Latest Coventrians RFC News

2009-11-12T20:38:00.010Z

Saturday 14th November 1:00pm - Covents VPs & Old Boys Day

Coventrians 13-9 Coventry Saracens (Mids 5 South)

Our all time league record v Cov Saras is P20 W10 L10. We first played them in a league fixture on 26th November 1988 losing 3-6 at Bredon Ave with a Clayton Flick penalty our solitary score. Our last game was on 19th January 2008 when we won 20-8 away. Dave Sexton & Carl Thornton scored tries with Chris Simons adding 2 conversions and 2 penalties.

Super Ro Dives in to Clinch Win for Covents

At a cold, windswept, rain lashed Black Pad; Covents put in a tough day at the office to clinch their fourth league win of the season against Cov Saras. This is a fairly short report as I spent the first half in the lovely warm clubhouse, kidnapped by old farts and forced to drink Guinness.

So Saras took the lead with a drop goal and a penalty but Rohan Aitkin hit back with a try from a five metre scrum to leave the score at half time, 5-6. Earlier, Danny Pearson had dotted down but the score was disallowed; (turns out he only wanted a kiss off monkey)

Covents took the lead in the first few minutes of the second half when Deadeye Douglas sent a penalty over, straight and true for 8-6. Once again, in the latter period, the real Covents turned up and in the 10th minute big full-back Simon Needles went on one of his trademark glides, beat four players and put Kev Walters in, in the corner but the move came to naught. From a scrum, Covents got a big shove on but Saras held firm. This turned into a Premier Inn mini-break as Covents set up camp in the corner but again, no points were garnered.

A few minutes later, the ball was fired through the three quarter line, Dougie to Lawrence who put Rohan in at the bowling green corner and just about to run out of room, Super Ro astounded everyone with an outrageous swallow dive, more top board at Cov Baths than Swan Lake. The judges all held up sixes and Covents were 13-6 up thanks to Rohans superb Greg Louganis effort.

Saras came back with a penalty to make the score 13-9 and shortly afterwards, Wayne 6 rums Brandfour who had come on as a sub for Dave Bailey picked up at a ruck and looking like Serge Blanco sold a dummy and charged up field before being stopped. Then from the lineout he leapt like a salmon and took Saras ball. Maybe he had drunk 7 rums? From this move, centre Lawrence went on a bullocking surge and running STRAIGHT used his rather robust build to knock four defenders over before being halted. Trevor Roberts thought he had scored but like Danny earlier, was denied by the ref. Then Lawrence went again, like a man possessed (or just someone who was advised to run STRAIGHT) and now, it was all blue and white pressure.

The game was then interrupted when the Saras prop decided to drive low, ball in hand but only succeeding in colliding with the granite head of The Beast (aka Woz). Woz says he was also going low but we suspect he was having a sneaky nap but the outcome was not pretty for the Saras prop as he was knocked senseless and had to go off after a lengthy delay. He only avoided a serious neck injury by the fact that he did not have one. A few minutes later, Wayne rucked out, won a penalty which Dougie put onto the train lines to bring the curtain down on a hard fought two points.

Talking of Dougie, he was one of two players who asked me if I had seen certain incidents; one was a re-start from him that sent the ball a thousandth of an inch and a clod of earth over the clubhouse. The other was Kev Walters being tackled, sacked and turned over like a washing machine on fast cycle. So no boys you are fine, I did not see either happen . . .

So to the entertainment; as VPs days go it was not the best supported as the weather had made a warm living room and a bowl of Complan seem more appealing but that said we still had a good turnout of old favourites; Red Brown, Nick Castle, Paul Cassidy, Steve Fish, Giz Gisbourne, Dick Griffiths, Mick Groves, Robbie Hopkins, Simon Hull, Grant Liggins, Spanner Lindon, Trevor Lyon, Ron McBride, Father Francis P McCullough, Archie McPherson, Terry Mosey, Lee Pegler, Bob & Steve Platt, Rocket Ron Randle, Sean Stanton, Tony suave Super, Steve Tate, Martin Trenholm, Rich Walters and John Wilson.

For photos click here they aint the best quality unfortunately.

It was great to see the club heaving with bodies and thronging with song both from the old farts and the current players. Thanks to Red for his ever enduring Alouette (although she has a few grey hairs down below these days) and also to our second team referee (whose name escapes me) for standing up on that chair, and taking a soaking while trying to decide what to sing; she is a great sport! John, Jane and Barbara did us proud too with food and drink a plenty; the table was groaning under the weight of the bottomless buffet and the curry was pretty damn good too. Finally gratitude to Red and Golly for keeping me company until 2am and helping me to feel so wonderful today . . .

Bar Quote

Steve Vallis to myself; You misquoting MOTHER F * * * * R!

I have to say I have never been called that before but then it is Covents and who am I to argue with one so eloquent?

Covents 2nds 0-0 Bedworth 3rds (Warks 3)

Respect to the 2nd team who took on Beduth 3rds on the bottom pitch and put in a gutsy display during a festival of Champagne rugby to draw 0-0.

Saturday November 7th

2009-11-06T12:36:00.024Z

Coventrians 16 - 15 Wellesbourne

(Mids 5 South)

Plucky Ws Vanquished as Covents Win Ugly

A week is a long time in rugby and we witnessed role reversal at a cold, damp autumnal Black Pad yesterday as it was Covents turn to win a game they perhaps did not deserve to by one point. With our usual plethora of injuries/non availabilities Covents still managed to rock up with four world record holders; Steve Vallis (worlds unfittest prop) Woz Garner (worlds strongest prop) Rich Scholes (worlds greediest prop) and the worlds heaviest crash centre, an out of position Supersize Me Keiran Martin.

If I am honest, the first half was a pile of old rubbish which started badly and went downhill. The blue and whites looked half asleep as Wellesbourne went over, unopposed after 3 minutes after our No 10 Duncan Keenan dropped the ball. Dunc made amends with a penalty nine minutes later for 3-5 but the Ws potted one of their own to make the score 3-8.

On 23 minutes Rohan finally got ball after anorexic hooker Danny Pearson (now on the flank) secured possession. Rohan turned on the style and turned Wellesbourne inside out mercurially dancing through 6 or 7 dizzy defenders before offloading to Lawrence who did well before being tackled. Covents were finally firing now and it was Lawrence again, who eventually running straight at centre used his considerable bulk and nearly went over. From the resulting scrum the fat boys pushed and veteran no 8 Dick Potter finished off a text book pushover try in the 29th minute that was unconverted for 8-8.

The next ten minutes saw the usual solid hits from John Field and a nice kick from scrum half Scrappy to clear our lines as the Ws attacked. In the 39th minute Jon Clifford, our young winger who weighs 5 stone in a wringing wet army coat made a superb try saving tackle in the corner but Wellesbourne scored and converted on 40 mins to go into a deserved lead at half time 8 – 15.

