Saturday, 21st November 2009
PORTSMOUTH 30
TOTTONIANS 7
Saturday, 14th November 2009
TOTTONIANS 20
TROJANS 12
This merit table match and local derby promised to be a game more dominated by the strong gusty wind and slippery underfoot conditions, rather than the skill of the players. As it turned out, nothing could have been further from
the truth! The match produced some excellent, enterprising rugby with strong defensive displays from both sides.
Despite playing into the wind, Totts started strongly, a trademark of our play this year, dominating for the first twenty minutes, during which time Trojans had virtually no possession. Our set pieces were solid and offensive rucking
dynamic, with James Angove particularly impressive in the tight and the loose. Despite some telling carries from Pete Belasco and
Kev Barrett, we could find no way through a resolute Trojans' defence. A good back row move saw Mike Dibden break deep into opposition territory, but the cover defence was too strong — a
major feature of the Trojans' play in the first half. The visitor's were having to content themselves with feeding from Totts' errors and a poor kick by the home team allowed them to launch an attack from within their own half which, following
some excellent support work, resulted in a try wide out on the right. The conversion was missed so it was 0 – 5 to our guests. That score was completely against the run of play and we were soon on the offensive
again, forcing a series of set pieces deep into Trojans' twenty-two, but a combination of good defence, plus some poor options by Totts, saw half time reached with nothing to show for our plentiful possession and territorial advantage.
Tottonians started the second half strongly once again, determined to turn our superiority into points and soon the Trojans' line was under pressure. A series of attacks led by Simon Hordell put
Joe Jarvis into space on the right. He cleverly beat a couple of defenders to the right of the posts to touch down, but the conversion slid narrowly wide, so the scores were now level at 5 – 5. Straight from the restart, a strong run by Dan Taylor put Totts on the front foot and an astute kick by
Tom Young put us into a good attacking position. A surge through the Trojans' defence by Wayne Gilroy set up a quick ruck on their twenty-two, from which
Joe Jarvis fed Simon Hordell, who side-stepped the full back to score to the left of the posts, putting Totts 10 – 5 in front. There seemed no way back for Trojans,
starved as they were of possession. Then suddenly, a mix-up in the Totts' midfield allowed the Trojans' centre to pick up a wayward pass and race sixty metres downfield, to score between the posts. The simple conversion reversed the situation and
we were now trailing 10 – 12. We now showed our real depth of team spirit. Rather than letting this deter us, it spurred us on to put in an even greater effort.
The introduction of Stu Mackrell added new impetus and his strong carries soon had Trojans on the back foot. A series of attacking drives saw the opposition penalised at a ruck and
Lee Brading landed the kick, 13 – 12. The game was now all Tottonians and from a line out on our opponents' ten metres line, we moved the ball right and then left through six phases,
culminating in Simon Hordell taking a short angled pass from Joe Jarvis to score near the posts.
Lee Brading claimed the extras to take the final score to 20 – 12.
Man of the Match — Simon Hordell.
Bob Millard
MOTM Simon hordell
Saturday, 7th November 2009
BOURNEMOUTH 15
TOTTONIANS 17
This was a very tight and evenly fought contest against a strong Bournemouth Seconds.
Playing up the slope in the first half, Tottonians started strongly putting together a series of attacks which tested the opposition defence to the full. Following a series of quick rucks, Joe Jarvis
found some space thirty metres out and jinked past a bewildered Bournemouth defence to score near the posts. Lee Brading added the conversion to put the visitors 0 – 7 in
front. Although Totts were strong in attack, our defence left a lot to be desired. A number of missed tackles on the opposition's centre and No. 8 led to a line out five metres from our line, from which the home side were able to drive over.
The conversion was missed 5 – 7. Totts were quickly on the offensive again with Danny Taylor and
Pete Belasco prominent. Pressure on the Bournemouth line led to a five metres scrummage from which Jason Jones powered over, but Lee Brading narrowly missed the
conversion, 5 – 12. Sadly, the advantage did not last long as once again defensive frailties allowed the opposition to make ground, seemingly at will, and a number of phases led to their right winger scoring wide out,
bringing the score to 10 – 12 after a failed conversion. Totts were not really able to get back into the game or establish any sort of platform and the Dorset side took
advantage with some strong attacks which led to another try right on half time, this time from a close pick and drive from their pack. Half time 15 –12.
