Well done to all the dads and coaches (and a couple of ringers) who turned out to give the girls a lesson in how to play rugby using a zimmer frame and walking sticks.
Despite the obvious help from the referee who tried his hardest to give the girls a victory, the old gits won CONVINCINGLY HA HA.
With the Old gits having taken a commanding half time lead the referee decided that in the 2nd half he would even things up and gave out numerous yellow cards for trivial offences such as questioning his parentage or tackling girls off the ball and yours truly spent much of the 2nd half along with Mark in the sin bin with 7 yellow cards between the two of us.
Twas a good game and great fun and well done to all who turned out.
The Xmas draw took place to win the 2 fantastic Benefit Cosmetics hampers kindly donated by Ian, Gail and all the girls at Benefit in Chelmsford.
Thanks to all those girls/coaches parents who sold tickets, all the monies raised will go towards the tour kit for the Easter tour.
Prize winners of the hampers
Bev Harvey
Sarah (Scotties sister)
Thanks to all and have a great Xmas and see you all on the 4th Jan for the home game with Saracens.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Few Pics of Basford girls playing at County.
Shivy, Kez, Sarah MCB, Megan, Jen
Jen, Kez, Sam
Frank, Jemma, Fi, Sarah MCB
Sarah MCB, Jemma & Sam
Shivy, Jemma, Jen,
Frank, India (background), Jemma, Megan
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Essex Squads 2008/9
U15's
(Back row L to R) Abbie G,Claire,Yaz,Olivia(Capt),Layla, Lucie, Maddy
(Front Row) Abbie C, Hannah, Bron, Amy (Missing from picture due to injury is Katie)
U18's
(Back row) Jen,Jess,Fi,Frenchie,Siobhan,Frank,Meg,Tash,Frances,Sam
(Front Row) Jemma,Scottie,India,Sarah MCB (Capt), Shivvy,Keziah,Sophie,Anna
Essex Triangular Tournament.
As their Alter ego "Essex County", the Basford girls last weekend played host to Kent and Sussex at Southend.
On what was a cold,crisp but dry day both age groups arrived at Southend full of confidence following recent results both as the County and Club side.
U18's
The first game of the day saw Kent up against Sussex in what was an evenly fought game which following a couple of well worked tries went in Kents favour 12-0.
Essex v Kent
The 2nd game of the day saw our girls up against a strong Kent side who had gained the upper hand in the previous clash at Aylesford 12-0.
Determined to make up for this uncharacteristic defeat, the girls were quickly into their stride and from the kick off the ball was well gathered by Fi who played it straight out to Scottie who then whipped a quick ball out to Shiv on the wing to start the 1st of many runs at the Kent defence.
With the front row of Sarah MCB, Jemma and Sam hitting everything that ran at them it allowed the backs to get quick ball and run at the Kent line and supported at every breakdown by Meg and Frances, Jen was like a little terrier feeding of every mistake the Kent girls made and playing some terrific ball out to the centres.
It didnt take the girls long to break the line, and Jen fed Scottie who dummied the defender and ran from the half way line to go over right under the post. Scottie then converting the kick to make it 7-0.
With the forwards gaining the upper hand against a much bigger Kent pack it allowed the backs to continually run at Kent and some terrific phases of play between, Scottie, India, Frenchie, Kez and Sophie soon gave Scottie the opportunity to go over in the corner to make it 12-0.
Turning round in the 2nd half, Kent made a few changes up front which momentarily gave them the upper hand and following a couple of probing runs allowed Kent to go over to make it 12-5.
Essex made a couple of changes bringing on Siobhan, Anna and Tash which gave the line some fresh legs and it wasnt long before Jen had recylced the ball and quickly fed Scottie who went over for her 3rd try of the day which she converted to give a final score to Essex 19-5.
Essex v Sussex
With Sussex looking to make their mark following their defeat to Kent, the game started with at a fast pace, however as with the Kent game the Essex forwards were in no mood to give an inch and with Jen again hovering at the back of every ruck and maul she was giving plenty of ball to the centres to run at the Sussex line. Mid way through the first half the tenacious Frank again broke the line only to be dragged down, but with the forwards piling in to secure ball it was quickly fed back to Frank who this time needed no 2nd chance to go over to make it 5-0. With the game flowing from end to end, it wasnt long before Sussex recorded their 1st points of the day with a well worked try to make it 5-5.
Spured on by this, the Essex girls upped the pace and started to run at the Sussex line which resulted in a try for Jen after Frank had been held up inches short of the line. 10-5.
Sussex not to be outdone put a couple of lovely passes together and as their winger stepped inside and broke the Essex line she had a clear run to go over right under the posts and with the conversion being put away Sussex were in the lead 12-10 with 3 minutes on the clock.
From the restart Scottie put a high ball up into the Sussex defence which was knocked on and from the resulting scrum, Jen fed a quick ball out to Scottie who then drew the defender and popped a neat pass to Sophie to go over in the corner 15-12. Sussex put the ball deep into the Essex half from the restart but it was quickly gathered and put straight into touch with the Referee blowing up for the end of an exciting game of rugby.
U15's
The tournament’s opening game was between Kent and Sussex.
The match was fiercely fought with neither side wishing to concede a point. Kent dominated the forward play whilst the Sussex backs were the stronger of the two teams. Sussex scored first from a well worked move that resulted with a try in the corner. In the second half a further try followed the same attacking movement. Kent fought back bravely and their efforts were awarded with a try late in the game but the final result went to Sussex – winning 17-5.
Essex opening game was against Sussex, who had beaten them in a previous tournament played at the beginning of the season. The game was again a closely fought affair with each team dominating at different parts of the match. The Essex pack of Bron, Amy, Abbie, Maddie and Lucy continually drove into the opposition gaining valuable ground with the backs – Layla, Yaz, Hannah, Olivia, Addie G and Clare constantly breaking through their defensive line. The deadlock to this evenly fought game was finally broken by a determined run by the Essex Captain, Olivia Stembridge, fending off 2 defenders to score in the corner. Shortly after the restart Essex were awarded a penalty near to the Sussex line. Abbie Cook received a pop pass, scoring near to the posts, the final result 10-0 to Essex.
As darkness fell the last game of the day was between Essex and Kent. Even with the floodlights being turned on the lightwas fading fast and it became difficult for either team to really see the ball or what was happening around the pitch. With both teams making numerous mistakes the referee and both coaches agreed to abandon the game, which was classified as a draw.
Well done and congratulations to the U15’s for their tenacity and team spirit. This supports the view that with a full side they are more than a match for any county team.
Boack in the club house the presentations were made with each girl who took part getting a medal, then the Two trophies were presented to the Captains of the 2 victories sides.
Essex won the U18 triangular with 2 wins from 2 and the U15's won their triangular with a win and a draw from thier two games.
Presentations were also made as is the custom to the 2 captains who have led Essex admirably this season.
Congratulations to
Sarah MCB U18's
Olivia Stembridge U15's
Special thanks also to Southend rugby club for their hospitality on the day and to the Referees Steve Cleer, Ian McCready and Bob Lockwood.
Finally a big thanks to the Lady who makes Essex (and Basford) happen, Paula Bates who without her hard work week in week out the girls game would not be at the stage it is within the county.
On what was a cold,crisp but dry day both age groups arrived at Southend full of confidence following recent results both as the County and Club side.
U18's
The first game of the day saw Kent up against Sussex in what was an evenly fought game which following a couple of well worked tries went in Kents favour 12-0.
Essex v Kent
The 2nd game of the day saw our girls up against a strong Kent side who had gained the upper hand in the previous clash at Aylesford 12-0.
Determined to make up for this uncharacteristic defeat, the girls were quickly into their stride and from the kick off the ball was well gathered by Fi who played it straight out to Scottie who then whipped a quick ball out to Shiv on the wing to start the 1st of many runs at the Kent defence.
With the front row of Sarah MCB, Jemma and Sam hitting everything that ran at them it allowed the backs to get quick ball and run at the Kent line and supported at every breakdown by Meg and Frances, Jen was like a little terrier feeding of every mistake the Kent girls made and playing some terrific ball out to the centres.
It didnt take the girls long to break the line, and Jen fed Scottie who dummied the defender and ran from the half way line to go over right under the post. Scottie then converting the kick to make it 7-0.
With the forwards gaining the upper hand against a much bigger Kent pack it allowed the backs to continually run at Kent and some terrific phases of play between, Scottie, India, Frenchie, Kez and Sophie soon gave Scottie the opportunity to go over in the corner to make it 12-0.
Turning round in the 2nd half, Kent made a few changes up front which momentarily gave them the upper hand and following a couple of probing runs allowed Kent to go over to make it 12-5.
Essex made a couple of changes bringing on Siobhan, Anna and Tash which gave the line some fresh legs and it wasnt long before Jen had recylced the ball and quickly fed Scottie who went over for her 3rd try of the day which she converted to give a final score to Essex 19-5.
Essex v Sussex
With Sussex looking to make their mark following their defeat to Kent, the game started with at a fast pace, however as with the Kent game the Essex forwards were in no mood to give an inch and with Jen again hovering at the back of every ruck and maul she was giving plenty of ball to the centres to run at the Sussex line. Mid way through the first half the tenacious Frank again broke the line only to be dragged down, but with the forwards piling in to secure ball it was quickly fed back to Frank who this time needed no 2nd chance to go over to make it 5-0. With the game flowing from end to end, it wasnt long before Sussex recorded their 1st points of the day with a well worked try to make it 5-5.
Spured on by this, the Essex girls upped the pace and started to run at the Sussex line which resulted in a try for Jen after Frank had been held up inches short of the line. 10-5.
Sussex not to be outdone put a couple of lovely passes together and as their winger stepped inside and broke the Essex line she had a clear run to go over right under the posts and with the conversion being put away Sussex were in the lead 12-10 with 3 minutes on the clock.
From the restart Scottie put a high ball up into the Sussex defence which was knocked on and from the resulting scrum, Jen fed a quick ball out to Scottie who then drew the defender and popped a neat pass to Sophie to go over in the corner 15-12. Sussex put the ball deep into the Essex half from the restart but it was quickly gathered and put straight into touch with the Referee blowing up for the end of an exciting game of rugby.
U15's
The tournament’s opening game was between Kent and Sussex.
The match was fiercely fought with neither side wishing to concede a point. Kent dominated the forward play whilst the Sussex backs were the stronger of the two teams. Sussex scored first from a well worked move that resulted with a try in the corner. In the second half a further try followed the same attacking movement. Kent fought back bravely and their efforts were awarded with a try late in the game but the final result went to Sussex – winning 17-5.
Essex opening game was against Sussex, who had beaten them in a previous tournament played at the beginning of the season. The game was again a closely fought affair with each team dominating at different parts of the match. The Essex pack of Bron, Amy, Abbie, Maddie and Lucy continually drove into the opposition gaining valuable ground with the backs – Layla, Yaz, Hannah, Olivia, Addie G and Clare constantly breaking through their defensive line. The deadlock to this evenly fought game was finally broken by a determined run by the Essex Captain, Olivia Stembridge, fending off 2 defenders to score in the corner. Shortly after the restart Essex were awarded a penalty near to the Sussex line. Abbie Cook received a pop pass, scoring near to the posts, the final result 10-0 to Essex.
As darkness fell the last game of the day was between Essex and Kent. Even with the floodlights being turned on the lightwas fading fast and it became difficult for either team to really see the ball or what was happening around the pitch. With both teams making numerous mistakes the referee and both coaches agreed to abandon the game, which was classified as a draw.
Well done and congratulations to the U15’s for their tenacity and team spirit. This supports the view that with a full side they are more than a match for any county team.
Boack in the club house the presentations were made with each girl who took part getting a medal, then the Two trophies were presented to the Captains of the 2 victories sides.
Essex won the U18 triangular with 2 wins from 2 and the U15's won their triangular with a win and a draw from thier two games.
Presentations were also made as is the custom to the 2 captains who have led Essex admirably this season.
Congratulations to
Sarah MCB U18's
Olivia Stembridge U15's
Special thanks also to Southend rugby club for their hospitality on the day and to the Referees Steve Cleer, Ian McCready and Bob Lockwood.
Finally a big thanks to the Lady who makes Essex (and Basford) happen, Paula Bates who without her hard work week in week out the girls game would not be at the stage it is within the county.
match report courtesy of Jeff and Phil
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
England call up McClarnon
Having recently been selected for the RFUW U20 squad for the coming season, Natalie McClarnon has been elevated into Johno's Squad to face the All Blacks this weekend.
The general feeling in the England camp is that that McClarnon seen above in her England shirt will more than scare the All blacks with her rendition of the Haka. aka "Dancing round her handbag"
Club coaches Gavin Scott and Tony McClarnon are on record as saying " We would rather face the all blacks ourselves than her, anyone who has seen Natters in full handbag dance soon heads for cover".
Natters who has a fearsome reputation as a "Hooker" around Harlow says she is looking forward to the game and has got some new eyeshadow and lippy for the occassion.
Sunday 23rd Nov 08
U18's v Rye
After a long journey to Rye the Basford girls were looking forward to a good game of rugby. However the poor weather conditions delayed the start plus with the limited numbers for the opposition side it didn't look promising for a free flowing game.
However the Basford girls kept up their high standards from the off and some quick hands by Megan and Fi put Emily in for a try within the first 15 seconds of the game. This was to open the flood gates and as the weather gradually improved the try count kept rising with further tries by India (5), Frank (2), Frances (2), Anna (1), Kez (3), Emily (3) and Siobhan Franklin (1).
The teams defence was again superb and with MCB and Natasha leading the way they stopped Rye's every attack at source with the oppositions main threats coming from the Basford loaned players where 'Mouse' made several side stepping runs and Jemma making powerful drives up the middle taking several players to stop her. The final score ended 85 : 0.
The team made the day a mini tour and the fun continued into the club house where the team practised several 'drinking' games ready for their forth coming tour. Again special mention to Mouse and Jemma who by selflessly volunteering to play for Rye enabled the game to go ahead.
After a long journey to Rye the Basford girls were looking forward to a good game of rugby. However the poor weather conditions delayed the start plus with the limited numbers for the opposition side it didn't look promising for a free flowing game.
However the Basford girls kept up their high standards from the off and some quick hands by Megan and Fi put Emily in for a try within the first 15 seconds of the game. This was to open the flood gates and as the weather gradually improved the try count kept rising with further tries by India (5), Frank (2), Frances (2), Anna (1), Kez (3), Emily (3) and Siobhan Franklin (1).
