Dover 1st XV (56) v (15) Crowborough 1st XV
Played 14th April 2007
Dover are guaranteed promotion to London SE3 after a convincing victory
against Crowborough. With Eastbourne winning comfortably Dover finish
as runners up in what had become a two horse race for the league title
during the second half of the season. Both sides lost only two games
apiece and although Dover had a 149 points difference in their favour
an administrative error in their first game of the season cost them
a deduction of two points which ultimately decided the league. Although
disappointing Dover has achieved huge success in gaining 4 promotions
in only five seasons and the club and players should be proud of their
achievements.
With Dover 2nd XV winning their league it was a fitting tribute for
the two sides to play at home together on the last Saturday of the
league season. To celebrate the success of the club, 90 Vice Presidents
and their guests attended a pre-match luncheon before they were given
a feast of rugby by both the home teams. The heat was intense and the
ground was like concrete, however this provided Dover the opportunity
to play fast, entertaining and exciting rugby. A total of 9 tries were
scored and Ben Sedgwick kicked 4 conversions and 1 penalty to make
up the tally. Dover dominated the first half kicking up the slope and
tries were scored by Ben Murray, Gus Surendorff, Jeremy Walmesley,
Ricky Mackintosh and Lee Tonks with Crowborough responding with a penalty.
The quality of the play was at times scintillating with some explosive
attacking by the Sharks often on the counter from deep in their own
half. The forwards and backline complimented each other with some supreme
rugby on display.
The second half saw a much spirited response from Crowborough who
caused Dover a number of problems. Although Dover added to their score
with
two further touchdowns by Mackintosh and one apiece for Trigger Davison
and Bullet Tonks they didn’t have it all their own way. The
visitors worked tirelessly and were rewarded with two well deserved
tries.
The festivities continued after the game in typical rugby tradition
with both sides enjoying each other’s company with some interesting
games. A party for the senior squad followed, with all invited and
the rich rewards of the game of rugby were enjoyed by all. Over 300
people had shared 12 hours of pure enjoyment at Crabble in what can
only be described as a fantastic day. Particular thanks must go to
John Mercer and his staff. John had to cater for three separate meals
during the day and as always his food was of the highest quality. Secondly
our thanks for the tireless efforts of ‘H’ Beardsell and
his gang who catered for the liquid side of the business, which was
relentless!
In my other guise as the manager of the 1st XV I would like to conclude
by thanking the people who have impacted on the success of the senior
squad. The energy and support shown by the Chairman Richard Catt has
been remarkable. Graham Tonks the Club Coach has produced a team with
an average age of 21 to play some outstanding rugby. The sceptics of
the club have for the last 3 years questioned the physique and strength
of the squad, in particular the pack. I am sure Sidcup and Thanet would
have something to say about that from their encounters with us. Only
several of the 1st XV have reached rugby maturity and the future is
in my opinion looking pretty good. Graham’s influence and passion
for success is inspirational and it’s such a pleasure hearing
him advise his young guns on training nights! The efforts of the two
physios’ Dorian Rees and Jo Gordon are to be mentioned and Buster
Keefe, the fitness masochist.
The generosity of the sponsors for the season has again given Dover
the opportunity to cater and develop for all of its needs and is of
major importance in the recruiting and retention of our players. On
behalf of the Club I would like to offer our appreciation to Paul Harper
(Travel Spot), Dean Holman (DH Empire Motors), Steve Collins (Unibond)
and Jim Ramsey for their kindness and support. Plans are already underway
for the forthcoming season and a number of local business men and club
members have pledged their support for the squad and individuals in
our efforts to compete at the next level and provide the equipment
and finance necessary to achieve success.
It has been a marvellous season for the club particularly for the President
Maurice Sayers, who in 58 years of service to Dover RFC has never witnessed
anything of the success in recent years. Role on September.
Reported by Richard Collins
