Thursday 08 April 2010

Saturday 3rd April saw the 6th iteration of the GRM 7’s held at Emanuel Rugby Club in New Malden.

With recent appalling weather the outlook had been bleak for playing conditions, but the rain held off and though the pitches were wetter than an otters pocket at the first whistle, things dried out quite nicely as the games proceeded.

We strive for a balance of social teams interspersed with some quality and were not disappointed. Solid play was as usual contributed by Old Hamptonians, DGS Baby and OE U21’s with Olaf’s Axes and Fortus Nutrition Cowboys operating at the higher end of the spectrum. Special mention also goes to The Phantoms who were arguably the best dressed team of the event.

As ever Well Oiled Beef Hooked (the only side to have featured in every Tournamanet so far) were utterly consistent in their inability to win any pool games, but then with half time boat races splitting each half and numerous inter match libations, there were no real surprises. Interestingly ‘The Beef’ field two squads this year resulting in an interesting Wooden Spoon final of Beef vs Beef. A thoroughly tolerant referee turned a blind eye to a new 7’s rules such as “each player is required to remove 1 item of playing kit per try scored”.

It is often said that Rugby is the winner in matches such as these, but I’m not sure that really applies here....

The Cup Final was played out between Fortus Nutrition Cowboys (who boasted an average weight of 19.5 stone per man in the forwards) and Olaf’s Axes. Slick passing, running and vigour in the contact area was shown by both sides and it really was anyone’s match. Fierce play continued to the final whistle with Olaf’s Axes nosing ahead to take the win 15 - 7.

OE U21 edged out Old Hamptonians for the Plate and DGS Baby saw off The Phantoms for the Bowl. All finals were fairly evenly matched, and all teams played within the not too serious nature of the competition.

The bar was lively for several hours after the final whistle with people from all teams staying for a few social ones.

The event is held every Easter and we welcome any team that doesn’t take itself too seriously and wants to mix decent play with a social emphasis.

www.emanuelrugby.co.uk