Just after the kick off we lost Danny Pearson after a blow to his head so Lenny Pitt (young John Kenny to you) came on at centre and Supersize Me went into the back row. Straight away we were almost in at the bowling green corner from a good looking move between Duncan, Lawrence and Lenny. On 48 minutes Rich Scholes came on for Woz at loose head and his athleticism, dynamic fitness and astute rugby brain turned the game as Rohan was taken off the ball resulting in a Wellesbourne yellow card. On 55 mins Covents were back in the game as scrum half Scrappy skilfully dummy scissored on the line to dot down to make the score 13-15.

This heralded probably the best period of the match with Wellesbourne stung back into attack and only a superb big hit by Supersize Me Martin in the corner prevented a certain score. In the 62nd min D J (playing at hooker) pulled out a bulldozer hit of his own and seven minutes later, John Field nearly cut a bloke in half with a fully committed challenge. So the blue and whites were finally awake and firing then and in the 74th minute, Lawrence thought he was away until the whistle brought him back down to earth. From the resulting Wellesbourne penalty, they didn’t find touch and Jon Clifford (looking more and more like Billy Casper from Kes) caught the ball and unsure whether to run, pass or kick had to consult his Rothmans Rugby Union Handbook before finally hoofing it away just in the nick of time.

In the 75th minute Rohan clicked his heels again and went on a whirling, spinning, mazy thing of a run which included body pops, pirouettes and a double pike before Covents were awarded a penalty on 80 minutes which Duncan (who had not had his best kicking day) coolly slotted for 16-15. So game over then as time was up? You must be joking! As there had been a few injuries our beloved whistler decided to play a whole new game and we had to endure an agonising 10 minutes of time added on which saw a second big hit from D J, a yellow card for John Field and Dave Bailey’s impression of the Incredible Hulk when attempting to rip the ball off his opponent for 30 seconds before realising the whistle had been blown 18 times and a penalty awarded to Wellesbourne.

As their kicker lined it up in the 90th minute, yes 90th minute, Dave could not bare to look but thankfully for us and Dave the kick fell short and the game was won. So a win is a win but although pleased with themselves every Covent knew that this was not good enough and that we were perhaps fortunate to finish on top. Fair play to Wellesbourne too who turned up in numbers, played with great spirit and were unfortunate to leave with nothing. This I believe is only their second season and we wish them well for the rest of it and for the future. I particularly want to mention their utility forward; he is 42 years old, 5 foot 6 and played at number 8, second row and flanker. He is never short of a word either; see you at your place!

Touchline Quotes

Steve Vallis on why he will not be part of a rolling maul Because I am intrinsically lazy.

Opposite prop to Woz It was like propping against a brick wall.

Sam Holtham who bruised his ankle Arghhhh, ooooh, arghhhhhh, I cant suck it in Trev, it hurts too much!

There are some great photos available if you click here. Our thanks to Wellesbournes photographer Dick Prior for his efforts.

Bare respect due to Trevor Roberts who conquered Kill a man for a giro all in aid of Help for Heroes i.e. British Servicemen. Well done mate, I will try and remember that fiver for next week.

Finally, my thanks to Mini Stanton and his mate Johnny who took time off from their Latin homework to walk down to the bottom posts and collect pads and flags as Springy was too idle to go. Thanks lads, Springy I want that quid back that I gave them for sweets.

PS - there was no 2nd team game as we had to cry off due to lack of bodies

2009-10-27T12:35:00.005Z

Saturday 24th October 2009

Copsewood 13 - 12 Coventrians Mids 5 W (S E)

Tries from Paul Brindley and Rohan Aitken and a Deadeye Douglas conversion were not enough to stretch Covents winning run to 4 games. The 2nd team game was called off at 2pm by Copsewood. Don't look too hard for a match report, I was in Carlisle.

Our league record v Copsewood is P2 W1 L1, against GPT Coventry P1 L1 and against GEC P1 L1. On the 18th November 1989 we lost 6-44 away to GEC with a try from Julian Brooks (against his old club) and a conversion from Wiggy Bennett. On the 17th February 1996 we lost 16-28 away to GPT Coventry, our try scorers Nick Castle & Dave Davidson with Davidson adding 2 pens. Last season our nadir came at home against bottom club Copsewood losing 6-9 on 25th October 2008 (Chris Potter pen) but redeeming ourselves at Allard Way on the 31st January 2009 winning 15-3 with tries from Nick Coates & Danny Pearson, Phil Jones's brother adding a pen & a con.

VP's & Old Boy's Day Sat 14th November at home to Cov Saracens 1:00pm

2009-10-23T11:59:00.008+01:00

Saturday 24th October 2009

Covents 2nds 21 - 29 Newbold 3rds (Warks 3)

Kev Walters 2 tries, Steve Vallis try, Sam Collinson 3 conversions - unlucky lads, great result.

Alcester 5 - 13 Coventrians (Cup)

Covents travelled to higher league opposition Ulster and made it 3 wins out of 3 as they triumphed in this Midlands Junior Vase Round 2 game, with a try from skipper Cozzy and 2 penalties & a conversion from Simon Needles. Unfortunately, Cozzy had his shoulder dislocated from a big hit near the end of the match.

2009-10-19T23:06:00.002+01:00

VP's & Old Boy's Day ~ Sat Nov 14th 1-00pm v Cov Saracens

Saturday 17th October 2009

2009-10-16T17:07:00.014+01:00

Coventrians 18 - 11 Atherstone Mids 5 West (S East)

Our all time league record v Atherstone is P27 W10 L17. Our first ever league encounter was on 10th Sept 1988 and we won 19-3 at home with tries from Paul Barrow 2, Tim Bycroft & John Kenny. Clayton Flick kicked a penalty. On the 12th Dec 1998 we lost at home 0-66 but on the 8th March 2008 we won away 45-14 with tries from M Kiburi, C Thornton, K Walters, R Aitken & C Simons 2 each & 5 conversions to Deadeye Douglas. Perversely that season, we found ourselves cheering Atherstone on in a rearranged fixture at OC's ground under lights as they went down to Old Wheats and we went into a play-off by virtue of 1 point eventually being promoted.

Atherstone Brawn 'Busted' by Slick Covents Backs

Covents, in the role of David, slew Goliath as The Black Pad resembled the Land of the Giants on Saturday. From the kick off (missing at least two of their more rotund pack members) Covents were soon struggling up front giving away height, weight and ground and this was underlined by Rohan Aitkin in our 22 having to make three big hits in as many minutes. On 8 minutes, with our pack going backwards, we were awarded a penalty which was marched forward ten due to Atherstone yap. From the lineout, Dougie hoisted into their 22 and Paul Brindley, sprinting in only just failed to gather as their full-back fumbled. Lawrence (Midas touch) Goddard popped up and dotted down but the referee brought it back. So it came to naught but Covents had glimpsed the Promised Land. Kick behind them and use our pace? Sounded like a plan . . .

For the next few minutes, the game see sawed end to end as Simon or Dougie kicked up field and Atherstone would run back, only to be stopped by solid tackling by Rohan or Paul Brindley. At one point one of Simon Needles kicks was caught by Geoff Capes who galloped forward but Simon stopped him with a cruncher. For number 8 Dick Potter and scrum-half Tom Gough it was a case of hot potato in the scrum as we were under pressure in the tight five. The pressure showed when Rohan took a great catch in his 22 and bellowed out, Body-arc! Answers on a postcard please but we think he meant mark.

