May 1973

RUGBY SEASON 1972/73 FIRST XV Five wins in nine school matches was a creditable record, but with more consistent play, it could have been better. The rucking was weak against Leeds, and the defence and tight scrummaging were disgraceful against Denstone. By contrast, after Denstone, the scrummaging improved to become our main strength, on which we built the victory over Worksop, who had just beaten Denstone. Pallant had learned to take the game to his opponents, and his shrewd captaincy helped to defeat a talented Pocklington side, by twice tempting them offside for penalties.

The tight forwards were strong—hooker Kirby; props Winstanley and Pallant; and the locks Brown and Eddell, who also won good line-out ball.

In the back row, Perks was always to the fore in the nicks, Kerruish was prominent in attack and Bruce at No. 8 made some fine tackles.

Frequent injury made Elwen inconsistent at scrum-half, but he scored devastating tries against Giggleswick and Worksop. Coverdale at fly-half was Pallant's tactical adjutant and capable of turning a game, as with his try in the last minutes against Durham.

The centres and wings all had good matches. One recalls Cresswell's great tries at Ashville, Warren's tackling against Giggleswick, and the all-round effort of Baggs and Schmidt, particularly against Ampleforth and Worksop. Schmidt's position was an enigma—wing or centre, or ebullient at scrum-half when Elwen was off the field.

Not least of our assets was Scott, who developed into a good, and potentially a class full-back—it all augurs well for next season.

Unfortunately we were unable to show our best form to a powerful O.P. side: Elwen missed most of the match. We had managed with seven forwards, and even six for a time, against Durham; but could not do so against men. Consequently, runners like David Emsley had more ball and space than they knew what to do with.

Kerruish and Winstanley each had a good trial for Yorkshire Schools.

Elwen had a final trial for Durham Schools, then suffered the coup-degrace to his troublesome shoulder. (Let's hope it mends by next season.)

Pallant got through to the final trial for Surrey Schools and was selected as reserve.

OTHER TEAMS The 2nd XV suffered from changes and lack of balance—it was di cult to find a midfield combination for both defence and attack. At its best the team was determined, and may perhaps be proudest of close defeats by powerful opponents—Bradford, Leeds and Scarborough 1st XV. The second-half effort against Scarborough was outstanding.

The 3rd XV had the successful and enjoyable season that has become traditional under Mr. Hirst. Their points tally was a record: For 162, against 43.

The Under 16 Colts have been criticised as a dull side. However, they had an excellent record with only one defeat—their tenacity has been underestimated.

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