YORK VISION THE IN-DEPTH 16-PAGE ROSES SUPPLEMENT
LANCASTER 156.5-131.5 YORK
FOOTBALLERS SEAL LANCS VICTORY
2 VISION PRESENTS... 3
The Story of
Roses 2012 4
History of Roses
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Friday - As it hap-
pened 6/7 Saturday - As it happened 8/9 Roses: In pictures 10/11 Sunday - As it happened 12 Greatest Games 13 Our Roses Heroes 14 Comment 15 Roses by Numbers - All the stats to know Vision's Roses coverage was produced by: Helena Kaznowska
Oliver Todd
Alex Finnis
Fred Nathan
Jack Bradshaw
Sally Dolton
Dave Washington
Charlotte Ferris
Ben Huckle
Ben Bason
Oscar Pearson
Rebecca Gill
TK Rohit
Amy Ballard
Nina Pullman
Rachael Venables
Will Barnes
Kirushanthan Sivagnanam
Dan Cornwell
Magnus Tripp
BY FREDDIE NATHAN YORK MIGHT not have made it two Roses wins in succession, but the away team ensured it was not a complete redwash, producing a closely fought contest, perfect to break in the fantastic new sports facilities Lancaster has to offer. The pitches, which greet you immediately upon entering the campus at the bottom of the hill, have been added to by the multi-million pound complex in the past two years. However, it was the action away from the main Lancaster campus which started off 2012's competition. Indeed, York fell behind in the equestrian on the Wednesday before winning the first of two cricket matches of the weekend. Morecambe, the nearby seaside town which hosted the cricket, was to be the venue for the turning point of the competition. The men's 1sts set Lancaster a very do-able task of 111 to win. At one point though, the home side were 8-5 before their middle order defied all the odds and snatched victory from the jaws of defeat. It seemed to somehow spur on the Lancaster athletes back on campus, who had a
terrific Friday afternoon, especially in the squash, the pool and the women's rugby sevens. Meanwhile, the organisers of the specially designed Roses torch, which had been run around York's campus on Thursday, did not quite realise how long it would take to cycle across the Pennines the following day. Hence it turned up at Barker House Farm, once an 18th century farmhouse, which has now been incorporated into the scenery as Cartmel College bar, at about 9PM on the first day. Friday's fantastic darts match was held here and turned out to be one of the highlights of the tournament. The atmosphere was incredibly hostile, at times too antagonistic as the Lancaster fans hurled quite personal abuse at certain players. This made it was all the more sweet when Kris Hilliam successfully shot the double eight that sealed victory for the men, the heavily outnumbered York support going absolutely wild. A pint of beer was thrown over the expensive equipment when York won, and the organisers wisely decided to call off the remaining match, which was academic anyway, to avoid the possibility of any-
thing more serious. The campus, in terms of amenities, is absolutely superb. To accommodate for the fact it is completely isolated from the city of Lancaster and any nearby shops, Alexandra Square at the heart of campus contained banks, takeaways, an electrical shop, a restaurant, a chip shop, a SPAR, a Greggs, a book shop and other facilities. However, the accommodation Lancaster provided for York's athletes was far from ideal. Lecture theatres with a rock hard floor (save for the thinnest layer of carpet) and no shower facilities was the order of the weekend, even if this particular lecture complex had a peculiar Chinese restaurant inside. York went into the second day of competition 15 points behind their red rose rivals. The sun was shining and it was a very warm day, perfect for the large amount of outdoor sports, most notably the rugby and the hockey. Meanwhile, in the car park of the sports centre, Lancaster assembled a pancake stall and an ice cream van, to go with a burger bar and a voucher for a free burger, free water and free massage for the athletes.
THE STORY OF ROSES The crowds were out in force to enjoy the weather, the opening ceremony which was rather late in the day, and the rugby matches, always the showpiece of Roses. While not in a stadium like last year's spectacle, the men's 1sts still triumphed 22-6, while the 2nds and 3rds also won. Despite the women losing, the rugby club provided arguably the most complete performance of the competition. In a historic moment on Saturday, men's hockey 3rds, trampolining and American football, all who had never won at Roses before, all emerged triumphant, providing a rare high point on a day when Lancaster never strode clear, but nevertheless maintained a healthy margin between themselves and York. The events finished with Lancaster 26 points ahead, and Saturday night was the night when most sports people descended on Lancaster for the customary night out. Most sports teams were drinking from the afternoon onwards, and so Sugar House, the Lancaster Student's Union (LUSU) run club, was heaving that evening. A bit like Ziggy's, substituting an old mansion for a warehouse, students from both universities were there, or in the town centre of the old city.
Disaster struck on the night out as York women's lacrosse team's goalkeeper and future York Sport President Charlotte Winter fractured her foot in the club, putting her in a cast and on crutches, meaning York had to put an outfielder in goal come Sunday morning. Sunday came and Lancaster hoped to put the competition out of sight, needing 14 points to reclaim the Carter James trophy. York put up a spirited fight though, especially in the lacrosse, where the men and women both triumphed, despite the customary streaker in the men's match (a member of the Lancaster football team). Lancaster wrapped up the tournament at the men's football, prompting wild celebrations. Yet the traditional croquet match was won by Tim Ellis and Jane Grenville (playing in Brian Cantor's absence), which counted for nothing but pride. 25 points was the final margin of victory, and the closing ceremony involved dancing, trophy-giving and a popular quote from LUSU vice-president for activities Marc Handley. In last year's speech, the York Chancellor Greg Dyke said, on collecting the trophy "roses are red, but not this weekend."
Handley repeated this, before stating "but not this year" to cheers from the crowds of home supporters. York Sport President Sam Asfahani commented on the weekend's activities: "I was proud of York's performance at Roses. Rarely does an away team get as close as we did, it was a real testament to our
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teams, and how much we have improved as a sporting university. "Certain clubs such as lacrosse, men's rugby and badminton were exceptional with whitewashes, while trampoling, men's hockey 3rds and American football all won for the first time at Roses." A loss, yes, but a fight put up? Of course.
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HISTORY: ROSES AWAY
York have had some painful experiences in away Roses tournaments, hosted by Lancaster, and this year was no different. It was not until 1978 that York won away from home, and heavy defeats in 1988, 1990 and 1996 were difficult to take. However, in the 21st century York have been impressive. Dramatic late victories in 2002 and 2008 will live long in the memory and have been the closest ever tournaments to date. 1966: The first tournament held in Lancaster in which the hosts win. Unfortunately, many York players suffer from travel sickness. Lancaster’s supporters are described as "gorillas" by the press.
1978: York win in Lancaster for the first time ever, victorious in the boat race. Tournament being taken much more seriously by the players. Also wins for netball, athletics and tennis. 1990: York beaten 170-68. Lancs AU President Simon Collins boasted: "We thumped them". The referee at the Football 2nds match sent off future York AU President Duncan McGraw for dissent.