In the 23rd minute an Atherstone penalty was kicked from way out (and I mean from The Brico) for 0-3 but one could not help feeling that after all that pressure and supremacy Atherstone would have expected more. A minute later, Paul Brindley took a catch on the touchline and sprinted up field beating four defenders; they just did not look happy when we ran at them. Covents forwards were fighting back too when Dick Potter cleaned out at altitude on 27 minutes and D J went on a surge that ended in a ruck from which Deadeye kicked and Atherstone messed up. Simon saw his chance, kicked on, picked up and dropped down to score for 5-3. Unusually, Deadeye missed his kick from very close, the ball going under the bar. Later, Dougie confided that he was just trying to emulate his kicking hero, Chris Potter . . .

Straight away, we Garryowened again and their full-back nearly messed up again. Then Paul Brindley went on another run which came to nothing and seconds later their full-back had to take again with big Simon breathing down his neck. So it seemed our backs mantra was have ball will travel, and as Churchill once famously said to President Roosevelt, Give us the tools and we will finish the job. The pressure told on 32 minutes as Goughie tapped and went on their 22 and as they were not ten, we took the kick instead. Deadeye, having removed his flipflops sent over a good one and we were 8-3. Two minutes later, Atherstone pegged us back to 8-6 with their own kick but in the 38th minute Tom Gough collected the pill, sprinted forward and put hooker Danny Pearson in on the right touch. Danny, throwing off the Ernie Wise tag skated up the wing and made 30 yards before being stopped.

The stroke of half-time saw Covents camped on their line after more good work from Dick in the lineout but the gnarled old street-fighters wheeled our eight and came away with the ball to leave the match nicely poised at the break, 8-6.

Trevor Roberts came on for Dick at Number 8 and in the 43rd minute Deadeye showed good soccer skills as he volleyed out in a dangerous situation. From the lineout Atherstone surged forward but again, solid defence from Jon Field and Rohan stopped them in their tracks. At this point prop Harry came off, Dave Bailey went on and Mr Versatile (D J) moved to the front row. On 45 minutes we managed to engineer the worst situation possible i.e. an Atherstone scrum on our line and guess what? Yeah, they scored a pushover but hit the post with the conversion leaving the score, 8-11. This prompted their packleader to shout, Right lads, we ll bust these now! (still early though old pal)

On 50 minutes Jon Field cut an Atherstone back in half and from the resulting lineout Deadeye ran a great angle before slipping to Rohan who at his mercurial best, produced one of his Specials by beating three attackers and dotting down under the sticks for 13-11. Deadeye slotted and things looked rosy again at 15-11. (To hear some hysterical idiot commentate on the score click here) The next 10 minutes and it was game on as both sides attacked and counter attacked. Rohan caught in his own 22 and throwing an outrageous dummy (those two Atherstone players had to pay to get back in) sprinted to half-way before being bundled in. The pack started to rumble after a quiet time of it in the first 40 and once again, Covents superior fitness told as Trevor broke free but was pulled back by a whistle.

On the hour it was our forwards putting the pressure on and a series of moves through the back row saw us camped in their 22 but the giants held firm against the pygmies. We were fired up and having won a penalty maybe got too excited and tapped. Luckily they were penalized again and with Steve Springate hysterically exhorting us to kick for goal we did just that, but Deadeye missed. This did not quench the Covents forward fire though and Ryan Gilbert had a trundle, supported by Jon Field and the ubiquitous Captain Cozzy. In the 68th minute we experienced deja vu as we won a penalty in their 22 and opted to tap, luckily winning another penalty which Deadeye kicked true for 18-11.

In the 70th minute, Deadeye sent another penalty into the corner and from the lineout Sam got a terrible cramp at 1500 feet but teak tough flanker that he is, took the pain like a man. So much so that when Monkey (love you and sneaker!) massaged it he screamed, Ooh it hurts, ooh it hurts. In the 75th minute it was hard, niggly but clean in the middle of the park and a series of mauls produced a run for Rohan via Lawrence and Jon Field which ended in a high tackle and our possession. Atherstone won it back and in the 78th minute got a slow drive on, inching our forwards back inexorably but a knock on put paid to their efforts.

Simon kicked away but a Covents player was offside and Atherstone opted for 3 points with a couple of minutes left plus any injury time. Break out the beer and big Cuban cigars here because surely Covents were home and hosed? You reckon??? Read on.

The kick fell short and Simon Needles, looking more relaxed than a cat in front of a roaring log fire who had eaten all the cream managed to somehow create a cliff hanging bombshell of an ending by farting about with the pick up and then knocking on resulting in a scrum on our line to the hairy monsters. So with Woz screaming hit him Ryan, lock out Ryan and other daft front row ramblings we scrummaged for our lives and solid it was too. They could not move us so opted to run it and tidal waves of relief swept over everyone in blue and white as their No 10 knocked on giving us the put in. Ball was won, kicked away and the curtain brought down on a thrilling game of rugby. Simon was off the hook and that lynching rope hurriedly taken down from the rafters inside the clubhouse.

So played three won two and a big win it was too as Atherstone had two out of two under their belts already before today. So many times on here I have paid deserved respect to our forwards over the last two seasons and there was no lack of effort today either against a bigger, heavier more experienced pack but this time the plaudits go to the backs who were tenacious in the tackle on the back foot and when the time was right, turned on the pace and skills to ensure the lads enjoyed a great win. My thanks to the Atherstone players and supporters who stayed for a good hour plus, ate some more pies and sank some more ale. Big Bear Burdett, great to see you again mate bring Clarky with you on the 14th November. Also a mention to the ref here who was virtually anonymous; this must mean he a had a good game then.

Old Covents 3rds 63 - 17 Covents 2nds Warks 3

All hail the seconds who travelled with 12 and seeking revenge for last years 60-0 thraping, OCs decided not to lend us players and even the sides up. So with Silver Fox Deano at prop and Terry (dodgy mags) Mosey on the flank a combined age of 101 played 80 minutes each. Deano himself told me that the credit goes to the younger boys who never gave up, kept running and tackled nearly everything. Big Sam Collinson scored a try, a penalty and two conversions and Alan Bedfords mate Ryan got the other try. Well done lads!

VP's & Old Boy's Day ~ Sat Nov 14th 1-00pm v Cov Saracens

2009-10-15T10:40:00.002+01:00

For results, click here - for league table, click on the blue link "League Table" to the right

2009-10-09T18:41:00.012+01:00

Saturday 10th October 2009

Warwickian 8 - 34 Coventrians Mids 5 West (S East)

Our all time league record v Old Warwickians is P19 W8 L11 and v Warwickian P8 W6 L2 so in total, P27 W14 L13. In our 1987/88 championship winning season the only game we lost that season was at O W 9-10 under controversial circumstances on 10th October 1987 (so 22 years to the day). Clayton Flick with a try, conversion and a penalty scored the points. The last time we played at Warwickian we won 50-8 on the 12th April 2008.

