matches you have played in since you have been in Hong Kong (for Club or the national side)?
TC: The Grand Championship win in 2004, beating Korea [in 2007] and every win against Valley!
Blog: Which players have you most enjoyed playing the game with during your career?
TC: Rugby is a great game. Eevery team I played for had their characters and outstanding players. The list will be too long!
Blog: Who would you say have been the strongest influences on you as a rugby player? And in what ways? And why?
TC: My family - Mum, Dad, Brother and Melanie! They were always there to encourage.
Blog: What would you say have been the funniest moments for you in Hong Kong rugby?
TC: Every time I speak to Junior Naylor.
Blog: Club has experimented with professional players in the past, but has been against this approach in recent years. What are your views on the question?
TC: It is good to have these guys in your team, it lifts the level but if your club only relies on them to win you trophies, you're going to be in trouble. You need guys that have a passion for the Club and you need them to stick around for a few years. Club is on the right track with getting guys jobs.
Blog: How do you feel the Club has bounced back after the Bali Tragedy in 2002?
TC: The Club has been great but it is important that new section members know what happened and the spirit and legacy those that died left behind.
Blog: What do you think the rugby section has to do to ensure that Club and the other teams remain dominant at their respective grades in the years to come?
TC: Everyone should support each other - it's not about the teams, it's about the Club as a whole.
Blog: Do you believe that Hong Kong can qualify for a World Cup under the current system?
TC: The structures in place at the moment for Hong Kong are the best I've seen. Ivan Torpey has made a massive difference to Hong Kong rugby. With Japan at the top and Tonga and co in the repercharge pools, it's always going to be tough! But I would love to see that happen.
Blog: How would you like to be remembered as player after you hang up your boots?
TC: Tough bastard on the park but a great guy to have a beer with afterwards.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Take from them everything and give to them nothing!
CBRE Club 13 - Valley 6
Alright, it wasn't quite as bad as the battle of Thermopylae (no-one was killed, for example, although I feared Churchy was quite close to death at one point). But Club v Valley on Saturday was the rugby equivalent of hand-to-hand combat. If you wanted running rugby and flash moves, you were at the wrong game. If you wanted backs-to-the-wall defence, guts, grit and determination, you were in exactly the right place. The Club steamroller drives on, but Kowloon - and now Valley - have provided the blue and whites with their toughest tests so far. At the end of a game in which the margin between the two sides was never more than a converted try, Valley's players were inconsolable. The look of pride and, frankly, relief on the Club side's faces told you both how close this game had been and how much it meant to everyone involved.
Like Napoleon at Waterloo, Valley threw everything they had at the Club defense for what seemed an eternity (there were at least 10 minutes of injury time), but could never quite do enough to dislodge their stubborn opponents. But Club's tenacity in meeting the runners head-on, or in hauling them down in more desperate circumstances, was admirable. Valley threatened again and again, but never crossed the Club line - an achievement of which the home side should be justifiably proud. At the other end, a typically robust run from Richard Rouse - who had a commanding game in defence and attack - gave Club its only seven-pointer, to which Mike McKee added with a conversion and two penalties.
The pressure exerted by Valley allowed them to slot two penalties, and it also resulted in two yellow cards: one for loosehead Pete Spizziri for not rolling away and one to replacement backrower Shannon Ford for, well, retaliation. Valley's onslaught took a physical toll as well. An early ankle injury to number eight Rob Mills meant Rupert "Churchy" Clarke had to come on and play the best part of a second game that day, which was an impressive effort from the big man. Rory Hussey was another casualty of the trench warfare, departing the field with a dislocated patella (that's a b*ggered knee to you and me).
It is on victories such as this that championships are built, and Club will know they can take a good deal more heart from this than walks in the park against Causeway Bay (81-3) or even their win against an oddly lacklustre HKCC (22-0). Once again the victory was bult on a solid forward platform (the scrum only wobbled when reduced to seven men after Spizziri's yellow card, but was otherwise dominant), intelligent play by the backs (bolstered by the return of Nigel D'Acre) and truckloads of grit. As we move into the business end of the season, there is every reason to hope that Club can deliver on their great start this year.
Harps
CBRE Club v Crown Valley
6pm, Saturday 10 November, HKFC
1.Pete Spizzirri
2. Tom Cameron
3. Nigel Hobler
4. Laurence Denvir
5. Tim Griffin
6. Tim Edgar
7. Rory Hussey
8. Rob Mills
9. Peter McKee
10. James Kibble
11. Dan Parr
12. Richard Rouse (try)
13. Nigel D’Acre
14. Andrew Chambers
15. Mike McKee (AQ), (1 conv, 2 pens)
Replacements:
Adam Harper (used, sin-bin replacement)
Ben Stobart
Jared Smith (AQ), (used)
Rupert Clarke (used)
Shannon Ford (used, yellow card)
Adam Raby (AQ), (used)
Callum Nieto
Dragons slay Knights
Another inimitable writeup from Murray Sargant, Manager, Dragons
Drags Vs Valley Knights
10th November 2007, HKFC 3:00pm
A resounding 49 - 12 victory against one of the better teams in the competition.
Well led from the front by our latest captain Phil Reid, the team went about a great display in the first 40 min with well-structured and aggressive forward play allied with some impressive tries from our fleet-footed backs.
First half tries to Callum Nieto, Adam Raby (twice), Dinks (what???) and a penalty for Pat Foreman made it one of the best halves of the year for Drags to date.