1996: York annihilated 170.5-60.5, our worst away defeat in history. 15 York teams did not turn up for their matches. York Student Union unwisely hosted an anti-fascist rally at the same time. 2002: York win 120.5-119.5, the closest ever victory. Women's football team won 2-1 in final match. AU President, Martin Styles, said “I’m going to sleep with the trophy tonight!” Over 50 events, 30 different sports and 2,000 spectators. 2008: York edge Lancaster by just two points, 124-122. A last minute equaliser by Richard De Boltz in the men’s hockey match secured overall Roses victory for York. Could have been easier though as York led 111-85 at lunchtime.
1968: York perform much better, winning every event on Sunday but agonisingly losing by just two points. Squash features for the first time. 1970: Lancaster win 38-12. Better organisation and hospitality. Rugby played for the first time.
1986: Entertainment on Saturday more popular than ever before. However, York are beaten 114.567.5 after collapsing on Saturday. Nouse headline: "Yorksport - dead and buried?" 1992: York win away for the first time in 14 years. Rowing teams pick up Full Colours afterwards for their outstanding successes.
2000: Lancaster kick off new millennium with a 151.5-77.5 defeat of York. Rugby match preceded by a parachute jump for Major Mike Jeng to present the match ball. 2006: Lancaster win tight affair 134-115. York took just 1 point from all football and rugby matches. Several Lancaster rugby players accused of sexist abuse towards female steward.
2010: York beaten 157.5-105.5, rowing was cancelled as York were involved in BUCS Head race. York Sport President Emily Scott played in four different sports.
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FRIDAY - AS IT HAPPENED CRICKET: LANCS EDGE TO VICTORY IN TENSE ENCOUNTER
LANCS SQUASHED BY WILL BARNES YORK MEN'S 1sts Squash defeated Lancaster 4-1 after two monumental efforts from Myles Knight and David Potter, and masterclasses from Matt Lewis and Ed Shannon. First on court was Sam Westmoreland. He battled hard, at times placing the ball sublimely, but his opponent came through 11-9 in the first game and 11-8 in the second. In the third set, Westmoreland was down 6-10 and battled hard to win three points in a row. But the deficit was to prove insurmountable, Costa coming through 11-9 to win the match. Next up was Myles 'dark' Knight. After losing the opening game Knight then got into his stride, triumphing 14-12 game courtesy of some brilliant placement to make it 1-1. His placement was better in the third game and he prevailed 11-8. However, his opponent then brought it back to level pegging after winning a mammoth of a rally. Yet, in the final game, after letting a few points slip, Knight showed nerves of steel to secure an 11-8 victory. Then it was the turn of Captain David Potter. After winning the opening game 11-5 his opponent hit back in the second game to make it 1-1. The third game was a tighter affair However, Potter came through 13-12, playing an unreachable shot to take a 2-1 lead. His opponent then hit back again with some quality squash to make it 2-2. In the deciding game, Potter was suddenly 9-5 down but then took six points on the bounce to take the match. Incredible! Next on court was Matt Lewis. He dominated his opponent winning his match 3-0 , making the sport look effortless. Last up was Ed Shannon. He was quite simply amazing, only dropping five points in the entire match to take a 3-0 victory and to seal victory for York. Post match, an exhausted Potter succinctly commented “everyone played brilliantly. Now, it's time to go to the pub."
BY DAVE WASHINGTON
YORK'S INDOOR MEN'S HOCKEY 1STS DOMINATE BY HELENA KAZNOWSKA THE MEN'S 1st team's performance was stronger than ever before as Oliver Wheatley captained this dynamic team to an outstanding 8-2 victory. York's team found their feet quickly, and during the opening minutes of the match James Branton smashed the ball against the backboard, allowing York to take an early lead. Yet this was short-lived, and seconds later, Lancaster equalised. Tensions rose when York's wonder-keeper Sam Harriman was penalised for a foul on a Lancaster attacker; the York supporters were equally outraged, but this was not enough to stop the flick from sailing into the net. The score was 2-1: Lancaster had taken the lead. However, losing was never an option for Wheatly's team; Leo Watton slipped the ball through a gaggle of defenders from an impossibly angled shot to cross over the line. The lead was immediately extended by Hugo Christie, who slotted the ball to the keeper's right at lightening speed, bringing the score to 3-2 in York's favour. After an impressive display of dribbling around countless defenders, Kris Siva scored, then York achieved a fifth goal in a short corner. The whistle blew for half time with the visitors leading, five goals to two. York started off the second half with a series of nailbitingly close attempts at goal, but to little effect. With 10 minutes played and an ever-static scoreline, Lancaster attacked once again but Branton's deflection stopped Lancaster's tally from rising. York launched an explosive counter-attack. A sixth was scored, then Watton got the seventh before Hugo slipped the ball to Torrington. At 8-2, victory was inevitable, regardless of the bully or Lancaster's final attempts at goal in the closing stages.
ULTIMATELY DISAPPOINTING BY RACHAEL VENABLES YORK ULTIMATE suffered a series of defeats this weekend at Roses, losing three out of their four fixtures, with the fourth being women’s indoors which was unfortunately worth no points this year. The team, captained by Jamie Smith, played 3 indoor games on the Friday; open, women’s and mixed, in that order, followed by an open outdoor game oN the Saturday afternoon, which saw live commentary broadcasted on Bailrigg FM and URY. Unsurprisingly, the York women, who came 3rd at both indoor and outdoor nationals this year, won a comfortable victory, defeating Lancaster 9-4. However the York mixed-gender and open teams proved to be not so successful. While all three games
started with the potential of a York victory, with both sides trading for points, Lancaster’s older and larger team were consistently able to pull away from the York team’s efforts, ensuring wins of 10-3 (open indoor), 6-2 (mixed) and 15-3 (open outdoor). The outdoor match was worth the most points, and while York displayed flexibility in their offensive tactics, their strategy of man-defence demonstrated the superior fitness and height of the Lancaster side. Meanwhile Lancaster saw a brilliant game of patient continuation and very strong defence against some of York Ultimate’s less confident play. Of course York’s decision to field a 1st team of entirely first and second year players shows promise for next year, as Lancaster see a big group of their stronger players graduate this year. Let’s hope that the home advantage will see York Ultimate win at Roses 2013!