Debut Try the Icing on Covents Cake

Covents came away from Warwickian with a convincing win in an often scrappy and niggly game. There was also some role reversal as our usually omnipotent pack spent 40 minutes on the back foot and we played our best rugby in the first-half for a change.

So from the kick off it became apparent that with three regulars missing (supersize me, where were you?) Covents eight were not going to have it all their own way against a bigger home pack as the latter turned ball over in the 2nd minute. Then in the 4th minute, Covents scrum-half Tom Gough went down with a blood curdling scream that sent Monkey sprinting on fearing a dislocated head or broken spine. Turns out it was just a bit of trapped wind and after a good belch he was fine.

From the base, in the 5th minute, 73 year old Dick Potter surged forward, went to ground and Simon Needles, on a trademark ball in one hand glide, beat four defenders before being held up on the line. From the recycle, captain Cozzy dotted down under the posts leaving Deadeye Douglas to slot for 7-0. So with the forwards struggling for supremacy the backs took it upon themselves to set the tone and we nearly scored again after Ryan Gilbert got a gallop on and Lenny (damn he looks like a young John Kenny) aka Leonard Frederick Michael Pitt was nearly in on a crash move which he unfortunately dropped.

After some good work from D J driving from the flank we somehow gave a penalty away in the 16th minute and Warwickian slotted for 7-3. Three minutes later it did not matter as more good work from D J (with a pass inside) via Goughy put young John Kenny in to finish off a good looking move which Deadeye sent over for 14-3. Covents were now hunting and could smell blood in the water as good work from Potter Snr allowed Deadeye a deft kick which the Warwickian winger only just palmed into touch with Rohan breathing down his neck.

This resulted in a tap penalty on their line and from the resulting melee; the Warwickian No 6 found himself lying on the wrong side and received a good dose of Riverdance from Cozzy. When he protested, Cozzy bent down and said in no uncertain terms, I say old bean, perhaps you could refrain from taking such inconvenient positions in future then! Deadeye slotted the penalty for 17-3 as lots of silly yap broke out from the home ranks (mostly 6 and 10). In fact Springy and myself were accused of being too old to play the game; well no shit Sherlock, when did you get the first clue? As Tony Super once famously said, Anno Domini (not a pizza) and it happens to us all one day (except the evergreen Woz & Dick Potter it seems)

In the 28th minute a home penalty kick dropped short and Covents broke out with Dick Potter, Simon Needles and Deadeye all linking to put Chris Potter away with afterburners glowing. Chris was nearly in and passing to Rohan, saw him spill the pill on the line allowing Warwickian another let off. On 32 minutes a Covents penalty was marched forward 10 due to more silly yawping from an increasingly ill disciplined home side (remember the days when you opened your trap and your skipper gave you a dig?) and from the tap, scrum-half Tom Gough popped up behind enemy lines to dot down. Deadeye slotted unerringly and Covents had a very comfortable 24-3 lead.

As often happens, the losing side rally and the last few minutes of the half saw Covents defending solidly on their own line the highlight of which was a fine enveloping tackle from Rohan to hold a would be Warwickian scorer up on the line. From the resulting scrum Covents pushed Warwickian off their ball and frustration was evident as the home prop pushed his own No 6 over prompting No 6 to say, No f * * * er likes me! (Very shrewd this lad). At this point the ball was kicked away and Covents sub Visor bravely retrieved it getting slightly stung in the process by some naughty, nasty old nettles. These hookers are a tough breed though; they are even prepared to play on through the pain barrier of nappy rash.

So half-time 24-3 and Mark Farndon came on for Woz at loose head. For some strange reason, although the pack were now firing as a unit, Covents seemed to drop their intensity and at times joined in the silly yapping so popular with the home team. The second half became a disjointed, scrappy affair and Middlesex 7s it was not! In the 50th minute, our old mate No 6 was penalised for nattering again and this time his own players gave him a b*llocking. The 55th minute saw Covents awarded a penalty for the flanker breaking bind (thank you referees assessor) but strangely, Deadeye missed with a poor kick.

On the hour, the home side started to make inroads using their substitute (big lad wearing 19) and their other pacy back, No 14. In fact No 19 threaded through four defenders and was only just held by Potter Jnr. 5 minutes later, No 14 was on the charge when Rohan cut him down with a superb tackle around the ankles. On 27 minutes Sam Holtham came on for Cozzy (injured foot) and a minute later the home pressure finally told as they scored but missed the kick for 24-8. On 30 minutes, Lawrence Goddard came on to make his first team debut for Chris Potter who had injured his whole body earlier.

In the 71st minute D J found himself on the wrong side and the Riverdance was duly reciprocated; suddenly D J (you wouldnt like me when Im angry) changed into the Incredible Hulk and charged into a Warwickian attacker, cutting him in half! A minute later, Mr Angry, still green, still in ripped shorts grabbed the ball and roared up field snarling with opposition players falling like saplings. This resulted in a lineout in which Sam, at about 2000 feet, took great ball but the resulting rumble came to nothing. In the 74th minute Woz came back on for Mark Farndon and immediately Goughy to Deadeye put Lawrence in for a debut try but . . . the referee blew and his moment of glory was gone on the fickle wind of fate.

At this point, Covents hooker Danny Pearson, although a lot slimmer than he was, threw out a pass that hit Dick Potter in the chest and knocked him over. Danny, lay off those protein milkshakes mate. In the 80th minute Deadeye sent a penalty over for 27-8 and then Rohan went close but we could not seem to find that elusive last score to finish on, or could we? In the 5th minute of injury time, Deadeye passed to Lawrence in the home 22 and the centre with a props body, wearing a hookers shirt and the feet of a ballerina (thanks Chris) weaved, pirouetted and scored on his debut for 32-8 much to the delight of his team mates and away supporters. This left Deadeye to slot (14 points for him then) for a final score of 34-8 and all was well in the blue and white camp. Click here for commentary of THAT try.

So a much needed win and achieved with several regulars missing which can only bode well. There was a lot of good stuff on display but on the down side, in games like this, we need to concentrate and focus on what we do well and not get involved with any opposition shenanigans. Having said that, Warwickian are a good bunch of blokes off the pitch but ear plugs should be made compulsory during the game.

Touchline / Match Quotes

Warwickian player; please sir, he stole my rubber!

Deadeye; love you Sneaker

Warwickian player; please sir, he told me to get lost!

Young lad; Is he really a DJ? (Bless him)

Covents back; Forwards spread! (Is this a new type of margarine?)

Covents 2nds were due to play Warwickian 2nds in the 2nd team Cup but W cried off.

2009-10-06T20:26:00.004+01:00

Haircut 100 Play at Covents Anniversary

In 1996 Covents celebrated their 75th anniversary and thanks to Trace Blaster Bates and his photos you can re live it by clicking here

Here we see Nick Heyward grooving the night away . . .

