... The spontaneous reaction to the winning 36-15 scoreline, with OD’s coming out on top in three out of four tough quarters of competitive rugby, reflected the pride and effort that had been shown on the pitch by the boys in blue and white. It was certainly needed, as a small OD squad set about last season’s league winners, who had twice as many players to use when fresh legs were needed. However, worries of insufficient strength in depth quickly disappeared as players showed the kind of determination and spirit that is going to stand the club in such good stead for this season’s campaign.
Most pleasing was the manner of the victory which was characterised by some gritty tackling throughout the side, which generally executed superb defensive awareness and organisation. Taking their chances in attack, the Old Boys crossed the opposition line five times showing the basic skills of passing and handling that have been constantly practised on the training field in recent weeks. Taking their lead from new captain Peter Jefferies, all the forwards had a heroic afternoon, none taking a backward step as a hefty, physical Bromley pack tried to gain the upper hand. Special mention must be made of the makeshift front row which, having lost Austin Raleigh with a shoulder injury after just 10 minutes, achieved parity up front as well as contributing effectively around a hard and unforgiving pitch. Conor Palmer, Jack Alexander-Sanchez and Danny Higgins looked to the manor born and stepped up to provide the platform for some decent first phase possession for half backs Tom Coombs and Mike Ubee to distribute intelligently in blustery conditions, giving the team good field position and scoring opportunities. Only in the second quarter were the OD’s pinned in their own half, when the Bromley pack gained the upper hand, only to rally again in the second half, uphill and against the wind. The experience and presence of Nick Gilbey and Jean-Pierre Mills was invaluable, as the pack continued to drive forward and serve up good, quick ball for the backs to work with, while the double act of Alex McCulloch and Lockie in the back row was, at times, too fast and furious for the opposition to handle. Physio Andy Moody was kept busy throughout the afternoon as players responded to the unrelenting physical challenge.
The side’s organisation for so early in the season bodes well, as does the work rate and willingness to make tackles, although indiscipline at the breakdown saw too high a penalty count for comfort. With a few more player options in the backs, coach Phil Ubee was able to try different combinations which saw everyone make some telling runs and offloads with equal success. Jamal, Obi, Michael Burgess and Linval Antonio all showed their paces on the flanks after the young play makers like Josh, Luke, Dylan, Danny and Rob were able to put them away with deft touches and well timed passing. Perhaps the surprise package of the afternoon was the evergreen Andrew Booth, making not one but two telling intersections late on that brought 12 points and a deserved victory. The sight of Boothy scampering 20 metres to score under the posts put a smile on everyone’s face and capped a successful afternoon that epitomised the new optimism blossoming at ODRFC.
Thanks and appreciation go to Bromley for hosting the match and providing great hospitality. With every chance of future training collaboration with our old friends from Barnet Wood Road, we look forward to both clubs making progress through their respective leagues this season.