Eastern Counties Rugby Union

With this match all set to go ahead at Thetford RFC, there was much consternation as, when the teams arrived, the pitch was frozen solid. Fortunately, Wymondham RFC kindly came to the rescue and the players and supporters made the short journey to find the Wymondham pitch in excellent condition.

This traditional fixture has always proved a stern test as Yorkshire are very well organised and tend to produce players who have both bulk and athleticism. As a development contest, there were three periods of half an hour’s play allowing all players in the extended squads to have at least 30 minutes playing time.
The EC squad had been denied a training session by a frozen pitch on the previous Monday whereas Yorkshire had trained the previous day. This lack of preparation showed in the first half-hour as Yorkshire were quickly into their stride and established a commanding lead. EC did recover towards the end of the period and started to make their tackles count.

The second period belonged to EC with the players, having seen the standard required, throwing everything into the game. Tackles were hard and clear-outs were made and Yorkshire were put off their stride by the intensity of the EC play resulting in a series of penalties which EC used to good effect to gain possession and territory. As a result, EC edged this period by 7points to 5.

The final period saw more ferocious encounters all over the pitch and, although Yorkshire just took the honours, there were some excellent performances all over the field.
The teams returned to Thetford to enjoy their hospitality before Yorkshire left for their long journey home. A day that both team’s coaches agreed was very valuable as they look to build their squads for the U18 observed games next season.

John Mackay