“Rugby is a good occasion for keeping thirty bullies far from the city”
– Oscar Wilde
After concluding pre-season activity with a hard-fought, albeit much-deserved victory against a talented Old Reigatians’ side, Hammersmith and Fulham’s (H&F) league season commenced under the glorious September sun with a testing fixture at home to Grasshoppers RFC (GH). Following a solid week of preparation, H&F hoped to make good on some of the ills of our previous game and fly quickly out of the gate in order to draw first blood.
And it was so! With pressure applied straight from the off, powerful carries from Angus Lean and Pete Benson carried H&F over the gain line on numerous occasions. Making inroads into the GH defence startled the opposition, who were unable to effectively coordinate a defensive press. The inability to deal with the H&F onslaught by the away team resulted in a number of penalties, enabling Ben Hatton to provide a masterclass in kicking for touch. Off these foundations, the Hammers forwards were able to execute two superb catch-and-drive routines from the lineout, cutting through the Grasshoppers defence like a hot knife through the proverbial. Whilst under pressure from the Hammers pack, the GH forwards were found wanting, and resorted to collapsing the maul resulting in a penalty try. Soon after, without any sort of response to the Hammers newfound driving expertise honed with thanks to the wisdom of Phil Swainston midweek, H&F crashed over once again to make the score 12-0 after 15 minutes.
After the first quarter, the H&F dominance was unquestionable, and it wasn’t until a delayed reaction to a GH penalty that H&F allowed the opposition to establish a foothold in the game. Two tries in quick succession against the run of play took H&F by surprise, as did GH growing wise to the aggressive lineout tactics and deciding not to engage in mauls, instead stepping aside. This caught H&F off-guard, and the ensuing confusion was capitalised on by GH who eventually went on to score a third.
Score at half-time: 12-17. With the mercury touching 26 degrees, this provided a much-needed break for both sides, particularly for the likes of Zander Stephen, who was less than impressed with the decision to remain outside for duration.
H&F stormed into the second half in a similar fashion to the first, applying pressure to which GH had no answer. Strong ball carries from Josh McClean and Andrew Rogan ground down the GH defence This provided the H&F backs a solid platform from which they were able to sling the ball out wide, with Alex Gee taking advantage of his physicality with a marauding run into the GH half. The words ‘bull’ and ‘china shop’ come to mind.
After setting up camp close to the GH try line, H&F were relentless in attack, with wave after wave of pick-and-go leaving the GH defence in tatters. Such persistence eventually bore fruit, with Phil Lord rolling like a kiwi boulder over the line.
This converted try and a following penalty put H&F in the driving seat with the scores at 22-17. The grit and determination of H&F was evident for all to see, and perhaps if it wasn’t for a spate of H&F injuries in quick succession, the final result may have been different. Alas, GH were able to make the most of their numerical advantage and converted a try which was then converted. At the 65th minute mark, the scores sat at 22-24.
In keeping with the nature of a game, most definitely in contention for game of the season if such an accolade was recognised by the powers that be at London 2 North West, H&F once again charged into GH, as Taylor Williams leapt like an Australian salmon, plucking the ball out of the sky from the restart and maintaining possession. After a physical backand-forth in the twilight period of the game, H&F were in need of a spark of brilliance in order to tip the scales back in favour of the home side. Although such a spark failed to materialise, Joe Carolan superbly anticipated a clumsy pass from a GH back row, allowing him to score under the sticks, with the try easily converted by Ben Hatton. 29-29.
With the score so delicately poised, and the fluidity of the game showing no sign of ceasing, both sides were in for a nervy final few minutes. As H&F pushed for the win, a turnover and subsequent breakaway by the GH eight put H&F on the back foot. Whether the raw emotion of an such an enthralling game, or lack of hydration, or a combination of the two got to the H&F hooker, a brief moment of madness awarded GH a penalty which was then converted, bringing the scores to 29-32.
AS H&F continued to press as the game drew to a close, both a solid defensive display from GH and a bout of attacking misfortune (Good Lord) that had seemed to plague H&F throughout the afternoon, enabled GH to hold out for the win.
