Issue 146

Losing is not an option!

09th October 2006

Last season was an interesting blend of degrees of success between our various rugby teams. The 1st XV proved too mercurial for their own good. It was a season that provided highs like reaching the semi finals at the Bath Spa sevens tournament and lows such as Varsity defeat at the hands of Cardiff. The less said about that the better.

The 1st XV battled hard and they provided some sublime if bruising play, but too often found themselves outwitted by lesser opposition. They had the muscle up front to dominate teams but failed to utilise the pace and skills of those behind the pack. The ball rarely got past the fly half. It was a similar story throughout all of the teams. A lack of experienced prop forwards being the source of most frustration throughout the lower grade teams towards the end of the season, especially considering the strength throughout the rest of the pack.

This year however things could well be on the up, with new captains and a new group of talented freshers. On top of this we are safe in the knowledge that the majority of experienced players are still at the University.

A good level of integration between experience and young blood should see all the teams prosper assuming that adequate funds are provided. The provision of such funds is a rather big assumption, especially considering the amount of people who opted for Play over Time in the battle of Sportsnight watering holes. Although in light of the new contract with Play, all sports teams funding looks fairly assured.

In terms of players, the entire rugby set up at the university has the potential to move forward. This is only possible if the rugby team can foster its talent and be flexible to adapt to play to its strengths. All teams have the possibility of promotion in their sights. Some things hurt more than missing out on promotion though.

Varstiy last year was horrific. This year revenge is on the cards. There is only one thing left to say. Bring on Varsity…

Stuart Phillips