Chronicle Spring 2022

49 ST EDWARD’S CHRONICLE

strong and physical Radley side, the match made harder psychologically as we had to play away. It was a tough game and Radley showed their true class, quality and strength in depth. Despite the score line and more injuries to deal with, the boys played with character and courage. They took their heavy defeat in their stride and sang loudly on their way home. Having had a good rest over a Leave Weekend, the boys were now introduced to some more of the finer technical aspects of the game, particularly rucking and set piece plays, learning so much in a short space of time. They prepared well to take on Marlborough College but fielded a weaker side as they were carrying a lot of injuries and sadly they were just outplayed and lost by seven tries. Having been outplayed again by a very big and skilful Bloxham team, morale was low and the team needed to change things quickly to help them recover momentum. The boys bounced back brilliantly and celebrated a commanding win over Stowe, earning back a sense of self-belief. There were some standout performances from Rob Murdoch, Laith Termanini, Ferdie Lapidus, JJ Slater and Aubrey Cassell. On paper the results weren’t impressive, but the Yearling coaches have been really impressed with the boys’ attitude from start to finish. Yearling Cs have had a strong season, playing a number of fixtures, both touch and contact. They have only lost two games, with notable wins against Bloxham, Stowe and Marlborough. They have worked hard, and all made excellent progress with their ball-handling and tackling and have worked very well as a team. Olly Price and Alex McCarthy must be commended for playing every game this season. The most improved player is Jonty Robson, who has shown perseverance and grown in confidence throughout the season. Elsewhere, the Yearlings D had an unbeaten season. They defeated Malborough, Radley twice (not many teams can ever claim that!) and had an entertaining 25-25 draw with Stowe. Many of the team then went on to play for the Cs. They trained well, developed a good set of skills and were a pleasure to coach.

Freddie Walton scores a try

but what stood out the most was the physicality, camaraderie and hunger for success. Victories against Pangbourne (59-7), MCS Oxford (41-0) and a 7-5 nailbiter at Marlborough were very pleasing and set a strong platform for the rest of the season. The second half of term saw a narrow 5-14 defeat against Stowe in some tough conditions. However, this was followed by three wins on the bounce against RGS High Wycombe (22-8) where the team played their best rugby of the term, The Oratory School (36-5) on Upper 1 which was a very physical encounter and the final game of the season against Malvern (50-3) where they scored the try of the season in the last play of the match, running the length of the pitch. Every member of the squad played their part in this very successful season and should be commended for their hard work throughout the term. For the Shells it was a joy that they were able to play rugby again, but this season was a tough one, as they played eight matches but only won two. The team was brilliantly led throughout the season by Nico Relton who showed some great qualities as a leader and really encouraged the boys to give their best. The team began with much excitement and anticipation and the Yearlings A came away with a good, hard-fought victory against a spirited Pangbourne side, beating them 40-20. Pangbourne started very strongly and scored three very quick and impressive tries, showing great hands

and using their pace out wide. Teddies regrouped and after some words from the skipper under the posts then played to their strengths and showed off their skills. Special mention should go to Barney Matthews, who although he got injured in the game, showed what a special talent he is alongside with JJ Kane in the centre. This game was a great first taste of rugby at Teddies and the boys were very excited for the season ahead. The next match was against a very

Charlie Mason