See
Pictures
FIRST TEAM FIXTURES
Sat 2nd Feb.
At present there is no 1st team game as both Scunthorpe ( our opponents in the
NLD Cup Semi ) and Ilkeston (who we play in the Derbys Cup quarter final ) have
rearranged League games.
Chris
12/01/2008
NLD Senior Cup Quarter Final
Derby 1st XV 15
Matlock XV 15
A rear guard action by Matlock took the game to extra time and a nail-biting
finish.
Matlock started the better team with Captain Chris Mease leading from the front
and for five minutes Derby barely touched the ball. However, as the game settled
Derby gained more possession and forced Matlock back behind their own half. This
pressure eventually produced a penalty for Derby and they went ahead, 3-0. The
home side maintained the pressure and after several attacks down the left wing
they scored again, a converted try on 31 minutes, 10-0.
Matlock made several efforts to move play into the Derby half but clearance
kicks either fell short or missed touch and Derby remained in control up to half
time.
The second half started badly for Matlock as a poor kick gave Derby possession.
They took this opportunity well and with only a minute of the half gone Derby
scored a second try and with the conversion missed they led 15-0.
It was time for changes and some young blood. Firstly, James Young in the centre
and then older brother Chris at full back and it is fair to say that the game
improved almost immediately as long range tactical kicking gave Matlock
breathing space and put their forwards on the front foot. On fifty six minutes
Matlock scored the first of their three try's from a storming forward drive with
former captain Jonny Bunting taking the credit, conversion missed 15-5.
Matlock were playing better as the game progressed and as the clocked ticked on
Derby struggled to contain the visitors. Matlock's second try was almost
identical to the first with a strong forward drive seeing Rob Poyser, the
Matlock player who has battled in this local clash more than any other player on
the pitch, touching down and taking Matlock's comeback a step further, 15-10.
Matlock made their final substitution of the game and well judged it was as Prop
Pete Gailey settled into the unfamiliar position of back row but ultimately
scored the try that took Matlock into the semi-finals. As the game drew to a
close and injury time ticked away Matlock had time for one more drive for the
line and with both teams committing everything they dared Pete Gailey aka 'The
Cat' touched down and extra time was to be played.
It was tense to say the least but as Matlock knew their three try's to two
advantage meant they would go through if the score remained the same it was
Derby who had the uphill struggle. Their only attempt in the first part of extra
time was a penalty which was missed but in the second half they pounced on every
chance and tremendous tackling from Matlock was required as the home side ran
the ball strongly from inside their own twenty two on several occasions.
Eventually the final whistle went and Matlock came out on top against Derby for
the fifth time in succession, an unrivalled achievement never before seen in the
club's eighty year history and testament to an excellent coach and squad.
Matlock put in an excellent performance for the final twenty five minutes to
draw level on points and go through to the semi final via the 'tries scored'
rule and for the spectators it was a thrilling finish. The next NLD match will
be against Scunthorpe at Cromford Meadows. This will hopefully be on Feb 2nd as
Full Back Chris Young jets off once again to play rugby overseas, this time to
Brisbane, Australia. We wish him all the best but hope he can help the squad
into the Three Counties Final for the second year in a row before he leaves on
the Feb 7th!
Next Saturday Matlock make the long journey down to Ampthill in Bedfordshire for
this Midlands Two league fixture. Matlock beat Ampthill at home by only one
point earlier in the season and this will be a tough game. Kick Off 2.15.
George Edwards
05/01/2008
Matlock 1st XV 10
Hinckley 1st XV 15
Matlock were at full strength for this league encounter but despite a big
physical effort by the home side Hinckley maintained possession better and
generally played a more composed game.
Both teams looked solid in the opening ten minutes with little chance for either
side to break the others defence. The pressure told as Hinckley missed a penalty
in kicking range after seven minutes and then their hooker was shown a yellow
card a few minutes later and spent the next ten minutes off the field. During
this time Matlock worked to move the ball away from the Hinckley pack and when
the pass from James Atkinson to Dave Hartley was judged as forward a likely
scoring chance was thwarted. Once Hinckley were back to fifteen they tightened
up their attack and following a long and powerful forward drive they scored the
first try of the game in the clubhouse corner. The conversion was missed, 0-5.
The next twenty minutes were probably the best for Matlock as they used ball
with some flair and eventually the score came. Several passes saw play move
quickly up field and as the Hinckley defence crumbled Dave Hartley crossed the
line, the conversion was missed, 5-5.
Eight minutes later Matlock had a chance to take the lead from a penalty but
when the ball rebounded from the post the sharpness of thought on the follow up
was not there and Hinckley were able to regain possession. They did not however
clear their lines and sustained pressure form forced a Matlock scrum close to
the try line, the ball moved wide though a couple of phases and Alex Powell took
the scoring pass, with the conversion missed it was 10-5.
Matlock won the ball from the restart as the first half went into extra time but
Hinckley once again regained the ball and using forward power headed towards the
Matlock line. As Hinkley rumbled on Matlock worked to halt the momentum without
success and Hinckley scored and converted, 10-12 at half time.
The second half saw Mike Brookes take the field for Rob Poyser but he and rest
of the team immediately found themselves facing an uphill struggle as Hinckley
dominated possession and territory. To Matlock's credit they defended well both
individually and as a unit but in attack Matlock were generally living on
scrapes and in their efforts to keep the ball alive and in play deviated from
the basic plan. Unfortunately as the game became deadlocked it was Hinckley's
forward pressure that forced penalties, the first on 64 minutes was missed but
the second on 78 minutes was good and Matlock's hopes of a win faded. Final
score 10-15.