Following an honest half time appraisal of our first half defence and what to do about it, Totts were a totally different defensive proposition in the second period, to the extent that Bournemouth were hardly in the Totts' third,
although their defence was excellent. Time after time Totts surged forwards, mainly through some superb carries from Jason Jones, well supported by Dan Taylor
and Joe Searle. With Kev Barrett and Matt Harris also prominent in the loose, the game was all Tottonians,
who did everything but score. However, with the introduction of Stu Mackrell with thirty minutes to go, Totts went into another gear. A series of strong carries led to quick ruck ball from which
Joe Jarvis made the decisive break, again beating the Bournemouth defence, to touch down on their right. The conversion was narrowly missed, 15 –17. The
opposition now rallied and only resolute defence and strong tackling from Mike Dibden and Alex Findlay kept them pinned in their own half. Totts' backs
were now playing with more confidence and a strong break from Craig Bromby led to a penalty. Totts spurned a possible shot at goal for the attacking line out, which came to nothing. The rest of the game was
played out with both sides attacking at every opportunity, but Totts ran out deserved winners against our best opposition so far this season.
Man of the Match — Dan Taylor.
Bob Millard
Saturday, 31st October 2009
BASINGSTOKE III 30
TOTTONIANS 26
The Second XV travelled to Basingstoke fielding eleven changes from the previous week, but with most of the players having had second team experience already this season. The notable exceptions was a Colts centre pairing of
Scott Rogers and Dave “DJ” Jones who were playing their first game of senior rugby.
Despite all the changes, Totts' start was inspirational, the opposition kicked off and a long clearance kick from Josh Young found touch in the opponents' third. A stolen line out and eleven phases later,
Alex Findlay touched down on the left with Tom Young adding the conversion. Within minutes, the visitors were on the board again after a powerful fifteen metres driven line
out had all of the opposition forwards committed. Mike Dibden came off his wing to take a lovely inside pass from Josh Young to score near the posts. Again the conversion
from Tom Young was successful and Totts showed a 0 – 14 lead. We continued to play enterprising rugby with the powerful carries of Dave Jones and
darting runs of Scott Rogers a feature. Basingstoke gradually got back into the game and were testing our midfield with their powerful centres only to come up against the brick wall that was
DJ and Scott. Having failed with this strategy they turned to a kicking game, which proved more successful and led to a try wide out which was unconverted,
5 – 14. Totts' forwards now turned up the pressure and made inroads into the opposition defence with some powerful carries in which captain Matt Sheen, Simon Rodaway,
Kevin Barrett and Stuart Mackrell all featured. This led to pressure on the Basingstoke line and Craig Gray was unlucky to have a try
disallowed for crossing. Back came Basingstoke and again their kicking game paid dividends, when a clever chip for their right wing brought another score which this time was converted.
Half time 12 – 14.
The home side made seven changes for the second half, all from their academy, which changed the pace of the game completely. While Totts were adjusting, Basingstoke took advantage with a well-worked try from their excellent left wing replacement,
which was followed by a penalty to give them a 20 – 14 lead. Far from being daunted by this, we drove deep into their half and were rewarded when Craig Gray touched down from a
driven line out, bringing us back to within one point at 20 – 19. Then came the turning point of the match. Basingstoke took a quick line out although the line had formed. With Totts taken by surprise, the home side's
full back ran fifty metres to score under the posts. The conversion made the score 25 – 19. We responded by playing some of our best rugby of the half and had we not wasted two clear overlaps, we could have had the
game sewn up. As it was, it took a piece of individual brilliance by Scott Rogers to make a thirty metres break and touch down under the posts. The extra put us ahead 25 – 26 with
barely three minutes left on the clock. With time running out, Totts' defence seemed to have done enough until the opposition put together six excellent phases which culminated in their centre score the winning try deep into injury time to steal
a fantastic encounter 30 – 26.
The team spirit and the quality of some of the rugby was second to none. The effort and commitment was no better demonstrated than in the play of our two guests from the Colts, Dave Jones and
Scott Rogers. There were notable performances also from Matt Sheen and Kev Barrett, who worked tirelessly throughout the game.
Man of the Match:— Scott Rogers.
Bob Millard
Saturday, 3rd November 2007
OAKMEDIANS 17
TOTTONIANS 32
A generally excellent performance from a very strong Second XV featuring thirteen players in the starting line up with first team experience.
The first half was pretty much all Totts, with the front five dominant in the scrum with Mark Goodger and Ryan Eustace to the fore. Ryan was particularly impressive at loose
head for someone so new to the position. Behind the scrum, Dave Wood and Paul Brading were persistent thorns in the Oak's side and continually made ground. Out wide on the
right wing, Mike Taylor had perhaps his best game in a while and finished with a deserved hat trick.