The forwards dominated the first half line outs after their extra training session on Thursday evening, which clearly paid off well. Thanks to CJ for running the session. The back row with Rupert (Churchy), Jared and Shannon all played well, with 'Jarhead' deservingly earning another man of the match performance after an unusually democratic team vote. A worthy winner of the Stevie Speirs Mug (more on this award later).
The second half started the same way with tries to Peyton Burnett, Tim Robinson and a second try in as many games for Shannon Ford.
The backs played impressively throughout the game with Phil, Robin, Pat, Tim, Cozzie, Callum and Adam combining well. The extra speed out wide was put to good use and the backline always looked dangerous with ball in hand. Pat had a great game with some strong running and solid defence. He completed the day in style by preventing a late try from Valley with a great run across the field to put in a superb covering tackle just before time. A great effort given it was late in the game and everyone was running out of gas.
In the last 10 minutes of the second half, Drags did begin to get tired and started to lose the structure that had served so well in the first 70 minutes. Valley took advantage and managed to get a late consolation try from broken play.
Stevie Speirs Mug
For those not aware this mug was established to commemorate the late Stevie Speirs who was the regular Drags hooker. Unfortunately Stevie was tragically killed in the Bali bombing while on tour with HKFC Vandals . The pewter mug is now awarded each week to the player voted by his team mates to be the best and fairest on the day. The nominated player can then have the mug all night and at no time should it be empty. All drags team players and friends are obliged to keep the mug full for the rest of the evening. The nominated player can also at anytime hand the mug to any other team mate who must drink the contents. At the end of the night the mug should be returned behind the bar ready for next week's game.
Well done Jared on winning the Stevie Speirs Mug. Sorry you couldn’t enjoy it straight away as I know you benched and played well for Club later.
See you all at training Monday night. Congratulations once again on a great Drags win.
Drags Vs Valley Knights
10th November 2007, HKFC 3:00pm
A resounding 49 - 12 victory against one of the better teams in the competition.
Well led from the front by our latest captain Phil Reid, the team went about a great display in the first 40 min with well-structured and aggressive forward play allied with some impressive tries from our fleet-footed backs.
First half tries to Callum Nieto, Adam Raby (twice), Dinks (what???) and a penalty for Pat Foreman made it one of the best halves of the year for Drags to date.
The forwards dominated the first half line outs after their extra training session on Thursday evening, which clearly paid off well. Thanks to CJ for running the session. The back row with Rupert (Churchy), Jared and Shannon all played well, with 'Jarhead' deservingly earning another man of the match performance after an unusually democratic team vote. A worthy winner of the Stevie Speirs Mug (more on this award later).
The second half started the same way with tries to Peyton Burnett, Tim Robinson and a second try in as many games for Shannon Ford.
The backs played impressively throughout the game with Phil, Robin, Pat, Tim, Cozzie, Callum and Adam combining well. The extra speed out wide was put to good use and the backline always looked dangerous with ball in hand. Pat had a great game with some strong running and solid defence. He completed the day in style by preventing a late try from Valley with a great run across the field to put in a superb covering tackle just before time. A great effort given it was late in the game and everyone was running out of gas.
In the last 10 minutes of the second half, Drags did begin to get tired and started to lose the structure that had served so well in the first 70 minutes. Valley took advantage and managed to get a late consolation try from broken play.
Stevie Speirs Mug
For those not aware this mug was established to commemorate the late Stevie Speirs who was the regular Drags hooker. Unfortunately Stevie was tragically killed in the Bali bombing while on tour with HKFC Vandals . The pewter mug is now awarded each week to the player voted by his team mates to be the best and fairest on the day. The nominated player can then have the mug all night and at no time should it be empty. All drags team players and friends are obliged to keep the mug full for the rest of the evening. The nominated player can also at anytime hand the mug to any other team mate who must drink the contents. At the end of the night the mug should be returned behind the bar ready for next week's game.
Well done Jared on winning the Stevie Speirs Mug. Sorry you couldn’t enjoy it straight away as I know you benched and played well for Club later.
See you all at training Monday night. Congratulations once again on a great Drags win.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
This is what it's all about
Afternoon chaps
Thought you would enjoy the piece below; I thought it was the best rugby story I have seen in ages. This just speaks volumes about Jerry Collins and shows you that the spirit of rugby is far from dead, despite what you may have thought after reading about Catt and Dallaglio's disgraceful comments about Brian Ashton. I used to play sometimes for Bideford, Barnstaple's big local rivals. It's great rugby country down there in the South West of England, and the game is played by people of all backgrounds and walks of life (with a strong smattering of hardnut farmers and fishermen, just to make it interesting). It's not nearly as elitist as rugby can often be in the UK and all the better for that. It tends to be slow, physical, rugby-as-attrition stuff, but you certainly know you've been in a game. And we all know how useful that slow, physical, rugby-as-attrition stuff can be in World Cups...
Anyway, I wasn't at the club last weekend, so there't not a whole lot I can tell you about the games. Club trounced Causeway Bay 81-3 but will surely have a sterner test against Valley on Saturday, Drags didn't play, Scorps went down 15-3 to Valley 2s (boooo) and Select won, by how much I know not. I reiterate once again my appeal for more news from Select, Sequins and Bulls. The Blog needs you boys!
Harps
All Black gives Barnstaple second XV the edge
By Michael Roper
Last Updated: 9:09am GMT 01/11/2007
The amateurs of Newton Abbot's second XV had the shock of their lives when they turned up for a game and discovered that the All Blacks' Jerry Collins was playing for the opposition.
The 6ft 3in, 17-stone flanker - nicknamed 'The Terminator' for his ferocious tackling - turned out for rival Devon side Barnstaple against a stunned group of butchers, builders and bricklayers from Newton Abbot.