LANCASTER SCRAPED victory in the Men’s 1st XI Cricket, triumphing over the White Rose by one wicket, in a tense, dramatic and exciting finish. Light drizzle fell throughout the morning, delaying play until 1PM. Lancaster won the toss, and skipper Carl Purvis, put York in to bat. York started brightly through Sam Illingworth and Fraser Crawford. York had progressed to nineteen without loss when disaster struck, as Crawford was given out LBW for nine, and new batsmen Joel Hughes’ stumps were skittled next ball by Ali, leaving York 19-2. Tom Brandreth joined Illingworth at the crease, but Illingworth was brilliantly caught at slip for nineteen, with the score on 43. Brandreth continued nicely, stroking a series of scintillating boundaries. Andy Kirkwood was then unfortunately run out for four, leaving York 70-4. Brandreth continued his fluent batting by hitting leg spinner Purvis for six, but Dickenson was then bowled. At 84-5 the game was in the balance, but as Wells struck twice to hand Lancaster the advantage, removing Brandreth for 47, and Williams first ball. Gillespie survived the hatrick, but soon departed for one, leaving York in a hole. Padiachy and Maini set about restoring the damage, moving the score onto 104 after 31 overs. Padiachy though fell in the 33rd over, bowled by Ali for 13. Despite some positive shots from Maini, York’s innings was soon over. Ali completed his five wicket haul by demolishing Bradshaw’s stumps, leaving Maini unbeaten on nine, and York all out for 110. Lancaster started disastrously, as Hughes struck twice in the first over, aided by two LBW decisions from a finger happy umpire. Things soon got even better for York, as Gillespie sent two batsmen back to the pavilion, leaving Lancaster in disarray at 4-4. Barnes was the fifth to depart for two, bowled by Hughes, Lancaster were 8-5. Ali and Lester then attempted to counter attack, taking the game to York, before Hughes claimed his fourth victim, bowling Ali for 10, with Lancaster struggling at 21-6. Wells, who had early picked up four wickets, joined Lester and they assembled a promising partnership. Spinner, Maini and Bradshaw were brought into the attack, but the Lancaster duo took a liking to the bowling, moving the score onto 77-6 with relative ease. Bradshaw especially suffered, being hit for four boundaries in a single over. Hughes returned, and had Lester dropped at slip by Kirkwood. Lester departed soon after for 23, skying one to mid on, completing Hughes’ five wicket haul. Purvis joined Wells, but was bowled by Hughes for one, leaving Lancaster 85-8. Hughes finished with figures of 6-23. Lancaster edged towards their total moving onto 98, when controversy struck. Wells was run out, despite the keeper seemingly dropping the ball as he dislodged the bails. Lancaster were furious, calling the incident “an utter disgrace”, and with one wicket remaining and 12 needed, York had victory in their sights. Stratin though had different ideas, striking Maini for four and then six. Two were needed, and a wide levelled the scores, before the nerveless Stratin squeezed a single, signalling Lancaster victory and a mass pitch invasion. Kirkwood was understandably gutted and asserted, “The batting let us down, but we can take heart from the bowling and fielding performance, we just couldn’t quite cross the finishing line.”
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SATURDAY - AS CENTURIONS GRAB LANDMARK VICTORY
BY ALEX FINNIS
THE YORK Centurions provided what was arguably the best story of the Roses weekend as they secured a dramatic late victory over the Lancaster Bombers with a touchdown in the dying minutes. The Bombers came into the game as one of just two Lancaster teams undefeated in the history of the tournament, having won 22-6 and 18-6 in 2010 and 2011 respectively, and so started the game on their home turf as favourites. Having defeated Lancaster earlier in the regular BUAFL season however, York knew that this game was their best opportunity to date to seal their first ever Roses victory, and Tight End James Durham’s late touchdown, followed by a two-point conversion from Quarterback Rob Wickham, brought them this victory in the most sensational manner. The game was delayed by almost three quarters of an hour as the sides waited for the ambulance to turn up pitch-side and whilst the Bombers did little more than stand and wait on its arrival, York Centurions kept their heads in the game by running drills as a unit. When the game did eventually get underway it started poorly for the men in red and black too, as their kicker kicked beyond the end zone, forcing a touchback. The Centurions then gained a good 20 yards with their opening play of the game; Halfback Sam Park breaking into Lancaster territory. The Centurions’ offence could not capitalise on this excellent start however, as they failed to make the required 10 yards with their next set of downs and the possession switched to their opponents. The Bombers’ blockers worked effectively early on, allowing their Running Backs to exploit the holes in the York defence. They got themselves into an excellent position, with a full set of downs just 15 yards from the York end zone, but the Centurions’ defence stepped up when it mattered most and thwarted the
red rose’s touchdown attempts. Some superb work from Mikey Porter forced a fumble before an errant pass from the Bombers’ Quarterback just evaded their Wide Receiver when he was free to score, meaning York regained the possession. Just as Lancaster’s had done earlier, York’s blockers gave their Running Backs opportunities to make yardage and another stunning carry from Sam Park took them 20 yards from the end zone. The York Halfback carried from inside his own half deep into Bombers territory and gave the Centurions a chance to take the lead before the end of the first quarter. Once again though they were thwarted by the Lancaster defence and Quarterback Rob Wickham fell victim to the first sack of the game on the third down which ended the opening period with the scoreboard still unchanged. York started the second quarter strongly just how they ended the first. Porter forced another fumble before Lancaster’s Quarterback scuffed his clearing kick on the final down, gifting York another touchdown opportunity. The Centurions offence were playing very narrow, preferring to rush with their Running Backs rather than passing wide to the receivers. Walter and Park were struggling to make yards before Rob Wickham decided to run himself on the third down and got his side to within one yard of the end zone. The touchdown now looked inevitable and it was Nick Walter who got the score, powering over the end zone to make it 6-0. The Fullback kicked the point-after touchdown himself to give the Centurions a 7-0 lead. The Bombers came back strongly however and it wasn’t long before they had a touchdown of their own. Their Wide Receiver got free and was picked out perfectly by the Quarterback in the end zone. The successful point-after touchdown meant the scores were level again at 7-7.
The Bombers kicked off again to York and having received the kick, Seb Booth produced what was arguably the carry of the game, gaining his side around forty yards, to put the Centurions back into a commanding position. Lancaster’s defence one again kept them at bay however, and Nick Walter’s field goal attempt on the fourth down was charged down. The defences remained on top for what remained of the quarter, leaving the game tantalisingly poised at 7-7 at the halfway stage. The Centurions continued the trend of starting each quarter strongly as a big hit from Booth kept the Bombers deep in their own half from the kick-off. However, when the Bombers made the switch to wildcat formation, they came back at York and it paid off when they scored through a pass and added the point-after touchdown to make it 14-7, inducing a roar from their sizeable support that resounded around the outside pitches. However the Centurions were not to be beaten, and in the dying minutes of the final quarter Rob Wickham’s pass picked out James Durham whose touchdown took York to within one point of levelling the scores.
BY WILL BARNES
York were then left with the choice of either going for the kick to make it 14-14 or attempt to run in a two-point conversion for the win. Quarterback Wickham risked everything in search of victory and was paid back for his bravery as he crossed the line into the end zone himself to make it 15-14, becoming a Centurions hero in the process. Lancaster strove to regain their lead but a Seb Booth interception allowed York to close out the remaining seconds to record a memorable victory that will go down in Roses history. York Sport President Sam Asfahani, playing his last ever game for the club which he set up as a competitive side, said on the win; “I couldn't be happier with the result. The boys put everything on the line, and the effort paid off. Sam Parke and Ali Ford were superb running the ball, especially considering they are both first years. Meanwhile Rob Wickham has grown into a great Quarterback and two more freshers in Mike Hawkes and Fred Isaac put in great defensive shifts. “The result is what we have been working for all season. The performances, especially from the rookies, are a great sign for next season.”
