A tough game of rugby

Chew Valley put in a valiant effort in the Bristol combination Cup against a strong Ding’s team. Chew started off on the back foot as their second-row ran through and around Chew’s line to score in the corner. Kicking was tough today with strong winds, as a result, the first conversion attempt of Dings was missed. 0-5. The pack of Chew Valley didn’t measure up to Dings in terms of size but a courageous performance by all forwards meant that Chew’s backline had time and room to run. After great hands and a great line from Max, the full-back dazzled under the posts. The kick was subsequently converted. 7-5. In an end-to-end first half, it was the hosts who were next to strike as following many offloads the Chew defence was beaten and 8 ran through to dot down. 7-10. Following a successful lineout outside centre, Jack showed quick feet to dissect Dings’ line and scored in the corner showing great pace. The kick was well converted. 14-10. The hitch-kicking fly half of Dings made territory after stepping through many missed tackles. After relentless pressure from large Dings ball carriers, they scored under the posts just before the half. 14-17.

Dings started the second half with fire as presumably their coaches were frustrated that Chew with a bare 15 managed to make them look poor on frequent occasions. The home sides number 8 ran a strong line and couldn’t be caught which extended their lead. 14-24. Following more pressure and misplaced clearance kicks Dings re-gathered quicker than Chew and scored in the corner once more. 14-29. Fresh legs for Dings helped as their forceful style of rugby paid dividend once more as they extended their lead. 14-34. Chew Valley performed admirably and wouldn’t lie down at any point. As a consequent result of poor discipline in the lineout from Dings Chew then pounced and took the penalty quickly. Finn showed great vision to grubber the ball behind the line of the Crusaders and Max, once more, showed great pace to dive on the ball. 19-34. Losing possession in vital areas was Chew Valley’s main concern today. A combination of that and the speed and fresh legs of Dings meant they went on to score two quick succession tries. 19-48. It was a tough day for Chew Valley however their morale never dropped. Chew had the last laugh as superb hands and great work ethic created space for Finn to show his speed and skill as he raced away to dot down. The kick was well converted as were many by Henry in tough conditions. 27-48. Last try wins???

Overall, a courageous performance from Chew who is sadly out of the cup however work ethic, morale and great finishing of tries must all be praised.