Collins, the hard man of the New Zealand back row and the proud owner of the biggest biceps in their squad, ran in a storming try and made three try-saving tackles during his 55 minutes on the pitch, helping Barnstaple to a 21-7 away victory in the Devon Merit Table fixture.
The Samoan-born Collins, 26, took part in the match after bumping into Barnstaple's head coach, Kevin Squire, while on holiday in Devon. Squire was enjoying a meal in a restaurant when he spotted the All Black. "I did a double-take when I saw who it was and knew I had to introduce myself," he said.
"He was very polite and unassuming. We talked for several minutes and I mentioned the club and invited him to come down and watch a game, but of course never expected him to turn up. He did though and even coached a session with the under-14 side, who were completely awe-struck.
"I told him we had a match coming up and he was welcome to join us, but again I was gobsmacked when he showed up to catch the bus with the rest of the players.
"It was very surreal for the lads as they are all amateurs - most of them are builders, bricklayers, plumbers and so on. He had even been to a sports store to buy a pair of boots."
Thought you would enjoy the piece below; I thought it was the best rugby story I have seen in ages. This just speaks volumes about Jerry Collins and shows you that the spirit of rugby is far from dead, despite what you may have thought after reading about Catt and Dallaglio's disgraceful comments about Brian Ashton. I used to play sometimes for Bideford, Barnstaple's big local rivals. It's great rugby country down there in the South West of England, and the game is played by people of all backgrounds and walks of life (with a strong smattering of hardnut farmers and fishermen, just to make it interesting). It's not nearly as elitist as rugby can often be in the UK and all the better for that. It tends to be slow, physical, rugby-as-attrition stuff, but you certainly know you've been in a game. And we all know how useful that slow, physical, rugby-as-attrition stuff can be in World Cups...
Anyway, I wasn't at the club last weekend, so there't not a whole lot I can tell you about the games. Club trounced Causeway Bay 81-3 but will surely have a sterner test against Valley on Saturday, Drags didn't play, Scorps went down 15-3 to Valley 2s (boooo) and Select won, by how much I know not. I reiterate once again my appeal for more news from Select, Sequins and Bulls. The Blog needs you boys!
Harps
All Black gives Barnstaple second XV the edge
By Michael Roper
Last Updated: 9:09am GMT 01/11/2007
The amateurs of Newton Abbot's second XV had the shock of their lives when they turned up for a game and discovered that the All Blacks' Jerry Collins was playing for the opposition.
The 6ft 3in, 17-stone flanker - nicknamed 'The Terminator' for his ferocious tackling - turned out for rival Devon side Barnstaple against a stunned group of butchers, builders and bricklayers from Newton Abbot.
Collins, the hard man of the New Zealand back row and the proud owner of the biggest biceps in their squad, ran in a storming try and made three try-saving tackles during his 55 minutes on the pitch, helping Barnstaple to a 21-7 away victory in the Devon Merit Table fixture.
The Samoan-born Collins, 26, took part in the match after bumping into Barnstaple's head coach, Kevin Squire, while on holiday in Devon. Squire was enjoying a meal in a restaurant when he spotted the All Black. "I did a double-take when I saw who it was and knew I had to introduce myself," he said.
"He was very polite and unassuming. We talked for several minutes and I mentioned the club and invited him to come down and watch a game, but of course never expected him to turn up. He did though and even coached a session with the under-14 side, who were completely awe-struck.
"I told him we had a match coming up and he was welcome to join us, but again I was gobsmacked when he showed up to catch the bus with the rest of the players.
"It was very surreal for the lads as they are all amateurs - most of them are builders, bricklayers, plumbers and so on. He had even been to a sports store to buy a pair of boots."
Squire said his new recruit dropped down a gear to fit in with the standard of the game. "Jerry didn't play up his superstar status but was really one of the lads," he said. "He didn't crunch into them like he could have done – they would have gone flying. He adapted his level of play to suit the game like a proper gentleman. "It was a wonderful experience for all the players to play alongside such a big name in international rugby, even for the guys in the other team."
Newton Abbot coach Phil Burford said his side were "quite taken aback" when Barnstaple showed up with Collins in tow. "I think the second-team lads were pinching themselves after playing with such an icon," he said. "After the match he was inundated with fans asking for pictures and autographs and he was happy to do it. He was a true professional."
Friday, November 2, 2007
Meet the new lads #4 - Jez Lawson
Above: Two thirds of the Scorps front row celebrates their remarkable win over Valley and England's workaday dismissal of Australia's feeble challenge. Modest Lawson (see the response below) is on the left with the beer-soaked shirt.Name: Jez Lawson
Age: 29
Occupation: Headhunter and Eligible Batchelor
Nationality: British
Rugby position: Glamour Hooker
Previous rugby clubs: Downside School, London Irish, London Exiles
Favorite things about HKFC rugby: The towels
One thing you would change/introduce: I would like to change the perception of the club amongst the opposition. I hear a lot of accusations of arrogance and smugness. I feel that I can do a lot to alter this.
Most embarrassing rugby experience: Hooking against Trevor Leota for 20mins. I gave him some banter - he made me cry - I was subbed - my Father was watching.
SoHo or LKF? As long as its not WanChai.
Drop or Mes Amis? Drop. I like it when my shoes don’t stick to the floor.
Skiing or diving? Après-ski is one of my favorite pastimes. Après-dive..?
Reading or music? Music. Although I enjoy being read to.
Paris Hilton or Scarlett Johansen? I’m so tired of being asked this question. None of the reports are true.