2009-10-02T18:00:00.007+01:00

3rd October John Roden Memorial Game

Cov Welsh 27 - 3 Coventrians

Coventry Welsh captured the Jon Roden memorial trophy for the first time yesterday to leave each club on one win each in this newly created fixture. Injuries and unavailability left Covents with an unfamiliar looking pack but a back row of Deano, Trev Roberts and Wayne 6 brandies and the Ayatollah at prop did a sterling job. Taking the lead with a Deadeye Doug penalty, Covents kept the score at 3-10 until the last ten minutes when tiredness took its toll and the boys in red gave their win a more convincing look. Fair play to the Welsh then as we remember the main man himself Jonny Roden who was, we suspect, looking down from somewhere and taking the p*ss!

Just a quick note here; great to see Wozza back in the side and having a trundle; he spent 80 minutes looking for Tony Davies who apparently was at home with a mug of coco trying to work out Pythagoras Theorem.

Also, our heartfelt condolences to you and your family Woz for your recent loss; there is a lot of love in the camp mate.

Covents 2nds 0 - 60 Cov Welsh 2nds

I was absent on parade for most of yesterday but wandering into HQ during the seconds fixture with Cov Welsh was like going back in a time machine. Welsh had 14, we had 13 (after they had lent us a couple) and as Haydon (with an O) had gone off with a dislocated eye lash we were down to passive scrums. Twas a tad one sided so the ref decided to play 30 each way. What unfolded was an extravaganza of 1970s lower team rugby more Hearsall Common than Harlequins. Played out on a granite pitch that has felt no rain for a month, this wonderful theatre featured man boobs, beer guts and hairy, cavernous cracks as overweight pensioners threw off the shackles of a humdrum working week and attempted to jog. Our own, super athlete at scrum-half, Terry Mosey, still seeking that solo try to retire on, led the way for Covents (mostly backwards, chasing pacy Welsh backs who should know better.)

At half time, the energy drinks were shunned and I saw a pint of Guinness, a couple of fags, a hip flask and page 3 of The Sun doing the rounds. There were magazines (supplied by Mosey) for shin pads, axle grease for Vaseline and scrum pox. If only I had known I would have supplied a slice of razor thin orange and a blood stained, wet sponge.

The second half started with the hookers sending over arm throws into line outs and any forwards caught lifting their jumpers were jugged. There was no screaming, shouting or yawping just 27 men fully focused on breathing and trying to actually catch the pill and not knock on. Yes it resembled the Alamo and when Covents passed the halfway line they stopped and had to ask directions to the Welsh line but their heads never dropped and they took their punishment with great spirit.

Likewise, the Welsh lads were gracious in victory and looked almost apologetic when scoring. Their kicker even agreed to drop kick the conversions with his left peg and it was not until the 57th minute that we realised that he was left footed. Finally the Welsh batsmen declared and just as Covents opened their innings the game was abandoned due to bad light so technically it was a draw. Whatever the result, we had been treated to a wonderful spectacle that should have been filmed and filed in the archive under G for grass roots rugby!

Touchline Quote; It's only 8 scores Covents, you can do it!!!

Saturday 26th September 2009

2009-09-25T12:36:00.010+01:00

Coventrians 21 - 31 Trinity Guild

Second-half Courage Not Enough to Prevent Defeat

In similar circumstances to last season (i.e. leaving themselves a first half mountain to climb and then heroically nearly reaching the summit) the first team lads played the proverbial game of two halves against Trinity Guild at a sun baked, rock hard beast of a Black Pad yesterday.

From the kick off it was apparent the Guild were up for it and sprinting out of the blocks went 7-0 up in the 3rd minute with some incisive running supported by sloppy tackling (by us). Covents, stung by the score, brought the game back into Guilds half with good drives from Danny Pearson and Tom Carter resulting in a couple of scrummages in Guilds 22. Nothing was going right though and everything we tried seemed disjointed and clumsy. This was music to Guilds ears and in the 19th minute, despite a solid tackle from Steve Vallis, they scored and converted again to make it 14-0 on 20 minutes. So with sound kicking, powerful running and bullying us round the fringes (No 8, No 20) it was going very well for the Bagington men.

Looking increasingly disorganised we conceded a penalty in front on 25 mins which Guild missed but after good work from Simon Needles in our 22 we were penalised again and this time it sailed over, 17-0. This was improved by a Midas touch Guild and they went into a 24-0 lead with their third try on 33 minutes. During this move, prop Steve Vallis sustained a nasty back injury from a sickening fall in which he also cracked his head on the iron hard ground. After a lengthy delay, he bravely / foolishly attempted to play on and collapsed in a heap again and was helped off the park while an ambulance was summoned. During the injury time, green shoots of recovery started to appear from amongst the boys in blue and a blockbusting tackle from Jon Field was followed by a similar big hit by Keiran Martin. This set the tone and just as I was directing said ambulance into the club, Rohan went over with Simon converting for a half-time score, 7-24.

I do not know what was said at half time but the 14 remaining men were galvanised by coach Huw Duggan and while Rich Walters, Giz, Lee and myself were drawing straws to see who got to help lift the beached whale with a bad back into the meat wagon, Rohan broke again and put Paul Brindley in for a score on 44 minutes which Chris Potter slotted for 14-24. More good work from Brinders 3 minutes later as our line was breached and collecting behind the posts he charged up field only to be heroically scragged by bigger men. Although never really a dirty game, both skippers were spoken to by the man in green (no, not Robin Hood) after a Guild high tackle. This was indicative of Guilds frustration at a resurgent Coventrians. Showing greater energy, fitness and resolve the 14 blue boys piled pressure on the away team and at times, their ranks now silenced, they looked out on their feet. Unfortunately as is always the case when a team is chasing a game, we left ourselves open once too often and Guild capitalized with a score on 67 minutes much to the relief of their players and supporters for 14-31.

Covents came again though and collecting in his own 22, ball in one palm, big rangy fullback Simon Needles counter attacked only to be bundled roughly into Rich Walters, sleeping on the touchline. So baby giraffe hitting thousand year oak at 90 mph; no wonder Simon needed treatment. On 75 mins, perhaps the most baffling decision of the match occurred when go-faster hooker Danny Pearson emerged from a ruck and sprinted in from 40 yards only for the ref to bring it back for OUR penalty . . . Answers on a postcard please. Still we came and with Guild looking to the whistler (to whistle) Alan Hawthorn put Jon Field in at the bowling green corner (and I do mean corner) in a real gnats cock of a try. Chris Potter, having burnt his daisy cutters and wearing a pair of Dead Shot Keen boots sent a beauty over for a final score of 21-31.

So bruised, battered and baked players limped from the concrete field to congratulate each other but it was Trinity Guild who belted out the theme to Rugby Special in the changing rooms (and overall, deserved to do so) and our boys who looked despondent.

There are lessons to be learned here, mainly of a defensive nature and one day, hopefully soon, we can click into our second half high gear with only a few points in it. For my money, the boys should be proud of the rugby they played in the last 45 to 50 minutes of the match yesterday and it is still very early doors. To quote Churchill (greatest ever Briton, not insurance dog) Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.