The teams defence was again superb and with MCB and Natasha leading the way they stopped Rye's every attack at source with the oppositions main threats coming from the Basford loaned players where 'Mouse' made several side stepping runs and Jemma making powerful drives up the middle taking several players to stop her. The final score ended 85 : 0.
The team made the day a mini tour and the fun continued into the club house where the team practised several 'drinking' games ready for their forth coming tour. Again special mention to Mouse and Jemma who by selflessly volunteering to play for Rye enabled the game to go ahead.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Lookalikes
With nothing better to do whilst standing on a dark, cold, wet n windy rugby pitch watching Emily, Megs, India and Frenchie at the TDG training, young Gavin (and I use that word loosely here)and myself, came up with a brill suggestion regarding look alikes for the staff and girls.
So get your thinking heads on and send in or tell us your suggestions (So long as they are not offensive) and we will put them on here.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Basford Dinner
The Basford end of season dinner / disco will be held at the Oyster Fleet Hotel again this year on Friday 12th June 2009. Further details from Tina or Paula but you can reserve tickets now.
£5 deposit per person required a.s.a.p.
£5 deposit per person required a.s.a.p.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Basford Girls turn out for County side
Sunday 9th Nov 08
Last sunday saw members of the Basford teams turn out for the respective County squads at U15's & U18's.
U18's
The opposition for this round of County games was local rivals Eastern Counties who had amongst their squad many of the girls who played for Suffolk Sabres in the recent friendly win over Basford.
Without Captain Sarah MCB, Siobhan Franklin, and Jess Wilkins due to injuries or illness the girls were determined to exact revenge for the club defeat and they took the game to Eastern Counties from the off and only some desperate defending kept the Essex girls at bay.
With the majority of play taking place in the Eastern Counties final 10, it was only a matter of time before the continued pressure paid off with Scottie going over to score the first try 5-0 and duly converting the kick 7-0.
No sooner had play restarted when the Essex girls steamed back up field with the forwards taking the ball back into the E Counties 10 where a quick ball out to Fi saw her go over to make it 12-0.
Each attempt by E Counties to take play into the Essex half was quickly halted by some excellent tackling from Stumpy, Jemma, Frances and Meg in the forwards with the twins Frank and Fi causing problems for E Counties every time they got the ball.
Jen continually harassed the opposing scrum half and some quick ball out to Scottie soon had India, Frenchie, Sophie and Anna running at the E Counties line.The pressure again soon paid off with Frank going over to make it 17-0.
Turning round at half time, the E Counties girls made a rare foray into the Essex final 10 which was quickly halted again by some superb tackling and the inevitable 4th try soon followed when Scotty went over for her 2nd try to make it 22-0.
Some excellent line out play from the girls who were lifting Kez continually gave the centres the opportunity to run at E Counties defence.
A momentary slip in concentration allowed the E Counties girls to feed the ball out to the wings and run in a try to make it 22-5.
This seemed to spur the girls who quickly went back up the field and scored another well worked try for Franks 2nd of the day with Scottie converting to make it 29-5.
Just before the final whistle, an excellent break from shivvy broke the E Counties line and she ran almost to the line before being dragged down but Scottie was on her shoulder and a quick pop pass saw Scottie go over for her 3rd 34-5.
A fantastic performance from all the girls and a big thanks to Eastern Counties for making a good game of it.
The U15's won their game 55-0 however we are still awaiting the match report which will be posted asap
Last sunday saw members of the Basford teams turn out for the respective County squads at U15's & U18's.
U18's
The opposition for this round of County games was local rivals Eastern Counties who had amongst their squad many of the girls who played for Suffolk Sabres in the recent friendly win over Basford.
Without Captain Sarah MCB, Siobhan Franklin, and Jess Wilkins due to injuries or illness the girls were determined to exact revenge for the club defeat and they took the game to Eastern Counties from the off and only some desperate defending kept the Essex girls at bay.
With the majority of play taking place in the Eastern Counties final 10, it was only a matter of time before the continued pressure paid off with Scottie going over to score the first try 5-0 and duly converting the kick 7-0.
No sooner had play restarted when the Essex girls steamed back up field with the forwards taking the ball back into the E Counties 10 where a quick ball out to Fi saw her go over to make it 12-0.
Each attempt by E Counties to take play into the Essex half was quickly halted by some excellent tackling from Stumpy, Jemma, Frances and Meg in the forwards with the twins Frank and Fi causing problems for E Counties every time they got the ball.
Jen continually harassed the opposing scrum half and some quick ball out to Scottie soon had India, Frenchie, Sophie and Anna running at the E Counties line.The pressure again soon paid off with Frank going over to make it 17-0.
Turning round at half time, the E Counties girls made a rare foray into the Essex final 10 which was quickly halted again by some superb tackling and the inevitable 4th try soon followed when Scotty went over for her 2nd try to make it 22-0.
Some excellent line out play from the girls who were lifting Kez continually gave the centres the opportunity to run at E Counties defence.
A momentary slip in concentration allowed the E Counties girls to feed the ball out to the wings and run in a try to make it 22-5.
This seemed to spur the girls who quickly went back up the field and scored another well worked try for Franks 2nd of the day with Scottie converting to make it 29-5.
Just before the final whistle, an excellent break from shivvy broke the E Counties line and she ran almost to the line before being dragged down but Scottie was on her shoulder and a quick pop pass saw Scottie go over for her 3rd 34-5.
A fantastic performance from all the girls and a big thanks to Eastern Counties for making a good game of it.
The U15's won their game 55-0 however we are still awaiting the match report which will be posted asap
Monday, November 3, 2008
Sunday 2nd November
U18's v Saracens
This was the Basford girls first game against Saracens for a few seasons and the girls were all looking forward to another competitive game. Due to road works the Saracens team were late to arrive and the initial kick off was delayed. This however fired the girls up and they hit the opposition hard from the off.
Saracens kicked off and as usual Basford immediately went on the offensive with their first attack leading to a try in the first 30 seconds after an excellent break by Frances Hughes. Saracens defended well, with some big tackles and some telling runs from deep from their forwards, but the Basford girls weren't in the mood for letting anyone across their line. The lead was further extended when Emily showed a turn of pace and ran in from 25m out to score.
Three minutes later, India seemed to burst through the Saracens defence from nowhere, and a run down the touchline saw her score in the corner.
This was quickly following by another well worked backs move that saw Frenchie score under the posts.
Saracens rallied from the restart and started to press Basford back into their own 20m but, again, Basford showed that they can defend with the best and managed to weather the storm with some great tackling by Kez, Sam, stumpy & Jenny. Before half time, Emily again crossed the Saracens line for her third try, born out of a forwards drive by MCB, Jemma and Natasha. The half was to finally finish with Mouse scoring her first U18's try beating two defenders with a deft side step.
Basford kicked off the second half, and Saracens again pressed forward with Basford defending their own line to give away a scrum in their 22- and things looked good for Saracens. Unfortunately, there must have been some sort of infringement within the scrum as the referee awarded a penalty to Basford - the ball was duly kicked in to touch and Basford were out on the attack again.
In a wonderful piece of skill Emily made a tackle on a Saracens girl, forcing her to spill the ball, which was picked up by India who went over to score her second. Emily was to score a few times again with a personal tally of 50 points. The final score of the match was provided by Jess Wilkins who made an excellent run beating three opponents. Final
result: Basford 75. Saracens 0.
Well done to both teams for sticking at it to the end to make a very entertaining game.
Player of the match: Jemma Sommers
Basford Team:
Sarah MCB (Capt)
Stumpy
Jemma
Frances
Siobhan
Jen
Natasha
Scottie
India
Sam
Shivvy
Mouse
Jess W
Keziah
Frenchie
Match report courtesy of Gavin
This was the Basford girls first game against Saracens for a few seasons and the girls were all looking forward to another competitive game. Due to road works the Saracens team were late to arrive and the initial kick off was delayed. This however fired the girls up and they hit the opposition hard from the off.
Saracens kicked off and as usual Basford immediately went on the offensive with their first attack leading to a try in the first 30 seconds after an excellent break by Frances Hughes. Saracens defended well, with some big tackles and some telling runs from deep from their forwards, but the Basford girls weren't in the mood for letting anyone across their line. The lead was further extended when Emily showed a turn of pace and ran in from 25m out to score.
Three minutes later, India seemed to burst through the Saracens defence from nowhere, and a run down the touchline saw her score in the corner.
This was quickly following by another well worked backs move that saw Frenchie score under the posts.
Saracens rallied from the restart and started to press Basford back into their own 20m but, again, Basford showed that they can defend with the best and managed to weather the storm with some great tackling by Kez, Sam, stumpy & Jenny. Before half time, Emily again crossed the Saracens line for her third try, born out of a forwards drive by MCB, Jemma and Natasha. The half was to finally finish with Mouse scoring her first U18's try beating two defenders with a deft side step.
Basford kicked off the second half, and Saracens again pressed forward with Basford defending their own line to give away a scrum in their 22- and things looked good for Saracens. Unfortunately, there must have been some sort of infringement within the scrum as the referee awarded a penalty to Basford - the ball was duly kicked in to touch and Basford were out on the attack again.
In a wonderful piece of skill Emily made a tackle on a Saracens girl, forcing her to spill the ball, which was picked up by India who went over to score her second. Emily was to score a few times again with a personal tally of 50 points. The final score of the match was provided by Jess Wilkins who made an excellent run beating three opponents. Final
result: Basford 75. Saracens 0.
Well done to both teams for sticking at it to the end to make a very entertaining game.
Player of the match: Jemma Sommers
Basford Team:
Sarah MCB (Capt)
Stumpy
Jemma
Frances
Siobhan
Jen
Natasha
Scottie
India
Sam
Shivvy
Mouse
Jess W
Keziah
Frenchie
Match report courtesy of Gavin
Friday, October 31, 2008
Basford Babes Selected for England U20 Squad!
We couldn't be more proud of Natalie (Capn Natterz) McClarnon and Sophie (Mophead) Russell for making the England U20 Squad.
After a succession of trials both have finally made it, and it is a tribute to their hard work and commitment. We are also very proud of Cherelle Alphonse who lost out in the final cut, and Sarah Carman. Try again next year girls we have every faith you can do it!
Good luck for the future,
The remaining Babes, Manager and Coaching Staff.
After a succession of trials both have finally made it, and it is a tribute to their hard work and commitment. We are also very proud of Cherelle Alphonse who lost out in the final cut, and Sarah Carman. Try again next year girls we have every faith you can do it!
Good luck for the future,
The remaining Babes, Manager and Coaching Staff.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Sunday 26th October
Basford v Folkestone U18's
Week 2 of the league calender saw the girls travel down into Kent to play Folkestone Fillies.
Travelling down the M20 in pouring rain didnt look like it was going to make for a quick running game of rugby. However on arrival the rain suddenly stopped and allowed the 1st half to be played in overcast conditions.
With the ball becoming greasy and slippy due to the wet ground the early play was a stop start affair with both sides making untold handling errors.
For the first 10 minutes Folkestone had the Basford girls on the back foot but could not find a way to penetrate the Basford defence. Having soaked up the early Folkestone pressure the girls started to dominate at the rucks and mauls, and some good passing from Jen allowed the back line of Emily, India, Tash(BirthdayGirl), Siobhan, Sam and Frenchie to continually run at the Folkestone defence. Only some poor handling at times stopped the girls applying more pressure on the home side.
The breakthrough came with an excellent drive from the forwards which allowed Jen to go over to make it 5-0. Emily duly converted to make it 7-0.
Shortly after this another great piece of pressure from the forwards led by MCB gave Jen the opportuntiy to feed scottie who released India with a telling pass and she went over to make it 12-0. Emily stepped up to convert it 14-0.
Turning round in the 2nd half, the weather had changed and the girls were now playing at times in torrential rain which again caused some uncharacteristic handling errors.
The forwards were causing the home side all sorts of problems and some excellent tackling from Stumpy, Jemma, Megan, Francis and frankie kept the imputus on going forward. Emily in the centres was running the game with some excellent interplay with India. Some good support play midway through the 2nd half almost increased the score when mouse was running through in support to recieve the ball only to be bundled into touch just short of the line.
It wasnt long though before the girls got the further breakthrough when frenchie went over to make it 19-0.
India increased the lead almost straight from the restart following some great handling to make it 24-0, this was quickly followed by Frankie coming forward to support the forwards and recieve the ball to power over 29-0. Emily duly converted to make it 31-0. With time ebbing away the girls mounted one last attack and some excellent support play from Francis saw her recieve the ball and go over to make it 36-0.
Despite the conditions it was a good alround performance from the girls with the forwards doing their job and pressuring the opponents and the backs using their speed to run lines and break the defence.
Well done to all those girls.
Man of the match as voted by Folkestone Emily Scott.
After match honours also went to Basford largely due to the fact that Jens mouth can take a whole mars bar Ha Ha Ha
Thanks to Folkestone for your hospitality and we look forward to seeing you all shortly at Basford.
Week 2 of the league calender saw the girls travel down into Kent to play Folkestone Fillies.
Travelling down the M20 in pouring rain didnt look like it was going to make for a quick running game of rugby. However on arrival the rain suddenly stopped and allowed the 1st half to be played in overcast conditions.
With the ball becoming greasy and slippy due to the wet ground the early play was a stop start affair with both sides making untold handling errors.
For the first 10 minutes Folkestone had the Basford girls on the back foot but could not find a way to penetrate the Basford defence. Having soaked up the early Folkestone pressure the girls started to dominate at the rucks and mauls, and some good passing from Jen allowed the back line of Emily, India, Tash(BirthdayGirl), Siobhan, Sam and Frenchie to continually run at the Folkestone defence. Only some poor handling at times stopped the girls applying more pressure on the home side.
The breakthrough came with an excellent drive from the forwards which allowed Jen to go over to make it 5-0. Emily duly converted to make it 7-0.
Shortly after this another great piece of pressure from the forwards led by MCB gave Jen the opportuntiy to feed scottie who released India with a telling pass and she went over to make it 12-0. Emily stepped up to convert it 14-0.
Turning round in the 2nd half, the weather had changed and the girls were now playing at times in torrential rain which again caused some uncharacteristic handling errors.
The forwards were causing the home side all sorts of problems and some excellent tackling from Stumpy, Jemma, Megan, Francis and frankie kept the imputus on going forward. Emily in the centres was running the game with some excellent interplay with India. Some good support play midway through the 2nd half almost increased the score when mouse was running through in support to recieve the ball only to be bundled into touch just short of the line.
It wasnt long though before the girls got the further breakthrough when frenchie went over to make it 19-0.
