Old Blues vs Raynes Park

The Old Blues were hosting our local rivals and fellow league title contenders Raynes Park on Saturday. This match had been delayed due our cup run earlier this season and as well as giving the winner some breathing space at the top of Surrey 3, it was also the quarter final of the Surrey Bowl – just in case there wasn’t enough of an edge already…. It was clear both sides had been eyeing this fixture as the tempo of the opening exchanges clearly demonstrated that both teams were well up for it. The Blues probably shaded it slightly in the first quarter, managing to break the Raynes Park line to go over in the corner for the first try. Raynes Park then started to up the ante, with the Blues making life difficult for themselves with a number of unforced handling errors in midfield. Raynes Park took advantage of some defensive chaos and scored a try in the corner of a quick tap penalty and then edged in front with a well taken penalty kick late in the first half. The half time whistle went with the visitors leading 8-5. Those among the big crowd watching from the sidelines would be forgiven for being slightly nervous however, we felt amongst ourselves that the game was there for the taking if we just settled things down, exploited our increasing dominance up front and maybe hold on to the ball for an extra couple of phases. This was the plan as the second half kicked off until we suddenly found ourselves with a couple of gaps in front of us and the backs decided to do what they do best and started skinning people. Two quick tries, one converted, after the restart saw the Blues establish a lead they would hold on to for the rest of the game. Another try followed towards the end of the third quarter and that would normally have sealed things but Raynes Park came back at us again, going over just beside the posts after a spell camped out on our line. The next score was going to have a big impact, either way and the Blues managed to extend their lead again with a penalty kick just inside the Raynes Park 22. Another try scored off the back of a great break by Michael Gray put us further out of sight and the deal was sealed with a cracking try scored by Kobby off the back of a delightful kick and chase up the middle of the field. The conversion was the last kick of the game and the whistle went with Old Blues winners by 37-15. This was a great match played by two good teams on a gorgeous day in front of a big crowd. It was a top drawer performance by the Old Blues, especially the pack, who had a cracking day at the set piece but HdM went to Mike Gray who was at his sniping best in the no.9 jersey. So, the Blues’ league campaign stays on track and we are now through to the semi-final of the Surrey Bowl. Next week the Old Blues take on Merton RFC at Motspur Park.