In the last match before Christmas Civil Service Colts travelled to Shawsbridge to take on Instonians Seahorses
This was the third encounter between these two sides this season with the series level at 1 win apiece before kick-off.
Last time out we contrived to give Instonians a 2 try lead. The Seahorses clearly remembered our generosity and their pacy no.13 (with the artistic tattoo) scored several times and raced into a 24-0 lead. The omens did not look good.
But this Service team was made of sterner stuff. Chris Gardiner captained the side and led from the front with some big tackles and hard running. Alistair Campbell lead the pack, and with pinpoint lineout throwing (& jumping) the pack enjoyed more lineout possession than in previous weeks.
Conor Ellson made a welcome return from injury.
Ciaran Stone and Daniel Moore made their debuts.
Service fought back and scored 14 points before half time – a try by no.8 Daniel Moore on 23mins converted by fullback Andrew Toland from the touchline – the kick earning much applause from both sets of supporters. Two mins later Service scored again through Andrew Toland who converted his own try.
Half-time score: Instonians Seahorses 24, Civil Service Colts 14.
The second half started as the first half had ended with Service scoring another try. Daniel Moore broke, ball in hand, charged for the line, pushed over with his supporting forwards, for the referee to award a penalty try for a Seahorses infringement. Andrew Toland converted, gap reduced to 3 points.
The remainder of the 2nd half saw entertaining rugby between 2 well matched sides. Instonians were to score again, 1 half way through the 2nd period and then again just before the final whistle.
Final score: Instonians Seahorses 36, Civil Service 21.
Although the margin of defeat on this occasion was larger than before the team did themselves proud – this was a team effort.
Well done to each of Chris S, Alistair, Kyle, Jai, Benjamin, Harry, Daniel, Jack McD, Peter, Andy L, Matthew R, Chris G, Conor E, Ciaran S, Andy T. Hold your heads high.