India increased the lead almost straight from the restart following some great handling to make it 24-0, this was quickly followed by Frankie coming forward to support the forwards and recieve the ball to power over 29-0. Emily duly converted to make it 31-0. With time ebbing away the girls mounted one last attack and some excellent support play from Francis saw her recieve the ball and go over to make it 36-0.
Despite the conditions it was a good alround performance from the girls with the forwards doing their job and pressuring the opponents and the backs using their speed to run lines and break the defence.
Well done to all those girls.
Man of the match as voted by Folkestone Emily Scott.
After match honours also went to Basford largely due to the fact that Jens mouth can take a whole mars bar Ha Ha Ha
Thanks to Folkestone for your hospitality and we look forward to seeing you all shortly at Basford.
Sunday 26th Oct
Basford v Folkestone U15's
After a sluggish start the Basford girls were stung into life following a break from the folkestone backs which resulted in them going over to take the lead 5-0. It took a further 12 minutes of attacking play before Basford got the breakthrough when Abi Graham went over to level the scores 5-5. 2 further tries by Abi and Abbie Cook both of which were converted by Lucy wood gave the girls a half time lead of 19-5.
Early in the second half Lucy herself powered over the line to make it 24-5 and then successfully put away the conversion 26-5. The Basford girls started to increase the pressure on the Folkestone line which resulted in further tries for Olivia, Yasmin, abbie and Layla (2) with lucy successfully converting one try.
Despite the appalling weather conditions that caused both teams to make many handling errors, the Basford girls game in the second half was by far their best yet with some telling drives by the forwards which was backed up by some penetrating drives from the backs.
The girls are now beginning to settle as a team and there were some excellent performances out on the pitch in the 2nd half. Lucy was ever present around the pitch with her tenacious tackling both in attack and defence. Abi graham chased every ball that was pumped up field, and the forwards in Amy, Bron, Katie, Maddy and Lucy were a force to be reckoned with.
Layla at scrum half gave the centres, led by Olivia and Yasmin plenty of opportunity to attack the Folkestone line with some excellent distribution and feed the backs to get them pushing the Folkestone line with some fast support on the wings from claire and Abi.
An excellent performance all round from the girls.
(match report courtesy of Trevor)
After a sluggish start the Basford girls were stung into life following a break from the folkestone backs which resulted in them going over to take the lead 5-0. It took a further 12 minutes of attacking play before Basford got the breakthrough when Abi Graham went over to level the scores 5-5. 2 further tries by Abi and Abbie Cook both of which were converted by Lucy wood gave the girls a half time lead of 19-5.
Early in the second half Lucy herself powered over the line to make it 24-5 and then successfully put away the conversion 26-5. The Basford girls started to increase the pressure on the Folkestone line which resulted in further tries for Olivia, Yasmin, abbie and Layla (2) with lucy successfully converting one try.
Despite the appalling weather conditions that caused both teams to make many handling errors, the Basford girls game in the second half was by far their best yet with some telling drives by the forwards which was backed up by some penetrating drives from the backs.
The girls are now beginning to settle as a team and there were some excellent performances out on the pitch in the 2nd half. Lucy was ever present around the pitch with her tenacious tackling both in attack and defence. Abi graham chased every ball that was pumped up field, and the forwards in Amy, Bron, Katie, Maddy and Lucy were a force to be reckoned with.
Layla at scrum half gave the centres, led by Olivia and Yasmin plenty of opportunity to attack the Folkestone line with some excellent distribution and feed the backs to get them pushing the Folkestone line with some fast support on the wings from claire and Abi.
An excellent performance all round from the girls.
(match report courtesy of Trevor)
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Meet the Staff
Coaching & Exec Committee for 2008/9
Paula Bates U18 Manager & Exec 
Simon Hughes Exec Committee
Phil Robson Exec Committee / First aider
Darren Coomer Exec Committee / Kit &Travel
Tina Turner U15's Manager & Exec Committee
Peter Turner U15's Coach
Jeff Stembridge U15's Coach
Rebecca Burton- Howard (Jock) Welfare/First Aider 
Gavin Scott U18's Coach
Tony McClarnon U18's Coach (Awaiting Pic)
Tina McClarnon Exec Committee (Awiating Pic)
Paula Bates U18 Manager & Exec 
Simon Hughes Exec Committee
Phil Robson Exec Committee / First aider
Darren Coomer Exec Committee / Kit &Travel
Tina Turner U15's Manager & Exec Committee
Peter Turner U15's Coach
Jeff Stembridge U15's Coach
Rebecca Burton- Howard (Jock) Welfare/First Aider 
Gavin Scott U18's Coach
Tony McClarnon U18's Coach (Awaiting Pic)
Tina McClarnon Exec Committee (Awiating Pic)
Club Captains 2008/9
Olivia Stembridge
Sarah McIlwain -Bates
With last years team captains Megan & Natalie moving up age groups we are pleased to announce that for the coming season the U15's will be captained by Olivia Stembridge and the U18's by Sarah McIlwain-Bates (MCB)
Both girls have also been appointed as Essex County RFUW captains in their respective squads.
Congratulations to both girls and good luck for the coming season.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Sunday 25th October 08
League Fixture
This weekend we are away to Folkestone at both U15 &U18 level. Paula has sent out emails to everyone asking for confirmation of availability and Rochford are kindly providing a coach for all players and staff to travel to the match.
Please let Paula know urgently whether you are available and also which of the pick up points you will be at to get on the coach.
There are limited spaces available for any parents who wish to travel on the coach, cost per person is £10.
Please let Paula know asap if you require places on the coach.
The pick up points and times will be as follows:
9.00 am The Spa, Hockley
9.20 am Tarpots, Benfleet - bus lay-by
9.45 am Haywain/FiveBells lay-by (where tour coach picked us up)
10.10 am Thurrock Services
This weekend we are away to Folkestone at both U15 &U18 level. Paula has sent out emails to everyone asking for confirmation of availability and Rochford are kindly providing a coach for all players and staff to travel to the match.
Please let Paula know urgently whether you are available and also which of the pick up points you will be at to get on the coach.
There are limited spaces available for any parents who wish to travel on the coach, cost per person is £10.
Please let Paula know asap if you require places on the coach.
The pick up points and times will be as follows:
9.00 am The Spa, Hockley
9.20 am Tarpots, Benfleet - bus lay-by
9.45 am Haywain/FiveBells lay-by (where tour coach picked us up)
10.10 am Thurrock Services
U18's Sunday 19th October
Many of the Basford girls turned out for the county side last Sunday against Kent and Sussex.
First up was Essex v Kent which was an entertaining game with both sides determined not to give an inch.
The forwards found themselves up against a bigger pack which at the scrum put considerable pressure on the Essex girls, who led from the front by captain MCB, gave everything to contain them.
The backs ran constantly at the Kent defence but some unforced handling errors kept giving the advantage back to the Kent girls.
Mid way through the first half Kent applied pressure close to the Essex line and their reward was a well taken try to give them a 5-0 lead.
The Essex girls came straight back at them and some excellent tackling from Jen, Fi, Sophie & Frances halted Kent in their tracks.
Turning round in the 2nd half the Kent girls came at Essex strongly and again some excellent defence by the forwards kept them at bay and with the backs looking to break quickly and punish Kent it was turning into a very good game of rugby.
Unfortunately midway through the 2nd half the Kent girls proved too strong and following some tough tackling around the Essex line, went over for their 2nd try which was duly converted.
Final score Kent 12-Essex 0
In the 2nd game Essex came up against a Sussex team that had also been beaten by Kent so both teams were playing for the runners up position.
The Essex girls from the off, piled pressure on Sussex and with the forwards having the upper hand on their opponents, some quick ball of the back of the rucks gave the backs chance to do what they do best and run at the opposition defence with Jess and Anna making some excellent ground.
The Essex girls took advantage of some great handling in the centre by India and Tash allowing Emily to skip clear and make a break to go over to make it 5-0 which she duly converted, 7-0.
Turning round at the break the girls continued to put pressure on their Sussex counterparts and some excellent form from Siobhan, Megan, Sam & MCB kept Sussex at bay and allowed our backs to again put pressure on the Sussex try line. Some deft handling allowed India to jink through and go over to make it 12-0 and with Emily putting the conversion away the girls had a comfortable 14-0 lead going into the final minutes.
Final score Essex 14 Sussex 0
Well done to all those girls who played this weekend.
U18's Sarah MCB, Sam, Jemma, Megs, Frank, Fi, Frank, Siobhan, Jen, Emily, India Tash, Sophie, Anna, Kezia, Jess
U15's Lucy, Maddy. Layla. Abbie, Abi, Amy, Bron, Katie, Hannah, Olivia, Yasmin, Claire
Congrats to Emily and Jess who were named Player and runner up of the tournament respectively at U18 level and Claire who was named runner up at U15 level.
Thanks Also to Kent for organising a terrific days rugby.
First up was Essex v Kent which was an entertaining game with both sides determined not to give an inch.
The forwards found themselves up against a bigger pack which at the scrum put considerable pressure on the Essex girls, who led from the front by captain MCB, gave everything to contain them.
The backs ran constantly at the Kent defence but some unforced handling errors kept giving the advantage back to the Kent girls.
Mid way through the first half Kent applied pressure close to the Essex line and their reward was a well taken try to give them a 5-0 lead.
The Essex girls came straight back at them and some excellent tackling from Jen, Fi, Sophie & Frances halted Kent in their tracks.
Turning round in the 2nd half the Kent girls came at Essex strongly and again some excellent defence by the forwards kept them at bay and with the backs looking to break quickly and punish Kent it was turning into a very good game of rugby.
Unfortunately midway through the 2nd half the Kent girls proved too strong and following some tough tackling around the Essex line, went over for their 2nd try which was duly converted.
Final score Kent 12-Essex 0
In the 2nd game Essex came up against a Sussex team that had also been beaten by Kent so both teams were playing for the runners up position.
The Essex girls from the off, piled pressure on Sussex and with the forwards having the upper hand on their opponents, some quick ball of the back of the rucks gave the backs chance to do what they do best and run at the opposition defence with Jess and Anna making some excellent ground.
The Essex girls took advantage of some great handling in the centre by India and Tash allowing Emily to skip clear and make a break to go over to make it 5-0 which she duly converted, 7-0.
Turning round at the break the girls continued to put pressure on their Sussex counterparts and some excellent form from Siobhan, Megan, Sam & MCB kept Sussex at bay and allowed our backs to again put pressure on the Sussex try line. Some deft handling allowed India to jink through and go over to make it 12-0 and with Emily putting the conversion away the girls had a comfortable 14-0 lead going into the final minutes.
Final score Essex 14 Sussex 0
Well done to all those girls who played this weekend.
U18's Sarah MCB, Sam, Jemma, Megs, Frank, Fi, Frank, Siobhan, Jen, Emily, India Tash, Sophie, Anna, Kezia, Jess
U15's Lucy, Maddy. Layla. Abbie, Abi, Amy, Bron, Katie, Hannah, Olivia, Yasmin, Claire
Congrats to Emily and Jess who were named Player and runner up of the tournament respectively at U18 level and Claire who was named runner up at U15 level.
Thanks Also to Kent for organising a terrific days rugby.
U15's 19th October 2008
In the U15's the girls were 1st up against a strong Kent side containing many girls who they had faced 2 weeks earlier in the league game against Ayleford.
From Kick off both sides were guilty of handling errors which slowed the game down a little, but once they found their rhythm the Essex girls started to put Kent under pressure and much of the play in the first half was spent inthe Kent half of the pitch.
As the game progressed Kent started to force their way back into the game and went over for a well deserved try to give them a 5-0 lead.
However within a couple of minutes the Essex girls had leveled the score with a well worked try by Abi Graham. 5-5
throughout the game there was some excelent tackling by the Essex girls and in particular Lucy and Maddy.
In her first game back after a serious skiing accident Hannah made some terrific breaks along side Yasmin and Claire.
Result of game 1 Kent 5 Essex 5
The girls went into their 2nd game against Sussex full of confidence following their performance against Kent.
From the off they were pressuring the Sussex team however a lapse in concentration after 4 minutes gave the Sussex girls the 1st try of the match which went unconverted to 5-0.
This seemed to spur the Essex girls on and a terrific drive late in the half resulted in an Essex effort being held up on the line, from the resulting play Lucy crashed over at the 2nd attempt to level the scores 5-5
Again the Essex girls were making their presence known with some telling tackles from Olivia, claire, Amy and Lucy with Hannah, Abi, Abbie and Hannah making continual runs at the Sussex defence.
However with 5 minutes to go Sussex escaped the Essex grasp and went over for their 2nd try 10-5.
Final Result Essex 5 Sussex 10
Well done to all those Basford girls and also thank you to Graham who kindly lent Essex a couple of his players from Aylesford to bolster our depleted squad.
Match report courtesy of Trevor (Jocks Dad)
From Kick off both sides were guilty of handling errors which slowed the game down a little, but once they found their rhythm the Essex girls started to put Kent under pressure and much of the play in the first half was spent inthe Kent half of the pitch.
As the game progressed Kent started to force their way back into the game and went over for a well deserved try to give them a 5-0 lead.
However within a couple of minutes the Essex girls had leveled the score with a well worked try by Abi Graham. 5-5
throughout the game there was some excelent tackling by the Essex girls and in particular Lucy and Maddy.
In her first game back after a serious skiing accident Hannah made some terrific breaks along side Yasmin and Claire.
Result of game 1 Kent 5 Essex 5
The girls went into their 2nd game against Sussex full of confidence following their performance against Kent.
From the off they were pressuring the Sussex team however a lapse in concentration after 4 minutes gave the Sussex girls the 1st try of the match which went unconverted to 5-0.
This seemed to spur the Essex girls on and a terrific drive late in the half resulted in an Essex effort being held up on the line, from the resulting play Lucy crashed over at the 2nd attempt to level the scores 5-5
Again the Essex girls were making their presence known with some telling tackles from Olivia, claire, Amy and Lucy with Hannah, Abi, Abbie and Hannah making continual runs at the Sussex defence.
However with 5 minutes to go Sussex escaped the Essex grasp and went over for their 2nd try 10-5.
Final Result Essex 5 Sussex 10
Well done to all those Basford girls and also thank you to Graham who kindly lent Essex a couple of his players from Aylesford to bolster our depleted squad.
Match report courtesy of Trevor (Jocks Dad)
Monday, October 13, 2008
New Kit
Raging Bull have confirmed that our new tops and bottoms are ready and will be dispatched today.
Subject to the road transport system we should have them ready to distribute at training on Wednesday.