Age: 29
Occupation: Headhunter and Eligible Batchelor
Nationality: British
Rugby position: Glamour Hooker
Previous rugby clubs: Downside School, London Irish, London Exiles
Favorite things about HKFC rugby: The towels
One thing you would change/introduce: I would like to change the perception of the club amongst the opposition. I hear a lot of accusations of arrogance and smugness. I feel that I can do a lot to alter this.
Most embarrassing rugby experience: Hooking against Trevor Leota for 20mins. I gave him some banter - he made me cry - I was subbed - my Father was watching.
SoHo or LKF? As long as its not WanChai.
Drop or Mes Amis? Drop. I like it when my shoes don’t stick to the floor.
Skiing or diving? Après-ski is one of my favorite pastimes. Après-dive..?
Reading or music? Music. Although I enjoy being read to.
Paris Hilton or Scarlett Johansen? I’m so tired of being asked this question. None of the reports are true.
Beer's amazing powers of rehydration
Afternoon. Some tremendous news on a Friday for you (courtesy of Chris Howard and the Daily Telegraph, that bastion of all right-thinking opinion in the UK). Yes, beer can help you rehydrate. We'd always known it had many benefits (making you funnier, making women seem more attractive) but this is the clincher. No more gatorade for me! Harps
Beer after sport 'is good for the body'
By Nic Fleming, Science Correspondent
Last Updated: 5:01pm GMT 01/11/2007
A beer after playing a game of football, a long run, or a strenuous round of golf can be good for the body, scientists say.
In a rare piece of good news for those who like a pint, Spanish researchers say beer can help someone who is dehydrated retain liquid better than water.Prof Manuel Garzon, of Granada University, also claimed the bubbles in beer help to quench the thirst and that its carbohydrate content can help to replace lost calories.Prof Garzon asked a group of students to do strenuous exercise in temperatures of around 40ºC (104ºF). Half were given a pint of beer, while the others received the same volume of water.
Prof Garzon, who announced the results at a press conference in Granada beneath a banner declaring "Beer, Sport, Health", said the hydration effect in those who drank beer was "slightly better".
Juan Antonio Corbalan, a cardiologist who worked formerly with Real Madrid football players and Spain's national basketball team, said beer had the perfect profile for re-hydration after sport.
He added that he had long recommended barley drinks to professional sportsmen after exercise.
Previous studies have shown most alcoholic drinks have a diuretic effect – meaning they increase the amount of liquid lost by the body through urination.
Dr James Betts, an expert on nutrition and metabolism at Bath University, said a moderate amount of beer might be just as good as water at helping the body retain liquid, but that he doubted it could be any better.
Dr Betts said: "If you are dehydrated to start with following exercise, a beer, as opposed to a spirit, probably does not have a high enough concentration of alcohol to induce a diuretic effect."
Beer after sport 'is good for the body'
By Nic Fleming, Science Correspondent
Last Updated: 5:01pm GMT 01/11/2007
A beer after playing a game of football, a long run, or a strenuous round of golf can be good for the body, scientists say.
In a rare piece of good news for those who like a pint, Spanish researchers say beer can help someone who is dehydrated retain liquid better than water.Prof Manuel Garzon, of Granada University, also claimed the bubbles in beer help to quench the thirst and that its carbohydrate content can help to replace lost calories.Prof Garzon asked a group of students to do strenuous exercise in temperatures of around 40ºC (104ºF). Half were given a pint of beer, while the others received the same volume of water.
Prof Garzon, who announced the results at a press conference in Granada beneath a banner declaring "Beer, Sport, Health", said the hydration effect in those who drank beer was "slightly better".
Juan Antonio Corbalan, a cardiologist who worked formerly with Real Madrid football players and Spain's national basketball team, said beer had the perfect profile for re-hydration after sport.
He added that he had long recommended barley drinks to professional sportsmen after exercise.
Previous studies have shown most alcoholic drinks have a diuretic effect – meaning they increase the amount of liquid lost by the body through urination.
Dr James Betts, an expert on nutrition and metabolism at Bath University, said a moderate amount of beer might be just as good as water at helping the body retain liquid, but that he doubted it could be any better.
Dr Betts said: "If you are dehydrated to start with following exercise, a beer, as opposed to a spirit, probably does not have a high enough concentration of alcohol to induce a diuretic effect."
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Meet the new lads #3 - Mike McKee
Name: Mike McKeeAge: 21
Occupation: Event & Project Coordinator
Nationality: Scottish
Rugby position: Full Back
Previous rugby clubs: Watsonians Favourite things about HKFC rugby: the unbeaten record we have (at the moment)
One thing you would change/introduce: Tighter rugby tops!?!?!?!?
Most embarrassing rugby experience: This one time in band camp
SoHo or LKF?: LKF probably, can't find a reason though
Drop or Mes Amis?: Mes Amis because you can pretty much get away with anything in that place
Skiing or diving?: Diving, I'm more of a beach boy
Reading or music?: Music
Paris Hilton or Scarlett Johansen?: Scarlett Johansen, I wouldn't date a girl who is taller than me!
Meet the new lads #2 - Adam Raby
Name:
Adam Raby
Adam RabyAge: 21
Occupation : unemployed advertiser! (so if anyone can help me that would be great)
Nationality: British
Rugby position: Fly Half, Wing, Full Back
Previous rugby clubs: Worth School, St Bede's School, University of Lincoln, Lincoln RFU
Favourite things about HKFC rugby: The people and the standard of rugby (don't suck up...)
One thing you would change/introduce: Nothing I've played at a poor standard all my life so this is perfect!