SWIMMING SUCCESS
YORK WOMEN'S swimming team fly to a 50-36 victory whilst the men tie 50-50 in a nail-biting encounter. York women’s swimming team stormed to a 50-36 victory, with particularly strong swims from Alice Carey and Louise Highton. York made a flying start, scoring a number of points in the opening relay before Alice Carey and Vanessa Donhowe-Mason came first in butterfly and backstroke races. Victories for Alice Carey and Captain Kim Briscoe in the 100 metres backstroke and butterfly respectively gave York a commanding lead at the halfwaystage. Louise Highton then broke two club records in the freestyle events. Post gala, Kim Briscoe commented the
team had “put in a very impressive performance”. The men’s team meanwhile shared the points in a superb contest. Victories in the backstroke races for Michael Tansini and Jon “muscular” Beardsley contributed significantly to the 25-27 scoreline going into the first break. During this break, York was docked four points for a flying start in the opening relay. Toby Wong and Lewis Cherry then came first and second respectively in the 100 metres crawl. However, some powerful Lancastrian performances gave them a slender advantage going into the final relay. In this, York was immense, earning enough points to salvage a draw for the White Rose. Post-gala, club captain Chris Unsworth was “completely gutted.”
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S IT HAPPENED NETBALL
TENNIS
HOCKEY
BY HELENA KAZNOWSKA
BY OSCAR PEARSON
BY YORK VISION SPORTS TEAM
YORK'S NETBALL 1sts team worked hard throughout the match, but Lancaster's formidable side proved to be unstoppable. The home team flew out of the starting blocks and continued to edge away. While York kept chasing, and try as they might, the girls in black and gold couldn't ever draw level or overtake their opponents. The first quarter finished 13-6, but everything was still to play for. In the second quarter, York were continually pulledup for some rather quick three seconds on the ball, but played on, and after a great interception on a Lancaster centre pass by Charlotte Ferris, the ball was worked with great success down the court. Yet the ball passed through the net just after the whistle blew, and York were still behind at the halfway point, 27-12. Lancaster's GK fouled York's GS, violently knocking her to the floor in an attempt to intercept an overhead pass. The scuffle between the players, who are sisters, was quickly resolved with a rewarding free shot in the D for York, which Kay Masterson scored with ease. The third quarter finished 40-19, and while Lancaster had become complacent in the countdown to the final whistle, they were by this point, uncatchable. York never gave less than 100% but the final score was 54-29. It was York's defence who stood out regardless of the score because of their engagement in the game as pivots, working the ball between themselves and progressing play to their attacking end. Lancaster deserved victory, but the score doesn't reflect the hard work and determination of the York women's 1sts.
A SUBSTANTIAL crowd gathered to witness a tremendous all-round York performance at the tennis on Saturday afternoon. The men’s 1sts romped to victory after comprehensive wins for Max Reby (6-2, 6-2), Sam Davies (6-1, 6-3), Nila Morosz (6-0, 6-1), and Max Andrews (6-3, 6-2), while it went right down to the wire in the women’s 1sts. Lancaster's Chris Whalley put in a credible performance, but like each individual for the away side, the York man proved to be far too strong. After their disappointing doubles performance, York made amends early on by going ahead in every singles match. York took the first set in all the singles matches - and by convincing margins, too. Lancaster's comeback was unsuccessful, losing all four matches in straight sets. Lancaster men's 1sts tennis captain Teddy Bennett called the performance “embarrassing”, and said that “everything that could have gone wrong did go wrong.” Meanwhile, in the women’s 1sts, the results were much more mixed. Lancaster captain Krista Ozolina beat Jessi Harrison 6-2, 6-2 and Lancaster's Gillian Cant saw off Natasha Johnson 6-1, 6-1. A victory for York, though, as Sarah White beat her opponent 6-1, 6-0 and another win for Charlotte Baldwin meant the result was entirely dependent on the match between Kathi Thann and Lancaster's Irene Louca. And Thann didn’t disappoint as she won it in the final match, meaning York were rightfully jubilant, singing “We’re a Russell Group Uni!” on their way to a celebratory ice cream.
SPURRED ON by a historic maiden Roses victory for the men’s 3rds and a 4-0 annihilation by the women’s 2nds, the 1st teams took to the pitch looking to close the gap on Lancaster. The women unfortunately fell behind early in the first half, aided by a cruel deflection. York piled on the pressure with chances for Storm and Ormiston. The white rose had a glorious chance to level, a shot from the edge of the D was unfortunately blocked by a York attacker. The pressure continued in the second half, York settled into the match and lost their initial panicky play and York eventually got their deserved rewards, when reverse stick effort by Emily Lucas pinged into the corner. Despite creating multiple chances, York could not convert their short corners, and had to settle for a draw in a game they should have won. The first half of the men’s game was a cagey and tense affair. York played with promise, moving the ball around positively, but in general it was a level affair. Leo Watton was yellow carded for York early on in the second half, York were not overwhelmed, and driving runs by skipper Meller threatened the Lancaster defence. With fifteen minutes remaining, Lancaster got the crucial breakthrough but goalkeeper Sam Harriman got a pad to it. But, after three successive short corners, Lancaster scored. With a loss looming York picked up their play and Laurie Torrington scored from a short, prompting a pitch invasion and a win.
YORK CLAIM YET ANOTHER VICTORY IN MEN'S RUGBY XVs 1STS
BY ALEX FINNIS
UYRUFC 1ST XV secured a Roses whitewash for their club with a commanding 22-6 victory over their red rose counterparts. After an even first half York were able to kick on in the second and eventually cruised to victory courtesy of trys from Tom Chadwick and Adam Gaskell. Lancaster took the lead within minutes when their outside-centre slotted over a long-range penalty to make it 3-0 but before long Chadwick struck over a tricky penalty of his own to level the scores. It was a scrappy and frustrating start
for York in a game they were expected to win, and Lancaster retook the lead through another penalty before York’s Will Ward, who had looked lively all game, broke the line and won his side a penalty when Lancaster deliberately knocked on following his offload. Chadwick obliged with another three points to level the scores once again. A superb saving tackle from York winger Gabriel Adebiyi then prevented Lancaster from running in the first try of the game. Lancaster’s left wing broke away and looked to be in, only for Adebiyi to cover huge amounts of ground and bring him down just inside the 22. York began to move into the ascend-
ency towards the end of the half and another penalty on the stroke of halftime meant that they went in 9-6 up at the break. The away side continued with the momentum in the second half and before long they had their first try. The outstanding Chadwick took the ball blind and chipped over the defence before snapping up the loose ball following a Lancaster error. He beat the last man to touch down in the corner, making it 14-6. As well as notching all of York’s points thus far, Chadwick was also controlling the game with his boot. His accurate kicking kept up the York pressure, keeping the red rose penned inside their own half and putting his own side in the driving seat. York were immediately back on the attack as a Hugo Watson break put them within five metres of the tryline. Lancaster’s fly-half scuffed his clearing kick; York’s forwards took the ball down and powered a rolling maul over the line; Adam Gaskell touching down to make it 19-6. With a comfortable lead under their belt, York were ruthless in shutting Lancaster totally out of the game. Another Chadwick break and a chip from Ward set up the white rose camp deep within the Lancaster 22 once again and the home side could not withstand the pressure, conceding a penalty with which Chadwick made no mistake in making it 22-6. With York now bringing out the flair offloads and playing with real swagger,
an injury to lock Sam Lord cut the game a few minutes short as the referee made the decision to put an end to Lancaster’s misery and confirm yet another Roses rugby whitewash for UYRUFC. Captain James Faktor was elated at the final whistle: “I was off the pitch for most of the game with my shoulder injury but it was a great performance,” he said. “We knew they’d come out strong but the longer the game went on the more we knew we wouldn’t let them get over our tryline. We were patient and we had the men outside to score trys. Tom Chadwick had a great game, the forwards were dominant all game. We’ll go far next year, I’m tipping us for promotion.”