Can you please either arrive slightly earlier to enable Paula and myself time to hand out, or let parents know that there will be a delay in leaving the club and we will hand it out after training finishes.
Subject to the road transport system we should have them ready to distribute at training on Wednesday.
Can you please either arrive slightly earlier to enable Paula and myself time to hand out, or let parents know that there will be a delay in leaving the club and we will hand it out after training finishes.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Sunday 11th October
The U18's travelled to Sudbury today to play a friendly against a Suffolk Sabres side containing a large percentage of the Eastern Counties side.
In what was a terrific game of rugby from the Basford girls they unfortunately came away on the wrong end of a 19-17 defeat largely in part to some strange decisions by the home referee.
The team have now started to gel as a unit and under the coaching of Gavin and Tony they are proving to be a match for any one.
Despite coming away having been beaten, the whole team performed really well and both the forwards and the backs made it extremely difficult for the Sabres. The forwards were continually in the thick of the action and harrassed and haranged the Sabres in every part of the field. The backs at times cut through the Sabres lines like a knife through butter and only desperate defending stopped them racking up numerous tries.
A terrific days rugby if not the right result but there is lots to come from this team over the coming months.
Tries
Emily (1)
Sam (1)
Shivy (1)
Cons
Emily (1)
Player of the match this week following a terrific performance was Jenny Mugglestone
Basford Babes:
1 Sarah McB
2 Stumpy
3 Jemma
4 Francis
5 Megan
6 Tash
7 Siobhan
8 Frank
9 Jen
10 Emily
11 India
12 Frenchie
13 Anna
14 Sophie
15 Shivy
16 Jess
17 Mouse
In what was a terrific game of rugby from the Basford girls they unfortunately came away on the wrong end of a 19-17 defeat largely in part to some strange decisions by the home referee.
The team have now started to gel as a unit and under the coaching of Gavin and Tony they are proving to be a match for any one.
Despite coming away having been beaten, the whole team performed really well and both the forwards and the backs made it extremely difficult for the Sabres. The forwards were continually in the thick of the action and harrassed and haranged the Sabres in every part of the field. The backs at times cut through the Sabres lines like a knife through butter and only desperate defending stopped them racking up numerous tries.
A terrific days rugby if not the right result but there is lots to come from this team over the coming months.
Tries
Emily (1)
Sam (1)
Shivy (1)
Cons
Emily (1)
Player of the match this week following a terrific performance was Jenny Mugglestone
Basford Babes:
1 Sarah McB
2 Stumpy
3 Jemma
4 Francis
5 Megan
6 Tash
7 Siobhan
8 Frank
9 Jen
10 Emily
11 India
12 Frenchie
13 Anna
14 Sophie
15 Shivy
16 Jess
17 Mouse
U18's v Aylesford
Sunday 5th October
The Basford U18's first league game of the season was a home affair against a very good Aylesford Team.
With both teams fielding county and regional players it promised to be a closely fought and entertaining game.
Not long into the game the weather turned for the worse, and the rain contributed to many unforced handling errors from both sides. However not to be put off, the girls from both teams produced some fine rugby and an evenly matched game saw the Basford Babes take the honours 14-5
Tries Emily (1)
Frenchy (1)
Cons Emily (2)
League standing after 1st game 2nd
The Basford U18's first league game of the season was a home affair against a very good Aylesford Team.
With both teams fielding county and regional players it promised to be a closely fought and entertaining game.
Not long into the game the weather turned for the worse, and the rain contributed to many unforced handling errors from both sides. However not to be put off, the girls from both teams produced some fine rugby and an evenly matched game saw the Basford Babes take the honours 14-5
Tries Emily (1)
Frenchy (1)
Cons Emily (2)
League standing after 1st game 2nd
U15's v Aylesford
Sunday 5th October
The U15’s began their league campaign with a home game against Aylesford Bulls. Due to sickness, injury and the bad weather the teams started the game fairly evenly matched. Aylesford started the stronger of the two and although Basford defended well their forward domination resulted in a well worked try out wide -5-0 to Aylesford.
With new players having only recently joined the club it needed the Basford senior players to take control and aggressive defending from the Basford backline of Olivia, Layla, Yaz and Claire forced the Aylesford team into a number of unforeseen errors. On the next Basford attack a lovely waited pass by Olivia led to Abbie Graham scoring the team’s first points under the posts.
Aylesford demonstrated stubborn defiance and was determined not to allow the home team to take the upper hand but the Basford pack started to show a collective tenacity and not be overshadowed, making every breakdown a difficult area to win. Another Basford attacked led to Abbie Graham scoring her second try of the game, breaking through slack tackling by the Aylesford defence.
Aylesford again pushed forward in an attempt to reduce the deficient but Yaz cleverly read the opponents move to intercept a long pass running over half the pitch, with a chasing group, to score under the posts. Basford were now dominating play with Maddie, Amy, Abbie Cook, Layla and the rest of the team driving the opposition back on everyone of their attacks. A turnover ball was quickly passed wide which resulted in Olivia scoring a try under the posts. Abbie Graham again demonstrated her pace by scoring her 3rd try shortly after the restart.
Aylesford began to show signs of defeat and a 5 metre scrum, from a Basford player being held up over the line, produced a blind side move by Layla and a determined drive by Abbie Cook to score in the corner.
Abbie Graham scored her 4th try of the game from an Aylesford kick, running down the line past a desperate defence.
With only a few minutes left a wayward kick by Aylesford was penalised by Abbie Cook for the last try of the game. With 5 of the tries converted by Yaz the final score read 50-5 to Basford. A great win to the start of the season.
New girls Bon and Katie performed very well; especially as it was Bon’s first ever match after only 2-3 training sessions. The fire power of our backs is exceptional good this year with a mixture of experience and new players. The pack will grow in confidence after this game and I think any team will have a difficult time in trying to break them down.
One key player absent from the starting line up was our pack leader Lucy, who is greatly missed. Hopefully she will soon be back.
Report courtesy of Jeff Stembridge
The U15’s began their league campaign with a home game against Aylesford Bulls. Due to sickness, injury and the bad weather the teams started the game fairly evenly matched. Aylesford started the stronger of the two and although Basford defended well their forward domination resulted in a well worked try out wide -5-0 to Aylesford.
With new players having only recently joined the club it needed the Basford senior players to take control and aggressive defending from the Basford backline of Olivia, Layla, Yaz and Claire forced the Aylesford team into a number of unforeseen errors. On the next Basford attack a lovely waited pass by Olivia led to Abbie Graham scoring the team’s first points under the posts.
Aylesford demonstrated stubborn defiance and was determined not to allow the home team to take the upper hand but the Basford pack started to show a collective tenacity and not be overshadowed, making every breakdown a difficult area to win. Another Basford attacked led to Abbie Graham scoring her second try of the game, breaking through slack tackling by the Aylesford defence.
Aylesford again pushed forward in an attempt to reduce the deficient but Yaz cleverly read the opponents move to intercept a long pass running over half the pitch, with a chasing group, to score under the posts. Basford were now dominating play with Maddie, Amy, Abbie Cook, Layla and the rest of the team driving the opposition back on everyone of their attacks. A turnover ball was quickly passed wide which resulted in Olivia scoring a try under the posts. Abbie Graham again demonstrated her pace by scoring her 3rd try shortly after the restart.
Aylesford began to show signs of defeat and a 5 metre scrum, from a Basford player being held up over the line, produced a blind side move by Layla and a determined drive by Abbie Cook to score in the corner.
Abbie Graham scored her 4th try of the game from an Aylesford kick, running down the line past a desperate defence.
With only a few minutes left a wayward kick by Aylesford was penalised by Abbie Cook for the last try of the game. With 5 of the tries converted by Yaz the final score read 50-5 to Basford. A great win to the start of the season.
New girls Bon and Katie performed very well; especially as it was Bon’s first ever match after only 2-3 training sessions. The fire power of our backs is exceptional good this year with a mixture of experience and new players. The pack will grow in confidence after this game and I think any team will have a difficult time in trying to break them down.
One key player absent from the starting line up was our pack leader Lucy, who is greatly missed. Hopefully she will soon be back.
Report courtesy of Jeff Stembridge
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Team Captains
Congratulations and good luck to the new captains for the coming season.
U18's Captain 2008-9 Sarah McIlwain - Bates
U15's Captain 2008-9 Olivia Stembridge
U18's Captain 2008-9 Sarah McIlwain - Bates
U15's Captain 2008-9 Olivia Stembridge
U15's kick off with victory in Norfolk
Last sunday saw the new look U15's head into Norfolk at the kind request from Mrs Burroughs to take part in their Charity day at Wymondham Rugby club.
For Coach Jeff Stembridge, this season was going to be one of development with the squad having new members and having lost most of last years forwards who moved up to U18's this season.
However despite only having 9 girls available for this friendly due to holidays and injury the girls travelled full of enthusiasm for the new season.
With players loaned from the Norfolk sides to make up a full team, the girls quickly got into their stride and ran out eventual winners 41 - 5
Tries: Conversations:
Yaz x2 Yaz x2
Olivia x1
Abbie G x3
Lucy x1 Lucy x1
Well done to all the girls and good luck for the coming season in the Kent/surrey/Essex League
For Coach Jeff Stembridge, this season was going to be one of development with the squad having new members and having lost most of last years forwards who moved up to U18's this season.
However despite only having 9 girls available for this friendly due to holidays and injury the girls travelled full of enthusiasm for the new season.
With players loaned from the Norfolk sides to make up a full team, the girls quickly got into their stride and ran out eventual winners 41 - 5
Tries: Conversations:
Yaz x2 Yaz x2
Olivia x1
Abbie G x3
Lucy x1 Lucy x1
Well done to all the girls and good luck for the coming season in the Kent/surrey/Essex League
U18's Season kicks off at Croydon RFC.
Its official the new season is here and the Basford girls kicked off in style last weekend.
Welcome to the first match report of the 2008-2009 season. Lets hope all the girls and everyone connected with the Basford squad has a fruitful and successful next 8(!) months.
Croydon was blessed with sunny weather for the first game of the season, and the first game between these two clubs. It was nice to see all the new girls, both those joining Basford for the first time, and also the girls who have made the jump from the U15’s into the U18’s. It was especially nice to welcome back Sarah McB in her first competitive game since her horrendous injury all those months ago.
It may have been the first game of the season, but the Basford girls, after being chained up for the last few months, were eager to ‘get stuck in’ and start playing ‘rugger’ again. The first 5 minutes were used to ease back into the swing of things, and shake the cobwebs off, with several unforced handling errors keeping the game fairly even, but after this Basford started to push forward.
Emily had the privilege of scoring the first try of the season, and this came off the back of a scrum won against the head, and a couple of passes. Emily also converted 0 - 7
Basford seem to take heart from the early score, and almost from the restart, India made a wonderful run from her own half, down the wing to score under the posts. Emily did the kicking honours again taking the score to 0 - 14.
Another try quickly followed, again scored by India following a quick free kick 0 - 19.
This seemed to spark a fight back from the Croydon girls and they started to push the Basford girls back, but Basford demonstrated their ability to defend and slammed the door shut.
After a period of play in the middle of the field ,the ball found its way to Rachel who made a great run from 40m out, taking the Croydon full back out with the great hand-off, to score. Emily again converted 0 - 26.
The Croydon girls again made a very spirited comeback and applied some great pressure, but Basford again showed their mettle, holding up the ball to save tries on 3 occasions.
After half time, and a few substitutions, the Basford girls again started to push forward, and Emily managed to break through the Croydon line to score her second try of the match 0 - 31.
The game moved end to end, with first Croydon attacking, then Basford applying the pressure - this culminated for Frankie (one of the twins) scoring for Basford in the corner. 0 - 36.
Basford were still up for more, and despite some excellent defending by the Croydon girls, Anna managed to cross the line to score following a great set play from the back of a Basford scrum. 0 - 41.
Nearing the end of the game, in an almost identical move off the back of another scrum, India went in for the final score of the game and her first hat trick of the season (by the way, if India’s dad reads this - he owes a jug!!) 0 - 46.
Final score: Croydon U18 0 - 46 Basford U18
Suffice to say, well done to all the girls from both Croydon and Basford - lets hope we all have a great season, and many thanks to all at Croydon RFC for their hospitality.
Just a quick footnote to say well done to all the ’younger’ girls for whom this was the first game with the ’big girls’ - I know some of you were very nervous, but you all came through with flying colours - excellent!
match report courtesy of Phil Fench
Welcome to the first match report of the 2008-2009 season. Lets hope all the girls and everyone connected with the Basford squad has a fruitful and successful next 8(!) months.
Croydon was blessed with sunny weather for the first game of the season, and the first game between these two clubs. It was nice to see all the new girls, both those joining Basford for the first time, and also the girls who have made the jump from the U15’s into the U18’s. It was especially nice to welcome back Sarah McB in her first competitive game since her horrendous injury all those months ago.
It may have been the first game of the season, but the Basford girls, after being chained up for the last few months, were eager to ‘get stuck in’ and start playing ‘rugger’ again. The first 5 minutes were used to ease back into the swing of things, and shake the cobwebs off, with several unforced handling errors keeping the game fairly even, but after this Basford started to push forward.
Emily had the privilege of scoring the first try of the season, and this came off the back of a scrum won against the head, and a couple of passes. Emily also converted 0 - 7
Basford seem to take heart from the early score, and almost from the restart, India made a wonderful run from her own half, down the wing to score under the posts. Emily did the kicking honours again taking the score to 0 - 14.
Another try quickly followed, again scored by India following a quick free kick 0 - 19.
This seemed to spark a fight back from the Croydon girls and they started to push the Basford girls back, but Basford demonstrated their ability to defend and slammed the door shut.
After a period of play in the middle of the field ,the ball found its way to Rachel who made a great run from 40m out, taking the Croydon full back out with the great hand-off, to score. Emily again converted 0 - 26.
The Croydon girls again made a very spirited comeback and applied some great pressure, but Basford again showed their mettle, holding up the ball to save tries on 3 occasions.
After half time, and a few substitutions, the Basford girls again started to push forward, and Emily managed to break through the Croydon line to score her second try of the match 0 - 31.
The game moved end to end, with first Croydon attacking, then Basford applying the pressure - this culminated for Frankie (one of the twins) scoring for Basford in the corner. 0 - 36.
Basford were still up for more, and despite some excellent defending by the Croydon girls, Anna managed to cross the line to score following a great set play from the back of a Basford scrum. 0 - 41.
Nearing the end of the game, in an almost identical move off the back of another scrum, India went in for the final score of the game and her first hat trick of the season (by the way, if India’s dad reads this - he owes a jug!!) 0 - 46.
