AOK Tribute Match

2nd Annual Andy O’Keeffe Memorial Trophy Match

Under 30’s 32, Over 30’s 29

Crewe and Nantwich RUFC raised over £500 for charity on Saturday when, on a bracing, wind swept day, Crewe and Nantwich under 30’s just managed to overturn last seasons result and snatch the Trophy form the over 30’s grasp, for a year at least.

The Charity fixture was inaugurated last season following the tragic death of a much loved and respected player. However, before kickoff, both teams and the large crowd, observed a minutes applause in celebration of Andy’s life and also in remembrance of other ex club members – Alan Jones and Derek Vickers – who past on in the last couple of years.

The high esteem in which this game is held was borne out by the fact the whole of the 1st XV squad turned out to play.

This was billed as an inter-club friendly but it was obvious from the start that no quarter would be given with huge hits coming in from both sides, right from the start.

The ‘Old uns’ took an early lead as their dominant pack began to boss the set piece. The ‘Young guns pulled a score back but the over 30’s continued to dominate and secured a healthy 12 point lead at the break.

In the second period the superior fitness of the under 30’s began to pay dividends as they caught and overtook the ‘overs’ score, eventually coming out winners.

Afterwards there was a BBQ and raffle and the players donated all their match fees to the collection on the day raising over £500 for the Depression Alliance UK.