Match Report
Maidstone IV 35, Weavering 33 Sat 19th Sept 2009
The 4th team kicked off their new season after promotion to the Mid Kent A league against the challenge of Weavering. Saturday did not begin as planned with the inevitable last minute changes, however, after quick introductions between many regular 4th team players and a scattering of very welcome experienced Maidstone players, everyone was prepared for the task ahead and the scars from last week’s 47-0 pre-season defeat were quickly forgotten!
Early dominance in the forwards was rewarded when Bob Purfitt broke the Weavering line for our first try of the season, which was sandwiched by 3 penalties from the boot of Ian Howson
Leading 16-0 Maidstone suffered an injury plagued 5 minutes, loosing Chris Pedder to torn knee ligaments, and Dave Jackson to a pulled Thigh. During the changes and Ian Howson also suffering an injured ankle we gave up 3 soft tries to Weavering’s pacy backs.
As Weavering pilled on the pressure, the experience of our 8, 9 and 10 was demonstrated as Rich Parker led the forwards with some skilful ball carrying and strong tackling, James Ferris showed his skills around the edges of the breakdown area and Martin Arnold’s decision making were key to taking the lead whilst down to 14 men.
New rugby convert John Newsome found some kit to replace Ian Howson and put in a solid performance, as the Maidstone forwards found their cohesion again, turning over a kick off, which led to a line break from Martin Arnold, and the subsequent try was run in by me. Chris Finch capped a tremendous performance by turning over more Weavering ball, which was followed by the team putting a few phases of play together, this momentum paid off with James Ferris scoring a try. Again swinging the score our way after some more rapid Weavering tries.
With time ticking down Martin Arnold ran in the game winning try, as a determined Maidstone team showed great courage by holding out Weavering as the pressure mounted towards the end of the game.
I would like to say thank you to all that played, it was a hugely enjoyable game and can truly say not one player can be crowned man of the match as all 18 players were deserving of the title. The 4th team core showed how well we can play, this was complimented by the great lines run by the guys playing for the 4ths for the first time.
Special thanks are given to Mark Wilding, Fergus Carty and John Newsome for playing at such late notice and putting in top notch performances.
Mark