Final score 29-32.
As is always the case, a loss in a game of such close margins is always difficult to take, and H&F will be aware that they most definitely had the expertise to emerge victorious. The Hammers will be looking to get back to winning ways away at Hackney this weekend, as the charge for the title continues.
Old Reigatians’ Twitter account described the fixture as “the final dress rehearsal for the new season”, in fact, neither team was caught mumbling their line out calls or repairing their costumes, instead there was a high-quality game of rugby under the August currant bun.
Old Reigatians (OR) started the first half the better team, dominating the lineout and delivering clean ball to their back line and making solid tackles on the gain-line to prevent H&Fs attack into OR’s half for the first 10 minutes. Once with possession OR denied H&F the ball at the breakdown and continued to work the forwards hard with OR’s no. 5 and 6 who proved to be great ball carriers and consistently made yards through H&Fs defence. This continued pressure ultimately led to a well-worked converted-try for OR, 15 minutes into the game. 7-0.
A strong 30m carry from Alex Gee (H&F 12) gave H&F some breathing room, but it was not to last. OR’s 10 used the prevailing wind to his advantage and deftly put boot to ball. This well-judged kicking put OR in H&Fs 22 dangerously soon after the converted try. OR managed to steal the lineout and possession leading to further pressure on H&F. OR 1st XV, who were proving to be a well-drilled side, worked the ball through the hands and successfully converted another try leaving the scores at 14-0 and 10 minutes to go until half time.
At this point H&F regrouped, showing a character and stamina which had been lacking at points in the previous season, and the defence developed a spine all of a sudden. Angus Lean (H&F 8) hit back with a serious defensive shot that rang out across the Surrey Hills and could only be recreated by a Blaser. With the ball spilled by OR this led to a counter-attack opportunity, and who better to seize a counter-attack moment than our Frenchman Alex Jouan (15). A rapid 40m line break was balanced with the ability to wait and look for support ultimately led to Ben Hatton (9) scoring under the posts with the assistance of Cillian Waldron (13). Ben Hatton with the conversion.14-7 and half-time.
Team talks over. Whistle blown. Game on. H&F came out fired up and fiercely physical in the second half with even Rogan making significant yards and winning the contact contest. A huge effort from the H&F forwards led to a 10m-out scrum being pushed-over the line and a Pete Benson scoring the try, sending OR back to underneath the posts to process the score. Top conversion kicking by Ben Hatton, despite a strong crosswind, levelled the scores at 14-14.
H&F had the wind and put boot to ball in an aggressive fashion, opening up the game and involving the back 3 on both teams. H&F gained some territory before a half-break and subtle offload by Joe Carolan (H&F 10) meant Jack Hopper (11) could whistle across the line and take H&F ahead for the first time in the match. 14-21.
H&F went straight in from the kick-off and won a penalty for hands in the ruck. Ben Hatton steps up and slots the penalty for 3 points with ease from about 35m out. 14-24.
OR looked to retaliate with a well-worked backs move from the set-piece involving depth, hard running lines and good handling skills. Dragged down by some desperate tackles OR made yards and quickly moved the ball to leave H&Fs defence out-numbered out-wide. OR were back in the game with 21-24 on the scoreboard and 10 minutes to go. Could H&F hold out?
A penalty against Phil Lord (H&F 3) left the skipper thinking “Lordy Lordy Lord, I’m going to strangle you Phil” as OR were given the perfect footing to make a serious attack to win the game. H&F braced themselves for the assault and strong first-up tackles by Pete, Sam, Angus and Cillian kept OR 5-10m out for 4 phases of play. OR had tried the direct route but found no way through and with the last phase of the game were forced to chance it wide but who should be there waiting, eyeing up the touchline and adjusting his hair before the big hit, other than Nick Manning ©. The whole-team effort to keep OR out in the dying moments of the game resulted in OR being bundled into touch and the score at full time being 21-24, H&F taking the win in the pre-season dress rehearsal.
The determination to dig deep and come back from 14-0 will be something that H&F hold onto for the coming season. Phil might get strangled, but Hammersmith and Fulham have added grit to their repertoire for the season ahead.