Matlock players were not happy with their performance after the game but they
should take credit for excellent defence and accept that decision making in
attack should improve. This Saturday they face old rivals Derby in the Three
Counties Cup and whatever the game plan they will need to be business like
against an improving Derby side. Kick Off 2.15 at Derby.
George Edwards
29/12/07
Paviors 1st XV 24
Matlock 1st XV 5
Matlock needed to maintain intensity between Christmas and New Year to stay in
touch with the teams at the top of the Midlands Two in the coming weeks and
Paviors were in the the same position, so with both teams keen to play, if a
little familiar following their recent league encounters, this would be an
interesting game.
Paviors started the brighter spreading the ball wide from early on with Fly half
Danny Graney controlling most of the midfield plays and this pressure prevented
Matlock from clearing their lines efficiently as they weathered several phases
of attack. The break through came for Pav's after 15 minutes when a Matlock
lineout was lost and sharp interpassing saw the home side cross the line for a
try which was duly converted, 7-0.
Matlock were stronger from the restart and played a more composed game. The back
row, with James Atkinson in particular, putting in some big tackles and Chris
Young clearing the ball with interest when the pressure was on. Matlock made
changes over the next fifteen minutes, Nick Coombes and Jonathan Sharpe on for
Jack Wagg and the injured Ben Wragg. Despite the changes Pavs scored a second
try following a missed tackle on their prop at a lineout and he took this late
present all the way to the line. The conversion was missed, 12-0.
With just five minutes of the half left Matlock made a big effort to put points
on the board and several phases saw the ball eventually passed wide to winger
Mike Gunter but he could not quite grab the points for his team and the half
ended with Matlock trailing.
The second half started well for the visitors and with some experimental
re-positioning of players the style of Matlock's play changed to a more open
pattern. Although this was refreshing to see it did create occasional problems
when some attacking moves from well within Matlock's half were a little rash and
a clearance kick towards Paviors 10 metre line would have taken play to a safer
field position. On the positive side it saw the ball move swiftly from hand to
hand and this enabled Matlock to advance in numbers. It was such a move that saw
Matlock score as second half full back Dave Hartley took the scoring pass and
with Mike Gunter on his shoulder the ball was touched down in the corner,
conversion missed, 12-5.
Matlock continued to attack with forwards and backs combining well but it was
Paviors who scored twice more against the run of play as Matlock's interpassing
in attack and tackling in defence became a little too loose in those remaining
fifteen minutes, final score 24-5.
This was a reasonable game and gave Matlock a chance to keep the playing
momentum and experiment a little, without the importance of a league fixture.
This Saturday sees Matlock host their first league fixture of 2008 against
Hinckley. A team one place above them in the league, and with home wins now
vital a good performance is expected. Kick off 2.15.
Happy New Year,
George Edwards
22/12/07
Sheffield Tigers 17
Matlock Vapours 26
As many of 'Tigers' stars had returned to their respective homelands Matlock
took a talented if slightly light headed 'A' team to a wind swept Dore Moor and
it was clear in the changing room that the altitude may well effect
performances.
Matlock started well and at a pace that obviously shook the home side as after
just four minutes Chris 'Willo the Wisp' Buckley slide through the gap to score,
Chris Young, despite being used to working at heights, missed the conversion,
0-5. From the restart it was all Matlock again with Tigers hardly getting their
hands on the ball and each time they did Matlock responded with solid tackles
and a counter-attack. The best of these was James Atkinson's sprint out of his
own half but with the majority of his support unable to work out where he was
heading the initiative unfortunately came to nothing.
The second try of the match was the result of sustained pressure from Matlock
and a superbly angled run by open side Nick Coombes who took the ball a pace and
in changing the angle of attack wrong footed the defence to score under the
posts. Chris Young converted, 0-12.
As the game progressed and the rain set in Matlock became a little less eager to
spin the ball wide but made up for this with several powerful rolling which not
only sapped the energy from the Tigers forwards but helped those involved to
warm up a bit. Matlock's third try of four was from a player who took to the
high altitude game like a fish to cycling, although this was one best try's I
have seen Rob Goodall score. Perhaps it was the strong tail wind that helped but
from 20 metres out the beefy inside centre stepped around and bounced several
players with a well balanced run, scoring a well deserved try. Chris Young again
converted, 0-17.
Matlock's final try came in the last minute of the half from Dave Ball and could
only be described as a prop's version of the Rob Goodall try. The start and end
part were virtually the same but this was more bull elephant than nimble gazelle
with the Tigers unable to halt the 'Route One' charge. Chris Young converted,
0-26 at half time.
The second half started in upbeat fashion following a positive discussion about
how Matlock should get 50 points on the board. Unfortunately, that was about as
good as the second half got and as Matlock's players faded Sheffield got into
the game. They scored three try's but only converted one making the final score
17-26.
That's about as much as you can say about the rest of the game, apart from two
Matlock players who deserve a special mention. Firstly, Colts winger Mike Gunter
who played fearlessly at this higher level and has a great rugby future ahead of
him. Secondly, Nick Coombes who Coach, Chris Loeber, nominated as his Man of the
Match. The photo below shows Nick looking pleased that he can see out of the eye
Mr Loeber has just 'patched up' for him.
15-12-2007
Paviors 1st XV 6
Matlock 1st XV 10
Matlock travelled to face the team one place above them in the league and
despite the low score the shear effort of both sides made this a thrilling match
with Matlock playing like super heroes at every opportunity.
