Taking the Bulls By The Horns.

After a stonking victory in Bristol against the Bisons, there was a danger of being over confident going up against the might of the Birmingham Bulls. Our last battle against this stripy foe was back in November where we were narrowly defeated on conversions. With the winds behind us, revenge was in the air. Under the shadow of Murrayfield’s metal nest, the battle lines were drawn.

From kick-off it was clear that the discipline and dedication of the Bristol match were still firmly in place. Strong scums, tidy rucks and good hands led the Thebans to a concise victory of 39 to 5.

Thebans started strong. An early tap penalty taken by Joseph urged the Thebans forward and after only 6 minutes Ash placed the ball over the line to open the scoring. Thebans we off and rolling. The strength continued and for the first 30 minutes we kept the Bulls at bay, holding them in their own half. A quick swap of Michael for Clark and Thebans were back on the scoring again with Johnny picking up from a ruck and driving through the defence over the line.

Half time score: Thebans 10 v Bulls 0

With a quick swap of Ross for Safi on the wing, The Thebans came back into the second half strong. Picking up from a ruck 30 metres out, John charged through the Bulls too make it three tries to the Thebans. Even though he scored under the post, the Captain was still looking for a conversion.

It was only 5 minutes later that Thebans struck again. After line-out steal, the ball was shipped wide and Johnny took his second of the day. A strong lead for the home side. Paul was next on the score board. After a strong set off attacking up the middle of the field, the ball was again shipped wide and Paul charged into the corner. Thebans up to 25 points.

Some more great action from the backs gave Alex a try. Owen pushed forward making great ground with a nice hand-off and bump’n’burl. Alex then placed down under the posts. Finally his moment had arrived and the captain makes his first conversion. The crowd erupted! Time for a quick switch between Ross and Spanish M in the line-up. However, complacency kicked in and Birmingham put their first score on the board from a tap penalty. Not letting heads drop, Thebans hit back with Owen adding another score from a beautiful assist from Neil B. Another conversion for Neil F.

Final score Thebans 39 v Bulls 5

Man of the Match - Alexander Mcgarry

A hard fought game. At times complacent and a little scrappy. However, a strong show considering the last time we fought Bulls it was even-stevens try for try. Our time playing a range of teams with varying skills and abilities have made us harder, better stronger, faster. We need to ensure 80 minutes of concentration and focus. However, a grand show, our second win in a row, and a game to be proud of. Let’s keep the ball rolling!