Pethy Thirds finally get their season going with a big win

11/10/08 - Friendly: Morganians II 5 v 55 North Petherton III

Report by Cameron Kirk

After the frustrations of having their first two games cancelled, the 3rds were finally allowed to dust off the boots, unpack their strapping's and knock the top off the deep heat tubes.  So seriously had the team taken it that Rocker arrived with a new set of boots and Shady had spent a fortune in phone calls checking, double checking and triple checking that the game was on, his enthusiasm could not be contained.

Despite some early season injuries and cry offs, Petherton still managed to field 19 players against their local neighbours, a success in itself.  With a mixture of youth and experience, Petherton took to the field on a hot, sunny afternoon, not ideal conditions for the 40+ brigade!  Although Morgs’ had a big powerful pack, Petherton’s forwards started the game brightly and with a strong backs line up they looked to run the ball as often as possible.

Davey Rae was having a good game at flanker and his back row partner, Shady, was inspirational with some “Matt Dawsonesque” scrum half play. As ever Nick Rees was talking a good game and astonishingly fell foul of the referee on several occasions for “telling him his job”.   Petherton’s first score came from number 8 Jim Dillon after he picked up from a scrum and ran in from the 22.  Further tries followed from scrum-half Tom Stanley, centre Dan Puddy, full-back Archie Walford and prop Tony Scott. Tom Stanley converted four.  Some poor tackling and questionable refereeing decisions allowed Morgs to cross for a try and this made the half-time score 38-5.

In the second half Petherton introduced the father and son duo of Tony and Leroy/Lawrence/Leighton/Lance/Liam/Lenny/Leon Crocker, Kev Palmer and Lee Hughes. Levi had an excellent game although it was mentioned on the sideline that it looked as though he would only pass to his dad. 

The second half was more of the same for Petherton but several scoring opportunities were spurned.  As the heat started to take its toll the game started to slow but Petherton still managed to cross the line three more times through rugby debutant Jason Carter (wing), flanker Levi Crocker and two from centre Nick Rees.  There was a huge shout for “jug-avoidance” by Nick as he duly left the pitch with a rib injury. Cameron Kirk converted one.

Morgs were excellent hosts and the game was played in the right spirit.  Petherton can be pleased with this first game however they will know that there are plenty of areas which need improving.  Jason Carter impressed on his rugby debut, Tony Scott was outstanding at prop and Archie Walford was always dangerous at full back.

The crowd went home entertained but slightly disappointed that they had not seen Clarence Clatworthy attempt his now infamous drop goal.

Team: 
Bill Frost, Gary Coles, Tony Scott, Tim Pike, Clarence Clatworthy, Steve Hines, Davey Rae, Jim Dillon, Tony Crocker, Levi Crocker, Lee Hughes, Kev Palmer, Tom Stanley, Cameron Kirk, Dan Puddy, Nick Rees, Jason Carter, Sean Jones, Archie Walford.