The first few minutes of the game saw Matlock control the majority of pressure
situations until after just five minutes Matlock's corner stone prop Dave Ball
was sin-binned for careless use of the boot in a ruck. This gave Paviors a
chance to attack more freely although a successful penalty was the only score in
the next ten minutes despite several opportunities including a three on one
overlap, which, despite good Matlock defence, should have been a try. 3-0 after
fifteen minutes.
This was developing into a very tight encounter with not only strong defence but
also a lack of clinical finishing that stopped either side from taking their
scoring chances. Eventually after several penalty attempts from both sides
Matlock drew level from the boot of Chris Young after thirty-six minutes, 3-3.
However, the half was not over by a long way and Pav's responded with their own
penalty, 6-3. Matlock still had a chance to level the score before half time but
the ball hit the cross bar and, with little follow up from Matlock, Paviors were
able to clear the ball and finish the half in front.
The second half saw Matlock move up a gear and they were immediately in
attacking range. However, the first attempt at a score saw Chris Young's drop
goal attempt drift wide. This did not distract the visitors and the continuity
of their play improved with better recycling of the ball and positive plays from
both forwards and backs. For a while though Matlock held onto to the ball a
little too long before passing and Pav's defence had time to adjust but it was
only a matter of time though as the pace of Matlock’s attack increasingly found
gaps. Captain Chris Mease looked slick and Fly Half Dave Hartley plundered Pav's
defence, both braking the gain line with direct running and winger Chris Buckley
hopped around the defence on several occasions.
Matlock missed two more penalties in the next fifteen
minutes but as the game went into the final ten Matlock's persistence paid off.
Seven phases of play and countless passes saw Matlock progress from their own
half fluidly and using the full width of the pitch the Pav's defence gave way
and the final pass gave winger Alex Powell the chance to outpace the defender
with a menacing run to score a try which was a first class team effort. Young
conversion hit the posts again but this time went through, 6-10.
It was now a case of stay calm, keep the ball and attempt to stay in the
opposition half, but that is easy to say from the touchline. Matlock did manage
this for the most part of the remaining few minutes and as Paviors put
everything they had into the attack Matlock hung on for a well deserved win.
Matlock now move above Paviors into fifth place in the first of the first return
league fixtures. The next league encounter is on January 5th at home
to Hinckley, kick off 2.15. Over Christmas two fixtures are scheduled, firstly
an A fixture away against Sheffield Tigers on December 22nd and on 29th
at home to Hereford. Both are subject to final confirmation and emails will be
sent out with final details.
Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year.
George Edwards
01-12-07
Matlock 1st XV
36
Old Northamptonians 1st
XV 28
It appeared from the side line that Matlock had decided to give the
Northamptonshire visitors a head start but once Matlock found second gear they
looked the better side for most of the game.
The kick off to Old Northamptonians was good but the O.N's 6'7" second row, who
caught the ball, was not challenged with any conviction and as he sprinted down
the pitch it took them only two passes and two minutes to score the opening try
of the game, the conversion was missed, 0-5.
After a minute under the posts Matlock regrouped and with pace and determination
they overpowered the opposition, Bunting scored after 7 minutes, Young kicked
the conversion, 7-5.
Matlock maintained the pressure and almost scored again five minutes later from
a superb scrummage but handling errors at critical times denied the home side
further points. Undeterred, Matlock continued to attack and driving runs from
Matlock forwards with No.8 Mike Brooks to the fore saw them pressure the
visitors. As reward Matlock were given a penalty which Chris Young kicked
without a problem, 10-5.
Matlock continued to keep control of the game but O.N's counter-attacking was
dangerous and several Matlock attacks were not only stopped but saw them taken
back well into their own half. This enterprise eventually paid off for O.N's
when they intercepted a Matlock pass. Once behind the defence they required only
one pass to their speedy winger who looked to score in the clubhouse corner. He
was stopped short of the line but quickly recycled ball was kicked across field
and Matlock were outnumbered, with eight minutes of the half left it was 10-10.
The final action of the half was from Matlock, who worked steadily back up the
field, and as Fly Half Dave Hartley distracted two defenders with a jinking run
winger Chris Buckley was on hand to take the pass and slice through the
remainder of O.N's defence and score. The conversion was missed, 15-10 at half
time.
As the second half started so did the rain and this seemed to suit the visitors
better as they controlled the game for the next ten minutes although only
managing to kick a penalty in that time, 15-13 and a game in the balance.
Matlock regained control with some excellent play and should have scored after
50 minutes when a three on two advantage was wasted in the scoreboard corner but
it took just three more minutes when Winger Alex Powell crossed the line and
Chris Young converted brilliantly in a blustery wind, 22-13. The game was now
all Matlock again as they played the best rugby of the match going into the last
twenty minutes. James Young came on for Rob Goodall and was into the action
immediately, as Brooks took the ball into the O.N's 22 metre area Young junior
was on hand to take the pass and score a well deserved first team try, older
brother Chris kicked the conversion 29-13.
Matlock attacked from the restart and after two minutes Matlock scored their
fifth and final try. Quick ball to the three quarters saw Tom Hooton break the
gain line and pass to Chris Buckley for his second try of the game, Young again
converted, 36-13.
With fifteen minutes remaining Matlock could have wrapped the game up but
whether from fatigue or a lack of ruthlessness they let the visitors attack too
easily and in the next seven minutes O.N's scored an unconverted try, a penalty
and a converted try making the final score 36-28.
A combination of some very good and not so good rugby but with several of the
top sides still to play at home a consolidation of home form and improvement of
away performance will see Matlock move up the table.
24-11-07
Newark 1st
XV 18
Matlock 1st
XV 9
Despite the wind, rain and cold this was a reasonable game
but Newark's power did not let Matlock settle into their preferred style of
play.
