CLAYMORES LAY DOWN THEIR SWORD AS CHINNOR WIN BATTLE!
Chinnor start the game and early possession is equally split between Claymores and Chinnor, with the forwards battling for dominance and both sides turning each other over at the break down. An early penalty is awarded to Chinnor and is converted by Alex Stevenson to take the lead 0-3. Claymores response is instant, they are awarded a penalty for a offside infringement to level the score 3-3. Chinnor start to take control with plenty of territory and possession but miss opportunities to score through lack of discipline. The forwards dominate the Scrummage with the front row of Dean Collins, Simone and Sam Ludgate having an outstanding game. On 23 minutes Chinnor score their first try of the day. A Claymore line out is tapped off the top poorly and the ball bounces awkwardly for the defence, it is pounced on by Max Williams to score with the conversation taken by Alex Pickle Stevenson 3-10. A deserved half time score which is also the penalty count.
Second half Chinnor start with a better game approach. Plenty of possession, phases, continuity and particularly patience are now dominating Claymores. On 45 minutes Chinnor score their second try. From a scrummage on the Claymores 22 the ball is spread into the backs, Harry Bomber HIllier comes off his wing into the centre of the park with speed and a slight dummy switch with Nathan Napier allows Harry to burst through to score under posts. Conversion by Alex PIckle Stevenson, a well worked try by the team 3-17. Chinnor are now flowing and playing some good rugby and it is not long before they score again. The half time brief is working well and being implemented by the team. On 55 minutes Max Williams, who was outstanding throughout, poaches the ball, quick ball from Dan Cundy is passed to George Blewitt who shows great speed to score on his return from injury with the conversion slotted by George Grose 3-24. On 70 minutes Chinnor score their fourth try and receive the deserved bonus point. From the line out quick ball off the top, the ball is passed through the backs hands to Martin Nutt to break through and score with the conversion slotted by George Grose 3-31. Chinnor do not ease up and score another try straight from the kick off. After a couple of phases of possession George Blewitt shows his class bursting through splitting the Claymores defence, drawing the final defender he off loads a delicate pass to Harry Lowe supporting, who runs in to score his first try for the second team 3-38. Claymores show great spirit and continue to play throughout, they score the final try of the day 8-38, which is the final score. Fully deserved score line for the team with an outstanding second half performance rewarded by running in 4 tries, from better continuity,patience and game management.
Today's team had an average age of 23, with 9 Under 21 year olds within playing squad showing the huge potential of this club. Starting debut was given to Charlie Krabbe, who played well and will gain huge experience playing with these guys. Seb Scott came of bench for his first start and with ball in hand looked exciting. Matt Smith provided a great impact and youthfulness when he came on and also Harry Lowe scored his first try. I must also mention the front row performance for their work, Jon Lavin for his leadership and normal 110%effort and tireless work. The backs Harry Hillier, Nathen Napier and Martin Nutt to mention a few.
Today's reporters man of match for the second week is Max WIlliams, absolutely a fantastic performance intensity, energy in defence and a complete nuisance for the Claymores. I lost count of the number of turn overs he won but it must have been close to double figures. Great work Chap!
Finally a big thank you to our hosts for your hospitality, good luck for the rest of the season and look forward to playing you again soon
Hywel Evans
Asst Manager Chinnor seconds.