Phoenix 2 XV 5 - 71 Drifters 1 XV

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Drifters started the new campaign with a good win away to local rivals Phoenix 2s. On a hot day and firm ground which was well suited to running rugby, Drifts delivered in style. After a minute silence for HRH Queen Elizabeth, impeccably behaved by all players and supporters, Phoenix kicked off to get the game and the new season underway. Drifters have re entered the league, Counties 4 Tribute Berks Bucks & Oxon South after a difficult last year and the plan for this year is to build the club and playing squad back up whilst developing the younger players.

New captain Ryan O' Donoghue and vice captain Chris Double showed their class with excellent all round performances. Drifts got on the score board after barely a minute played with some direct running from the forwards. Forwards and backs combined well throughout the afternoon however lots of improvements can still be made.

There were two many tries to recall every effort especially with coach/ physio/ water boy having to start due to same late arrivals. Phoenix to their credit never stopped playing and scored a good try of their own breaking down the blind.

Drifters scored 11 tries in total with 8 converted by returning fly half Amar Dade.

Man of the Match went to debutante Edward Tyler who excelled at 6 making turnovers galore.

Final score Phoenix 2s 5 Drifters 71

Try scorers:

Carl Corcoran

Karl Knight

Brad Mathews

Will Barton

Luke Holdship

Chris Double *2 (sorry to report but their is some debate being had internally of hat trick avoidance)

Kieran Ghafadgi *2

George Ebert (Try on debut, red mental and lepers A**hole banked)

Jamie Stevenson

18 Sep 2022