After two hard away games, the Hammers 1s were relishing the opportunity of playing at home and determined to turn it around and put a big W on the board. The boys had put the work in during the week at training and there was a good feeling in the camp going into Saturday.
The warm up went well and the feeling of positivity could be felt throughout, with the team atmosphere building. You could really start to feel that we were going to get the win no matter what.
The game kicked off and the Hammers went on the offensive, keeping to the structures and holding on to the ball to find their way into Enfield’s 22. A lineout maul saw the pack inching their way towards the try line, then the ball was released by Dom Woodfine at 9 and the backs were let loose. Some direct running and great hands resulted in Jack Hooper crossing the line, a brilliant start by the Hammers XV.
Enfield kicked off and again the Hammers retained possession playing some dominant running rugby. Eventually Enfield’s discipline let them down and they gave away a penalty. Si Doherty’s kick to touch gave the Hammers a lineout just outside the Enfield 22. The pack were feeling confident and after a solid take by Ultan Bruton, the forwards muscled their way towards the Enfield try line with a massive maul. It looked like they were going to go all the way but Enfield were eventually able to slow it down. The ball went out to the backs and Si Doherty, with some dancing feet, sliced his way through the middle to score under the posts. He followed this up by kicking the conversion too.
Then it was Enfield’s turn to get into the game with some fast pace rugby, some strong running and using the width of the pitch. This put the Hammers defence under pressure resulting in a number of penalties. Enfield used this to their advantage and were able to find touch in the Hammer’s 22. Enfield repaid the favour and used their sturdy pack to maul themselves over the Hammersmith and Fulham try line.
The Hammer’s heads dropped a little and they were unable to hold onto the ball which gave Enfield more attacking opportunity. They continued with their fast pace of attack and some hard running by the forwards. Despite some valiant tackling by the Hammers the pressure once again resulted in penalties been given away. Enfield chose to kick to touch and scored another try from a maul.
The half ended 12 -12.
Going into the 2nd half Hammersmith and Fulham knew they had to disrupt Enfield’s momentum and be the first to put points on the board. After 15 minutes of locked battle, both sides having had opportunities to attack, it was Hammersmith and Fulham that managed to come out on top. Led by the massive performance of our esteemed leader Rogan, the boys exerted pressure on the Enfield team and some broken play saw Ultan Bruton break through the Enfield defence and run in under the posts from the halfway line.
The Hammers followed this up 4 minutes later with another break through the middle, this time by Gee who turned on the pace to score from 10 metres inside the Enfield half. However Enfield were not done yet and immediately retaliated with a third try scored from yet another rolling maul making it 26 – 17.
After 65 minutes of rugby the Hammers looked to be in control of this game which was backed up by another try scored in the corner. Cillian Waldron made a break on the far wing and put through an accurate grubber kick which Huw Bowen managed to collect and finish over the Enfield line.
At this point the Enfield discipline began to unravel and the Hammers were rewarded with a penalty, successfully slotted by Cillian Waldron. The Hammers continued dominating and ran in a 6th try, finished by Gee. Credit to Enfield they managed to rally and scored their fourth try, despite some positive defence by the Hammers, with the last play of the game.
Full time finished up 41 – 22 to Hammersmith and Fulham, a much needed and well-earned win. With the victory in hand, the squad can now focus on the next two weeks to prepare for their next game against Chiswick on the 2nd March, always a big contest. The boys will be chomping at the bit for the opportunity to take a win away against Chiswick.
MOTM – Andrew Rogan
The rain had abstained for the Saturday fixture at Hurlingham Park. Belsize Park were flying high at the top of the league, and so Hammers knew that they had to play at their best to topple the league leaders.
The first twenty of the match was ferocious. Both teams not giving an inch. Hammersmith had a foray into BP’s 22 and returned with 3 points courtesy of Alex Warner’s boot.
Both teams were sticking to their game plans and played wonderful tactical kicking. Both testing their back 3’s to see whose would crack first.