Most embarrassing rugby experience: Either trying to take a drop kick from the half way line for Drags or rugby initiation
SoHo or LKF? LKF - more beer, better bars
Drop or Mes Amis? mmmm Drop... I got kicked out of Mes Amis once, so...
Skiing or diving? Diving - much more fun...
Reading or music? Music - captures the feelings more
Paris Hilton or Scarlett Johansen? Scarlett Johansen - Paris is too stupid!
Sound familiar?
Not a huge RL fan, but I thought some of our Kiwi cousins might appreciate this. Quite frankly, my first thought was "don't be a sook, it's over." If Chalmers would like a shoulder to cry on, I suggest he calls Brian O'Driscoll and Clive Woodward.
Harps
Kiwis enraged by Burgess decision (BBC Sport)
New Zealand have reacted furiously after Great Britain prop Sam Burgess escaped punishment for a high tackle on Fuifui Moimoi in the first Test.
Burgess was placed on report for the incident, but a three-man panel cleared him - by a 2-1 vote - to play in the second Test on Saturday.
"This just leaves me gobsmacked," said New Zealand Rugby League chairman Andrew Chalmers.
"They seem intent on treating us like a bunch of natives from the colonies."
The 18-year-old Burgess scored a try on his debut as the Lions won the first Test 20-14.
606: DEBATE
Referee Tony Archer put Burgess on report for a clear high tackle on Moimoi in the second half at Huddersfield, but the video review panel, which included a New Zealander, decided to take no action.
The decision has aggravated New Zealand, who already felt a sense of injustice after Burgess' fellow Great Britain prop Adrian Morley also avoided disciplinary action for a high tackle on Awen Guttenbeil during the Northern Union's match against the All Golds.
"It's dejà vu," said Chalmers, who sat in on the hearing as an observer.
"It was an appalling set-up job to let Morley free last week.
"These people show a flagrant disregard for their own rules or they just simply opt to use them or discard them as and when it suits them.
"With this current system in place, the numbers will always be stacked against us Kiwis."
Moimoi sat out training after the clash with Burgess and is on painkillers after sustaining neck and jaw injuries. But Kiwi coach Gary Kemble is certain he will be fit for the second Test.
For him to miss a game would have been unjust GB boss Tony Smith
A delighted Burgess said he was happy to be in the clear, admitting: "It's definitely a relief.
"I would have been heartbroken to miss the Test.
"I have a few things I need to work on in my defensive technique, no more high shots."
Great Britain coach Tony Smith was also relieved that the Bradford forward will not miss the second in the three-match Test series.
"It's great to have him available," said Smith. "He did some good stuff last week for us.
"The incident such as Sam's the other day, which was accidental rather than deliberate, may have warranted 10 minutes in the sin-bin and then it's done and dusted.
"For him to miss a game would have been unjust because it's a third of the whole series. That is like suspending someone from the normal competition for nine games."
Burgess, who is now expected to win his second cap at the KC Stadium, was the youngest player to make his Great Britain debut since Andy Farrell in 1993 and emulated the Wigan great by scoring a try.
Harps
Kiwis enraged by Burgess decision (BBC Sport)
New Zealand have reacted furiously after Great Britain prop Sam Burgess escaped punishment for a high tackle on Fuifui Moimoi in the first Test.
Burgess was placed on report for the incident, but a three-man panel cleared him - by a 2-1 vote - to play in the second Test on Saturday.
"This just leaves me gobsmacked," said New Zealand Rugby League chairman Andrew Chalmers.
"They seem intent on treating us like a bunch of natives from the colonies."
The 18-year-old Burgess scored a try on his debut as the Lions won the first Test 20-14.
606: DEBATE
Referee Tony Archer put Burgess on report for a clear high tackle on Moimoi in the second half at Huddersfield, but the video review panel, which included a New Zealander, decided to take no action.
The decision has aggravated New Zealand, who already felt a sense of injustice after Burgess' fellow Great Britain prop Adrian Morley also avoided disciplinary action for a high tackle on Awen Guttenbeil during the Northern Union's match against the All Golds.
"It's dejà vu," said Chalmers, who sat in on the hearing as an observer.
"It was an appalling set-up job to let Morley free last week.
"These people show a flagrant disregard for their own rules or they just simply opt to use them or discard them as and when it suits them.
"With this current system in place, the numbers will always be stacked against us Kiwis."
Moimoi sat out training after the clash with Burgess and is on painkillers after sustaining neck and jaw injuries. But Kiwi coach Gary Kemble is certain he will be fit for the second Test.
For him to miss a game would have been unjust GB boss Tony Smith
A delighted Burgess said he was happy to be in the clear, admitting: "It's definitely a relief.
"I would have been heartbroken to miss the Test.
"I have a few things I need to work on in my defensive technique, no more high shots."
Great Britain coach Tony Smith was also relieved that the Bradford forward will not miss the second in the three-match Test series.
"It's great to have him available," said Smith. "He did some good stuff last week for us.
"The incident such as Sam's the other day, which was accidental rather than deliberate, may have warranted 10 minutes in the sin-bin and then it's done and dusted.
"For him to miss a game would have been unjust because it's a third of the whole series. That is like suspending someone from the normal competition for nine games."
Burgess, who is now expected to win his second cap at the KC Stadium, was the youngest player to make his Great Britain debut since Andy Farrell in 1993 and emulated the Wigan great by scoring a try.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Meet the New Lads #1
Afternoon
You've seen them around, you probably bought them drinks before their membership cards arrived, but you might not know much about them. Allow the Blog to present everything you need to know about this season's new lads, starting with Jared Smith.
