Folkestone RFC Spitfire Tournament
Dover RFC celebrated the superb wedding of their flying winger, Ricky Mackintosh
to Miss Jenna Rix on Saturday and many of their members partied into the early
hours of Sunday morning.
Dover 1st XV, depleted of numbers through absences and injury, arrived at Folkestone
and Senior Coach Graham Tonks’ first job was to re-hydrate his weary
squad. The early rounds proved difficult although Dover battled into the semi-finals
with wins against Sittingbourne and a close encounter against the Stella celebrity
team, including Dover’s own Colin Claw.
The semi-final was also a close call with Dover winning against their close
friends Medway, who have now been promoted into Kent 1.
With the sun belting down and the tiredness beginning to take its toll Dover
faced their old adversary in the repeat of last years final, Deal and Betteshanger.
The Lions started strongly and were within minutes ahead from a penalty, however
from hereon Dover responded in typical fashion and Ed Close scored a well worked
try. Both sets of defences were tackling well and skipper Martyn Beaumont left
the field with a minor injury. Dover increased the lead with an accurate cross
kick that saw Close score his second. At half time their were further injuries
and unusual absences to contend with but Dover stuck it out and a penalty try
was awarded following a fine piece of play by Ben Murray, with the conversion
added. It was a hard fought game and the tournament proved to be another success
and thanks must be given to the hosts for all their efforts.
This was a solid start to the season and the return of Adam Wallace and Chris
Lacey to the fold, following lengthy injury problems, will prove to be a real
bonus. One player who deserves a special mention is young Sam McNamara who
was making his debut with the senior players. Undaunted by the occasion he
showed an abundance of talent and he will in time prove to be a valuable asset
to the 1st XV.
Dover meets Medway in a friendly at Crabble on Saturday as part of their preparations
for the challenge of London 2.
Report by: Richard Collins
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