It was to be Hammers, they were pinned back into the corner with a wonderful piece of kicking from BP’s Fly, this led to a knock on and 4 reset scrums. When eventually the ball was released from the 16 forwards battling it out, BP picked and went continually creating momentum for the backs to dive over to dot it onto the line. Converted.
From the restart, a poor chase and BP were back up to the Hammers 22. From a good turnover to a poor clearance kick, BP set a solid maul and drove over to score their second.
3-15 Half time
H&F believed this game was hanging in the balance. Neither side had asserted great dominance and were tussling for control.
However it was to be BP who gained the control in the second half. They came out with explosive pace and meticulous structure, which ground down the Hammers.
A further three tries were scored by BP, with the pick of the bunch being a silky dummying run from the Fly to find support on his inside to put them under the posts.
Hammers fought to the end, continually stealing line out ball and tackling hard. But a hard lesson was to be taught by BP, structure and consistent effort is the key in London 2 North West. Hammers cannot work hard in quarters; it has to be for the entire game.
3-30 FT
Hammers 3s were looking to turn the tide, following 5 defeats from 6 league games with their home fixture vs HAC 3’s.
The Hammers kicked off with the wind at their backs, and had the better of the early exchanges camping in the opposition 22. The hammers worked opportunities down the right flank three times, only to be denied by HAC’s scramble defence on twice and an unfortunate Hammers knock on as the try line beconned.
Not to be denied for long, Hammers forwards continued to make inroads into the HAC defence and repeated assaults of the HAC line resulted in Abe Knight crossing the white wash for what seemed to be the first of many for the Hammers. 5-0 Hammers.
Unfortunately for running Rugby & Hammers fans the game then descended into an arm wrestle, with the Hammers giving away a mountain of penalties for ruck and maul infringements and offsides. This indiscipline allowed HAC back into the game eventually scoring from a line out Maul. 5-7.
Going behind revitalised the Hammers, and a barn storming run from Gael carved open the HAC defence then put away Henry Wigzell to put Hammers back in front 10-7.
As the half drew to a close, Hammers indiscipline once again put the team under pressure as more ruck infringements resulted in a yellow for Sam Jacobs. Hammers maul defence however held strong and saw the half out 10-7.
The second half, was a tight affair for the first 20 minutes with a HAC penalty the only score 10-10. The final 20 minutes the game once again came to life, with HAC pressing the line and taking a quick tap penalty 5 out from Hammers line Parko got binned for not retreating. (As an old man he should really have know better!)
Once again down to 14 men the Hammers defence held strong until the final minutes of the sin binning when a cross field kick was collected by the HAC wing to take the lead 10-17.
Back to a full compliment and with all the “finishers” on the pitch, Hammers pressed for an equalising score. A combination of strong running upfront and dazzling footwork from Tom “hamstrings” Hamnett put the Hammers in striking distance of the HAC line. Unfortunately the opportunity was lost as a result of a line out mix up.
Keen to make amends the forward pack won the ball against the head of the following scrum, 3 phases later a strong inside line from Rob Fox scoring under the sticks put Hammers level 17-17. A frantic 5 minute period at the end of the game from both sides ended with the ball thumped into touch to end the game.
Not a win, but not a defeat. Hammers 3s walked away with lots of positives and some technical areas to work on around the ruck.
Man of the Match: Jake Little
Tin Men (in order of offence): Steve Harris (constant reminders for arriving on time to the group, only to arrive 20mins late), Joe Slater (injured in warm up), Harry Campbell-Lamerton (knock on over the line), Sam Jacobs & Tom Parkinson (Yellow Cards).
The third long journey to North East London of the fledgling season was upon the 5s having many question whether this is in fact a SW league. Old Street 3s were the opposition and despite having mixed results this season looked a sizeable bunch and had a big squad in comparison to the 5s bare bench.
The 5s started with characteristic intensity with Cusition recently back from injury dumping the kick off receiver in to touch. The resulting pass off clean line out ball was intercepted by what must have been Usain Bolt for the lack of offside call. Not the ideal first touch of the ball for debutant 9 Myles Green in a Hammers jersey but poor reffing was not going to stop him having a stellar first run out. Some solid support running from Mr. Whippy off a line break and a smart draw and pass to Drysdale opened the scoring. Drysdale was finally willing to run following a positive assessment of the turf.
