In an attempt to lessen the impact of playing games on back to back days, we decided to travel to Knox on Wednesday night to play our make up game. We were greeted by a cold night and a pitch without much grass. Thankfully, the players all turned up on time and we even had a number of reserves who had made the trip.

We took the game to Knox in the early minutes, with the forwards recycling the ball with ease and the set pieces looking strong. Lock Dave Shaw came within a few metres of scoring after a great rolling maul from 20m finally broke down. Unfortunately Knox were able to scramble and get out of their 22. A number of penalties gave Knox the opportunity to work their way up the pitch and kick a penalty goal to open the scoring. Centre Josh Hayward scored next, but we were unable to convert. This left us with a slim 5-3 advantage at half time.

The second half started well with replacement fullback Tom Stephenson slotting two penalty goals to stretch the lead to 11-3. Prop Benn Skykes burrowed over for a converted try before winger Rob Clark finished for an unconverted try in the corner. There was an opportunity to score a bonus point try, but some handling errors cost us and the score remained at 23-3.

The team put in a great performance, despite the penalty count heavily favouring Knox. Flanker Tom Pashley was everywhere and despite some heavy tackles, kept putting his body on the line. Hooker Tyler Harrhy put on hit after hit, while number eight Joe Skeet used his immense size and power to carry Knox defenders over the gain line.

Best & Fairest

3 – Tom Pashley #7

2 – Tyler Harrhy #2

1 – Joe Skeet #8