After the break the game became more scrappy with Oaks targeting both Dave Wood and the supply of excellent ball he was receiving from Lee Brading at scrum half. Despite
this, Totts continued to dominate possession and position. Dave Wood finished the scoring with a solitary second half try to add to the brace he had scored in the first period. It is not often we have a double
hat trick in the same game.
The only disappointing thing to note is a nasty back injury to Mark Amey, sustained only ten minutes after his introduction at half time. We wish Mark well and hope for a speedy recovery.
In summary, an excellent performance with a number of players proving they are First XV quality and are in the mix for selection.
Gav Williams
Saturday 31st March 2007
TOTTONIANS 10
HAVANT A 15
Despite the high number of fixtures between the two teams this season, this was never going to be a stale affair. With the carrot of a play-off final place, maximum commitment was shown by both sides. Uncharacteristically and
against the wind, Totts got off to a flying start. With the possession heavily in favour of Totts and some flowing rugby from the backs, it was only the solid Havant defence that kept the try line intact. The wind played its part with the big
boot of the Havant 10 able to turn defence into attack. It was from a long clearance and subsequent Totts' infringement in front of the post that gave Havant their first three points after five minutes. From the restart, Totts applied more
pressure and persistent infringement at the breakdown gave Lee Brading a kick at goal that brought the scores level, 3 – 3. For the next twenty minutes it was a game of kick
and counter attack with Craig Bromby, solid under the high ball, leading strong counter attacks from Dave Shepherd and Jesse Harthouse.
Havant put in a determined defensive display and scoring opportunities were few and far between. Then after thirty minutes, as the Totts' forwards started to tire' the impressive Havant 12 broke through in the centre and outpaced a despairing
Craig Bromby tackle to score in the corner. The conversion was missed and Havant went into the break 3 – 8 in the lead.
The second half continued the pattern of the first, with determined Totts play and strong Havant defence. It was an entertaining, if low scoring, match for the few that turned out to watch. It wasn’t until the sixty-second minute that the
impasse was broken, A good line out catch by Andy Frend was flipped rapidly out into the centre to Jesse Harthouse who powered over from fifteen metres to bring the
scores level. Lee Brading added the extra points and Totts went into a much deserved 10 – 8 lead. Unfortunately the wind still had one cruel trick to play — a routine
clearance from Totts' own twenty-two by Lee Brading caught the wind and drifted dead. From the scrum back on the twenty-two, the Havant number 12 broke through for a second time to put the visitors back in the
lead 10 – 15 after sixty-seven minutes. The last ten minutes was a Tottonians' onslaught and everyone gave their all. It was almost Totts' day when Chris Smith broke down the
right, pole-axed the winger and offloaded to Andy Frend, moving like a demented steam train in support. Alas, he was dragged down just a metre short of the line, having run out of support. Totts could not find
any more chances before the whistle blew.
All credit to both teams for an enjoyable game of rugby played in the best spirits. Well played and good luck to Havant, whose defence was worthy of the win.
Nick Timms
Saturday 17th March 2007
HAVANT 10
TOTTONIANS 13
It was a strong defensive performance from a battle weary Totts IIs that saw them beat Havant for the fourth time in a season. It was another road trip for this top-of-the-table clash at Hook’s Lane. With Water Lane a forgotten
memory, Totts were in surprisingly upbeat mood, even though number eight Nick Timms was resoundingly Gooched in the warm up.
From the kick-off the pattern of the game was set. Strong forward play from Havant was countered by an equally strong Totts' defence, with the pressure being lifted by Lee Brading’s clearance kicks. Tottonians
put the first points on the board after ten minutes, with a penalty kick converted by Lee Brading. Totts then went back into defensive mode, repeatedly holding up Havant’s somewhat lacklustre back play. Then,
suddenly on the twenty-five minute mark, attack was turned into defence in a decisive piece of play. From a turnover and breakaway by Dave Shepherd, Lee Brading kicked into
the corner. Under pressure from Grahame Muchmore and Ben Rainbow, the Havant fly half was turned over and the ball was shipped back in field for Lee
Brading to score under the posts. The kick was dutifully converted to put Totts 0 – 10 ahead. Another breakaway penalty puts Totts 0 – 13 ahead before a push over
try from Havant closed the deficit to 7 – 13 going into the break.