Newark started the stronger although there was little in it until after 8
minutes the referee awarded Newark a penalty within range and the
Nottinghamshire side went ahead 3-0.
Matlock came back strongly with good driving runs from skipper Chris Mease and
his back row but equally Newark took the opportunity to attack whenever
possible. This end to end play was good to watch but unfortunately a number of
errors meant neither team looked liked scoring. Finally after 23 minutes the
visitors were given a penalty which Young took with confidence, 3-3.
The pace of the game increased as both teams worked to take control but it was
Newark who created attacking pressure more effectively and despite some
outstanding Matlock defence a missed tackle eventually gave Newark an opening,
they drove for the line and scored on 31 minutes. The conversion was missed,
8-3.
The visitors stuck to the task at hand and three minutes later were rewarded
with a penalty which again Young kicked successfully, 8-6. In the remaining five
minutes of the half Matlock again found themselves under pressure but strong
tackling and some excellent clearance kicks kept the difference to two points
into half time.
The second half saw Newark continue to use their big front five to good effect
and when the penalty opportunities came they kicked for position rather than
goal. This tactic paid off after just six minutes of the half with a lineout 10
metres from the Matlock line, several powerful drives and Newark scored a second
try, again unconverted, 13-6.
To Newark's frustration Matlock still refused to back down and two minutes later
a third penalty was kicked by Young, 13-9. However, as the game went into the
last twenty minutes it was the visitors gritty defence rather than clever
decision making that kept the game reasonably even. Newark were playing in
Matlock territory for the most part and despite the addition of Gallagher in the
centre, Wagg on the back row and Gailey at prop Matlock's smaller forwards
were finding it increasingly difficult to match Newark's bulk. A third try went
Newarks way in the seventy-sixth minute, again unconverted, final score 18-9.
This was a fair performance by Matlock against a big, well
organised Newark side and it was Matlock’s decision making under pressure that
was the difference rather than any lack of skill or commitment. There is
certainly more to come from this Matlock team and building consistent
performances in a league that produces a surprise result virtually week will
enable them to move up the league table. This Saturday Matlock welcome Old
Northamptonians first and second teams to Cromford Meadows, Kick Off 2.15.
George Edwards
10-11-07
Matlock 1st XV 30
Paviors 1st XV 14
Matlock's recent encounters with the Nottingham side have been generally
entertaining and this game certainly continued the trend. The good news for
Matlock's players and supporters was that style of their win was much better
than recent performances.
Matlock started well with powerful first and second phases that left Paviors
with no option but to defend stoically, however home side pressure produced
results in just three minutes and Matlock went three points up from Young's
penalty. The minute or so stood behind the posts gave Pavs the chance to regroup
and they worked hard to get into the game but Matlock were only going in one
direction and after fourteen minutes a second penalty was awarded. The kick hit
the posts but sharp following up by Matlock almost produced a try in the corner,
the visitors managed to stop the score on this occasion but four minutes later
Matlock had another penalty and this time Young's kick was straight through the
posts, 6-0.
Matlock were looking the stronger side in most areas and despite a penalty miss
on twenty one minutes the inevitable try came from Matlock's captain Chris Mease
who finished off a clinical move by crashing over the line, Young converted,
13-0.
Paviors increased the pace in an attempt to get back on terms however the home
side defended superbly and at half time Matlock were confident, in control and
in front.
The start of the second half saw both sides exerting pressure in turn but it was
Matlock who eventually scored again on 59 minutes. A break around the front of
the lineout by Fletcher and Atkinson saw the latter score a well deserved try in
the corner, conversion missed, 18-0.
The final twenty minutes were the liveliest as both sides scored two try's. Pavs
on seventy minutes with a break away after two missed tackles, 18-7. Then
Matlock with an up and under from Young on his own 10 metre line, the bounce
beat all but Young himself who gathered his kick passed to Powell who went on a
winding 50 metre sprint to score a try which Young converted, 25-7. The third
was Matlock again with Young scoring the try but missing the conversion and
finally Pavs taking advantage of a brief lapse in concentration to cross the
line and convert. Final score 30-14.
This was a much improved Matlock performance which came mainly from improved
discipline and a more positive attitude, as Tom Hooton had a try disallowed and
thirteen more points were ‘blown’ by the strong cross wind this impressive win
against one of the leagues strongest sides could have been bigger still. Next
week the First XV have a break in the league schedule and the home games are
Matlock 2nd XV against Lincoln and Matlock 3rd XV against Mellish. Kick Off
2.15.
George Edwards
03-11-07
Hinckley 1st XV 11
Matlock 1st XV 3
Matlock's defence was better than previous games but their attack lacked an edge
and the sharpness of mind required to win in this league was not quite there
again.
Matlock started well and and for ten minutes had the greater amount of
possession but Hinckley closed down Matlock's options well and it was they who
had the first chance of points after eleven minutes however the penalty
attempt was wide of the mark.
A few minutes later Matlock also had penalty awarded but this too was wide and
the match was struggling to get going. Thankfully, the deadlock was broken a few
minutes later but unfortunately, for Matlock, it was Hinckley that scored a try
from inside their own half.
A series of missed tackles enabled the Hinckley forwards to rampage down the
pitch and to the delight of there supporters score what turned out to be the
only try of the match, the conversion was missed, 5-0. The rest of the half was
stalemate with both teams creating few opportunities although
Atkinson went forward well with ball in hand as did the Hinckley No.8 although
it was Adam Gallagher in the centre for Matlock who was repeatedly called upon
to tackle hard as Hinckley attacked in the midfield.