Old Street had some big runners and although tackling wasn’t quite up to the standard of the season so far they were largely kept at bay and could rarely capitalise on momentum. Following the first couple of tries from the 5s Old Street had the ball for the next 15 minutes and were finally able to get on the scoreboard despite a clear hold up. This shocked all back in to sticking to the game plan and the rest of the half although competitive saw the 5s in control and in possession with a couple of good counter attacking tries particularly from debutant Wright breaking the 5s record for a single game with 5 tries.
The second half was a more free flowing affair with Old Street beginning to tire and seeing the game out of sight. A rare hooker hat-trick from Danby with some good support and loose ball gathering capped a solid contribution from the tight 5 with 100% line out and scrum retention and plenty of turned over ball. Off the solid set piece and breakdown the service and game management from new 9/10 partnership of Green and Duffy was outstanding.
Heavy legs began to take a toll on some of the more mobile 5s. Thomson can be forgiven after another outstanding game all round for taking it easy after sustaining a knock. However young Jack Mitchell after subbing himself at half time due to over indulging the previous night returned fresh to the pitch late in the second half to take the ball in support with 30m clear to the line. What followed can only be described as an engine breakdown and hard living catching up, the poor lad came to a stuttering crawl before throwing the ball away and having to live with the shame of having a far faster older brother. Some clear soul searching took place back in the changing rooms and on the social.
Overall a solid performance played in good spirits sees the 5s march on unbeaten in to a top of the table clash against Quins.
Tries: Wright x5, Drysdale x2, Mitchell Snr x2, Danby x3, Davies x1,
Cons: Danby x11
MoMs: Gauthier & Wright
DoD: Green
Hammersmith and Fulham continued their excellent away form this season with victory over a physical and hard working Enfield side.
Hammers started the game as they had the week previous, with quick ball and a strong attacking threat. Within the opening couple of minutes Ultan Bruton made an excellent break, running at a weak inside shoulder and breaking clear from 40m to score. This attacking threat and energy continued with Angus Lean scoring an excellent solo try just minutes later, beating several Enfield defenders with a weaving run towards the posts. Si Doherty converted and a 12-0 lead was established.
Enfield however demonstrated why they are team to fear this season with some strong running and excellent tackling to place Hammersmith under pressure. With Hammers giving away penalties and Enfield establishing a foot hold in the game they soon scored. A strong rolling maul and a good finish from their forwards put them back in the game, the try was duly coveted and the score stood at 12-7.
As the first half progressed both teams played some solid rugby with Cillian Waldron and Jack Hooper working hard in the centres in both attack and defence. In addition, Rob Johnstone and Phil Lord illustrated some excellent work around the ruck to steal possession and alleviate periods of Enfield pressure.
As the first half neared it’s end Si Doherty converted a good penalty to give the Hammers some breathing space. Moments later an excellent box kick from Sam Sheppard placed the Enfield back three under pressure, this led to Hammersmith regaining possession. With a strong scrum and some excellent hands Ed James put Huw Bowen in to score in the corner.
Half time score 18-7.
Enfield started the second half strongly, some excellent running lines and numerous off loads out of the tackle placed the away side under pressure. This pressure eventually told with Enfield breaking the Hammers resistance and scoring. Some excellent goal kicking from the Enfield fly half meant the home side were always in touch.
As the second half progressed Hammers needed a moment of brilliance to extend their slender lead. Once more, a brilliant platform from the forwards and some excellent offloads out of the tackle gave Hammers good field position, this would lead to Jack Hooper scoring a brilliant try out on the left.
Enfield however demonstrated why they are a strong and resilient side this season, coming right back at Hammersmith. Wave after wave of yellow and blue shirts pounded the Hammers defence, only to be matched by some outstanding defence, with two try’s held up over the line. Enfield however were not deterred and finally broke down the Hammers defence to score deep in the corner with less than 10 minutes remaining.