Name: Jared Smith
Age: 25
Occupation: Solicitor
Nationality: British - born in Hong Kong (Did you know that Q? My goodness, he's AQ)
Position: Open-side
Previous rugby clubs: Cambridge University, Haywards Heath, Nottingham Moderns, Old Haberdashs' among others
Favourite things about HKFC rugby: Bundy and coke
One thing you would change or introduce: cheerleaders at games
SoHo or LKF? LKF - you always have to have vodka jelly close to hand in case of emergency
Drop or Mes Amis? Mes Amis - trying to avoid detection for getting free drinks on from the girls on ladies night keeps you on your toes
Skiing or diving? skiing - have you ever heard of apres-dive?
Reading or music? music - you cant make shapes to books
Paris Hilton or Scarlett Johansen? Scarlett - its all in the lips....
You've seen them around, you probably bought them drinks before their membership cards arrived, but you might not know much about them. Allow the Blog to present everything you need to know about this season's new lads, starting with Jared Smith.
Name: Jared Smith
Age: 25
Occupation: Solicitor
Nationality: British - born in Hong Kong (Did you know that Q? My goodness, he's AQ)
Position: Open-side
Previous rugby clubs: Cambridge University, Haywards Heath, Nottingham Moderns, Old Haberdashs' among others
Favourite things about HKFC rugby: Bundy and coke
One thing you would change or introduce: cheerleaders at games
SoHo or LKF? LKF - you always have to have vodka jelly close to hand in case of emergency
Drop or Mes Amis? Mes Amis - trying to avoid detection for getting free drinks on from the girls on ladies night keeps you on your toes
Skiing or diving? skiing - have you ever heard of apres-dive?
Reading or music? music - you cant make shapes to books
Paris Hilton or Scarlett Johansen? Scarlett - its all in the lips....
Club pass stern test from Kowloon
CBRE Club 22-16 In Projects Kowloon
There was a tremendous sense of anticipation around the Club before this one. Kowloon have powered up their side, bringing in quality imported players in key positions. And they were up for this one. Every opponent so far this year has wanted to claim as their scalp the end of Club's unbeaten record, but I think Kowloon really believed they could do it. And, in the final analysis, Fred Moe's side weren't far away at all. This was perhaps the challenge and the scare Club needed, although they should take pride in having still managed to extending their unbeaten record while going through this.
At the beginning of the game, it was business as usual. A strong scrum from the Club pack, admirably fronted by Spizziri, Cameron and Hobler, allows Kibble to get the ball going forward, wrong-foot his markers and then feed the ball to Rouse, who charges over after delivering an emphatic hand-off to his would-be tackler. Kowloon answered with a penalty, but when Peter McKee darted over for a converted try in the 19th minute, nerves settled and the spectators settled back to sup their pints and see another side put to the sword by this season's resurgent Club.
Not so. It would be harsh to say Club dropped their intensity, but Kowloon certainly found their resolve at this point. It wasn't pretty, but it worked surprisingly quickly. Their big forwards crashed up brutally straightforward ball with little pace but a lot of power and they soon created enough space to score their first try, taking the score to 12-10 Club. After that, Kowloon dominated possession for the second half of the first half. Club's tackling became poorer after long periods of hauling down Kowloon's big men and defensive rucks and mauls and, when Club had the ball, their handling, passing and ball retention in the ruck often let them down. Another penalty to Kowloon and Club went into half time behind their opponents for the first time this season.
Skipper Tom Cameron told his troops at half time that they would need to be even more committed, aggressive and plain dogged to lift themselves to victory in the second half of a physical, messy and fired-up game. Australians have one word that encapsulates the attitude perfectly: mongrel. And Club did indeed tap their reserves of grit and meanness in the second half. Once again, it wasn't pretty. But Club raised the intensity, matched Kowloon blow for blow, and claimed their reward when Hussey capitalised on some confused defending to score in the 9th minute. Then Kibble capped an outstanding performance at outside with a lovely break to score and extend Club's lead to 22-13. Despite a robust performance in all other respects, Mike McKee endured a disappointing day with the boot by his standards and handed over goalkicking duties to Pat Fordham after he failed to convert Kibble's try. Kowloon pressed hard right to the end, kicking another penalty to put them within a converted try of victory, but Club's will to win was too strong and they hung on to emerge, ultimately, as worthy victors.
The match was also marked by the sad sight of 'Junior' Naylor being carried off with a torn hamstring, the amusing one of Richard Rouse standing his ground as two knuckle-dragging forwards marched menacingly towards him with murder in mind after an altercation at a ruck, and the bizarre one of Rory Hussey being yellow-carded twice in the second half for lying on the ball. Me, sir? Never...
Harps
Drags smash Aberdeen at SKP
From Drags Team Manager, Murray Sargant
HKFC Dragons 51-7 HKCC
An outstanding result on the weekend against Aberdeen.
This weekend was not looking all that great for us as CJ and I worked hard on pulling the team together all week. Firstly on Thursday night Grewers hurt his neck and was not up to playing and secondly on game day itself Robin pulled up lame with a nagging calf strain. Luckily for Drags we called on Phil Reid and Shoey to fill the gaps and they didn’t disappoint. Unfortunately that did leave us with one reserve for the game itself but luckily it was super sub David Gutherie.
It became apparent early on that our pack was in a dominant frame of mind and the front row of Babis, Kim and Harper made sure that the Aberdeen scrum was going to have a long day in the office. We turned over at least four of their feeds and on our put in we were rock solid. This meant that we had heaps of procession and the result was some excellent pressure leading to the first try from Callum in left hand corner.