Final score: Croydon U18 0 - 46 Basford U18
Suffice to say, well done to all the girls from both Croydon and Basford - lets hope we all have a great season, and many thanks to all at Croydon RFC for their hospitality.
Just a quick footnote to say well done to all the ’younger’ girls for whom this was the first game with the ’big girls’ - I know some of you were very nervous, but you all came through with flying colours - excellent!
match report courtesy of Phil Fench
Friday, September 12, 2008
Seasons Fixtures
For those of you that are organised (or not as the case maybe) I will hand out copies of the fixture list on Sunday. This will have dates for club league games and friendlies, county, and regional.
However please note that this is subject to change at short notice, so I will email any amended schedule as it happens.
Good luck for Sunday!!
However please note that this is subject to change at short notice, so I will email any amended schedule as it happens.
Good luck for Sunday!!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Basford girls selected for TDG's
Congratulations to Emily Scott who has retained her place in the U18 TDG squad and is joined this season by India Harvey.
Well done also to Rachel French and Megan Robson who also attended the trials and while not being selected for the final squad, have subsequently been invited to train with the TDG girls for the coming season.
Well done also to Rachel French and Megan Robson who also attended the trials and while not being selected for the final squad, have subsequently been invited to train with the TDG girls for the coming season.
Season 2008-9 begins !!!!!
Welcome back to the wonderful world of wet n windy winter sundays on the sidelines or the pitch. Yes folks the new season is here and to help us along, those "old farts" have introduced the ELV's to make your lives all the richer!!!! oh and there is the added bonus of many girls moving age bands this season.
The new season kicks off this coming sunday with the U15's travelling to Wymondham in Norfolk to play in a Charity game to raise money for Macmillan Cancer relief.
Under the new coaching team of Jeff Stembridge and Pete Turner the girls are looking forward to picking up where they left off in may.
With members of last years squad moving up to the U18's this season there are a few new faces in the younger team this year.
The U18's who this year will again be coached by Gavin Scott and Tony McClarnon travel across the river to play a friendly against Croydon.
The coaching and management staff would like to wish all the girls good luck and say welcome to all the new members of the club who will be playing this season.
The new season kicks off this coming sunday with the U15's travelling to Wymondham in Norfolk to play in a Charity game to raise money for Macmillan Cancer relief.
Under the new coaching team of Jeff Stembridge and Pete Turner the girls are looking forward to picking up where they left off in may.
With members of last years squad moving up to the U18's this season there are a few new faces in the younger team this year.
The U18's who this year will again be coached by Gavin Scott and Tony McClarnon travel across the river to play a friendly against Croydon.
The coaching and management staff would like to wish all the girls good luck and say welcome to all the new members of the club who will be playing this season.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Basford Fixtures for the coming season
This coming season, both the U18's and U15's will be playing league rugby in the Kent and surrey league.
Details of the fixtures will be publish shortly.
Also for you information, the end of season tournament dates have now been finalised and are detailed below.
Sun 3rd May: Worthing Festival.
Sun 10th May: Dorking Festival.
Sun 17th May: Herts 7's (Venue T.B.C).
W/e 23-24th May (Sat or Sun T.B.C): National 7's (Venue T.B.C).
Details of the fixtures will be publish shortly.
Also for you information, the end of season tournament dates have now been finalised and are detailed below.
Sun 3rd May: Worthing Festival.
Sun 10th May: Dorking Festival.
Sun 17th May: Herts 7's (Venue T.B.C).
W/e 23-24th May (Sat or Sun T.B.C): National 7's (Venue T.B.C).
HPA's
Congratulations to the following Basford U15 Girls who have been selected to attend the schools of Rugby at Felstead for the coming season.
Yasmin Pemberton
Lucie Wood
Maddy Lockwood
Abbie Cook
Layla Pickering
Olivia Stembridge
Joining the girls at Felstead is Courtney Arberry from Welwyn Warriors in Herts.
At U18 level India Harvey joined Emily Scott at the 3 day TDG trials to try for a place in next seasons elite TDG Squad.
Well done also to Rachel French, Megan Robson and Alex Grant who all did well to be selected for the initial HPA trials.
Yasmin Pemberton
Lucie Wood
Maddy Lockwood
Abbie Cook
Layla Pickering
Olivia Stembridge
Joining the girls at Felstead is Courtney Arberry from Welwyn Warriors in Herts.
At U18 level India Harvey joined Emily Scott at the 3 day TDG trials to try for a place in next seasons elite TDG Squad.
Well done also to Rachel French, Megan Robson and Alex Grant who all did well to be selected for the initial HPA trials.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Training
Next week Tuesday 29th July Basildon RFC 6.45 for 7.00 pm
Following week Wednesday 6th August Rochford RFC 6.45 for 7.00 pm
U18's For the next 2 weeks please let Gavin know if you can't attend.
U15's Tina
Remember No Training this Sunday 27th July, but check with Gavin for Sundays 3rd & 10th August.
Paula
Following week Wednesday 6th August Rochford RFC 6.45 for 7.00 pm
U18's For the next 2 weeks please let Gavin know if you can't attend.
U15's Tina
Remember No Training this Sunday 27th July, but check with Gavin for Sundays 3rd & 10th August.
Paula
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Training
Next training session is this Sunday 20th July, meet at the Crown Pub car park 8.45 am for 9.00 am start.
Next week Wednesday 23rd July at Rochford RFC 6.45 pm for 7.00 pm start.
Sunday 27th July NO TRAINING as U18's at beach rugby.
If you cannot attend training for any reason please contact your team manager.
U15's Tina 07733 024317 U18's Paula 07973 210989
Next week Wednesday 23rd July at Rochford RFC 6.45 pm for 7.00 pm start.
Sunday 27th July NO TRAINING as U18's at beach rugby.
If you cannot attend training for any reason please contact your team manager.
U15's Tina 07733 024317 U18's Paula 07973 210989
Monday, July 14, 2008
HPA's 12-13 July Brunel University
Well done to all the girls who attended the HPA's over the weekend.
We had girls at both age groups attending the trials for a place in either the Schools of Rugby (u15's) or the TDG's. (U18's)
u15's
Yasmin Pemberton (attended SOR in Herts last Season)
Lucie Wood (attended SOR in Herts last season)
Olivia Stembridge
Madeleine Lockwood
Abbie Cook
Layla Pickering
U18's
Rachel French
India Harvey
Megan Robson (attended SOR in Herts last Season)
Alex Grant (attended SOR in Eastern Counties last season)
The HPA Trial is the first part of two Trials to join the Under 18 TDG (Talent Development Group) where these Players are aiming to join Basford's Emily Scott who is currently part of the TDG programme.
Also attending yesterday were 3 of last years U18's Natalie Mcclarnon, Sophie Russell and Sarah Carmen. The girls were attending the HPA'S for a place in the womens senior squad.
Natalie and Sophie were part of last seasons TDG programme, and all 3 along with Emily were part of the Junior super league towards the end of the season.
Well done to every girl and good luck
Well done to all the girls who attended the HPA's over the weekend.
We had girls at both age groups attending the trials for a place in either the Schools of Rugby (u15's) or the TDG's. (U18's)
u15's
Yasmin Pemberton (attended SOR in Herts last Season)
Lucie Wood (attended SOR in Herts last season)
Olivia Stembridge
Madeleine Lockwood
Abbie Cook
Layla Pickering
U18's
Rachel French
India Harvey
Megan Robson (attended SOR in Herts last Season)
Alex Grant (attended SOR in Eastern Counties last season)
The HPA Trial is the first part of two Trials to join the Under 18 TDG (Talent Development Group) where these Players are aiming to join Basford's Emily Scott who is currently part of the TDG programme.
Also attending yesterday were 3 of last years U18's Natalie Mcclarnon, Sophie Russell and Sarah Carmen. The girls were attending the HPA'S for a place in the womens senior squad.
Natalie and Sophie were part of last seasons TDG programme, and all 3 along with Emily were part of the Junior super league towards the end of the season.
Well done to every girl and good luck
Friday, July 11, 2008
Presentation Dinner
Basford Presentation June 13th
Following a long and reasonably successful season, the Basford Presentation dinner took place at the Oysterfleet Hotel at Canvey on friday 13th June.
U15 Player of the year Lucie Wood
Emily Scott, Natalie Mcclarnon, Sophie Russell (TDG's) and Sarah Carman were all selected to take part in the Junior super league.
Have a good summer and heres to a successful 2008/9.
Following a long and reasonably successful season, the Basford Presentation dinner took place at the Oysterfleet Hotel at Canvey on friday 13th June.
We were pleased to welcome along Amanda Bate who is the WRDM for our region who kindly presented the awards to the players.
Following the meal, the coaches gave a brief speech thanking their players for the season and giving a brief overview of the seasons highs and (not many) lows.
Awards:
U18 Player of the Year Sarah Carman
U18 Most improved player Katie Woodland
U15 Player of the year Lucie Wood
U15 Most improved player Olivia Stembridge & Amy Browne
The sponsors award U18's Natalie Mcclarnon
U15's Megan Robson
Following on from the awards the girls then partied the night away showing Gavin how to move on a dance floor!!!!
This season has been very good for both age groups, both in tems of results and also recruitment, with new girls joining throughout the season. The success of the club has been reflected in the numerous girls who were identified for progression within the player pathway.
Emily Scott, Natalie Mcclarnon, Sophie Russell (TDG's) and Sarah Carman were all selected to take part in the Junior super league.
At under 15 level, Megan, Yasmin, Alex, Jess H, Jess W, and Lucie were all selected for the Schools of rugby.
Rachel, Charlie and Cherelle all represented English Colleges.
As the new season starts we say a sad farewell to those girls who are moving up to seniors rugby and wish them all the best for the future. Thanks girls for everything you will be missed.
Good luck also to those girls who are attending HPA trials this coming summer.
A big thanks goes out to all those parents who have travelled hundreds and hundreds of miles this past season to ensure that we could put out a full team each week.
Thanks also to the backroom staff and coaches who put in endless hours to ensure that everything runs relatively smoothly.
Paula and Tina have done a brilliant job of managing their respective squads this season and deserve a big big thank you, without them we wouldnt have achieved half of what has been done
Thank you from all the girls.
Gavin, Tony, Pete and our new coach Jeff have guided the girls to some fantastic results this season.
Thanks also to Basildon Rugby club who provided the individual trophies given to each squad member who played this season.
Thanks also to Paul and Peter at S&J Electrics who have sponsored the girls over the season.
Have a good summer and heres to a successful 2008/9.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Southwold Beach Rugby 25-27 July
I have emailed all current and last years U18s re the above festival. Please contact me as soon as possible if you haven't confirmed.
Presentation Dinner
Many thanks to all who helped in any way with the end of season dinner, particularly Phil. I hope everyone enjoyed it.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Found this while I had nothing better to do!!!!
Just to brighten your day, some rugby related quotes/sayings/jokes to pass the time away.
The Unofficial "Rugby Survival Guide" for Rugby Neophytes
By Mark Bryant
Your First Game
Let's keep it simple at the beginning.
1. Hit anything that is carrying the ball.
Note: Generally you will be more popular if that happens to be a person on the other team, also the referee is not a good target.
2. When you get the ball run like hell!
Note: Your teammates would prefer that to be in the direction of your opponents goal area.
Second Game
Mastering the pass.
1. Pass the ball backwards to a teammate that is in a better position to advance the ball.
Note: Screaming and throwing the ball up in the air to avoid being hit is considered "bad form".
2. Follow slightly behind your teammate who is carrying the ball so that you can receive a pass.
Note: If you drop the ball continuously, you will become what they call a "prop forward".
Third Game
Mastering the kick.
1. Kick the ball forward over your opponents head and catch it on the run.
Note: If you are a forward then dropping the ball near your foot and kicking anyone in the vicinity is good enough.
Subtleties of the Game
Now that you have mastered running, tackling, passing and kicking we'll cover some of the finer points:
The Ruck:
This is a situation where 3 to 20 people pile on top of the tackled player. The play is whistled by the referee when all the air has been compressed out of the tackled player's lungs.
The Maul:
Instead of being tackled to ground, the player is kept on his feet by the tacklers. The object is to bend as many of the ball carrier's fingers away from the ball. The play is whistled by the referee after the first cracking sound.
The Line Out:
When the ball goes out of the playing area a "throw in" is awarded. The object is to elbow the opposing player's face while attempting to catch the ball.
Offside:
In a ruck or maul situation you are not allowed to "steal" the ball from the opposition by running behind the play. It is mandatory that you step on or over the tackled player first.
Scrum:
The eight forwards bind together and push against the other forwards. The object is to allow the forwards to beat and bruise each other and give the backs a chance to catch their breath.
In 1823, William Webb Ellis first picked up the ball in his arms and ran with it. And for the next 156 years forwards have been trying to work out why." - Sir Tasker Watkins (1979)
Just to brighten your day, some rugby related quotes/sayings/jokes to pass the time away.
The Unofficial "Rugby Survival Guide" for Rugby Neophytes
By Mark Bryant
Your First Game
Let's keep it simple at the beginning.
1. Hit anything that is carrying the ball.
Note: Generally you will be more popular if that happens to be a person on the other team, also the referee is not a good target.
2. When you get the ball run like hell!
Note: Your teammates would prefer that to be in the direction of your opponents goal area.
Second Game
Mastering the pass.
1. Pass the ball backwards to a teammate that is in a better position to advance the ball.
Note: Screaming and throwing the ball up in the air to avoid being hit is considered "bad form".
2. Follow slightly behind your teammate who is carrying the ball so that you can receive a pass.
Note: If you drop the ball continuously, you will become what they call a "prop forward".
Third Game
Mastering the kick.
1. Kick the ball forward over your opponents head and catch it on the run.
Note: If you are a forward then dropping the ball near your foot and kicking anyone in the vicinity is good enough.
Subtleties of the Game
Now that you have mastered running, tackling, passing and kicking we'll cover some of the finer points:
The Ruck:
This is a situation where 3 to 20 people pile on top of the tackled player. The play is whistled by the referee when all the air has been compressed out of the tackled player's lungs.
The Maul:
Instead of being tackled to ground, the player is kept on his feet by the tacklers. The object is to bend as many of the ball carrier's fingers away from the ball. The play is whistled by the referee after the first cracking sound.
The Line Out:
When the ball goes out of the playing area a "throw in" is awarded. The object is to elbow the opposing player's face while attempting to catch the ball.
Offside:
In a ruck or maul situation you are not allowed to "steal" the ball from the opposition by running behind the play. It is mandatory that you step on or over the tackled player first.
