With this fixture being re-arranged due to Whittington being unable to play at home, Essington were fielding a strong home side in their second league game of the season. It was only very late that Whittington informed us that they were only able to field a side of 6 players. It is understood that due to the League rules they were required to send these players over. The reason for the shortage was given as ‘injuries’ to players within their squad.

Being unable to play a full game, the referee (Mr D Pickard. NMSRFR) kindly agreed to referee a game of tens. We used an interchanging squad session and had three twenty minute sessions. This enabled everyone to get a game which was competitive and fun. Apart from paddy who was suffering from a massive hangover, how would he have managed in a full game??

The situation allowed us to rest several players with minor injuries, which will hopefully give us a stronger side for our National Cup game next week at Clee Hill RFC.

Following the sessions all the players supported the Second XV who were playing St Leonards 2’s. Many thanks to Simon Fletcher for an excellent chicken curry.

Message from El

I would like to thank all the players that turned up ready and eager for the game! Although it was then changed to 10 a side friendly match i am greatful that you still stopped and played and had a bit of fun!

However joking aside next week is an important match in the National Cup away at Clee Hill, hope that everyone who is selected is chomping at the bit to play and show the opposition what we have to offer!