Matlock were intent on being more dynamic and aggressive in the contact in the
second half but in there enthusiasm they conceded a penalty after 46 minutes,
this was again missed but Hinckley had another opportunity on 50 minutes as back
row Lane was sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes for an infringement.
Hinckley kicked the penalty this time and Matlock were down to fourteen men,
8-0. The game continued to frustrate the visitors and when Hinckley were given a
penalty Matlock did not maintain their discipline giving away of ten metres to
put the penalty within kicking range, again the Hinckley kicker missed.
However, a few minutes later the home side kicked their fifth penalty attempt,
11-0.
A few minutes later Matlock were awarded a penalty which Fly Half Dave Hartley
kicked, 11-3, and with Hinckley forwards fading Matlock made substitutions,
Goodall, Wagg and Gailey entered the fray. The last ten minutes of the match was
all Matlock attack but despite a big final effort Hinckley hung on and Matlock's
short but positive winning run ended.
This Saturday sees Matlock at home against a strong Paviors side in a Vice
Presidents game. Despite losing their last two league matches, against the other
two sides in the top three, Pav's are a quality team and Matlock will need to
roll up their sleeves and get stuck in. Kick Off 2.15.
George Edwards
27-10-07
Matlock 1st XV 22
Ampthill 1st
21
This was a game with a nail-biting
finish, however it was perhaps Matlock's frustration at their own performance
that nearly cost them the match.
Both teams started well although the ambition to attack forced the pace of the
game and errors were made on both sides. Hartley's tactical kicking helped
Matlock spend most of the opening ten minutes in Ampthill's half and despite a
missed opportunity on nine minutes, with the final pass not going to hand,
Matlock scored a couple of minutes later. No 8 Mike Brooks powered over the line
after a series of mauls and Full Back Chris Young duly converted, 7-0.
The next ten minutes saw Matlock under pressure as the visitors ran the ball
hard and despite coping well with the Ampthill scrum and several kicks deep into
Matlock's half the Bedfordshire side were awarded a kickable penalty, but Fly
Half Bruce Thomas missed. Two minutes later Matlock were also awarded a penalty
but this time it was Young's turn to push the ball wide. As the rain set in the
first half was deadlocked as both teams struggled to break away. Then after 36
minutes Matlock moved the ball quickly left to right across the field, Tom
Hooton changed the angle of the attack smoothly and was through the Ampthill
defence. Hooton was stopped short of the line but Hartley was on hand score the
try, the conversion was missed, 12-0 at half time.
Five minutes into the second half Matlock scored again from a Young penalty,
15-0, and many thought this was chance for Matlock to pull away. Unfortunately,
Ampthill had other ideas and Matlock’s momentum stalled, from
uncharacteristically sloppy Matlock play Ampthill scored a converted try after
fifty-one minutes, 15-7. The Matlock players looked at each other for
inspiration but none came and just five minutes later Ampthill crossed the line
again, Thomas converted, 15-14.
The teams traded a penalty in the next few minutes both without success and it
took an individual try from Chris Young to give Matlock a little breathing
space. The neat chip bounced a metre short of the line and Young beat the two
defenders to ground the ball, he then converted the try, 22-14 with six minutes
plus stoppage time remaining.
Matlock should have been able to hang on with the visitors needing a try to get
on terms but to Ampthill's credit they won the 50/50 ball and several Matlock
scrums 'against the head'. This work rate and self-belief eventually paid off
when they scored a converted try with three minutes to go, 22-21.
The tension was rapidly building and when Ampthill were awarded a penalty
with just a minute of the game left Matlock could do no more than watch the
opposition kicker line up for one last attempt, he missed and Matlock won by the
skin of their teeth.
Despite this being a better performance than last weekend Matlock can, and will
need to, play much better. The next three league matches see them up against two
of the three 'top of the league' sides, Paviors away and Newark at home. These
matches could decide whether this is a season as good as the last or just
another season in Midlands Two, only the players can make this decision.
Firstly, they travel to Hinckley this Saturday, 2.15 KO.
20-10-07
Market Bosworth 1st XV 20
Matlock 1st XV 26
Matlock needed to win this away fixture to have a chance of a successful
assault on the top of Midlands Two but despite winning this game the performance
was not altogether convincing.
The first fifteen minutes was all Bosworth, not least as nine penalties were
awarded by the referee in that time and only two went Matlock’s way. Bosworth
used this advantage with one of the penalties successfully kicked after nine
minutes and an unconverted try after thirteen minutes, 8-0.
Play rarely flowed freely in this half with both teams unsure of the boundary’s
particularly in the loose forward encounters although Bosworth’s dominance in
the set pieces generally gave them the upper hand. Despite a few opportunities
for both teams only Matlock scored in the remainder of the half with a penalty
from the boot of Chris Young, the half time score an uninspiring 8-3.
Matlock started the second half in much better form and after just two minutes
Young again punished Bosworth with a penalty, 8-6. Bosworth were more intent on
a forward game and mauled Matlock with numerous forward drives which eventually
saw them crash over the Matlock line for a try on 50 minutes, but again they
couldn’t convert, 13-6. As Matlock tried to run the ball the Bosworth No 7
continued to do a sterling job of frustrating their attempts but after 55
minutes Young kicked yet another penalty, 13-9. The next ten minutes saw
Bosworth take charge again and although they missed a penalty attempt a charged
down Matlock clearance kick saw them score a converted try to stretch the lead
to eleven points, 20-9.
Matlock seemed motivated by the apparent injustice of their situation, directed
their energies positively and with replacements Goodall, Gailey and Twyford took
hold of the game. Two minutes later Matlock winger Buckley crossed the Bosworth
line, Young converted and the gap narrowed to four points again. Matlock were
now playing the best rugby of the game and five minutes later Young kicked
another penalty, 20-19.