After that it was the turn of the Drags lineout to have a go. They didn’t disappoint with Tim jumping at 2 and Corks at 4 we dominated the air and made every lineout competitive. Plenty of quality ball for Phil Reid to distribute and the backline which didn’t disappoint. Raby was in confident form and looked dangerous every time he touched the ball. Two great tries from out wide and Aberdeen even with their star centre from the 1st were on the rack. Raby then did a Wilkinson and had an unsuccessful attempted at drop goal from just inside the halfway line. Won’t repeat what CJ thought of this use of the ball but you cant hold back the confidence of youth. He then went onto score three tries and set up a fourth so CJ felt all was forgiven. Stobart take note if you miss a drop goal you better score three tries.
Going into the half we felt comfortable and that resulted in our only lapse of the game. We were throwing the ball around from side to side and sure enough one of our passes got intercepted. The backs then recovered well bringing the Aberdeen centre down on the 22 meter line. However with quick ball and some fast rucks Aberdeen eventually got the ball back to their large centre who went over from close range. The resulting try and conversion really got Drags fired up and that meant more trouble for Aberdeen for the remaining second half.
The backs then really opened up with a second try to Callum on the wing. This was the try of the day as Callum raced down the right touch line Aberdeen seemed to have him covered. A little extra gas from Callum and a nice step made the Aberdeen defence hesitate and then the fullback went high. Callum brushed him off and managed to stay well inside the touch line for great solo try. The rest of the afternoon had Andy Yip get on the score board with two touch downs and also another for Raby and one each for Ramsey and Shannon finished off the 9 try wrought. The only negative was that Corkery got nailed in the ribs from a very hard hit in one of our many attacking moves. The result was three broken ribs and a painful end of the game for Corks. He is fine although he will need the next few weeks to get his ribs back in shape. I can confirm that straight after the hit and while he couldn’t breath his first words were “ I want to punch that fucker” Summed up the spirit in the team that day with everyone giving 110%.
By far the strongest game of the year from Drags despite not having a bench sorry David as you did get a run so we ended the game with no bench. The fact we never let up and kept scoring and putting the pressure on was excellent. We had starring performances right across the park with Raby leading the try count, Peyton and Shannon driving up the middle, Edgar and Corks in the air but the Man of the Match as voted by CJ and Ramsey as Captain was Phil Reid. Phil played a fantastic solid game in attack and was the fourth member of the backrow cleaning up any forwards that wanted to run in his direction. A great performance from him, a very worthy winner in what was a great day for Drags.
Well done to the entire team. A Superb effort.
HKFC Dragons v HKCC
Saturday 27 August, 3.00pm, SKP
1. Adam Harper
2. Kim Cau
3. Damien Babis
4. Peyton Burnett
5. Ramsey Carter(C) (try)
6. Shannon Ford (try)
7. Andrew Corkery
8. Tim Edgar
9. Phil Reid
10. Ben Harris
11. Adam Raby (3 tries)
12. Simon Shoebridge
13. Andy Yip (2 tries)
14. Callum Nieto (2 tries)
15. Ed Cosgrove
Replacement: David Gutherie
HKFC Dragons 51-7 HKCC
An outstanding result on the weekend against Aberdeen.
This weekend was not looking all that great for us as CJ and I worked hard on pulling the team together all week. Firstly on Thursday night Grewers hurt his neck and was not up to playing and secondly on game day itself Robin pulled up lame with a nagging calf strain. Luckily for Drags we called on Phil Reid and Shoey to fill the gaps and they didn’t disappoint. Unfortunately that did leave us with one reserve for the game itself but luckily it was super sub David Gutherie.
It became apparent early on that our pack was in a dominant frame of mind and the front row of Babis, Kim and Harper made sure that the Aberdeen scrum was going to have a long day in the office. We turned over at least four of their feeds and on our put in we were rock solid. This meant that we had heaps of procession and the result was some excellent pressure leading to the first try from Callum in left hand corner.
After that it was the turn of the Drags lineout to have a go. They didn’t disappoint with Tim jumping at 2 and Corks at 4 we dominated the air and made every lineout competitive. Plenty of quality ball for Phil Reid to distribute and the backline which didn’t disappoint. Raby was in confident form and looked dangerous every time he touched the ball. Two great tries from out wide and Aberdeen even with their star centre from the 1st were on the rack. Raby then did a Wilkinson and had an unsuccessful attempted at drop goal from just inside the halfway line. Won’t repeat what CJ thought of this use of the ball but you cant hold back the confidence of youth. He then went onto score three tries and set up a fourth so CJ felt all was forgiven. Stobart take note if you miss a drop goal you better score three tries.
Going into the half we felt comfortable and that resulted in our only lapse of the game. We were throwing the ball around from side to side and sure enough one of our passes got intercepted. The backs then recovered well bringing the Aberdeen centre down on the 22 meter line. However with quick ball and some fast rucks Aberdeen eventually got the ball back to their large centre who went over from close range. The resulting try and conversion really got Drags fired up and that meant more trouble for Aberdeen for the remaining second half.
The backs then really opened up with a second try to Callum on the wing. This was the try of the day as Callum raced down the right touch line Aberdeen seemed to have him covered. A little extra gas from Callum and a nice step made the Aberdeen defence hesitate and then the fullback went high. Callum brushed him off and managed to stay well inside the touch line for great solo try. The rest of the afternoon had Andy Yip get on the score board with two touch downs and also another for Raby and one each for Ramsey and Shannon finished off the 9 try wrought. The only negative was that Corkery got nailed in the ribs from a very hard hit in one of our many attacking moves. The result was three broken ribs and a painful end of the game for Corks. He is fine although he will need the next few weeks to get his ribs back in shape. I can confirm that straight after the hit and while he couldn’t breath his first words were “ I want to punch that fucker” Summed up the spirit in the team that day with everyone giving 110%.
