DEAD rubber? Dead wrong. Manor Park’s last game of the season came two games after their relegation was confirmed.
But on this evidence, opponents in Midlands 4 West South had better watch out as the Griff and Coton side were simply sensational.
Having lost the opening game of the season to their Coventry rivals by a big score, Park were simply a different class.
However, it didn’t start well for the men in red and black.
Old Wheats’ kick off was deep, an unfortunate fumble into an offside player gave the visitors an early penalty chance.
A quick-tap penalty caught Park off guard. A minute in, they were seven points down.
It didn’t open the floodgates, instead Manor hit back earning a succession of penalties and territory deep in the Old Wheats’ half.
From a lineout, a rolling maul ensued and number eight Matthew Marston claimed the score. Callum Bishop’s conversion levelled matters.
The centre was in confident form from the tee kicking two penalties that were cancelled out by the opposition as the scores were tied at 13-13 at the half-way point.
Park took the lead through the long limbs of Charlie Wilson, reaching over to score after strong pressure applied in the scrum area.
Wheats bounced back with a converted score of their own to make it 20-20.
A Bishop penalty regained Park’s lead and this was boosted further when a quickly-tapped penalty had Old Wheats back tracking and they were unable to prevent Chris Goode from bundling over.
With the last play of the game, flanker Dave Melville scooped up a spilt ball from the ground and raced home for a memorable try.
Victory ensured Park would finish eight points above bottom-placed Upton-on-Severn, and end the season in spectacular fashion.