Scrum:
The eight forwards bind together and push against the other forwards. The object is to allow the forwards to beat and bruise each other and give the backs a chance to catch their breath.
In 1823, William Webb Ellis first picked up the ball in his arms and ran with it. And for the next 156 years forwards have been trying to work out why." - Sir Tasker Watkins (1979)
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Stop Press - Rochford Tournament !!!!!
The date for the Rochford tournament has now been changed to 2nd November 2008.
All other details as before.
Contact tina@rugbyturners.plus.com
All other details as before.
Contact tina@rugbyturners.plus.com
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Well done to the following girls who have initially been nominated to attend the U18 and U15 High Performance Academy (HPA) Camp at Brunel University on 12/13 July. The leading U18 players at the 4 HPA Camps will then be invited to join the 2007/8 TDG Girls at their next training session later in the summer, at which next seasons TDG Group will be selected. The U15 HPAs will be used to select the Girls for next seasons Schools of Rugby, which start later in the Summer.
U18's
Rachel French,
Alex Grant,
Megan Robson,
India Harvey.
U15's
Lucie Wood,
Maddy Lockwood,
Abbie Cook,
Layla Pickering,
Olivia Stembridge.
Yasmin Pemberton
Additionally good luck to the Ex U18 Basford girls Sarah Carman, Sophie Russell and Natalie McClarnon who have been nominated for the Senior HPAs.
Hopefully more junior players will be nominated once the season kicks off.
U18's
Rachel French,
Alex Grant,
Megan Robson,
India Harvey.
U15's
Lucie Wood,
Maddy Lockwood,
Abbie Cook,
Layla Pickering,
Olivia Stembridge.
Yasmin Pemberton
Additionally good luck to the Ex U18 Basford girls Sarah Carman, Sophie Russell and Natalie McClarnon who have been nominated for the Senior HPAs.
Hopefully more junior players will be nominated once the season kicks off.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Well done to all of the girls who received their trophy at the Basildon youth presentation at the weekend, a good night was had by all. Also special congratulations to Natalie, Emily and Sophie who each received a Silver Plate from the club recognising their achievement for selection to the England Talent Development Group for the 2007/08 season.
Gavin
Congratulations to Sarah, Sophie, Natalie and Emily who attended the second Junior Super league game at the weekend. The girls attended the second two day training weekend at the England womens training facility in Oxfordshire where they received expert coaching including core work, game analysis and various tuition in detailed rugby techniques. Well done to all.
Gavin
Gavin
Saturday, May 31, 2008
End of Season Presentation Dinner Disco 13th June
Time 7.00 for 7.30 pm. Dress Code Formal or Smart.
Lakeside Banqueting Suite, (1st Floor), The Oysterfleet Hotel, Knightswick Road, Canvey Island SS8 7UX. Telephone 01268 510111
Lakeside Banqueting Suite, (1st Floor), The Oysterfleet Hotel, Knightswick Road, Canvey Island SS8 7UX. Telephone 01268 510111
U18s National 7s
Although at the end of a long season Basford U18s once again excelled themselves, coming top of their pool and proceeding into the quarter finals where they were drawn against Letchworth whom they despatched with relative ease 27 points to 7. Despite having accumulated injuries along the way they started their semi final against Wimborne with the usual grit and determination and having gone behind, came back at the death to equalise with a try at the final whistle. Unfortunately under competition rules first team to score would go through to the final, and with Basford losing captain Natalie McClarnon and Cherelle Alphonse to injuries even they couldn't continue to play on with, it became one step too far for a team that had given their all. Wimborne taking the advantage to score a break away try to proceed to the final.
This was the last game for Basford U18s Natalie McClarnon, Sarah Carman, Cherelle Alphonse and Charlotte Micallef, and they, along with Sophie Russell who was not available for the 7s will be sorely missed.
It has been a pleasure to work with you ladies, I am very proud of your achievements and wish you every success in the future!!
Paula
This was the last game for Basford U18s Natalie McClarnon, Sarah Carman, Cherelle Alphonse and Charlotte Micallef, and they, along with Sophie Russell who was not available for the 7s will be sorely missed.
It has been a pleasure to work with you ladies, I am very proud of your achievements and wish you every success in the future!!
Paula
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
End of a very long season
Well thats it for another season, I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to all those girls and parents who along with the coaching and management staff have covered endless miles each week to play games.
Both age groups have done exceptionally well this season, with both sides bringing trophies back to the club.
The U15's retained their Rochford Charity 10's title for the 2nd year and the U18's also retained the Rochford 10's and added the Worthing 10's and Herts 7's to their tally.
the U18's were also involved in the National Cup where they buddied up with Welwyn and narrowly lost to Worcester in an enthralling final at Litchfield.
The start of the season saw new faces join the club at both age groups,and those girls have settled in really well and were a major part of this seasons successes.
Many of the girls were involved in both County and Regional rugby this season with the Essex U18's retaining their County Festival trophy and the U15's narrowly losing out to old rivals Herts in their final. At Regional level, both Regional sides were unlucky coming within a whisker away of a place in the Regional Festival finals.
We saw 4 of our U18 girls take part in the Junior Super League ( Emily, Natalie, Sarah C and Sophie)
while 4 of our U15 girls were selected to go to the School of Rugby in Herts (Yasmin, Lucie, Jess W and Megan)
2 girls were selected for the Eastern Counties school of rugby (Jess Harris and Alex Grant)
Well done to all those girls.
Sadly we have to say goodbye to those girls who are moving up to Senior rugby next season
Natalie, Sophie, Sarah C, Charlie, Cherelle.
Good luck girls you will be missed!
We also had a very good and entertaining tour up north at Easter. We were on the recieving end of some great hospitality from Mandy and all the people at Malton & Norton RFC and would like to say a big thank you from all at Basford.
A big thanks to all those clubs that we have played over the course of the season, I know the girls have made some great friends over this past year.
Lastly but not least a big thanks to all the management and Coaching staff for the endless hrs put in to make this club the success it is.
Thanks to you all
Both age groups have done exceptionally well this season, with both sides bringing trophies back to the club.
The U15's retained their Rochford Charity 10's title for the 2nd year and the U18's also retained the Rochford 10's and added the Worthing 10's and Herts 7's to their tally.
the U18's were also involved in the National Cup where they buddied up with Welwyn and narrowly lost to Worcester in an enthralling final at Litchfield.
The start of the season saw new faces join the club at both age groups,and those girls have settled in really well and were a major part of this seasons successes.
Many of the girls were involved in both County and Regional rugby this season with the Essex U18's retaining their County Festival trophy and the U15's narrowly losing out to old rivals Herts in their final. At Regional level, both Regional sides were unlucky coming within a whisker away of a place in the Regional Festival finals.
We saw 4 of our U18 girls take part in the Junior Super League ( Emily, Natalie, Sarah C and Sophie)
while 4 of our U15 girls were selected to go to the School of Rugby in Herts (Yasmin, Lucie, Jess W and Megan)
2 girls were selected for the Eastern Counties school of rugby (Jess Harris and Alex Grant)
Well done to all those girls.
Sadly we have to say goodbye to those girls who are moving up to Senior rugby next season
Natalie, Sophie, Sarah C, Charlie, Cherelle.
Good luck girls you will be missed!
We also had a very good and entertaining tour up north at Easter. We were on the recieving end of some great hospitality from Mandy and all the people at Malton & Norton RFC and would like to say a big thank you from all at Basford.
A big thanks to all those clubs that we have played over the course of the season, I know the girls have made some great friends over this past year.
Lastly but not least a big thanks to all the management and Coaching staff for the endless hrs put in to make this club the success it is.
Thanks to you all
Monday, May 19, 2008
U18's Storm Herts 7's
Building on their success from the Worthing 10's the mighty Basford U18s stormed to another win at the Hertfordshire 7s on sunday.
The team played their first game against Wisbech and won 27-10 with scores from Dannie Harris, Kez Hopkins, Cherelle Alphonse and Rachel French.
The second pool game was against Herts Swifts (Old Albanians and Stevenage) and the team won convincingly 58-0(Cherelle 1, Sam Smith 1,Kez 2,Dannie 3,Frenchie 2,Jemma Sommers 1)Special mention needs to go to Jemma as it was her first ever try at senior rugby.
The team then had their last pool game with a winner takes all against Reading. After going behind early they drew 12-12 and went through to the semi final on points difference.
The Semi final was against a well drilled Bucks Jesters side, however they won 30-0with tries from Dannie 2,Kez 2,Casey Shults 1, Frenchie 1.
That set up a final against Letchworth against whom Basford lost in 7slast year.
The team didn't need much motivating and won 48-5 totally obliterating their opponents, with everybody finding that extra bit of effort especially Charlie Micallef and Alphonse. Anytime the opposition got the ball they were all over them.
Usual suspects with trys, Dannie, Kez, Cherelle, Rachel plus 1 for Siobhan Franklin.
A great team effort overall, especially the workrate of Natasha Barbank & Siobhan Franklin.
Additional congratulations to the 4 Basford girls, Emily Scott, Sarah Carmen, Natalie McClarnon and Sophie Russell who took part this weekend at the Inaugural England U18 Junior Super league game. This is a new completion where 32 of the top elite girls in England are invited to receive top England coaching and participate in a Red vs Blues match over the weekend at the England Elite training camp in Oxfordshire. All 4 girls played exceptionally well with some encouraging feedback from the coaching staff for future participation at both senior and U18 levels.
match report courtesy of Super Coach Gavin Scott
The team played their first game against Wisbech and won 27-10 with scores from Dannie Harris, Kez Hopkins, Cherelle Alphonse and Rachel French.
The second pool game was against Herts Swifts (Old Albanians and Stevenage) and the team won convincingly 58-0(Cherelle 1, Sam Smith 1,Kez 2,Dannie 3,Frenchie 2,Jemma Sommers 1)Special mention needs to go to Jemma as it was her first ever try at senior rugby.
The team then had their last pool game with a winner takes all against Reading. After going behind early they drew 12-12 and went through to the semi final on points difference.
The Semi final was against a well drilled Bucks Jesters side, however they won 30-0with tries from Dannie 2,Kez 2,Casey Shults 1, Frenchie 1.
That set up a final against Letchworth against whom Basford lost in 7slast year.
The team didn't need much motivating and won 48-5 totally obliterating their opponents, with everybody finding that extra bit of effort especially Charlie Micallef and Alphonse. Anytime the opposition got the ball they were all over them.
Usual suspects with trys, Dannie, Kez, Cherelle, Rachel plus 1 for Siobhan Franklin.
A great team effort overall, especially the workrate of Natasha Barbank & Siobhan Franklin.
Additional congratulations to the 4 Basford girls, Emily Scott, Sarah Carmen, Natalie McClarnon and Sophie Russell who took part this weekend at the Inaugural England U18 Junior Super league game. This is a new completion where 32 of the top elite girls in England are invited to receive top England coaching and participate in a Red vs Blues match over the weekend at the England Elite training camp in Oxfordshire. All 4 girls played exceptionally well with some encouraging feedback from the coaching staff for future participation at both senior and U18 levels.
match report courtesy of Super Coach Gavin Scott
Monday, May 12, 2008
Herts 7's @Tabard RFC
Sunday 18th May 08
This sunday both squads are taking part in the Herts 7's
Venue: Tabard RFC
Cobden Hill,
Radlett,
Herts.
WD7 7JN.
Telephone 01923 855561
Tabard RFC is located just south of Radlett on the A5183, which is the old A5. If travelling from the North go through Radlett heading south on the A5183 and there will be the Cat and Fiddle Public House on your right. 80 metres past the pub, on the left hand side, on the brow of the hill, is the entrance to Tabard RFC.
If travelling from the south come through Elstree and continue North on the A5183 until eventually you meet 30 mph signs just south of Radlett. The entrance is then on the right on the brow of the hill.
Opposite the entrance there is a sign saying "Cricket Club, Rugby Club" but this is often turned to face incorrectly!
Match Schedule
Under 15 Competition - Pool Stage
Pool A
Kick-off Pitch
11:00 C Herts Barbarians v Tamworth
11.40 D Basford v Herts Barbarians
12.20 C Tamworth v Basford
Pool B
Kick-off Pitch
11:20 C Saracens v Old Albanians
12.00 D Hertford v Saracens
12.40 C Old Albanians v Hertford
Pool C
Kick-off Pitch
11:00 D London Irish v Kettering
11.40 C Stevenage v London Irish
12.20 D Kettering v Stevenage
Pool D
Kick-off Pitch
11:20 D Welwyn Warriors v Reading Ladies
12.00 C Bucks Jesters v Welwyn Warriors
12.40 D Reading Ladies v Bucks Jesters
Under 18 Competition - Pool Stage
Pool A
Kick-off Pitch
11.00 A Kettering v Herts Barbarians
11.40 B Wisbech G. S. v Kettering
12.20 A Herts Barbarians v Wisbech G. S.
Pool B
Kick-off Pitch
11.20 A Basford v Hertford
12.00 B TBA v Basford
12.40 A Hertford v TBA
Pool C
Kick-off Pitch
11.00 B Herts Swifts v Reading Ladies
11.40 A Worthing Stingers v Herts Swifts
12.20 B Reading Ladies v Worthing Stingers
Pool D
Kick-off Pitch
11.20 B Bucks Jesters v Pavworth Maoris
12.00 A Letchworth G.C. v Bucks Jesters
12.40 B Pavworth Maoris v Letchworth G.C.
Full details of timings etxc will be printed and given to all parents/players on sunday when they arrive.
<
This sunday both squads are taking part in the Herts 7's
Venue: Tabard RFC
Cobden Hill,
Radlett,
Herts.
WD7 7JN.
Telephone 01923 855561
Tabard RFC is located just south of Radlett on the A5183, which is the old A5. If travelling from the North go through Radlett heading south on the A5183 and there will be the Cat and Fiddle Public House on your right. 80 metres past the pub, on the left hand side, on the brow of the hill, is the entrance to Tabard RFC.
If travelling from the south come through Elstree and continue North on the A5183 until eventually you meet 30 mph signs just south of Radlett. The entrance is then on the right on the brow of the hill.
Opposite the entrance there is a sign saying "Cricket Club, Rugby Club" but this is often turned to face incorrectly!