In the closing minutes of the game Matlock stayed focused and attacked with a
sharp passing move, Gallagher drew the defence, put Powell away for a foot race
to the line and the try (in this game at least) was awarded. Young converted and
with a few minutes plus injury time left Matlock took the lead for the first
time in the game 20-26. Bosworth now threw everything at Matlock but discipline
and last ditch tackling enabled Matlock to hang on.
Final score 20-26.
The delight and relief at the final whistle showed in the Matlock team but with
a home fixture against Ampthill this Saturday they must perform well for the
full eighty minutes. Kick Off 3.00.
13-10-07
Morley 1st XV 43
Matlock 1st XV 17
The visit to National Three side Morley had a grand feel to it as Matlock 1st XV
arrived at a professional arena and became entertainers as well as rugby
players.
The visitors started well and for the first five minutes Matlock had the
majority of possession to the obvious pleasure of the 50 plus travelling
supporters in the stand but as the Yorkshire side warmed up the game evened
out, after 8 minutes Morley were rewarded when referee, Mike Reid, signalled a
penalty, 3-0 to the home side.
The game was looking fairly even and Matlock were more than a match for the big
Morley forwards in the set pieces. Young's tactical kicking was also excellent
and the home side soon realised that the way to the line was 'out wide'. The did
this with a long 'very flat' pass to their speedy winger, the flag of touch
judge Steve Davies stayed down and the line was crossed without much trouble,
the conversion added, 10-0.
Matlock attacked from the restart and for ten minutes threatened the Morley line
on several occasions but couldn't quite get the final pass away. Morley
eventually cleared their lines and in professional fashion went straight for the
line. Matlock's first up tackling was poor and Morley scored a second try, again
converted, 17-3.
Matlock showed great determination and drove back at the home side eventually
forcing a penalty, unfortunately Young didn't convert. Morley made more efforts
to score but were denied by Matlock's defence, in particular an excellent
'tackle and steal' by full back Tom Hooton.
The opening minutes of the second half were a roller coaster with Morley scoring
a third try within 3 minutes 24-3. Then Matlock centre Liam Blake intercepted a
Morley pass 2 minutes later to race 70 metres toward the line, the Morley winger
used his considerable pace to catch Blake just metres short but a clever step
saw the winger wrong footed and Blake scoring with a celebration, Young
converted 24-10.
Morley now started substitutions, with strong running and methodical tactics the
home side scored three more try's on 64, 72 and 79 minutes although only the
first and third were converted. At 43-10 to Morley the game was lost however
Matlock still attacked at every opportunity and illegal play by Morley earned
them a penalty fifteen metres out. Choosing to move the ball rather kick for
goal Matlock mauled toward the Morley try-line and with prop Bunting poised to
crash over the referee saw a further infringement and signalled a penalty try.
Final score 43-17.
This was a great effort against a professional side that were slightly stronger,
fitter and better drilled. However, it took Morley until the last fifteen
minutes of the game to truly make any headway and the Matlock squad, staff and
supporters can stand proud after an superb all round effort. The focus is now on
the league and with the imminent return of Dave Hartley, Adam Gallagher, Matt
Briddon and Richard Carnell the collective strength of this group of
men continues to increase. This Saturday sees Matlock1st XV away to Market
Bosworth. Kick off 3.00.
George Edwards
6-10-07
Matlock 1st XV
50
Melton Mowbray 1st XV
28
Matlock first team were ready for a forward battle against the powerful
Melton pack and with Dave Ball back from work in Scotland they were ready. The
question was perhaps could Matlock’s backs use pace and skill to turn possession
into points? Into the squad changing room steps Chris Young, back from a summer
playing for Calgary Irish in Canada, team confidence grows.
The home side started well with aggression and pace and after forcing a scrum
ten metres from the Melton line Matlock scrum half Ben Wragg crossed the line in
the corner after just five minutes, Young couldn’t convert the long range kick.
Melton came straight back and their reward was a penalty which fly half Will
Parry took cleanly to close the score to 5-3. Matlock were unfazed and attacked
from the restart, the ball was shipped quickly to winger Powell who easily
outpaced the Melton defence to score after eight minutes, the long conversion
attempt was missed. Melton attacked from the restart and were given a second
penalty, 10-6 to Matlock and only ten minutes gone. The game was becoming a
little frantic and the team that settled first would come out on top. Prop Ball
suffered a bleeding and broken nose, and was temporarily replaced by Hotchin but
he took the field again a few minutes later. The interruption gave Matlock a
chance to regroup and the result was good pressure with the home side gaining
two penalties in quick succession. Young this time found form with the boot and
Matlock’s lead stretched to 16-6.
The try of the game came after twenty-eight minutes when Blake broke the
Melton defensive line with pace and a well-timed pass, Matlock crossed the line
and Young added the two points 26-6. Matlock then relaxed a little too much and
this enabled Melton to score an easy, but unconverted, try four minutes later.
They continued to attack as half time approached but Matlock defence held and it
was the home side who managed the final score of the half, another Young
penalty, 26-11 to Matlock.
The second half started much like the first but the visitors were already
looking tired and Matlock were able to run the ball more easily. The home side
moved the ball more quickly and Young almost crossed the line after a
penetrating run, thankfully prompt support saw back row Rollinson crash over the
line a few seconds later, Young converted. Matlock attacked again three minutes
later and Powell was again on hand to sprint 40 metres to score his second try.