From the half-time huddle emerged fifteen heroes. From the tackling tigers of Grahame Muchmore, Dave Shepherd, Lee Brading,
Ben Rainbow, Craig Gray and Mike Thomas, to the immovable objects of Mark Goodger,
Steph Neethling, and Jez “Shawn” Harris. Even Gav “Old Man” Williams stood toe to toe on the battlefield. It was
a case of they shall not pass, all the while Jesse Harthouse battered his way out of defence and Dave Wood side stepping like a young Phil Bennett. Kicks were missed
by both teams and the score narrowed to 10 – 13, but the spirit shown on both sides was a testament to rugby.
At the final whistle the look on the tear-strewn face of little Lee Brading showed the depth that this win meant to the victors, Totts IIs!
Goodger M; Gilroy; Neethling; Harris M; Macrell; Timms; Muchmore; Amey.
Lowe; Brading L; Rainbow; Shepherd; Thomas; Smith; Wood.
(Harris J; Gray; Harthouse.)
Nick Timms
Saturday 10th March 2007
WINCHESTER 17
TOTTONIANS 17
With the conditions suitable for flowing open rugby and the team sheet looking strong, Totts were frustrated to leave Nun’s road with just a draw. For the first half dropped balls were the norm and second phases were a luxury item.
With the forwards sapping each other's strength in a plethora of evenly matched scrums, support in the rucks was slow to materialise and regular turnovers led to some frantic play. Dave Shepherd put in some
good work down the centre and had a surprising 100% success rate for catches! The only score of the half came from a penalty from Lee Brading’s reliable boot to put Totts three points ahead at the break.
In the second half Winchester changed their tactics and kicked into the wide open spaces behind Totts' defence. Pinned in their own twenty-two, Totts defended well and easily contained Winchester’s attacks. Some strong running by
Mark Amey and Neil Angell was met by some resolute defence by the excellent Winchester back row. Suddenly Totts woke up when Dan Stocks used
his pace to charge down and gather a box kick. He offloaded to a surprised Wayne Gilroy who waddled his way over the line. Lee Brading converted from out wide to put Totts
into a 0 –10 lead. Then disaster struck. A knock on from the restart gave Totts a scrum. Some good work from the Winchester scrum half disrupted the Totts' service and from the subsequent ruck the Winchester
fly-half drove over to put the home side five points behind. This was followed soon afterwards by a chip over the top that out bounced the Tottonians' defence and was gathered by the Winchester winger who flopped over. The conversion was made and
Winchester eased into a 12 – 10 two point lead. Totts regrouped and fought back. Some hard work from both backs and forwards worked a position in the Winchester twenty. Winchester offended and rather than take
the three points went for the jugular. An outstanding catch from Nick Timms in the dominant Totts lineout saw Dan Stocks spin off the maul and just fall short off the line.
Totts worked the phases with Neil Angell making a twenty yard break. Totts recycled a couple more phases until debut boy Dave Wood cruised through a gap and off loaded to
Chris Smith who touched down under the posts. Lee Brading cut the mustard to put Totts 12 – 17 into the lead with five minutes to go. It
seemed like victory was in the bag and all we had to do was hold out. Sadly it was not to be, a mix up from the kick off led to the ball being thrown directly into touch on Totts' twenty two. Winchester drove the line-out over and a collective
sigh of relief was given as the conversion drifted by, leaving the honours even.
Nick Timms
Saturday 3rd March 2007
ALTON 3
TOTTONIANS 17
Tottonians ran out onto the infamous Ansty Park slope under the gaze of a bright spring sun. First sight of the pitch indicated that this was not going to be a game for the rugby purists. From the kick off, Totts made their now
traditional slow start with some indifferent rucking in the forwards and a bad outbreak of Shep Hands ™ in the backs. Alton played a very Italian game pinning Totts into the corner with some
accurate kicking, and employing some wily play on the floor. However, Totts' strong defence and good set piece work saw them dog their way back into their opponents twenty-two, only to turn the ball over or give away silly penalties. A number of
hard won overlaps went begging and the crushing boredom for the spectators was only broken late in the first half with an Alton penalty that was converted from in front of the posts.
The second half started with a perfect kick off from Lee Brading and under pressure the Alton second row knocked on. From the resulting scrum Totts drew the Alton defence left and quick hands from the backs saw
Chris Smith beat his man to score in the corner. With Totts slowly coming to and some good runs from Joe Searle, Mark Amey and
Mike Thomas ratcheting the pressure on the Alton defence, more and more penalties were being given away by the home side. From a subsequent line out Totts eschewed a five on two overlap in favour of the
forwards and Mark Amey forcing their way over the line near the posts. Half way through the second half it was proved that Shep Hands ™ is transmitted verbally. After
foolishly talking to the backs,
Mark Amey immediately started knocking on. However, the curative effects on the backs lead to a slick try converted by Joe Locke on his senior rugby debut. With a move to
uncontested scrums, Totts lost their primary weapon and the game ended as a contest. However, Man of the Match Joe Searle continued his aggressive tackling and great work on the floor along with some
unrelenting sniping around the rucks.