Match Schedule
Under 15 Competition - Pool Stage
Pool A
Kick-off Pitch
11:00 C Herts Barbarians v Tamworth
11.40 D Basford v Herts Barbarians
12.20 C Tamworth v Basford
Pool B
Kick-off Pitch
11:20 C Saracens v Old Albanians
12.00 D Hertford v Saracens
12.40 C Old Albanians v Hertford
Pool C
Kick-off Pitch
11:00 D London Irish v Kettering
11.40 C Stevenage v London Irish
12.20 D Kettering v Stevenage
Pool D
Kick-off Pitch
11:20 D Welwyn Warriors v Reading Ladies
12.00 C Bucks Jesters v Welwyn Warriors
12.40 D Reading Ladies v Bucks Jesters
Under 18 Competition - Pool Stage
Pool A
Kick-off Pitch
11.00 A Kettering v Herts Barbarians
11.40 B Wisbech G. S. v Kettering
12.20 A Herts Barbarians v Wisbech G. S.
Pool B
Kick-off Pitch
11.20 A Basford v Hertford
12.00 B TBA v Basford
12.40 A Hertford v TBA
Pool C
Kick-off Pitch
11.00 B Herts Swifts v Reading Ladies
11.40 A Worthing Stingers v Herts Swifts
12.20 B Reading Ladies v Worthing Stingers
Pool D
Kick-off Pitch
11.20 B Bucks Jesters v Pavworth Maoris
12.00 A Letchworth G.C. v Bucks Jesters
12.40 B Pavworth Maoris v Letchworth G.C.
Full details of timings etxc will be printed and given to all parents/players on sunday when they arrive.
<
Regional Festival @Litchfield
Last Weekend saw teams from around the UK take part in a terrific weekends rugby at Litchfield Rugby Club.
On the Saturday the East Region U15's were in action and following some good rugby finished in 4th place.
The Regional team which included 11 Basford players
Alex Grant
Megan Robson
Jess Harris
Lucie Wood
Abbie Cook
Frances Hughes
Layla Pickering
Maddy Lockwood
Olivia Stembridge
Yasmin Pemberton
Jess Wilkins
were narrowly beaten in the semi final 5-0 by East Wales and then faced last years winners "South" in the 3rd /4th place play off where they again narrowly lost 5-0
This was a great improvement on last year when East finished 6th.
On Sunday East Region U18's, including 7 Basford players
Nat McClarnon
Sarah Carmen
Emily Scott
Sophie Russell
Cherelle Alphonse
Charlie Micallef
Rachel French
finished 3rd for the second year running. They were narrowly beaten 5-0 in the semi final against West Midlands who went on to win the Cup.
In the 3rd /4th play offs the East girls beat a well drilled East Midlands team.
Congratulations to all those girls from around the region who formed part of the two squads.
Thanks also to all the coaches and Management staff for all their hard work during this seasons programme.
On the Saturday the East Region U15's were in action and following some good rugby finished in 4th place.
The Regional team which included 11 Basford players
Alex Grant
Megan Robson
Jess Harris
Lucie Wood
Abbie Cook
Frances Hughes
Layla Pickering
Maddy Lockwood
Olivia Stembridge
Yasmin Pemberton
Jess Wilkins
were narrowly beaten in the semi final 5-0 by East Wales and then faced last years winners "South" in the 3rd /4th place play off where they again narrowly lost 5-0
This was a great improvement on last year when East finished 6th.
On Sunday East Region U18's, including 7 Basford players
Nat McClarnon
Sarah Carmen
Emily Scott
Sophie Russell
Cherelle Alphonse
Charlie Micallef
Rachel French
finished 3rd for the second year running. They were narrowly beaten 5-0 in the semi final against West Midlands who went on to win the Cup.
In the 3rd /4th play offs the East girls beat a well drilled East Midlands team.
Congratulations to all those girls from around the region who formed part of the two squads.
Thanks also to all the coaches and Management staff for all their hard work during this seasons programme.
ROCHFORD CHARITY TOURNAMENT
Entries are invited for this year's Rochford Hundred Tournament to be held Sunday 2nd November 2008.
Girls Under 15's 7 a side and Under 18's 10 a side. Entry fee per team £30
Proceeds to Elizabeth Dowrey Ward, Southend Hospital.
Book your place as soon as possible by emailing: tina@rugbyturners.plus.com
Girls Under 15's 7 a side and Under 18's 10 a side. Entry fee per team £30
Proceeds to Elizabeth Dowrey Ward, Southend Hospital.
Book your place as soon as possible by emailing: tina@rugbyturners.plus.com
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
CHAMPIONS
U18's Win Worthing 10's
Congratulations to all the U18's and Coaching/ Management staff on a great performance last weekend
Congratulations to all the U18's and Coaching/ Management staff on a great performance last weekend
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Regional Festival
Congratulations to the following Basford U15's who have been selected to represent East Region at Litchfield this season.
Alex Grant
Megan Robson
Jess Harris
Lucie Wood
Abbie Cook
Frances Hughes
Layla Pickering
Maddy Lockwood
Olivia Stembridge
Yasmin Pemberton
Jess Wilkins
Ellie Martin.
Well done to all those girls and good luck at the Festival.
Alex Grant
Megan Robson
Jess Harris
Lucie Wood
Abbie Cook
Frances Hughes
Layla Pickering
Maddy Lockwood
Olivia Stembridge
Yasmin Pemberton
Jess Wilkins
Ellie Martin.
Well done to all those girls and good luck at the Festival.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Reminders
Ladies
Just a couple of reminders,
Final monies are due shortly for the End of season Dinner Dance /Presentation, if you haven't booked your places please speak to Paula as soon as possible.
Also we have entered the Worthing 10's on Sunday 4th May Could you please let Paula know your availability as soon as possible.
As it's the Bank Holiday weekend we have decided to camp at Angmering near to Worthing RFC. Some of us are going Friday 2nd May until Monday 5th May, i.e. 3 nights, and some 2 nights. If you would like to camp please let Paula know by Sunday 27th April.
We will need to make sure that we have enough tents to accommodate everyone and that we have enough food for the bbq!!
There will be a charge but although it wont be a great deal we am not sure how much exactly until we know who wants to go.
Just a couple of reminders,
Final monies are due shortly for the End of season Dinner Dance /Presentation, if you haven't booked your places please speak to Paula as soon as possible.
Also we have entered the Worthing 10's on Sunday 4th May Could you please let Paula know your availability as soon as possible.
As it's the Bank Holiday weekend we have decided to camp at Angmering near to Worthing RFC. Some of us are going Friday 2nd May until Monday 5th May, i.e. 3 nights, and some 2 nights. If you would like to camp please let Paula know by Sunday 27th April.
We will need to make sure that we have enough tents to accommodate everyone and that we have enough food for the bbq!!
There will be a charge but although it wont be a great deal we am not sure how much exactly until we know who wants to go.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
D DAY THE INVASION Pt 2
The dawn chorus(well, crashing waves, hail rattling the windows and howling winds) signalled the start (1+1) D DAY
As the troops trudged wearily across (1+1) the mess hut (well it was by the time they had left), the officers had settled down awaiting their ”bitches” (1+1) bring forth their breakfasts.
Having eaten everything that was not able to run away, the troops returned (1+1) their quarters (1+1) check their equipment.
Having massed the troops off they set:
"Oh the grand old Commander Scott he had 3 thousand men and he marched them up (1+1) the top of the hill, then he marched them down again (ok in reality he had 30 girls but it didn’t rhyme)"
Anyway, once the troops had reached the top of the hill, they set about removing the camouflage netting (better known as Paula and Tina’s knickers) from the coach.
Within minutes the troops were on board and ready (1+1) roll, well that is until Rob the driver couldn’t remember the way (1+1) go.
A few choice words and a smack around the head with a baseball bat seemed (1+1) jog his memory.
As the battlefield approached, tensions were rising within the battlebus which wasn’t helped by Rob deciding to pull into a McDonalds car park then drive straight out just as the girls were rising from their seats (1+1) strip it bare. (he would pay dearly later for his little jest)
Shortly after midday the troops rolled into the main car park and the screaming hoards disembarked and made a full on attack on the club house.
T’ Yorkshire folk were caught completely by surprise as it looked like we had caught an advance party of 6 girls and 1 officer totally unawares.
Within minutes the troops had captured the Yorkshire camp and set up home.
It wasn’t long before Yorkshire reinforcements arrived and the troops were soon facing mini bodecia’s wearing strange headgear with a winged beast upon their shoulder (ok flat caps and pigeons to those who are now totally lost in this epic story line)
We now come (1+1) the point where a match report would be published, but it was (1+1) long ago and the rugby was not really important.
Suffice (1+1) say honours were even at the end of the day with the U18’s beating the Yorkshire folk into submission and the U15’s being over run by a pack of screaming flat caps
Having dragged their battered bodies from the battlefield the troops showered (yes I know you thought it was a misprint but they did wash) and changed into their cunning disguises ready for a second assault on the Yorkshire encampment.
Some strange looking creatures surfaced from those changing rooms, none more so than the little green goblin who was most indignant (1+1) be referred (1+1) as a goblin as he reckoned he had come as the Incredible Hulk “yeah right O’ Darren of cause you were!!!!!!!!”
The Invasion Force
Officers
Gavin “Miss Bas Vegas 1979” Scott
Phil “Miss Canvey Island 1979” Robson
Paula “118/118” Bates
Darren “The Goblin” Coomer SORRY MEANT INCREDIBLE HULK !!!
Simon “Dangermouse” Hughes
Paul “Shrek” Carmen
Bob “Ozzie Osbourne” Lockwood
Theresa “ WPC 69er” Lockwood
Tina “118 / 118” Turner
Peter “Mad Chef” Turner
Shirley “Cruella” Browne
Phil “Fred Flintstone” French
Tracy “Mother not so Superior” French
Tony “Blues Brother” McClarnon
Tina “Blues Sister” McClarnon
Steve “Batman” Micallef
Supporting troops
Megan “Mini the Minx” Robson
Yasmin “Incredibles” Pemberton
Lucie “Wonder why woman” Woods
Frances “Terminator” Hughes
Abbie “Robin” Cook
Layla “Batman” Pickering
Jade “Snow White”
Alex “The Hulk” Grant
Alice “Superwoman” Wright
Amy “ Mini Mouse” Browne
Jess “ Dopy the Dwarf” Wilkins
Olivia “ Noddy” Stembridge
Ellie “ Pippi long Stockings” Martin
Sarah “Lara Croft” MCB
Tash “ Lady Penelope” Berbank
Emma “ Bat woman” Dorrington
Charlotte “Jack Sparrow” Murphy
Nat “Coco the Clown” McClarnon
Sophie “ Incredibles” Russell
Charlie Ninja Turtle” Micallef
Katie “ Ninja Turtle” Woodland
Sam “Ninja Turtle” Sewering
Emily “Super Mario” Scott
Chivy “Super Mario” Allison
Sam “Bob the Builder” Smith
Jemma “batwoman" Sommers
Sarah “I am a Dalex” Carmen
Cherelle “ I am a Dalex as well “ Alphonse
Rachel “ Bam Bam “French
War Crimes Tribunal
As is the norm following these skirmishes, the U N decided to punish all those guilty of “War Crimes”
The Presiding Judge: Phil “Does my bum look big in this skirt” Robson
Prosecuting Council: Gavin “God I look hot in this skirt” Scott
Defence Council: Simon “ Do these ears look big” Hughes
The usual suspects were hauled before the bench for their part in such heinous crimes as
Darren “Just being Darren”
Paul “Just being Paul
The French’s and The Turners for the unsavoury attire found during a search of their room. (my god there's some sicko's in this world!!!!!!!!!!)
Whilst the prosecuting council outlined the case against each and every person who had the misfortune to be charged with a crime and called for the maximum penalty to be handed down, , the defence council was well, to put it bluntly absolutely useless as not one person got off.
Now we all know in this day and age our courts are normally extremely harsh on offenders and hand out long prison sentences without the basics for all those pensioners who don’t pay their Council Taxes, (and damn right too).
So we adopted the same stance and decided the punishment should fit the crime.
Instalment 3 to follow shortly
As the troops trudged wearily across (1+1) the mess hut (well it was by the time they had left), the officers had settled down awaiting their ”bitches” (1+1) bring forth their breakfasts.
Having eaten everything that was not able to run away, the troops returned (1+1) their quarters (1+1) check their equipment.
Having massed the troops off they set:
"Oh the grand old Commander Scott he had 3 thousand men and he marched them up (1+1) the top of the hill, then he marched them down again (ok in reality he had 30 girls but it didn’t rhyme)"
Anyway, once the troops had reached the top of the hill, they set about removing the camouflage netting (better known as Paula and Tina’s knickers) from the coach.
Within minutes the troops were on board and ready (1+1) roll, well that is until Rob the driver couldn’t remember the way (1+1) go.
A few choice words and a smack around the head with a baseball bat seemed (1+1) jog his memory.
As the battlefield approached, tensions were rising within the battlebus which wasn’t helped by Rob deciding to pull into a McDonalds car park then drive straight out just as the girls were rising from their seats (1+1) strip it bare. (he would pay dearly later for his little jest)
Shortly after midday the troops rolled into the main car park and the screaming hoards disembarked and made a full on attack on the club house.
T’ Yorkshire folk were caught completely by surprise as it looked like we had caught an advance party of 6 girls and 1 officer totally unawares.
Within minutes the troops had captured the Yorkshire camp and set up home.
It wasn’t long before Yorkshire reinforcements arrived and the troops were soon facing mini bodecia’s wearing strange headgear with a winged beast upon their shoulder (ok flat caps and pigeons to those who are now totally lost in this epic story line)
We now come (1+1) the point where a match report would be published, but it was (1+1) long ago and the rugby was not really important.
Suffice (1+1) say honours were even at the end of the day with the U18’s beating the Yorkshire folk into submission and the U15’s being over run by a pack of screaming flat caps
Having dragged their battered bodies from the battlefield the troops showered (yes I know you thought it was a misprint but they did wash) and changed into their cunning disguises ready for a second assault on the Yorkshire encampment.
Some strange looking creatures surfaced from those changing rooms, none more so than the little green goblin who was most indignant (1+1) be referred (1+1) as a goblin as he reckoned he had come as the Incredible Hulk “yeah right O’ Darren of cause you were!!!!!!!!”
The Invasion Force
Officers
Gavin “Miss Bas Vegas 1979” Scott
Phil “Miss Canvey Island 1979” Robson
Paula “118/118” Bates
Darren “The Goblin” Coomer SORRY MEANT INCREDIBLE HULK !!!