Melton were awarded a penalty a few minutes later which was again well taken,
38-14. Matlock started a series of substitutions, the first was Lane on for
Poyser and a few minutes later Neville for Tom Hooton. Matlock continued to
attack and Bunting was unlucky not to score and Neville was also stopped a metre
short. Matlock should have shut Melton out of the game in the final ten minutes
but four converted try’s were scored, two for each side. Rollinson got his
second and Atkinson scored Matlock’s final points with Young converting the
first and hitting the post with the second. Unusually Matlock let Melton also
score twice with relative ease, final score 50-28.
A more clinical approach may have seen a seventy nil thrashing of the
beleaguered Leicestershire side but this was undeniably a fine Matlock
performance and they should take confidence from the result. Only top of the
league Paviors have scored more against Melton this season.
This was an important game for Matlock in many ways. The previous weeks
performance against Kettering was generally poor and the serious injury to Dan
Hooton could make even an elite player think twice. However, such is the spirit
in the Matlock Rugby Senior Squad that this became more than just a ‘need to
win’ league game against a team at the bottom of the league. It was a chance to
boost confidence before a very big game against National League side Morley and
prove that Kettering was just one of those occasional bad day’s. So this week
sees Matlock in the first round on the EDF National Trophy against National
Three side Morley, giant killers are rare in rugby but you can be assured of an
epic battle. Kick off 2.30.
29/9/07
MIDLANDS 2 EAST
KETTERING 38
MATLOCK 12
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A disastrous first 20
minutes and a serious injury to young centre Dan Hooton made Matlock’s trip to
Kettering a dismal affair.
Although Kettering had beaten Matlock twice last season
Matlock travelled confidently following their excellent win over Banbury the
previous week. The first 20 minutes were always going to be crucial - Kettering
started at pace; Matlock didn’t start at all.
Elementary defensive errors allowed Kettering to attack from
the kick off and a scrum near the Matlock line brought a try to Kettering within
2 minutes. Kettering’s confidence soared,their scrum was dominant and fluent
attacking moves rained down on Matlock from every angle.
Three more converted tries followed in quick succession and
,after only 20 minutes Matlock were 28 - 0 down and facing a cricket score.
To their credit Matlock re-grouped. Their defensive
organisation re-surfaced , the scrummage became more secure and Matlock
threatened with forward surges from Atkinson, Lane and Wood .
With the score still 28 - 0 at half time the start of the
second half was again going to be vital and again Matlock made a bad start as
poor tackling allowed Kettering an early try.
Matlock rallied and an individual try from Blake reduced the
arrears before Dan Hooton , making a routine tackle suffered a dislocated and
fractured ankle, an injury which was to see him detained in hospital in
Kettering.
The injury took the steam out of the game . Blake scored an
excellent second try converted by skipper Mease but Kettering had the final
score with an unconverted try in the corner.
Matlock will need to show improvements in all aspects of
their game when Melton Mowbray , with their huge pack , visit Cromford Meadows
this Saturday (Kick off 3pm )
22-9-07
Matlock 1st
XV 31
Banbury 1St
XV 6
Matlock were
unsure of Banbury’s potential in the first home game of the season but soon
settled into a positive and expansive pattern of play which saw them over-come
the Oxfordshire side with relative ease.
Despite the
score line it was Banbury who struck first with a penalty just inside the
Matlock half after five minutes, Blake was judged to hold the ball too long in
the tackle and the Banbury fly half took his chance, 3-0 to the visitors.
Matlock kept to their game plan with powerful scummaging and competent lineout
enabling attacking ball for the three-quarters and after 14 minutes Dan Hooton
sliced through the Banbury defence to score under the posts, Hartley converted
7-3.
Banbury
continued to attack when they had chance but good defensive pressure by Matlock
forced handling errors. Matlock on the other hand made fewer mistakes and with a
series of forward drives forced a scrum ten metres from the Banbury line. The
ball was won cleanly and scrum half Wragg added variety by scampering around the
blind side to score, Hartley again converted, 14-3 to Matlock. The final score
of the half went Banbury’s way from a penalty but Matlock were aiming to take
the game away from Banbury in the second half.
The visitors
started the second half well but Matlock were now causing the Banbury scrum
considerable problems and even the arrival of their giant prop substitute did
improve the set pieces much. Matlock also made a replacement with Atkinson on
for Poyser. Atkinson revived the impact in Matlock’s forwards and was rewarded
for his efforts with a try after 58 minutes, Hartley converted, 21-6. The home
side continued to attack but failed to cross the line for another 15 minutes
until eventually Blake’s robust run left the defence flat-footed and a short
pass to winger Buckley saw him cross the line after 74 minutes, the conversion
was missed but Matlock were now playing with confidence and a clever kick
through to the corner by Brooks a few minutes
later typified the level of ambition. The final score came with just
three minutes to the whistle, Brooks created ample space for winger Powell, on
for Tom Hooton, who raced to the corner. Final score 31-6.
It would be easy
to say that Matlock should have scored more points against a team that will
struggle in Midlands Two but it is some time since Matlock scored five try’s
without conceding any whilst not relying on the boot of Chris Young, a good team
effort. This Saturday sees Matlock making the long journey to Kettering in what
may be the toughest encounter of the season so far, they will need to be
prepared, focused and powerful.
George Edwards
15-9-07
Derby 1st XV - 8
Matlock 1st XV - 18
‘Plenty of Ball’ helped Matlock 1st VX make it four straight wins
in the last twelve months against local rivals Derby. It was not just the extra
possession gained from a very solid scrummage but prop Dave Ball back in the
front row with former Captain Jonny Bunting were outstanding in both set pieces
and loose play.
