Old Blues vs Mitcham

The Old Blues headed off on the Tram on Saturday to take on Surrey 3 league leaders Mitcham in what we knew was going to be a tough match. A slight mix up with the kick off time meant that (for once) the Blues turned up in plenty of time and were able to get some very good pre-match prep done. This seemed to pay dividends as the Blues started with all cylinders firing and brought the game to Mitcham from the kick off. In a fast paced and fiercely contested opening quarter the Blues managed to strike first with Kobby touching down under the posts after some great combination play resulting from a turnover in our own half. Mitcham responded in style with a well worked try to touch down in the corner however the blustery conditions blew the conversion wide and the Blues still held the lead. The game resumed at pretty much the same pace and the Blues managed to extend their lead with a Simon Bourke try just before the whistle to leave the score at 12-5 to the Blues at half time. It was clear that the next score in the game was going to have a huge bearing on the final result and both teams came out with all guns blazing. However outstanding Old Blues defence and dominance up front meant that, despite the odd Mitcham break, we had the momentum in the third quarter. This paid off when the Blues drove over after collecting a 5m line out and Rob Huckin grounded the ball with about 10mins left on the clock. The Blues continued to keep up the pressure and the final play of the game saw some great combination between the two JPs with James Pickard breaking down the right wing and James Powell running a fantastic spport line to take the pass and go over in the far corner. Final score was 22-5 to the Old Blues. It was a good all round performance by the Blues who showed great discipline and maintained their shape and structure throughout the 80mins. Another barnstorming performance by Graeme Humphreys saw him take ownership of the HdM tankard for the second time this season. However the day ended on a more sombre note when it became apparent that the Mitcham full back sustained a serious neck injury trying to defend the final try. Things took a dramatic turn when he had to be airlifted from the pitch but latest reports indicate that he is expected to recover. We wish him a full and speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him at the bar in Motspur Park later this season.