Simon “Dangermouse” Hughes
Paul “Shrek” Carmen
Bob “Ozzie Osbourne” Lockwood
Theresa “ WPC 69er” Lockwood
Tina “118 / 118” Turner
Peter “Mad Chef” Turner
Shirley “Cruella” Browne
Phil “Fred Flintstone” French
Tracy “Mother not so Superior” French
Tony “Blues Brother” McClarnon
Tina “Blues Sister” McClarnon
Steve “Batman” Micallef
Supporting troops
Megan “Mini the Minx” Robson
Yasmin “Incredibles” Pemberton
Lucie “Wonder why woman” Woods
Frances “Terminator” Hughes
Abbie “Robin” Cook
Layla “Batman” Pickering
Jade “Snow White”
Alex “The Hulk” Grant
Alice “Superwoman” Wright
Amy “ Mini Mouse” Browne
Jess “ Dopy the Dwarf” Wilkins
Olivia “ Noddy” Stembridge
Ellie “ Pippi long Stockings” Martin
Sarah “Lara Croft” MCB
Tash “ Lady Penelope” Berbank
Emma “ Bat woman” Dorrington
Charlotte “Jack Sparrow” Murphy
Nat “Coco the Clown” McClarnon
Sophie “ Incredibles” Russell
Charlie Ninja Turtle” Micallef
Katie “ Ninja Turtle” Woodland
Sam “Ninja Turtle” Sewering
Emily “Super Mario” Scott
Chivy “Super Mario” Allison
Sam “Bob the Builder” Smith
Jemma “batwoman" Sommers
Sarah “I am a Dalex” Carmen
Cherelle “ I am a Dalex as well “ Alphonse
Rachel “ Bam Bam “French
War Crimes Tribunal
As is the norm following these skirmishes, the U N decided to punish all those guilty of “War Crimes”
The Presiding Judge: Phil “Does my bum look big in this skirt” Robson
Prosecuting Council: Gavin “God I look hot in this skirt” Scott
Defence Council: Simon “ Do these ears look big” Hughes
The usual suspects were hauled before the bench for their part in such heinous crimes as
Darren “Just being Darren”
Paul “Just being Paul
The French’s and The Turners for the unsavoury attire found during a search of their room. (my god there's some sicko's in this world!!!!!!!!!!)
Whilst the prosecuting council outlined the case against each and every person who had the misfortune to be charged with a crime and called for the maximum penalty to be handed down, , the defence council was well, to put it bluntly absolutely useless as not one person got off.
Now we all know in this day and age our courts are normally extremely harsh on offenders and hand out long prison sentences without the basics for all those pensioners who don’t pay their Council Taxes, (and damn right too).
So we adopted the same stance and decided the punishment should fit the crime.
Instalment 3 to follow shortly
Friday, April 18, 2008
Reports from National Cup Finals
Last weekend saw some terrific games of Rugby at all levels being played at Litchfield.
The Basford/Welwyn cup final against Worcester went right to the wire and the London Irish v Thornbury final at U15's was also a close run affair despite the final score.
Match reports below courtesy of Dave Marques @Welwyn and Les Simpson at London Irish
U18'S
Welwyn/Basford v Worcester
It was National Cup Final heartache for the Welwyn-Basford U18 girls' side on Sunday.
They narrowly lost out to Worcester after being five minutes from lifting the trophy.
The combined Welwyn-Basford team were leading 15-10 with just minutes left on the clock.
However, an exceptional converted Worcester try denied the girls glory.
it was a truly pulsating National Cup clash at Lichfield on Sunday.
Worcester roared into an early 5-0 lead and then went very close again two minutes later.
Welwyn-Basford fought back and their forwards drove upfield steadily until Worcester finally cracked.
Skipper Natalie McClarnon scored to make it 5-5.
Back came Worcester for 10-5 and that was how it stayed until half-time.
The Welwyn-Basford coaches encouraged the girls for a second half display that was exceptional.
The tide was all flowing one way and another great forward drive saw Hannah Marques, playing the game of her life, score in the corner, making it 10-10.
Still the maroon hoops kept coming and Worcester were pinned in their own half for long periods.
Another great bout of forward pressure saw Springbok Frankie Dawson race clear to give the Herts and Essex team a crucial 15-10 lead with 15 minutes to play.
Worcester raised their game but the Welwyn defence held out until five minutes to go.
Worcester's exceptional centre then scored the match-winning try and snatched away the cup that was so tantalisingly close to the maroon hoops' grasp.
It was a try worthy of winning any match - a 50-yard run past several missed tackles and put down under the posts.
An easy conversion made the score 17-15.
The final whistle blew and the dream was over but in the years to come all the Welwyn-Basford players can look at their medal and remember with pride the match they took part in.
Team manager Dave Marques knew it was a case of so near, yet so far.
He said: "You know, for a while there I thought we'd actually done it.
"I think had we been playing any other team we would have, but Worcester have such a classy back division, you know one slip and they'll make you pay.
"That try was beautiful to watch though, as well as being painful."
Coach Clive Cramphorn said: "There's still plenty to sort out in the next few weeks, but it was a real pleasure to be involved in a game like that.
"The true spirit of rugby shone through like a beacon and after the week we've just had, that was a real boost.
Congratulations also go to the Basford management and coaching staff, Paula Bates, Gavin Scott and Tony McClarnon for their part getting the girls to the final.
U15's
London Irish v Thornbury
London Irish Girls Lift The Cup
RFUW U15 Girls National Cup Final at Lichfield RFC, 13th April 2008
London Irish 29 – Thornbury 7
In a week that saw London Irish Girls secure the Surrey League title, the girls travelled to Lichfield, Staffordshire, to contest the final of the RFUW National Cup against the Gloucestershire side Thornbury, the defending champions.
Research indicated that Thornbury had a very big, well-drilled pack and played exclusively to that strength. Preparation for the match was to practice quick ball away from the forwards and avoid a mauling game. This approach was borne out when, during their warm up for the game, the Thornbury backs always brought the ball back inside. The girls went into the game confident in their tactics.
The starting line-up:
Morgan Simpson (C)
Nancy Tarrant
Sereena Peppard
Emma Pinchin
Niquita Patel Subs: Nicolle Roberts
Colette Bloome Rachel Still
Serena Carter Gemma Jablonska
Harriet Connor
Laura Schultze
Alex Matthews
Alice Flynn
Rochelle Smith
Robyn Harwood-Lewis
Thornbury kicked off and London Irish attacked up the left flank through Alice Flynn. When she was eventually brought down, the pack were immediately in support and secured the ball quickly. The ball went along the line to the right wing Laura Schulze who was clear to score near the corner. Harriet Connor kicked a difficult conversion to take Irish 7 points ahead.
The score settled the LI nerves but also stirred Thornbury into action. The following 10 minutes saw the game ebb and flow between the teams. London Irish almost scored a second try but lost the ball crossing the line and Thornbury put together a concerted forward attack on the Irish line only to be thwarted by Laura Schultze, who managed to get under the ball to stop them grounding it.
Slowly the London Irish pack began to dictate the forward exchanges by arriving in numbers and recycling the ball quickly, avoiding a toe-to-toe battle.
With half time approaching, Nancy Tarrant took a quick lineout throw inside the Thornbury 22, which was taken at the front by Morgan Simpson, who drove a few yards before going to ground. The supporting forwards secured the ball, which was sent along the threes. Alex Matthews and Alice Flynn executed a well-rehearsed inside dummy, which opened up the Thornbury defence for Alex to score under the posts. Harriet again converted taking Irish into a 14-point half time lead.
The second half continued in the same way with London Irish dictating the game but excellent Thornbury tackling keeping them at bay.
The pressure eventually told when Alex Matthews stripped the ball in a tackle 5m from the Thornbury line before popping it to Sereena Peppard who went over to score in the corner. This time the try was unconverted, 19 – 0.
Thornbury again came back strongly and put Irish under pressure before putting in a box kick, which caught the LI defence napping. A fortunate bounce in goal saw Thornbury get to it first to make their first score. A good conversion brought the score to 19 – 7.
LI went on the offensive and pinned Thornbury in their own half for several minutes before they were awarded a penalty on the 22 for handling on the ground. Harriet elected to kick and scored a simple 3 points.
Thornbury heads went down and they didn’t threaten the Irish defences again.
The final score came from a box kick by Harriet, which was gathered by Alex. Alex drew a tackle before releasing the ball to Laura on the right wing. Laura cut inside, between two defenders to score. Harriet converted to bring the score to 29 – 7.
A few minutes later the referee brought the game to a close.
An awesome game by the pack, some magnificent running and tackling by the backs and a dominant team performance overall gave the London Irish U15 Girls a well-deserved victory.
WELL DONE TO ALL FOUR TEAMS FOR WHAT WAS A GREAT DAYS RUGBY.
A big congratulations to all the basford girls who this season have done themselves, the club,county and regional sides proud.
The Basford/Welwyn cup final against Worcester went right to the wire and the London Irish v Thornbury final at U15's was also a close run affair despite the final score.
Match reports below courtesy of Dave Marques @Welwyn and Les Simpson at London Irish
U18'S
Welwyn/Basford v Worcester
It was National Cup Final heartache for the Welwyn-Basford U18 girls' side on Sunday.
They narrowly lost out to Worcester after being five minutes from lifting the trophy.
The combined Welwyn-Basford team were leading 15-10 with just minutes left on the clock.
However, an exceptional converted Worcester try denied the girls glory.
it was a truly pulsating National Cup clash at Lichfield on Sunday.
Worcester roared into an early 5-0 lead and then went very close again two minutes later.
Welwyn-Basford fought back and their forwards drove upfield steadily until Worcester finally cracked.
Skipper Natalie McClarnon scored to make it 5-5.
Back came Worcester for 10-5 and that was how it stayed until half-time.
The Welwyn-Basford coaches encouraged the girls for a second half display that was exceptional.
The tide was all flowing one way and another great forward drive saw Hannah Marques, playing the game of her life, score in the corner, making it 10-10.
Still the maroon hoops kept coming and Worcester were pinned in their own half for long periods.
Another great bout of forward pressure saw Springbok Frankie Dawson race clear to give the Herts and Essex team a crucial 15-10 lead with 15 minutes to play.
Worcester raised their game but the Welwyn defence held out until five minutes to go.
Worcester's exceptional centre then scored the match-winning try and snatched away the cup that was so tantalisingly close to the maroon hoops' grasp.
It was a try worthy of winning any match - a 50-yard run past several missed tackles and put down under the posts.
An easy conversion made the score 17-15.
The final whistle blew and the dream was over but in the years to come all the Welwyn-Basford players can look at their medal and remember with pride the match they took part in.
Team manager Dave Marques knew it was a case of so near, yet so far.
He said: "You know, for a while there I thought we'd actually done it.
"I think had we been playing any other team we would have, but Worcester have such a classy back division, you know one slip and they'll make you pay.
"That try was beautiful to watch though, as well as being painful."
Coach Clive Cramphorn said: "There's still plenty to sort out in the next few weeks, but it was a real pleasure to be involved in a game like that.
"The true spirit of rugby shone through like a beacon and after the week we've just had, that was a real boost.
Congratulations also go to the Basford management and coaching staff, Paula Bates, Gavin Scott and Tony McClarnon for their part getting the girls to the final.
U15's
London Irish v Thornbury
London Irish Girls Lift The Cup
RFUW U15 Girls National Cup Final at Lichfield RFC, 13th April 2008
London Irish 29 – Thornbury 7
In a week that saw London Irish Girls secure the Surrey League title, the girls travelled to Lichfield, Staffordshire, to contest the final of the RFUW National Cup against the Gloucestershire side Thornbury, the defending champions.
Research indicated that Thornbury had a very big, well-drilled pack and played exclusively to that strength. Preparation for the match was to practice quick ball away from the forwards and avoid a mauling game. This approach was borne out when, during their warm up for the game, the Thornbury backs always brought the ball back inside. The girls went into the game confident in their tactics.
The starting line-up:
Morgan Simpson (C)
Nancy Tarrant
Sereena Peppard
Emma Pinchin
Niquita Patel Subs: Nicolle Roberts
Colette Bloome Rachel Still
Serena Carter Gemma Jablonska
Harriet Connor
Laura Schultze
Alex Matthews
Alice Flynn
Rochelle Smith
Robyn Harwood-Lewis
Thornbury kicked off and London Irish attacked up the left flank through Alice Flynn. When she was eventually brought down, the pack were immediately in support and secured the ball quickly. The ball went along the line to the right wing Laura Schulze who was clear to score near the corner. Harriet Connor kicked a difficult conversion to take Irish 7 points ahead.
The score settled the LI nerves but also stirred Thornbury into action. The following 10 minutes saw the game ebb and flow between the teams. London Irish almost scored a second try but lost the ball crossing the line and Thornbury put together a concerted forward attack on the Irish line only to be thwarted by Laura Schultze, who managed to get under the ball to stop them grounding it.
Slowly the London Irish pack began to dictate the forward exchanges by arriving in numbers and recycling the ball quickly, avoiding a toe-to-toe battle.
With half time approaching, Nancy Tarrant took a quick lineout throw inside the Thornbury 22, which was taken at the front by Morgan Simpson, who drove a few yards before going to ground. The supporting forwards secured the ball, which was sent along the threes. Alex Matthews and Alice Flynn executed a well-rehearsed inside dummy, which opened up the Thornbury defence for Alex to score under the posts. Harriet again converted taking Irish into a 14-point half time lead.
The second half continued in the same way with London Irish dictating the game but excellent Thornbury tackling keeping them at bay.
The pressure eventually told when Alex Matthews stripped the ball in a tackle 5m from the Thornbury line before popping it to Sereena Peppard who went over to score in the corner. This time the try was unconverted, 19 – 0.
Thornbury again came back strongly and put Irish under pressure before putting in a box kick, which caught the LI defence napping. A fortunate bounce in goal saw Thornbury get to it first to make their first score. A good conversion brought the score to 19 – 7.
LI went on the offensive and pinned Thornbury in their own half for several minutes before they were awarded a penalty on the 22 for handling on the ground. Harriet elected to kick and scored a simple 3 points.
Thornbury heads went down and they didn’t threaten the Irish defences again.
The final score came from a box kick by Harriet, which was gathered by Alex. Alex drew a tackle before releasing the ball to Laura on the right wing. Laura cut inside, between two defenders to score. Harriet converted to bring the score to 29 – 7.
A few minutes later the referee brought the game to a close.
An awesome game by the pack, some magnificent running and tackling by the backs and a dominant team performance overall gave the London Irish U15 Girls a well-deserved victory.
WELL DONE TO ALL FOUR TEAMS FOR WHAT WAS A GREAT DAYS RUGBY.
A big congratulations to all the basford girls who this season have done themselves, the club,county and regional sides proud.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)