St Edward's Rhubarb Issue 5

ST EDWARD’S r h u b a r b

51

M A R T Y R S

Martyrs Vs Old Waynfletes The only thing lacking from the Martyrs annual fixture against the MCS Waynfletes was a full quota of opposition. As usual, the Martyrs were over resourced, boasting a depth of talent and familiar faces from “the Al Fry years” to a smattering of 2015 leavers. With only a handful of Waynfletes in attendance, mixed teams were the order of the day and a host of Martyrs who also boasted Old Dragon status stepped up Football Martyrs Vs Radley Rangers For the third year running on a cold and blustery morning in West London, the Martyrs saddled up for another episode of thrills and spills vs. Radley Rangers. With household names like Nick Roblin (G, 2000-2005), Bertie Conibear , Ben Ridgway (F, 2000-2005) and Nick Palmer (H, 2000-2005), the Martyrs started a pass-and-move game with a Terry Venables-branded Christmas Tree formation tightly held. After a relatively benign first 15 minutes - and a goal apiece disallowed for offside - the intent of both sides was clear: Attack, and test the referee’s resolve! Then, on the stroke of the 25th minute, a pinpoint ball from the midfield engine of Adam Reeve (C, 2000-2005) put through Ben Lewis (A, 2000-2005) who fired a shot across goal and with the keeper unable to handle the fizz, the ball fell to Tom Allen (B, 2000-2005) who duly obliged to poke home from 2 ½ yards. Reminiscent of a young(ish) Robbie Fowler, his heroics

“rallying” efforts ensure an enthusiasm for, and quality of, OSE hockey that is matched by few other schools. Jasper Joyce (K, 2005-2010)

to support them. Sadly the quality of the hastily assembled Old Dragon XI proved too much for the Martyrs XI, whose attacking flair was undermined by a sieve- like defensive structure. Nonetheless, a very enjoyable day in the September sun was had by all. Thanks, as ever, should be extended to Phil Blanchard (A, 1977-1982), John Wiggins (MCR) and Pete Swainson (F, 1995-2000), who’s administrative and sparked wild celebrations from the Martyrs and their fans. Radley immediately replied with a barrage of attacks but last ditch challenges from Huw Trythall (C, 2000-2005) and Tom Armstrong (C, 2000-2005) took the Martyrs through to half time a goal to the good. Spirits were high amongst the lads and following a number of strong challenges from Ross Kerr (F, 2000-2005), Radley soon realised the task ahead was more Everest than Nevis. With the woodwork quickly becoming the Martyrs’ 12th man and a series of headers from captain Ben Riley (A, 2000-2005) keeping the lead intact, Radley continued to push forward allowing a Leicester City-esque counter attack from the Martyrs. A brace seemed written in the stars only for Tom Allen to fluff his lines leaving the tie closely poised going into the last 10. The wind behind and a storm brewing, Radley bombarded the box but vital challenges from all - including a last-ditch goal-line clearance from Nick Palmer - thwarted any chances. Lungs were bursting and players were falling but the Martyrs held on for a well-deserved

Jasper Joyce, Alastair Delafield (E, 1994-1999) and Will Kerr-Dineen (G, 2003-2008) look on as an Old Waynflete manages to get the ball away while under pressure from two Martyrs.

victory and the all-important clean sheet; a decade in the waiting but one for the mantelpiece for Nick Gleave. Team spirit and sportsmanship were exemplary both on the pitch and in the ensuing hours. The jars were certainly enjoyed, tasting that bit sweeter after a famous result against the Old Enemy. A special thanks must go to the Martyrs for contributing funds to help organise the day - such events are important in keeping the spirit alive and old rivalries burning.

Bertie Conibear (E, 2000-2005) and Nick Gleave (F, 2000-2005)

Martyrs Vs Radley Rangers