The Climb

Yes, for this final match report of 2013, I have quoted Miley Cyrus. I feel that this average-noughties-pop-record symbolises not just Saturday's match against the Hillfoots (conquered that one alright) but also the last four months. And by climb I don't mean a struggle. Sure we have faced our challenges, but with each one we have given our all, fought to the last minute and taken another step forward/upward to being a stronger team, to reaching the summit. Saturday was a prime example. The first victory for the team against a non-gay team. Congratulations boys.

The game started with the first 20 minutes as 12 on 12, Thebans kindly donating players to Hillfoots. Thank you to those that played against the home side, you did not hold back and as result you made the Thebans look extremely welcoming and professional. And indeed, Hillfoots were quick off the mark and took the first try. However, the wind hampered their chance at a conversion. It would surely rear its ugly head again before the day was out (well that's my excuse and I am sticking to it).

Thebans struck back with Blair making a break through the visitors line and scoring the first points for the boys in blue. Play between both teams was pretty evenly matched with some excellent rucking from the Thebans. As practised in training, the placing back of the ball in training was brilliantly demonstrated. Glad to see it is all going in. Hillfoots hit back and by the 17 minute mark had taken another try. A restart from Neil took Thebans into the opposition's half. With one minute left of the half Blair took another of his smash runs and equalised. First half Thebans 10 v. Hillfoots 10. All was to play for.

Hillfoots struck hard in the second third. A lost line-out on our own 22 saw the visitors add another five points to their tally within minutes. Not to be knocked down the hill, Thebans took the game to the opposition and pushed them back against their own line. An excellent pick-up and dive from Nathan and Thebans were back on equal terms. It was another 15 minutes of hard play from both sides before any more scores were added to the board. Tackles after ruck after tackle. Some great play here boys. Then, taking advantage of a dropped ball Johnny took a break run 20 meters before passing to Gordon show scored taking Thebans into the lead with Neil (finally) converting.

As the final minutes of the second third ticked in, John counter-rucked and stole the ball. Making a run for it, Neil was there is support, and sprinted under the post to take the Thebans ahead by another five points. Sadly a conversion was out of the question. Thebans 27 v Hillfoots 15. Kicking off the final third, Thebans had momentum behind them and struck again, Ash making an awesome break forward through enemy lines and well into their 22. Struggling to escape, Alex was there in support to take the ball over the line. Another try followed by another conversion. Another seven points.

Hillfoots fought back and our very own Chris Mcgirr struck from a ruck on the Thebans line to add another five points to the visitors. Well done Hobbit. Yet, it wasn't long before the Thebans were back on scoring form. Taking advantage of a loose ball Neil broke through the lines. Supported by the forwards the ball was quickly recycled to Owen who passed the ball out to Blair who made an lengthy run to touch down between the posts. Another five points. However, it would be the visitors who would take the last points. Another try in the final minutes.

An epic game to finish the year. Non-stop play for three 20 minute thirds. Each player playing his role. Some excellent tackling. Brilliant rucking. Good hands and great breaks. A well deserved victory that demonstrates your dedication and team-work. So back to my Miley analogy (indulge me). Each game we have taken on has been tough, they are never going to be easy. But we keep fighting, keep striving to be better. Sure there has been loses Yet, I feel the as a team I feel the wins are only a bonus. Of course they are good when they happen. We play for fun. We play cause we enjoy rugby. We play for each other. We play as a team.

So, let's look toward 2014. The climb continues. We can grow stronger. We can hone our skills and talent. Keep the faith, keep the faith (sorry!). We have some great games coming up against Bristol and Birmingham in February. Let's show them how much we have progressed. Then onto the European tour where we will demonstrate to those on the continent how it is done Caledonia style. One step at a time and we will reach the top.

Clear Eyes, Full Heart, Happy Holidays!

Neil