Dover U17s (32) v (41) Tonbridge Juddians U17s
Played on Sunday 25th March 2007
A depleted Dover took to the pitch on Sunday in what turned out to
be a real toe to toe contest. Only 12 regular players and one newcomer,
Ryan Hockley, were available so with the under 16 playing on the next
pitch it was decided to borrow a substitute so Dover were consequently
able to field 14 Players. As the first half progressed it was clear
it was going to be a battle of the forwards, the Dover pack struggled
against the heavier taller opposition in the setpiece but were more
adept at close quarter ball handling and retention. Two scores from
Matt Burr and Sean McAdam and confident kicking from Steven Golden
saw the first half end 17-15. The second half, Dover were down to thirteen
players for the first ten minutes, then another injury saw the team
reduced to twelve. This allowed Tonbridge space to widen the gap but
it also saw Dover play some of the best rugby seen this season, continually
harassing and frustrating Tonbridge and really playing for each other.
The game ended a creditable 41-32, having seen Sam Grayson on the score
sheet and Golden increasing his kicking tally. The last game for this
young team is this Sunday at Aylesford when they take on Aylesford
in the Kent Bowl Final, 2 p.m. kickoff. Next season, these young men
will play alongside senior players in the Dover Development Squad (3rd
XV). If you would like to join the squad, please contact Paddy McAdam
(01304 363620) or via Dover Rugby Club.
Aaron Catternole, John O Bree, Sam Grayson, James Warner, Matthew Burr,
Aaron Cooper, Oscar King, Sean McAdam, Sam McPherson, Steven Golden,
Alex Ross, Jo Westwood, Ryan Hockley
Reported by Paddy McAdam
Posted 22th January 2007