Touchline Quotes

Steve Vallis being rolled onto board; owww, ouch, ooooh, owwww, arghhhhhh

Guild supporters between 45th and 67th minute;

Leamington 3rds 36 - 13 Coventrians 2nds

Another brave performance saw the 2nds go down 36 - 13 in an enjoyable game with tries from Trevor Roberts (behind enemy lines again) Scrappy and a penalty from Ben Davies.

2009-09-17T17:40:00.011+01:00

Coventrians 2nds 38 - 14 Trinity Guild 2nds

Fun in the Sun as Vets Pave the Way

They say the sun shines on the righteous and so it shone, all day, at The Black Pad as Covents took on Trinity Guild in a friendly 2nd team fixture which became a festival of free flowing rugby that at times could have graced the Middlesex 7s.

With both teams fielding 7 or 8 subs Covents were assured of two Guinness World records by claiming the oldest and heaviest pack ever. With Deano, Terry Mosey, Haydon (with an O) and Steve Vallis some may say they could have sneaked a third record with the ugliest too but I would never print anything as odious as that. So to strains of Who do you think you are kidding Mr Hitler the game kicked off.

After 15 mins of rugby chess in sub tropical conditions, Deano the Snake Hipped Silver Fox put Dave Bailey in for the first try which Ben Davies duly slotted for 7-0. Four minutes later, Carl Bonsor, playing at second row, served up a morsel slightly less ordinary when shaping to kick (heavy fine at Kangaroo court methinks) saw a gap, turned on the gas and left the Guild defenders dazzled by his Philippe Sella like deftness. Ben Davies converted, 14-0.

Shaken from their disbelief, Guild rallied and after a period of pressure on Covents line, their Sherman tank smashed over from 1 inch to make the score 14-7. On 34 minutes, perhaps still blinded by his own brilliance, Carl Lescarboura Bonsor crashed back to reality when looking for a second try dropped the ball on the line prompting Chris Potter to suggest from the sideline that perhaps he might have passed (GREEDY BAR-STEWARD!). It mattered not a minute later though as Simon Needles showed Carl how by gliding effortlessly, ball in right palm through four tackles to dot down. The conversion hit the upright and it was 19-7.

On 37 minutes, Terry Mosey, having built up a head of steam, snuck his lithe, athletic body through a hole in the ruck and with 60 yards to go was once again (remember Earlsdon last year?) cruelly denied a wonderful retirement solo try by the man with the whistle.

Half time, 19-7 and the age/weight plummeted dramatically as 6 or 7 changes were made. In the first seconds, Chris Potter showed Carl Bonsor how to do drop the ball properly much to the merriment of fellow Bedworthian (although Trace Blaster me cock Bates reckons they’re only aborigines) Steve Vallis and some less than appropriate banter passed between them which cannot be printed here. After 47 minutes another delicious treat was served up by the Covents second row, cordon blue kitchen. This time D J Sexton went over after a mazy run which he swears was 150 yards and contained 3 sidesteps. Chris Potter produced a daisy cutter and the score was 24-7.

At this point I was distracted by various ex players, among them John Wilson, Chris McDonnell, Rolly and Blaster Bates and some liquid refreshment so missed Keiran Martins try (his agent will not be happy) but it was converted for 31-7. Trinity Guild, who never gave up and provided spirited opposition befitting their proud status as the Citys oldest junior club scored again to make it 31-14 but Covents had one more score up their sleeve after good work from Potter Jnr as Adam Page dotted and Simon Needles slotted for 38-14. There was just time for Rohan to go on one of his blistering A-Z runs before passing to Adam Page who was held up on the line. At this point the referee brought down the curtain on a most entertaining game and the lads trudged off for a well earned cold one (beer not shower).

It has to said that I missed some of the action apparently most notably Danny Pearsons superhero tackle for which he donned tights and cape before diving in to stop a Guild attacker. Also, hooker Tom beer visors 3 strikes against the head and attempted drop goal. So praise for the former and a fine for the latter then.

Qips & Quotes

Sean Stanton - in response to you wont drag him down by the shoulders (Haydon - prop) Has he got any shoulders?

Referee in response to lineout throw before he got there – Whose idea was it to start? After an investigation, 3 players received a head-teacher’s detention.

Steve Vallis – My heart wasnt in it today whilst warming down with gin & tonic and a big fat Cuban.

Danny – Let me talk you through my tackle (17 times)

So there we were, shmoozing outside the club we love (upon which the sun never sets) lapping up this Indian summer, enjoying the craic, reliving old times (talking crap) and crying with laughter. Remember though, the roving mic is never turned off - turns out that I caught a lot of lineout ball in my day, Trace Bates soiled himself in Germany, Woz looks forward to playing 80 minutes every week for the 1st team, Adam eats a lot of crisps, Danny loves monkey and D J has mustard gas flatulence.

Next week the phoney war ends, time to fix bayonets and charge over the top as we entertain Trinity Guild in the first league match of the new season and the 2nds play Leamington away – can you afford to miss something this good? Covents is the place, we are the people.

Race Night to support Neil Walters - Saturday 26th Sept after first 1st team league game of season - please buy a dog & support - woof, woof!

Saturday 12th September 2009

2009-09-11T18:31:00.011+01:00

Eeeeee by bloody gum! The aroma of freshly cut grass (on the pitch not in a rizzla) and Deep Heat eminates, the pipes have been cleaned (beer not crack) as we excitedly await the start of a new season with delicious anticipation . . . Yes friends, there are two games today at HQ (aka) The Black Pad, so put the cat out, hire a baby sitter, eat a hearty lunch of salty bacon and get down to the club you love for some high class entertainment;

The new coach gets to grips at half-time

Coventrians 2nds 43 - 7 Harbury 2nds Warks 3

Under a blue sky and glorious, warm sunshine, a strong looking second team with 7 or 8 first team players but a flanker at scrum-half (Sam), a fullback at fly-half (Rohan) and Wayne 6 brandies (40 year old second-row) in the centre kicked off 2009/10 in style with a 43-7 victory over a spirited Harbury 2nds.

New coach Huw Duggan seems to have already made an impression as the guys look fitter and stronger. Paul Brindley dotted down in the corner on 29 mins with fulback Simon Needles converting. On 37 minutes, the new slimline hooker Danny Pearson (awww bless you monkey) scored a birthday try after a good off load by Trevor Roberts with Simon converting again for 14-0 at half-time.

In the 49th minute Rohan scored from close in at the clubhouse end with Simon converting again for 21-0. Just after this, the game was illuminated by wanna be fly-half (more like pie-half) Steve Vallis's customary charge up field with 'Fred Flintstone' twinkle toed 10 pin bowling run up much to the crowd's amusement. After 56 mins, Trevor Roberts set Rohan up again and this time he beat 3 or 4 defenders to dot down an un-converted try, 26-0.

At this point I buggered off to direct an ambulance over to a player with a neck injury on the adjoining pitch so missed the last 25 minutes but Wayne six brandies Brandfour dotted over a Keiran Martin pushover and a try from Jon Field (1 converted by Simon) completed the scoring with one reply from the lads in red and white.