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ROSES 2012:
PHOTOGRAPHS BY OLIVER TODD AND T K ROHIT If you are interested in taking photos for York Vision, please email: vision@yusu.org
IN PICTURES
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SUNDAY - AS YORK LACROSSE BATTER THEIR WAY PAST LANCASTER ON ALL FRONTS BY WILL BARNES FRESH OFF the back of a quite stunning victory at a tournament overseas in Dublin the women’s lacrosse team were in confident mood for their crucial clash with Lancaster this weekend. However, although they routed the Red Rose 40-0 in this fixture last year, Captain Izzi Mattick was cautious in her
preview, pointing out that the squad had “inevitably changed since last year”. Then, on Saturday, disaster struck. ‘Keeper and YUSU sports sabbatical officer elect Charlotte Winter sustained a foot injury meaning Olivia Beecham had to step in at the last minute for only her second game between the posts. She was called into action early on in the game, saving strongly from close range. In the first quarter, neither side
VOLLEYBALL BY ALEX FINNIS YORK WOMEN'S volleyball first team secured four points for the white rose as they saw of their Lancaster counterparts in four sets. The away side were commanding in the opening set. A block from Christina Sechel propelled her side into an early 4-0 lead and Lancaster were never able to recover. Spikes from Mitterhuver and Katharaina Widerhofer helped open up the gap to eight points with the scores at 17-9 before the girls in black and gold held off a mini Lancaster fight back to take the set 25-18. York were equally dominant in the second set. Mitterhuver shone again with her powerful spikes and Selena Yeung was also on form as Lancaster found themselves getting more and more frustrated about being outclassed. The set finished 25-15 with York totally deserving of their two set lead. In the third set however, Lancaster found some fight winning the set 26-24 to make it 2-1 overall. Lancaster also led early in the fourth set before a great block from Widerhofer put York 5-4 ahead. The scores remained tight throughout the set as a big crowd gathered to watch the conclusion. Jitzerova and Widerhofer spiked York into 22-20 lead before captain Alexa Mitterhuver sealed the victory to round off the set at 25-21 and take the points. Mitterhuver commented: “We started with two solid sets but they came back strong. We won this for the first time last year, we're establishing our domination.”
was to retain possession for a lengthy period yet, ten minutes in; York found themselves 3-1 up courtesy of a Georgie Saunders brace and a close range finish from club president Anna Yeomans. However, Lancaster hit back immediately after Saunders’ second to make it 3-2 going in to the second quarter. In this, three more strikes from Saunders, another from Yeomans and one from Charlotte Pelter made the score 9-3 to York going into half-time. After the break, York further extended their lead Katie Barrett scoring three and Alex Whitehand adding another as she rang rings around the Lancaster players in the first two quarters. York then went on to completely dominate the final quarter. Saunders scored a further four goals, Whitehand and Yeomans added two more to the tally and Barrett struck a further three times. Lancaster also added a consolation goal to make the final score 23-4. Olivia Beecham deserves congratulations for keeping the Lancaster forces at bay on a number of occasions. After the team made the interesting decision to perform the Haka at the end of the match, Izzi Mattick commented that she was “really pleased. It was a team effort. We didn’t really know what to expect this year but we worked hard in training all week, with the more experienced players helping the freshers and it paid off.” Club captain Chris Menon wrote in his preview that he was confident of victory away from home after their 17-1 annihilation of the Red Rose in York last year, whilst conceding it probably was not going to be as emphatic a victory. He was dead on. Goals from Andy “arrogant” Chalmers, William Chun and
BASKETBALL BY HELENA KAZNOWSKA & CHARLOTTE FERRIS THE WOMEN'S basketball team finished off their fantastic season by comfortably beating a strong Lancaster team, 32-28. Despite missing five key players, York’s spirits remained high; the first 10 minutes was fairly even, with the points being 4-4 until an incredible shot by Stefanie Mataragka put York ahead 9-4 going into the second quarter. Although York missed a few crucial penalties, they never lost control of the game. Two incredible four pointers by York’s Faye Taylor kept York in the lead and despite some impressive play by Lancaster, York dominated throughout. The last quarter was nerve-racking for York, as Lancaster were awarded a penalty in the last 12 seconds. However, Lancaster failed to utilise this chance and York won 32-38. The pressure was on for the men to put in an equally outstanding performance, and while this nail-biter of a match did not finish in York's favour, the team undoubtedly had a phenomenal game. The quarters finished 14-14, 31-26 and 41-38 before the home team flew out of the starting blocks when the whistle for the final quarter sounded, scoring a three pointer unmarked. York launched a counter attack that not only reduced the margin but allowed them to take the lead - but only for a second. Lancaster pulled out all the stops and with a display of sleek, effortless play, victory was theirs, 64-68.
Tom Beetham and some quality saves from ‘keeper Billy Rooks gave York a commanding 3-0 lead at the end of the first quarter. The next quarter, however, was a tighter affair, Lancaster enjoyed a prolonged period of pressure in the York half but a strike from Menon and another from Chun gave York a towering 5-1 lead. Chalmers then added to his tally after half-time, making the score 6-1 at the end of the third quarter. In the final quarter, York went on the rampage: Chalmers scoring a further three goals, assumingly augmenting his already highly inflated ego, and Menon, Chun and Beetham also added to their tallies meaning York doubled their points score in one quarter. Lancaster, however, did manage to score two late consolation goals. Post match, on field Captain Sven Swenson also commented the team had come to Lancaster “not knowing what to expect”, before adding he was “really pleased with the performance”.
CYCLING BY SALLY DOLTON MOST TEAMS would be resting their competitors before a competition as big as Roses. The entire cycling team, however, joined in with the 114 mile Roses torch relay and still beat Lancaster in both the events despite being the underdogs. The 10 mile time trial was the only cycling event with points up for grabs, and the hefty four on offer would be a juicy prize for either university. York bossed the event, Greg Melia won in an impressive 24.08 (an average speed of almost 25mph) with Jamie Raven of York coming in second with 25.42. Lancaster claimed both third and fourth place but a round up of the places meant that York won the event 9-6 and with it the Pepper Cup for cycling. If only the mountain biking was also worth points, as York claimed victory as that as well. It was the first time this had appeared at Roses and York will certainly be hoping to claim the points value next year. Lancaster crossed the line first, but York swept places two through four, with David Crawshaw and Georgy Makin (who had to swap bikes with a team mate after snapping his chain in the first 20 metres) rounding off the podium. Jamie Raven commented on the club’s impressive victory, and their weekend as a whole, saying; “we were happy with our performance, winning away especially as all four of us rode to Lancaster, we were much improved on last year.”
