HIPPOS WALLOW WITH PRIDE

“I stood motionless, the wind ruffling my blonde hair. I looked towards my watching family, I winked a pale blue eye at my son, and we both knew this was a defining point in the contest. I nodded to my wife; pride welled in her bosom. I faced the ball, exhaled; hands clasped in front, sinews taught in my bronze chiselled legs, heart slowing. I inhaled and stalked the three paces before unleashing a sweeping kick through the ball and beyond. The ball snapped skyward, the crowd gasped turning to a cheer when it flew straight through the uprights like a spiralling swan returning to heaven…” 

And that my dear herd is exactly how Captain Duncan Berry described his above average kick (in 5 from the 22) on his first victory of the season …honest.

It was however not the only play of some distinction on this bright Autumnal day. Especially against a Dudley side that would be in your top five teams of choice to accompany you into Mordor.

Tries scored by Mike Le Que, & Frosty gave us the edge at half time with some great running rugby across the backs with the back row providing some excellent support.

A further score in the second half created by Rear Admiral Tall and finished by Dickie Boy from 2 inches out. It was ‘amazing supporting play’ as DBX put it so succinctly himself.

Everyone put in a shift to be proud of when the tackles & mauls came thick and fast in the second half as DK pushed for an opening and both the referee & DK decided that scrummaging was the answer to all of life’s indiscretions. The front row may have clocked up a few air miles but we stuck at it.

Stand out player was awarded to Richie Brighton who went looking for work throughout the game and which will continue for the foreseeable future he declared at his appointment after the game.

Congratulations to Dan ‘Bomber’ Gallagher for the first of what we hope will be many more outings for the Hippos.

Finally, a special thank you to all the families and friends that supported us yet again.

Willo