POLTROONS vs Montgomery County College - September 4, 2011

It was a real motley crew we had out there, but we were lucky in that we were able to keep the Md guys next to each other in the back line (with the exception of Jose who played Hooker), and the regular Troons who made up the pack and scrum and fly halves. The question was would the two groups be able to support each other to function as a team- and the unqualified answer was a resounding YES. The most impressive feature of the match to me was how everyone supported each other, no one tried to win it on their own, and the result was impressive second and third phases going between the forwards and backs that the young kids really couldn’t handle. Just about every score was set up by a prior play that someone not involved in the score set up. For example, our first try was the lineout in the corner to maul that was set up by someone causing a penalty- don’t know who- and then Matt booting a perfect corner kick to set up a close line out. Then the Old Men in the pack did their thing- really manhandling the young kids for a push over try- the same thing would repeat itself in the second half. The kids came out hard and strong- even if they didn’t always get it right- and until that first try they were pressuring us good. But I think that was a bit of a wake up for them, when we put them on notice that we could play hard too. There were several other tries that were set up by the forwards pressuring but eventually getting stopped, but then the backs getting the ball out quickly and doing their thing. Then there were some key turnovers- counter-rucking and holding up the ball carrier that gave us possession deep in their territory. Then there was just great loose play- supporting the ball carrier, keeping possession and getting the ball out quickly and unselfishly finding the open man. I don’t know how many times I saw Jay (who was playing Number 8) as the first man into a ruck and even the backline guys rucking when they had to until support got there. One play that I really remember was when we booted the ball downfield and Matt (who plays with one arm!!!!) chased it down and was all over the guy who caught it- to the point where I think he drove him into touch. And it was great to see the Mikes back- working next to each other they really developed a nice chemistry that became very noticeable in the second half. All in all, a hot sweltering day, a young, inexperienced but formidable foe, and a fun time. For those that couldn’t make it you were missed, but hopefully we’ll be catching up soon.

Injury notes- Russ went down hard on his ribs with a late tackle in touch- hopefully he is OK. Tony Newland came by to cheer us on and hang out at the party- he is post total knee replacement and probably done playing but not done his Poltroonery (is that word, if not it should be) yet. Yours truly- tweeked knee- probably just a sprain- hopefully nothing serious. Lurch- kicked in the good old boys- hopefully just down but not out. I think everyone else made it through OK. Note of interest- we only had 15 to start, and I think at one point we were down to 11- playing their 15!