With just 3 points separating the sides the game would be won by the team that could hold their nerve. As Enfield elected to chip over the top and relinquish possession, Huw Bowen retrieved the ball, kicking deep into the corner, this placed the Enfield winger under pressure, and consequently Hammers regained possession just 5m out from the line. An accurate line out and and superb rolling maul from the Hammers forwards resulted in Tim Murray scoring and putting Hammersmith 8 points ahead with just 90 seconds on the clock. This time would prove to be too short for Enfield with Hammersmith running down the clock and taking the victory.
Credit should go to both Enfield and Hammersmith for what was an excellent game of rugby in all forms. It is evident both sides have made big strides over the summer months and will look to improve upon their league positions from last year.
Dunseath says, “It was the win we came for. We worked hard on certain key areas of defence the last few weeks and despite allowing them in for two driving mauls they couldn’t get through or round us for 72mins.
I’m incredibly proud of the players, who showed significant determination, guts and character. It’s especially pleasing with their game management. We spoke about “moments” in the game that all add up, mid week. Seeing the players problem solve and realise they didn’t need the ball in the last 10mins was an outstanding display of maturity.”
Enfield 22 Hammersmith and Fulham 30
On a freezing cold Saturday afternoon our opponents were Belsize Park 2XV, 2 sides with 100% winning records against each other, it promised to be a juicy encounter! The vibe In the week leading up to the game was very positive, with James “do you know how much I’m worth” Watson and Alex “The funnel apprentice” both getting the lads up for the game, with James “Not sure you know im injured” Cramp echoing the lads words.
The warm up was strong and the lads looked all set to go, with Ash “I promise I’m over 18” Mitchell especially ready for the game!
The side line had some strong support down to watch the team, with some of the ladies team coming down in freezing temperatures alongside George “leeds leeds leeds” O’Hara, Al “I have no respect for my body” horner, Tim “squid” Chandler, Shaun “My ankle is done bru” Curtis and a rare appearance from Fraser “I google myself” Thurlow cheering the lads on.
The first half started at a great pace with a superb score by Chris “I have scored before” Eldredge dotting down in the corner following some great work by Hamish “Ed Sheeran” Dalgarno. The hammers continued to press and Jack “not quite Wilkinson” Davies knocking over a penalty to take it to 8-0. Big surges, a common feature all game, by Tim “Vunipola” Macnaughton and Damo “the rig” O’Dwyer kept the hammers on the front foot.
Unfortunately, the Hammers were hit with 2 sore injuries to Eldredge and to Slade “pretentious” Buchner. There were dogs running to the pitch after the Buchner injury such were the high-pitched screams with the dislocated shoulder, this would lead to him receiving a deserved dick of the day reward.
At the end of the first half, with the sideline frozen but 6 beers in, Hammers had a huge chance in the corner, but some superb defence by Belsize alongside some poor decisions resulted in the last play of the half.
Half time: 8-0 Hammers
There was a lot of positive chat at half time and it showed, with the lads scoring a superb try by Davies with some superb running angles and side stepping that would surely suit a Saturday evening show, Strictly superb, 10s held up everywhere.
Hammers had opened a 15-0 lead which is where Belsize in all credit fought back into the game with some hard running in the centre channels, turning the game on its head and taking a 20-15 lead, utilising the extra man well with Dalgarno in the bin.
Another superb score from Oli “not paul” Scholes, the score swung back in our favour, 22-20 with 10 mins to go! Not long after this Belsize attacked and scored in the corner also resulting in another injury to Davies with a nasty stinger, it moved Watson to 12 alongside Rhys “swiss army knife” Williams to 13 and Belsize attacked this area well, with both hitting hard but with 2 back rows In the centres the Belsize side spread the ball wide and quick and got 2 scores at the death to extend their winning run to 7 from 7!
A sore defeat with a lot of bruised bodies put on the line, however there are many positives to take away from the defeat knowing that there are extra gears within the squad to take it further.
A special mention to Benji “ive played 2s before” Reid putting in a superb performance to pick up the man of the match award.
Full time: Hammersmith & Fulham 2nd XV 22 – 30 Belsize Park 2nd XV
We look forward to the return fixture with Belsize at their ground!
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