The game started well for Matlock who looked positive from the whistle and
Matlock’s first score was after just ten minutes when prop Ball (flown back for
the weekend from work in the Western Isles of Scotland) touched down after a
series of powerful forward drives, Hartley converted to make it 7-0.
Derby came back strongly, attempting to run the ball wide but Matlock
defended well; with fly-half Hartley particularly effective; although eventually
Derby forced two penalties in quick succession, kicking only one to make the
score 7-3 after 25 minutes.
The match progressed at a lively pace with neither team able to take full
control. The deadlock was finally broken when; after several phases of Matlock
attack; Hartley stretched for the line and with fourteen minutes to play the
score was Matlock 12- Derby 3. Derby continued to pressure Matlock and within
five minutes a slick Derby attack saw them cross the Matlock line. They failed
to convert leaving the score at a tantalising 12-8 to Matlock.
This was to be the last time Matlock let Derby have any decent possession and
as they attacked again with replacements Lane for Brooks and Powell for Dan
Hooton the pace was too much. Derby conceded two penalties in the final minutes
that were taken well, if not stylishly, by Hartley to make the final score
Matlock 18–Derby 8.
Matlock can take a great deal from their performance however they will need
to at least maintain the level this Saturday when Oxfordshire side Banbury visit
Cromford Meadows for Matlock’s first home league match of the season, kick off
3pm.
George Edwards
8-9-07
Syston 1st XV 34
Matlock 1st XV 10
A long and winding road certainly sums up Matlock's journey to Midlands 2 new
boys Syston and it may also be the story for Matlock's season ahead.
As several Matlock players, and the referee, struggled through the traffic chaos
caused by the Motocross Championships at Donnington Park, the Leicestershire
side were blessed with slightly more than the normal home advantage.
Matlock started well despite the delayed kick off and looked to attack whenever
possible, unfortunately Syston did the same and after ten minutes winger Powell
was judged to have obstructed a Syston attacker resulting in a successful
penalty and a yellow card for Powell. The game progressed at a quicker pace than
Matlock's warm up games but with only fourteen men the visitors defence held
firm, a typically well timed tackle by Dan Hooton thwarted a certain Syston score. However,
as Syston's confidence grew the pressure increased and eventually Matlock
conceded two quick try's created by the experienced Syston pack. The first from
a scrum 15 metres out, not converted, the second from a strong drive by the home
side forwards saw them surge over the line, this time with the two extra
points.
At 15-0 down and with half time approaching Matlock continued to work hard with
an excellent tackle from Powell denying a Syston score. Atkinson, Rollinson and
Brooks kept things lively but despite their efforts Matlock could not find the
elusive first score before half time.
Syston started the second half with a bang scoring a converted try from kick off
and they perhaps expected Matlock to crumble at this point, but no. Matlock went
on the offensive again and this time were rewarded for their resilience with a
try in the corner from a good forward drive, Brooks touched down but Blake
couldn't convert. This score certainly rallied Matlock but a comeback was not on
the cards as Syston weathered several Matlock attacks and then used their
increasing possession from scrum and lineout to score a further two try's on 65
and 78 minutes, only one was converted.
In the dying moments the last shout went to Matlock with an injury time try from
Dan Hooton. As Syston awaited the final whistle Matlock attacked again. Quick
ball from Wragg, pace and a well timed pass from Powell saw the visitors cross
the line in the final play of the match.
There is a definite feeling of history repeating as once again Matlock start the
season with players unavailable and others out of position or with unfamiliar
responsibilities but the players effort showed that the Matlock Rugby spirit is
strong and one game does not make season. However, if they say ‘winning doesn't
happen in a straight line’ Matlock will need to smooth out a few of the corners
away at archrivals Derby this Saturday.
George Edwards
1-9-07
Sutton Coldfield 1st XV 10
Matlock 1st XV 7
In Matlock's last two encounters with Sutton Coldfield in '95 and '96 their
West Midlands rivals came out on top notching up over 80 points in the two games
to Matlock's token 16 and although over ten years has past and fortunes have
changed Matlock could still not force a win in their last warm up match before
the league season starts this Saturday.
Matlock, despite the final score, were the better team this time and the
positives to take from the game are many, not least good performances from the
younger squad members. Danny Fletcher, Liam Blake and Tom Hooton in particular
were a positive influence. The game started well for Matlock with a fair amount
of possession but this wasn't converted into try's and although Sutton
Coldfield's big forwards were forced into giving away penalties Matlock failed
to punish them, missing three attempts on goal in the first twenty minutes. The
remainder of the half plodded on with occasional glimpses of what Matlock had to
offer in attack and when Sutton tried to increase the pace Matlock's trademark
defence held firm, Sutton did however force a penalty to give them a three point
lead at half time.
The break was welcome as it gave a chance for Matlock to evaluate and regroup
and the second half showed further promise with a greater sense of urgency. This
period of pressure eventually resulted in a try for Matlock under the posts. The
scorer, Chris Buckley, reacted quickly to take his chance and following a
flowing Matlock move blazed a path through the Sutton Coldfield defence, James
Young neatly converted. This perhaps should have been the cue for Matlock
to take the game beyond the reach of Sutton but Matlock's speed of reaction and
concentration were just not quite there. Sutton Coldfield again took the
initiative and half way through the second half scored a converted try to lead
10-7. Matlock continued to press the opposition line with some strong scrummages
and powerful driving mauls but clinical finishing was not on the Matlock résumé
this day.
On this performance Matlock certainly have the skill and ability to match last
years excellent standard but to rely on team spirit and good intentions alone
will not be enough, to win the 50/50 games they must be more ruthless,
aggressive and uncompromising!
George Edwards
