Ripley Rhinos RFC

Ripley Rhinos RFC review of 2011

Rhinos 1st XV began 2011 looking to build on a decent start to the campaign though some defeats in the Pennant League in the autumn had left them too far behind to challenge for the title.

With the pitches heavy in January and February, the team found it hard to play the more open game they were hoping to develop and went out of the NLD Cup at the hands of opponents Long Eaton 26-19 after they conceded early tries despite a valiant comeback.

As the weather improved in the spring so they began to play a flowing game with the half back pairing of Mitch Wilmott and Matt Upton releasing the free-running backline and troubling all their opponents. Leesbrook conceded their semi-final in the Derbyshire President's Trophy, leaving Ripley in the final for the second year running.

The day dawned brightly as the squad and supporters travelled to Glossop RFC on Easter Monday. All coach Carl Whitley's plan came to fruition with the best 20 minutes of rugby the team have ever played - with Matt Upton's promptings from fly half they tore opponents Tupton apart with a dazzling display that saw them 33-0 ahead after only 23 minutes and ultimately go on to win the game 55-22. Skipper Sam Musgrove lifted the cup in his last game as captain and the celebrations on the first piece of men's silverware went long into the night.

The 2nd XV continued to mix experience with the youth that stepped up so well into the cup winning side – the likes of Peter Kay, Paul Stevenson and Mike Symons helping Tim Smith, Anton Brown and Mitch Wilmott become established 1st team players.

The Ladies had a tough end to their season but strong performances at Derby and Doncaster showed their spirit wasn't diminished and with the likes of Mel Clay and Jade Sheldon continuing their emergence as players, they had a lot to offer any opponent.

The summer saw the club travel once again to the prestigious Southwold Beach 7s event where they acquitted themselves well. As well as this, the club have put on various events throughout the year to raise hundreds of pounds for their two chosen charities; the Yorkhill Children's Hospital and Help for Heroes.

This season has been a tough one across the club. With Matt Upton leaving to play rugby at the higher level his talents deserve, Tim Smith going to University and long-term injuries to key players like Zeique Robinson, Sam Musgrove and player-coach Carl Whitley the squad depth has been fully tested.

An early season 34-14 NLD Vase cup win against Rolls Royce boded well but coming up against Nottinghamians in the next round was a step too far. Having won the Derbyshire President's Trophy, the prize for Ripley was to be moved into the next level cup up and a weakened team were easily brushed aside by Chesterfield Panthers.

In amongst the injuries and unavailabilites, there have been positives with the likes of Dave Arrowsmith, Dave Cleland and Dave Kemp stepping up to do a powerful job in the front row. Centre Anton Brown has already managed 11 tries for the season and loyal club men like Roy Reeve and Ben Heanue are taking on a 1st team workload despite their veteran status.

The Ladies are continuing but in need of new players and the 2nd XV have had a decent run of recent games and results to hearten the club for whatever 2012 will bring.

Training continues for all players on Tuesday evenings all players welcome of any experience and it is a great way to get fit and keep fit; for more details, ring 07816 779018.