A few mentions; In this section I will, over the weeks, include actual pre, during or post match player quotes starting with,

D J Sexton and the try that never was - "I'm proper gutted yeah, I drove for the (expletive deleted) line with about 7 or 8 Harbury players hanging off me, grounded the ball but the ref says no try. We gotta have a (expletive deleted) TMO and more bog roll in the toilets."

Keiran Martin - "Well clearly I'm slimmer, fitter and better looking than last year and today I thought I had an excellent game, rucking, driving and then scoring that magnificent pushover try. I do try and keep modest though. By the way, did my agent give clearance for this interview?"

Danny Pearson - "Love you Monkey x x x"

Springy - getting a gentle rub on his calf (which he pulled playing real tennis at his club) "Oooh, ahhhh, ouch, ooooh that's really painful!"

A special mention to Ryan Gilbert here for his first half thundering wildebeest charges up field. We'd all like him to get lower but unfortunately gravity might take over.

Coventrians Vets 5 - 12 Rugby St Andrews 3rds (game abandoned after 50 mins)

This was an amazing game, a throwback to 1970s grass roots rugby. (in fact the only thing missing was a toilet door to carry off injured players) As the bottom pitch was deemed unfit to play on (something to do with no markings, dog shit and world war 2 anti tank spikes) the lads set up on the football pitch between the Harbury game and a football match. They were going to use jumpers for goalposts but instead used the soccer goals. A pig's bladder was found for a ball and wooden studs provided. Hughie Neale passed to William Webb Ellis and the game was underway. Covents' try was scored by Alan Bedford but the game had to be abandoned due to a neck injury to Covents' Matt Steele. An ambulance was called and Matt trussed up in brace and board before being carted off to Walsgrave - we're happy to report that it was only bruising and he returned home for 6 pints and a Madras at 9pm.

A big THANK YOU to the Rugby St Andrews guys who stayed with Matt and for their help and support. I will try and contact their club to pass this on.

2009-09-06T11:38:00.002+01:00

Pre Season Friendly Saturday Sept 5th 2009

Coventrians 5 - 12 Pinley

Jon Field scored Covents' try and 9 subs were used during a good work out.

2009-08-18T14:37:00.007+01:00

Pre Season Ground Work Going Well

Lee Pegler puts the finishing touches to the pitch as Martin Trenholm and his crew take a break from bonfire collecting to do a bit of train spotting (bottom right) - Click on photo to enlarge

2009-08-14T00:05:00.002+01:00

I know it's slightly late but I only just picked this message up from Harbury's Jerry Birkbeck after the last game of the season 26th April 2009.

Mick

Good match report and assessment of the game which was fun to watch. We could do with some of your front row forwards! We wish you all the best for the future and would add that of all the Coventry sides we have played over the years Covents are the one team that aim to play good and fair rugby. I do hope that you manage to stay in M5W(S).

I was interested in your pre-match stats gosh I had forgotten those results!

Sincerely

Jerry Birkbeck
Harbury RFC

2009-07-21T14:05:00.002+01:00

For Sale

Superbly appointed retro bathroom suite built within fully fitted original Anderson Shelter. Experience the twin-tub feel, relax the aches away in luxurious Fairy Liquid suds. Blessed by the Pope and featuring built in 'floater.' Soft, shagged pile mildewed carpets will massage your feet softly, mmmmm feeeel the comfort as you trip delightfully towards the bubbling natural spring waters . . .

No knob turners or tyre kickers please.

2009-07-09T12:26:00.002+01:00

Results from AGM

President - Steve Springate

Hon Sec - Jane Connolly

Treasurer - Trevor Lyon (until replacement can be found)

1st XV Captain - Adam Costelloe

1st XV Vice-Captain - Keiran Martin

2nd XV Captain - Dave Bailey

Training starts Saturday 11th July at 2pm and Tuesday 14th July 7pm Sharp!

2009-05-16T12:20:00.001+01:00

Ranj Sinclair sent me these bonza photies all the way from Perth - click here and enjoy

2009-05-16T10:51:00.004+01:00

Coventrians RFC Club Dinner

Friday 26th June 7pm - tickets from behind the bar at 15 pounds per head - choice of chicken or beef - mixed evening.

AGM - Thursday 2nd July at 7pm

2009-04-26T20:40:00.001+01:00

Coventrians 2nds 3 - 63 Earlsdon 3rds

Covents took the lead through a Ben Davies penalty and everything was rosy but they couldn't quite hang on for the last 78 minutes against a strong Earlsdon outfit

2009-04-26T18:34:00.006+01:00

Harbury 26 - 0 Coventrians

Covents Second Best but Keep Respect Intact

On another sunny and breezy Saturday, Covents duly arrived at Harbury’s top of the league party with 8 regulars absent and cast in the role of sacrificial lambs. I arrived 5 minutes after kick-off as Springy drove over via The Panama Canal and encouraged by a large home crowd and 20 plus Covents supporters, both sides had started at a frenetic pace.

This game was almost a carbon copy of Keresley last week as poor positional kicking put Harbury’s slick, pacy backs in for three tries by the 31st minute as again our play seemed fragmented and individual rather than as a team. Feeling a little complacent, a Harbury flanker was overheard to say, “We’ve got ‘em now boys” and perhaps thinking our neck was to be wrung like a chicken. To quote Churchill, “Some Chicken, Some Neck!”

Half – Time 0 - 19

A different Covents took the field in the second half. A Covents that we all recognize and love. A spirited, passionate Covents, firing on all cylinders. Within 5 minutes the pack, driven forward by veteran No 8 Trevor Roberts and featuring an aggressive Giz at second row, were participating in their now weekly ritual of camping in the opposition 22. They were rumbling now, first-half cobwebs blown away, picking and driving, mauling and rucking, whipped into a frenzy by the belligerent Brum-Half (playing in flanker mode) the blue and white eight pounded at Harbury’s door time and time again. Powerful drives by Danny Pearson and Trevor Roberts, crash balls from Steve Vallis, surging runs from DJ or Carter were all soaked up by a solid Harbury defence but after every such exchange a red and white would lie injured such was the ferocity of the blue pack attack.

Similarly, the backs were doing their job when called upon; marshalled by Dougie at fly-half, winger Alan Bedford raiding out wide and Paul Brindley nearly in at the opposite corner before being bundled into touch. At the resulting lineout, Joe Swaffield once again cleaned out - he was a towering presence all day. At one point Trevor Roberts picked from the base, three yards out and taking several Harbury forwards with him, got over and down to score but was smothered and held up by good tackling. With 20 mins to go, Covents secret weapon, The Silver Fox (Deano) entered the fray and notched up the heat in Harbury’s kitchen by a few more degrees with his committed, aggressive play. Fair play to Harbury though, they withstood the heat and didn't leave the kitchen.

That said, Covents were in their half for almost 35 minutes with Harbury only kicking out three times only to return to desperate defence. When, in the last 10 they did counter, a series of big hits from full-back Simon kept our defensive line intact and as we entered the 5th minute of injury time, just as it looked like we’d draw the second-half 0-0 Harbury luckily scored a try from a rebound that they didn’t really deserve and the referee blew for time as the successful conversion was landed for 0 – 26.

