HIPPOS TAKE THE HIGH GROUND

The herd gathered for the third game of this season’s hectic fixture schedule and with another game in just two weeks the pre-match banter soon turned to devising new and innovative ways to leave the country.

Skiing being popular which was fortunate as it was bloody cold and the Metchley Lane pitch did resemble an Austrian piste. I’m told the air was definitely thinner at the higher end which you could sometimes glimpse through the clouds. The front five declined the climb to the summit, as did Harborne for that matter as they failed to score against us in the first half, part of which was probably down to the captains ingenious decision to take the higher ground for the first 40 minutes (yes 40!!) and have gravity play its part as we rolled (literally) over the line to score the bulk of our try tally.

The second half was more of a challenge and with the thought of trying to run up hill, several seasoned veterans immediately substituted themselves “so that everyone gets a decent run out”, however it was so cold that we immediately regretted the idea....which was a first in the history of the Hippos. But it was a day for firsts.

It was the first Hippo game for our new herd members, Trevor Payton, Mike Coombs, Craig O’donnell and Steve the winger.

It was also the first time a penalty try has been awarded against us despite the constant referee coaching provided by Richard Desousa, but in hindsight it was nothing more than Harborne deserved and they did provide a rather splendid sausage and chip supper reminiscent of Rowheath days and our old rivals were as cordial as always.

Finally, gnome baiting has raised its ugly head again and this must be stamped out by the RFU rather than stamped on and hit with handbags. Great to see Dave B back after the birth of his lovely daughter Luci , congratulations both him and Tami.

A hat trick of tries for both Damo & Dan ‘Bomber ‘Gallagher, with scores also for the skipper, Mike Le Q and Dickie Boy (albeit more of an assist) conversions by DSB.

Stand out player goes to Damien Kimber.

The herd would like to thank all the supporters for braving the cold once again to cheer us on and looking after the young Hippos of the future.

Cheers all and happy new year!

Willo