IT HAPPENED LANCASTER FOILED IN THE FENCING
BY DAN CORNWELL
BOTH MEN and women’s teams did both their club and the University of York proud in their matches on Sunday. The men’s match was the first event of Roses Sunday and, unfortunately, began with some shocking refereeing from a Lancastrian who was unable to correctly judge even the simplest of actions. The ref later went on to be kicked off by his own team in a subsequent match for equally outrageous decisions. Despite this, the men enjoyed a comfortable overall victory with an impressive score of 135-108, boasting success in all three weapons. The sabre category proved to be an outstanding victory thanks to flawless performances from Tom Jones, Paul Goddard and team captain Bairong Huang. Foil too was easily secured, with some flashy fencing from Bartek Koryga and Tom Skingle, helping York increase their lead. Finally, the Epee, despite the diminishing pressure as York’s imminent win became increasingly apparent was a close match, but thanks to George Watkins,
Tom Skingle and Phil Sellars, whom the club was sad to see in his final match for the club, won with 45-44. Watkins added his trademark 'prime' attack to the mix, leading to some supremely stylish points. Overall, Captain Bairong Huang’s initial warcry of ‘I want to see blood’ was, though not literally, figuratively satisfied. The women’s team, unfortunately, had a far tougher time. With Louise Highton, Lizzie Smith and Sophie Mason fencing all three weapons, the size of the team was less than half the size of that of Lancaster. Despite losses in all three weapons, the team gave them a good run for their money with a final score of 135122. Finally a special mention goes to the men’s second team. Sadly, their win across all three weapons did not count toward Roses points, but performances from team captain Rob Phillips, Shaun Trill, Max Cheng, Ali McCormack, Dag Corbett and first time competitor Jack Warman made the match a wonder to watch. All three teams are looking in good stead for the upcoming season of BUCS matches starting in October.
YORK FOOTBALLERS CRUMBLE AS LANCASTER DOMINATE TO GAIN REVENGE BY FREDDIE NATHAN SUNDAY WAS a day of poor performances for York's football teams, drawing one and losing the remaing three games as Roses 2012 slipped away. Indeed, it was the men's first XI defeat which was the deciding game for Lancaster's win of the overall tournament. For long periods of the 1sts game, it did not appear that this would be the match to send Lancaster over the line. Despite going behind mid-way through the first half, York produced a spirited second half performance to equalise through Dan Atherton, but failed to press on and win. Lancaster had the better of the opening half an hour, the absence of Tom Brandreth at the heart of the de-
fence evident. Tom Day had York's only half chance, sweeping a shot over the bar. Yet the red rose took the lead after 35 minutes, Aaron Martindale sweeping the ball into the bottom corner from 18 yards. York responded in the period just before half time with two good chances through Oscar Lynch and Tom Clarke. The score at half time was 0-1 yet the away side's momentum carried through the break into the second half. Straight from the kick-off, York worked the ball forward to Dan Atherton, who unleashed an unstoppable 25-yard drive into the bottom corner. York continued to boss the match, and Clarke had a shot blocked and then a header brilliantly saved by the keeper. Lancaster wrenched back the initiative
as James Davies cleared a shot off the time, but with 10 minutes left, they found a way through. It was Martindale again who converted a cross from six yards, leaving McMahon with little chance. They then doubled their advantage a minute later as York's defence crumbled. Dan Hull's hard work was rewarded with the simplest of finishes after McMahon parried his initial shot straight back into his path. Despite the result, York skipper Dan Turley was proud of his players: "For 30 minutes in the second half we controlled the game. The football we played at times was unbelievable. They have been clinical today, but it's a good end to the season for us." On the adjacent pitch, Lancaster's women built on their indoor football victories with a lacklustre yet effective display against an even poorer York outfit. Marie Wang, twin sister of York's Marte, sounded a warning as she crashed her header against the bar after 15 minutes. Goalkeeper Meg Phillips, after her heroics in the indoor football on Saturday, was powerless to prevent the opener as panic in the York defence allowed an easy finish into the empty net. York's lack of pace up front never really looked threatening. After the break York continued to defend and failed to mount any sort of attacking danger. And they were quickly punished for their cautious philosophy as a poked through ball found Lancaster's lone forward, who prodded it beyond Phillips, putting the game beyond any sort of doubt. The men's seconds never really seemed up for their clash with their white rose counterparts, being outclassed by a slick
Lancaster unit. The opening goal was an absolute peach, man-of-the-match Simon Castle unleashing a left footed half-volley into the net from the edge of the box. Lancaster made it two, a point blank header from a corner, leading to Stu Dunk having stern words at half time. It made little difference though, as Lancaster extended the lead three times more in the second half, including a 25 yard drive from their marauding left back. Scant consolation was finally rewarded to York with a few minutes left, when Gutteridge finished smartly into the top corner inside the box after a spell of pressure on the Lancaster goal. However, the final score ended 5-1, the combination of poor defending and classy opposition putting paid to York's hopes of gaining the two points on offer. The only positive results was the men's thirds, who produced a spirited performance to draw 1-1. Keeper Jonny Sim was regularly called into action, making the first of many excellent saves only seconds in. However, against the run of play, York opened the scoring: A long throw by Hamish Denham was powerfully headed home by Sam Astberry, to give the White Rose the lead. With about 5 minutes remaining of the half, Lancaster were awarded a penalty for a foul by Johnny Hyde. However Johnny Sim saved superbly low to his left to deny Lancaster from the spot. The York lead didn't last much longer though, as Lancaster headed home from a freekick, just before half time. The second half was uneventful, and the game finished level, providing the only good note in an otherwise sour weekend for UYFC.
12
VISION'S HIGHLIGHTS We take a look back at the unmissable matches of Roses 2012
BY OSCAR PEARSON
MEN'S WATER POLO
IN WHAT was one of the most entertaining and well-supported contests of the weekend, the York men's water polo put on an outstanding display. It was an end to end game and Lancaster began the match on the front foot: their tank of a striker, Kostalampros, scoring early on. Despite Patterson levelling for York almost immediately, the Lancaster main man added two more – the latter a stunning lob over the goalkeeper. The Lancaster keeper was proving to be a rock between the sticks with some top quality saves, but Patterson scored twice more, adding to Perhin’s lone strike, to give York the advantage going into the break. But it was a different story in the second quarter as goals from Kostalampros and Fitzpatich made it 5-4 to those in red. However, York equalised again
BY JACK BRADSHAW
after a dominant spell, giving Patterson his fourth of the match. Kostalampros and Patterson, both key performers in the match, went on to score twice more to bring the score to 7-7 at the half way stage. The third quarter proved to be vital for York, as they scored in quick succession, opening up a four goal gap. But with just the final quarter to go, Lancaster improved. Goals from Pollet and Craven in quick succession brought the home side back within touching distance at 10-12. Patterson, however, with thirty seconds left, got his twelfth of the night to secure victory, sparking a pool invasion from those in black and gold. The top scorer was delighted with his team for giving him numerous opportunities throughout the game; “I wouldn’t have scored all the goals I did without them," he said.
