This tournament would consist of twelve teams being split into two pools.
The top two teams from each pool would progress into the “cup” semi finals to play off for a final spot and the two lower teams playing off in a “shield” competition semi finals through to final.
Old Reigatians progress through pool stage
Game 1: Guildfordians. Result: 5-0 to Old Reigatians
Game 2: Kingswood. Result: 6-1 to Old Reigatians
Game 3: BaaBaas Gold. Result: 3-1 to Old Reigatians
Game 4: Seaford. Result: 4-2 to Old Reigatians
Game 5: Esher. Result: 2-1 to Esher
With this run of results Old Reigatians finished second within the pool and progressed to the “Cup” Semi final where we would meet the hosts of the tournament, Burgess Hill Black Adders
Semi Final
Vs Burgess Hill Black Adders
A very tight game indeed. Burgess Hill were excellent in possession and simply were very proficient at moving the ball around the pitch without errors to keep the pressure up on the Old Reigatians defence. However Old Reigatians matched the challenge and held the lines scoring two fine tries of their own, The match ended 2-2, a testament to two sides not willing to budge an inch! The game now progressed into extra time and a “Golden Try” would decide the game. Old Reigatians won the toss and retained possession for the kick off! Old Reigatians were moving the ball well and slowly gaining ground. A disciplined approach to attack moved up the field and an overlap spotted from midfield on the right wing set the attack off. Instantly the ball moved swiftly to expose the overlap culminating in Old Reigatians crossing the line for the winning try! Into the final!
Final
Vs Esher
Having narrowly lost the pool game earlier in the tournament Old Reigatians knew that Esher would be very hard opponents! Esher move the ball fast and create multiple angles keeping opponents very busy. With reflection Old Reigatians considered that disciplined defence & attack would be key to this match.
The match was played at a very frenetic pace with Esher moving the ball fast and creating good space. Old Reigatians were dogged, organised & tenacious in defence. Pressure built on the Old Reigatians line with more than a few last ditch tackles on the line. Once in possession Old Reigatians retained the ball and moved up the field, looking to create opportunities. From midfield great ball movement created space in the Esher line and the effervescent Kev Johnson needed no second invitation to expose the gap to cross the line for Old Reigatians.
1-0.
Again pressure built on the Old Reigatians defensive line, Old Reigatians stood firm!
Back in possession, Old Reigatians were able to create space. Steve Pilgrim breaking the line to move clear of the Esher defence for try number two, but, alas, whistle blown! However it was ruled that an opposition player ran to close down the breakthrough stopping a definite try! Penalty try awarded! 2-0
The game continued with great attacking play from Esher again stretching the defence of Old Reigatians, Organised defence to protect the lead was the order of the day until possession could be retained, Ball turned over to Old Reigatians, Now slightly more relaxed, Old Reigatians were moving the ball really well, probing the Esher defence & looking to create breaks in the defensive line, with patient build up mitigating unforced handling errors Harrison Kiy with wonderfully fluid movement broke the line again from midfield to cross for try number three
Now was the time to stand firm, be patient in possession & steadfast in defence. And Old Reigatians were. Lessons learnt from earlier matches against good opponents had taught us well!
Run the clock down
Whistle blown
Old Reigatians winners!
Team:
Turnbull ©
Smith
Pilgrim
Solomon
Kiy
Johnson
Fraser
Williams
Griffiths
Perkins