So, congratulations to Harbury who will finish top if Redditch fails to win on Tuesday. League tables don’t lie, if you’re top you’re the best but once again, the blue boys put in a mighty day at the office. A second-half of blood, sweat, guts and determination made sure that once again, respect was due and left us supporters proud but wondering what if we’d played like that in the first-half. Not so good for the three quarters who would probably have needed to bring something to read but horses for courses as they say.

Don’t like to single anyone out but one or two mentions here; Wozza who shook everyone’s hand at the end saying that he’s retiring to play only second team rugby next season. (Yeah right) You're a long time retired big man, surely there's one more season of terrorizing opposition props left in you? Giz and Trev the two veterans who looked like they’d never been away, Simon for a standout performance at full-back, Swaff in the lineout and Cozzy for joining the backs in the second-half. Not to mention centre Lenny who with that ponytail, looked like a young John Kenny.

Highlights of the match – Deadeye Doug’s torpedo that found touch and then Springy’s car and Steve Vallis’s hand off that missed causing him to fall over. Finally Danny Pearson, throwing in from a lineout to number one jumper Vallis 3 yards out so hard that he knocked him over.

Boys I can’t tell you how much I’ve enjoyed watching this season, I can hardly wait for September to roll round - Coventrians RFC – you know it makes sense!

2009-04-23T11:20:00.001+01:00

New album in gallery - if you can identify players or teams feel free. Thanks to Sean for the photos - to view click here

2009-04-23T09:43:00.003+01:00

Saturday 25th April 2009

Coventrians 2nds 3 - 63 Earlsdon 3rds (Warks 3) 3:00

Harbury 26 - 0 Coventrians (Mids 5 West South) 3:00

This is our final league match of the season - our all time record v Harbury in league rugby is P17 W3 D1 L13 two of those wins have been achieved at Harbury - 22nd April 1989 when Covents, with an outside chance of promotion went all out attack, winning 46-21 with a hat-trick from Chris McDonnell, a brace from Jim Bradford, Hunty, Rich Kenny and Cottage Pye among the other scorers. On the 11th Feb 1995 we won there 15-3 with tries from Andy Cooke and Nick Castle, Dave Davidson adding the extras - On the 24th March 2001 we crashed 0 - 98!

All the best to both the first and second team - let's go out in style boys.

2009-04-17T09:39:00.007+01:00

Saturday 18th April 2009

Coventrians 2nds 14 - 16 Bedworth 3rds (Warks 3)

If someone can tell me on the guestbook who scored I'll put it on but this still looks a great result against Beduth 3rds. Well done to the lads.

Keresley 20 - 0 Coventrians (Mids 5 West South)

Covents went down 0 – 20 at Keresley today in a classic game of two halves. In pleasant spring sunshine in front of a large home crowd (K’s VP’s day) we kicked off with Danny, Keiran, Joe, Carl and Kev all missing but still a strong-ish looking side. After a fairly even first 15 minutes with both teams feeling each other out (is this legal?) and Wayne Brandfour (2nd row) and Cozzy on the flank distinguishing themselves it was Keresley though who made the breakthrough in the 16th minute after a poor kick allowed them to run in and score an unconverted try for 0 – 5.

In the 23rd minute an outbreak of tennis broke out as both sides kicked to each other and the crowd exercised their necks but Keresley got fed up and receiving a kick that missed touch decided to run it in, again unconverted for 0-10. In the 30th minute, Ks were pressuring again but strong Covents’ defence kept them out. In the 36th minute however, a good tackle from Rohan wasn’t enough and the K-men scored again to make the half-time score 0 – 15.

In the 44th minute, Keresley found themselves with an overlap and their prop went over in the corner for 0 – 20. So with Covents looking a bit lack-lustre and dispirited some of us feared the worst but it signalled the best period of the match for the blue & whites as they rolled their sleeves up and took the game to the home side.

In the 50th minute Phil Jones (on for Dougie) almost scored in the corner when he only just failed to gather his own clever little chip. From a scrum, Covents made progress into K’s half through scrum-half Nick Coates and a ‘weighty’ drive by Steve Vallis. K’s were feeling the pressure now as a break from their base was halted by a trademark Wayne ‘hit.’ Attacking again from an accurate lineout throw to Dave Bailey from stand-in hooker D J, Covents looked dangerous with two waves of attacking play from Nick Coates as he beat three defenders before being stopped.

This led to a Covent’s penalty on K’s line but the opposition turned over and cleared to touch. From the lineout a K’s forward was penalized for being so far offside he was working undercover. This was now ‘camping’ territory as Covent’s set up home in Keresley’s 22, coming again and again through Nick & Dazzler and at one point putting Chris Simons in who beating 2 men was again stopped by solid K’s defence.

The game’s pattern was set now; Covents attacking, Keresley defending and suddenly with a ball from Cozzy, D J was sniffing the line, surged forward, but was held by 2 or 3 defending forwards stopping him inches short. This resulted in a lengthy injury delay and when play restarted Covent’s had a small village built on Keresley’s line and attacked from it with Wayne B this time in to score before knocking on at the vital moment.

Forget lack-lustre and dispirited, the blue & white boys were now full of attacking determination and a score was sure to come. The 58th minute saw us turn ball over and winger John Field, all 11 stone of him picked up and driving bravely into Keresley’s pack shouted “On me!” Unfortunately for John, he was slightly too quick and the ‘boys’ slightly too deaf as they decided to stand back and admire his courage. This led to another lengthy break as John limped from the field aching from every bone and the silver fox, Deano took the field like a gladiator to the fray with Wayne moving to the left wing. The next five minutes saw much of the same with Covents still camped in K’s 22 attacking and them defending. Another long injury break saw our full-back receiving treatment for a knock on the head. The physio shouted, ‘he doesn’t know who he is’ to which we shouted back, ‘tell him he’s Serge Blanco!’

In the 65th minute both Rohan and Phil Jones, (catching a poor touch kick) went close but were stopped short. A minute later, Cozzy, Deano, Dave Bailey and D J all had a go at driving forward against Keresley’s brick wall. In the 69th minute, Keresley actually made it into Covent’s half for the first time in about 20 minutes and two minutes later with Chris Simons intercepting he put Cozzy in and with the field suddenly opening up Cozzy tucked the ball under his arm and ran as fast as his little legs would carry him finally passing to Rohan who moving for the corner beat three or four defenders but was once again stopped short by desperate defence.

As this move broke down, the referee curiously blew his whistle for full time with what I made 8 or 9 minutes left to play – not that anyone complained. Strange that, we kicked off at 3pm and the game ended at 4:21. That’s 81 minutes with several long injuries and half-time in between. Answers on a postcard please.

So there we were, well beaten but able to hold our heads up high with a second-half performance full of guts and spirit. On another day we might have dotted down twice and then who knows? Fair play to Keresley, they scored the points and then soaked up all our pressure as we huffed, puffed and hurled several kitchen sinks at them. Well done to the boys and special mention to Cozzy who stood in as skipper today and put in a great performance.