MEN'S DARTS
KRIS HILLIAM secured an enthralling 5-3 victory for York in the muchanticipated men’s darts match. York displayed their dominance early on and cruised to a 4-1 lead, thanks to wins from Dave Wartley, Adam Samuel, Jonny Sheriff and Chris West. Wartley’s opponent snatched the first leg of their match, but Wartely proved to be in fantastic shape aiming for the doubles, securing the last two legs. The second match was an easier ride for Samuel, who coasted to a 2-0 win against Logan-Berry of Lancaster, displaying consistency in hitting the 20s, including an impressive 120. The third match saw a terrific performance from Jonny “The Sheriff ” Law, who checked out in style from 66 finishing with double 18 to win 2-0. Lancaster were in danger of being trounced, but one of their strongest players, Breadson, salvaged a 2-0 win against Tom Holstath to make it 3-1 overall to
York. Chris West then increased York’s lead to 4-1 despite losing the first game. The deciding leg saw West set himself up perfectly from 134 down to 40, which he hit next turn with double tops. However, just one defeat from conceding the four points at stake, Lancaster were mounting an unlikely comeback including the scalp of York’s star player Alex Harrison. That was in part due to the noisy Lancaster crowd who tried everything to put Harrison off. Lancaster’s “Spike Dudley” capitalised on a Harrison check-out mistake in the deciding leg to win in dramatic fashion. Nick Hall followed suit for York despite having a niggling wrist injury, but was defeated 2-0 by his opponent. It was left to Kris Hilliam to thwart the comeback and the youngster did just that. Hilliam kept his nerve to win 2-1 finishing with the double 16 to send the away fans into ecstasy, secure four points for York and capping a remarkable and unforgettable evening.
BY SALLY DOLTON
YORK'S BADMINTON teams claimed a whitewash, winning all four matches in this year's competition. Their men’s and women’s matches were the first ones of Friday. Meaning the teams were on the 6am bus in order to be in Lancaster on time. They would be forgiven for seeming lethargic on court but instead they dominated and outclassed their opponents. This couldn’t be more apt than in the men’s 1sts campaign. They only dropped one match to win the four points on offer with a fantastic result of 8-1. Waterson and his partner Hirst produced an energetic performance, winning all of their matches. On court 2, the combination of Dainty’s skill and Henderson’s devastating smashes proved lethal. They didn’t drop a game. Evans and Robson battled through closer matches than their teammates but the end result was still victory for the white rose. The men’s 2nds match was a very dif-
THE CROQUET CUP? BY BEN HUCKLE ON THE top of the Puskin library, the most important event of the Roses weekend took place. Brian Cantor was due to play but was busy buying less seats for the library, so Tim Ellis was paired with croquet veteran Jane Grenville. The pair defeated the Lancaster Student Union President and some hippie who’s been up Everest, in a gruelling effort to lift the trophy probably called the Croquet Cup. In a game golf, but with mallets instead of clubs, upright horseshoes instead of holes and bigger balls, York, I have on good authority, won. Lancaster’s bearded climber clearly struggled with the differentiation of the two sports, on occasion taking a swing at the ball which wouldn’t have looked out of place in
BADMINTON
ferent affair. They came from behind to seize the points in a very dramatic fashion, made even more so by the loud Lancaster supporters and their thunder clappers. They started very slowly, going down four games to one. Lancaster needed to win only one match to win. The tide turned; Hallett and Tang came from behind to win 2-1. York then seized the next two matches. The stage was set for a cracking finale. With two matches left York persevered and won the next two making the final score 7-2 in their favour. York's women's 1sts were also outstanding, working hard to achieve their 5-4 victory on the courts. Cass Brown and Dani Farsiani played exceptionally in every game and put up quite a fight against their formidable opponents, particularly when faced with the Lancaster 1sts pairing. York’s women's captain Claire Breare was delighted with her sides performance, saying she was “very proud as they were much tougher teams than last year.”
baseball. This confusion cost the Lancaster pair as their mountain-conquering Chancellor seemed to be struggling with his memory. The startling accuracy of the old woman from York and the practice sessions Tim Ellis had in the weeks running up to the game saw the pair past the post first, as the Lancaster duo could not match form. The sun played its part in influencing the scoreline as all four players forgot their sunglasses, with Ellis at one point missing the ball completely. The immense 15 strong crowd got up and left as soon as the game ended, not waiting to see the raucous celebrations. This zero pointer tie arguably completely changed the outcome of Roses, with the York team soon becoming complacent after hearing news of the victory.
13
OUR ROSES HEROES Vision present their top eight performers in Black & Gold:
DAVID POTTER The men’s squash captain was involved in a gripping match and came back from the brink of defeat to help his side to a hefty four points. Potter was 9-5 down in the fifth set, but then incredibly took six consecutive points to stun his opponent and snatch the unlikeliest, but nevertheless thoroughly deserved, victory. A top effort.
ALEXA MITTERHUVER The women’s volleyball 1sts captain was the outstanding player in her side’s 3-1 victory over their Lancaster counterparts, powering them to the win with her powerful spikes. The side’s second straight Roses victory following nine consecutive defeats previously, this win was important in proving that the tides have now turned.
TOM CHADWICK The UYRUFC 1st XV fly-half put in a top-draw performance, commanding the game through both his playmaking and kicking and also scoring 17 of York’s points in their 22-6 victory. He's had an excellent season, and most encouragingly for the club, he is still only a first year, meaning he’s going to be around for some time yet.
ROB WICKHAM The Centurions Quarterback was instrumental in his side’s first ever Roses victory; one of the best stories of York’s Roses weekend. His twopoint conversion in the dying minutes of the game snatched victory from the hands of the Bombers when the safe option would have been to kick and take the draw. His bravery most certainly paid off.
STU PATTERSON
JON WAGHORNE
The men’s water polo was perhaps the surprise event of the tournament, with both sides putting on a thrilling display and drawing one of the biggest and rowdiest crowds of the weekend. Patterson stole the show, scoring 12 of York’s goals in their 15-12 triumph, including one stunner out of the back of his hand whilst facing his own goal – as impressive as it sounds.
Captain of the hockey men’s 3rds may not seem like the highest accolade but ‘Waggers’ proved his hero credentials at Roses. The 3rds had never previously won at the tournament, choking in prior encounters. Under Waghorne’s captaincy, however, they claimed victory. He was also instrumental in defence, crucial in this 1-0 scrap, making the difference when needed.
TIM ELLIS
KRIS HILLIAM
Not usually known for his sporting prowess, preferring to work his magic in YUSU, our Students’ Union President pulled it out of the bag in the croquet when it mattered most. Well, actually, it was for no points and we’d already lost Roses, but Ellis had never played croquet before and was still victorious. He’s a natural.
In what was certainly the rowdiest event of the weekend, the men's darts, but Kris Hilliam kept his cool under a torrent of Lancaster abuse to checkout with a double eight and secure the victory that sent the black and gold crowd wild. It was a tense finish, with both players needing a single score to win, but it was Hilliam who came out on top.