By far the strongest game of the year from Drags despite not having a bench sorry David as you did get a run so we ended the game with no bench. The fact we never let up and kept scoring and putting the pressure on was excellent. We had starring performances right across the park with Raby leading the try count, Peyton and Shannon driving up the middle, Edgar and Corks in the air but the Man of the Match as voted by CJ and Ramsey as Captain was Phil Reid. Phil played a fantastic solid game in attack and was the fourth member of the backrow cleaning up any forwards that wanted to run in his direction. A great performance from him, a very worthy winner in what was a great day for Drags.
Well done to the entire team. A Superb effort.
HKFC Dragons v HKCC
Saturday 27 August, 3.00pm, SKP
1. Adam Harper
2. Kim Cau
3. Damien Babis
4. Peyton Burnett
5. Ramsey Carter(C) (try)
6. Shannon Ford (try)
7. Andrew Corkery
8. Tim Edgar
9. Phil Reid
10. Ben Harris
11. Adam Raby (3 tries)
12. Simon Shoebridge
13. Andy Yip (2 tries)
14. Callum Nieto (2 tries)
15. Ed Cosgrove
Replacement: David Gutherie
Friday, October 26, 2007
In Glorious Technicolour
Above: Gus demonstrates his sporting nature by turning his back to the opposition and offering them the ball. A fat bloke attempts to assist. (Picture: Brian van Langenberg) 
Above: Nice shot of life at the coal face. Note the look of concentration on Tim Edgar's face; he's seen the ball at the DEA 8's feet and is preparing to fling himself at their No. 10 in the manner of Lewis 'Mad Dog' Moody. The Club backs are up nice and flat. (Picture: Brian van Langenberg)ANYWAY, there you go. It's great to finally get some photos of us on the blog. These were kindly provided by Tim Edgar's friend, which is why they are a bit Edgar-centric. I really want lots more photos - they make this blog so much more interesting than my usual waffle. Please send 'em to me at adam.harper@asia.ing.com and I will publish the b*ggers, every one.
More to come ahead of tomorrow's games...
Harps
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
The Boks are Back; the Blog is Back
Allow me to start off by congratulating South Africa on their historic achievement in winning a second world cup. So much has been said about the final already that I don't propose to add to it beyond saying that the most complete, tactically astute and determined team in the tournament won it and they deserve massive credit. Nearly two months of 3am kick-offs and amusing rugby emails have left me mentally weak, as Stobart might say, but I can in all seriousness hardly wait for RWC 2011 in the Land of the Long White Cloud. Mr James Cook was even talking about organising a HKFC tour. God help us if the ABs don't win.
Back to Hong Kong, centre of the known universe. My blogging blockage of late has been largely caused by the massively time-consuming business of entertaining one set of parents in HK; I even resorted to making my Dad referee a tense encounter between Valley and Kowloon in Division 5 to keep him occupied. But here I am, back at the keyboard, with apologies for the hiatus.
Last weekend's fixture list was curtailed because of byes for Scorps and for the Drags, who were meant to be playing the PLA but were informed that the Chinese army boys couldn't make it because they were planning an invasion (or couldn't get visas, whichever). Club played DEA Tigers at HKFC, Select played Valley and I think I am right in saying that Bulls rather sadly broke their winning streak with a shock loss against those old bruisers from Police. We can satisfy the rugby world's curiosity concerning these games if Centurion Cooper and Mr Riordan would like to let me have details.
CBRE Club 22-10 DEA TIGERS
I am happy to report, however, that Club marched on, stretching this season's unbeaten record for another week in the face of a stiff challenge from DEA. As Coach Quinton Wrigley predicted, Club's fitness was key, allowing them to outlast DEA's intense initial challenge and go on to control the game. Club managed some lovely interplay in attack between backs and forwards, with James Kibble, Richard Rouse, Rob Mills and Rory Hussey standing out, but the victory was built on a bedrock of aggressive defence and solid set-piece play. With several key players - including prop Pete Spizzirri, lock Tim Griffin , flanker Kris Maren and Captain Nigel D'Acre - missing, Club did well to keep their shape and impose themselves against tough opposition. Captain for the day Andrew Chambers said afterwards that Club had showed some real 'mongrel,' as Aussies like to say.
Hussey, Rouse and newcomer Pat Foreman crossed for Club's three tries, while Mike McKee kicked two conversions and a penalty. Club were perhaps unlucky not to cross again for a fourth try and a bonus point, as notable Valley-lover and Club-critic Alvin Sallay was kind enough to point out in the Sunday Morning Post, but they will be happy to remain the only unbeaten team in Dvision One ahead of next Saturday's clash with Kowloon.
CBRE Club v DEA TIGERS
Saturday 20 October 2007, 6.00pm, HKFC
1. Adam Harper
2. Tom Cameron
3. Nigel Hobler
4. Angus Washington
5. Steve Matthew
6. Tim Edgar
7. Rory Hussey
8. Rob Mills
9. Peter McKee
10. James Kibble
11. Dan Parr
12. Richard Rouse
13. Pat Foreman
14. Andrew Chambers
15. Mike McKee
Replacements
Damian Babis, Laurence Denvir, Ben Stobart, Tim Robinson, Rob Naylor, Adam Raby, Sean Byrne
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