14
COMMENTS ON ROSES
HELENA WHAT MADE Roses 2012 such an incredible event? Was it the vivid display of sequins and feathers in the dancesport? Or the future YUSU President Kallum Taylor's disgraceful home-made shorts worn in a college football match? These were, obviously, momentous highlights of the weekend, but what really made this year's competition bigger and better than ever before was the support and facilities Lancaster displayed. York's hosting last year was good - really good - and while winning always leaves a sweet taste in the mouth, the main success of the 2011 white rose victory was the rugby final XV competition. This was, undoubtedly, the match that made last year's tournament such a success. Under the floodlights of Huntingdon Stadium, home to local rugby league team York City Knights, 1400 spectators gathered. It was a stroke of genius from York sport president Sam Asfahani, and a major coup for university sport as a whole. This match was great, but for all of you that didn't go to Lancaster Roses
NINA PULLMAN AFTER A fantastic weekend of sporting highs and lows, so far the reflection has rightly been on memorable matches or unexpected performances, which led to an overall win for Lancaster University at Roses 2012. Roses is the biggest inter-university sports tournament in Europe, and obviously a huge amount of organisation has to go into ensuring all events run smoothly over the weekend. Last year Sam Asfahani and his team made Roses one of the most memorable tournaments yet, so it was with anticipation that we travelled to Lancaster, for many it would be our first taste of an away Roses, to see how Lancaster would respond. For the most part they did not disappoint. The campus is remarkably similar to York being situated out of the main town and with an all-encompassing bubble-like feel, though with two noticeable exceptions; as sadly remarked upon by one of our netball freshers “there are no ducks”, and of course, they have a pristine and extremely impressive sports centre. A very far cry from the draughty and tent-like quality of York's Sports Centre, the Lancs sports centre boasts a sports hall, full sized swimming pool, warm lobby area, squash courts, various meeting rooms, a new gym and a climbing wall.
RED ROSE GLORY
HOW ROSES AT LANCASTER TOPPED YORK'S 2011 ATTEMPT 2012 I'd like to tell you why their competition trumped ours the previous year in all other respects. Lancaster's sports facilities certainly had the wow-factor. It is true that York's Heslington East complex was not scheduled for completion in time for last year's competition, but having spent nearly
You could hardly move for people wearing red 'I am Lancaster' T-shirts over the whole campus. twice as much on the facilities as York are planning to spend on their new complex, Lancaster catered for a multitude of events that York were not able to in Roses 2011, and still won't be able to in 2013. Most notable was Lancaster's state of the art climbing wall - something that is not being incorporated into the Heslington East plans, yet is worth 12 points in the Roses competition (all 12 of which we lost
this year, abysmally). While the Hes East complex will be spectacular, and a jacuzzi and sauna will be great for the other 362 days a year, Lancaster's facilities seemed tailor-made for the Roses competition. Not only this, but the atmosphere was noticeably different on the away territory. As usual, the Lancaster crowds were rowdy, boisterous and off-putting to the York sportsmen and women over the three days; York supporters, home or away, are not. Huge crowds of Lancaster fans turned out in abundance to every event, however big or small. Hundreds of red rose supporters were up in time for the first matches of the day, all cramming around the sidelines, crowding into viewing galleries and squashing into the designated seating areas. This year, the support was phenomenal and this home-team spirit was a huge motivation, perhaps a major factor, in a Lancaster victory. You could hardly move for people wearing red 'I am Lancaster' T-shirts over the whole campus. It was always improbable that many
York supporters would travel for two hours to watch a handful of games they might be interested in. But at last year's home competition, the support was also minimal. Yes, the stadium for the rugby 1sts was popular, but the enthusiasm and turn-out to any other game was poor in comparison to any from Lancaster's efforts this year. Before I'm accused of being a blushing white rose, I'm not saying York's sports facilities won't be magnificent once the new sports centre is finished. I'm not saying that York won't win Roses 2013. But Lancaster's facilities seemed tailor-made to the Roses competition in a way that ours are not. York's sportsmen and women are not lacking in spirit or talent, but the rest of York need to show their support too. I would like to think that York will turn out in their thousands to watch all sports big or small in 2013, but only time will tell if York can beat Lancaster in this respect too. As Charlotte Winter, future York Sport President said, we need to create a 'Team York' feeling and what better time to show this than Roses 2013.
WHAT'S THE SCORE?
POOR ORGANISATION MARRED YORK'S WEEKEND Aside from these surface impressions, I think there are a couple of significant points on which Lancaster Roses committee let themselves down slightly. Firstly, apart from the fact that on arriving at Lancaster on Saturday morning after waking up at some ungodly hour, we were informed that the food supply on the campus had run out. Although, thank God, this later turned out to be untrue, it
I lost track of the times people asked who was currently in the lead.
did represent a lack of communication across the tournament which was evident throughout the weekend. In stark contrast to the almost frighteningly bright yellow of the York stewards at sports events such as Varsity, or the visibility of the well-known York Sport committee who were on hand at all times at York Roses 2011, Lancaster stewards were nowhere to be seen. And if they were to be seen, they were cleverly disguised in the Dennis the Menace themed sports kit that the rest of the Lancaster competitors
were sporting. As part of a competing sport club, being dropped off on the wrong side of a campus that must span a couple of kilometres in length was not the most convenient thing in the world. However, if there had been stewards on hand to greet and direct, all problems would have been alleviated and we would have been saved a good half an hour of aimless wandering. We were eventually picked up by a plainclothes member of the Lancaster student union, but there was a definite lack of organisation and a sense that no one really knew where we should go. There was a similar lack of signs directing people to the sports centre and main pitches; an easy addition which would have made a world of difference to both spectators and competitors. As demonstrated by Vision’s comprehensive live-blogging throughout the weekend, student media outlets were completely up to date with both individual match scores and the overall points for the Universities as a whole. However, all these systems relied totally on someone checking the internet, and although students at home could quite understandably be hanging off their desk chairs in anticipation of the next blog post and score update, the actual competitors bizarrely had no idea. I thought one obvious omission for the
whole weekend was a central scoring system, perhaps a large digital scoreboard close to the sports centre, which would have enabled any passer-by to keep up with the all-important progress of points. As it was, I lost track of the times people asked who was currently in the lead, it seems that the only ones who knew were said members of student media. It is a shame that such an integral part of a highly competitive event such as Roses remained in the background for so many attending, and even competing in, the actual event. I would hope that it is something to be addressed in future Roses tournaments as it would significantly improve the experience of the tournament as a whole, and add to the excitement and urgency of the atmosphere. Roses is one of the most unique parts of the university experience at York, and hopefully will continue to be one of the most exciting events in the sporting calendar. Although the sport itself was of the highest quality all weekend, and the sporting facilities are impossible to fault, Roses at Lancaster was a slightly less well organised event than would be expected of a tournament of such high calibre and size. With a brand new committee and the opening of the long-awaited York Sport Village, all that remains to ask is how will next year compare?
ROSES BY NUMBERS
53 1500
The number of points the York's women's rugby team lost by
16
The estimated number of competitors
Double eight, Kris Hilliam's check out to win the men's darts
4
For four: the disastrous start for Lancaster in the men's cricket
1
47
#Roses2012 hash tag count
17
The number of points Tom Chadwick scored in York's 22-6 rugby firsts victory
Plaster cast needed
100
The top individual score in the men's 1sts cricket. Ouch
1013
15
Games captain Henry Meller has played for the men's 1st XI hockey team
1
The number of points by which we won the American football
3
York teams that had never won at Roses until the 2012 competition: men's hockey 3rds, trampolining and the Centurions