Morton; Gilroy; Neethling; Harris M; Mackrell; Timms; Angell; Amey M.
Searle J; Brading L; Smith; Shepherd; Harthouse; Locke; Thomas.
(Phillips; Gray; Marshall C.)
Nick Timms
Saturday 24th February 2007
TOTTONIANS 18
HAVANT A XV 7
Another fantastic performance by the Second Team, who are doing everything they can to help the Club build towards the Senior Vase quarter final. Despite a strong start by Havant, who took a seven point lead, this teak was not
about to wilt and fought back to take a 10 – 7 lead at half time. Totts' points came from a Lee Brading penalty and a penalty try resulting from a great driven scrum five
metres out.
The second half saw a great Totts' performance, in which all the replacements had a significant part to play. Determined team play saw Mike Dibden score in Co-op corner. A second Lee
Brading penalty completed a whole team performance which deserves recognition and praise! Performances of note came from Steff Neethling, who moved from the second row to tight head,
Joe Searle on the wing and Mark Amey at No.8, who captained the team enthusiastically. The performance of the day as usual came from our No.7 Graham
Muchmore, who had a brilliant game — so good in fact that the referee nominated him as his Man Of The Match!
Another great win — not many to go now, but with hard work and application, this team has a serious chance of challenging for the merit table.
Phillips; Gilroy; Goodger M; Harris M; Neethling; Timms; Muchmore; Amey M.
Taylor M; Brading L; Rainbow; Shepherd; Harthouse; Dibden; Thomas.
(Morton; Searle J; Kitson.)
Gav Williams
Saturday 17th February 2007
GOSPORT & FAREHAM 5
TOTTONIANS 38
Harris J; Gilroy; Pearson; Angell; Timms; Gray; Muchmore;
Taylor M; Brading L; Rainbow; Kitson; Shepherd; Smith; Hordell.
(Goodger M; Searle J; Harthouse.)
Saturday 10th February 2007
U S PORTSMOUTH I 24
TOTTONIANS 0
Totts arrived at Burnaby Road unsure which team they were to be facing. After a quick conflab between the coaches it quickly became apparent that almost the whole of the US playing staff were on duty!
The first half saw a depleted Totts second string face the regular Services 1st XV. Despite this, the game was evenly contested for the the first twenty minutes. The forward exchanges were at times brutal with no quarter asked or given.
Matt Harris was again superb in the lineout and who knows, if he trained more regularly perhaps the First Team locks would be under pressure. Alas, the call of the burger and roulette table are currently too
strong! Mark Amey competently captained the team, which competed well against a team full of fit and aggressive servicemen. Then, just after twenty minutes, the wheels seemed to come off the Totts fun bus.
Services ran in four quick tries to leave Totts 24 – 0 adrift at half time. Credit to the home side for these were well taken tries, combining pace, depth (remember that?) and no small amount of skill.
At half time, swift instructions were given and the second period saw Tottonians attack with new vigour and purpose. The introduction of Mike Thomas at full back and newcomer Jessie
Harthouse in the centre gave the team new impetus. The second half was keenly contested, but despite their best efforts Totts could not cross the line for a deserved try. That said, neither could the Pompey side and the second half
score line of 0 – 0 was a fair reflection of the balance of power.
In all, U S Portsmouth deserved to win this contest, but Totts can take great heart from a performance full of spirit, grit and determination. Well done to all.
Goodger M; Gilroy; Pearson; Harris M; Timms; Young M; Gray; Amey M.
Taylor M; McConachie; Rainbow; Kitson; Shepherd; Dibden; Hagen.
(Franks; Thomas; Middleton; Harthouse.)
Gav Williams
Saturday 3rd February 2007
TOTTONIANS 12
ANDOVER 15
Wilson; Gilroy; Barrett; Harris M; Neethling; Gray; Muchmore; Amey M.
Taylor M; Brading L; Dibden; Shepherd; Hagen; Searle J; Hordell.
(Pearson; Young M; Lee.)
Saturday 20th January 2007
WORTHING III 12
TOTTONIANS 19
Another away match (some of us vaguely remember Water Lane!) and another well deserved win. This group of players continues to grow as a team and individually. The game started promisingly with a period of twenty minutes camped in
the opposition twenty-two. However, it was Worthing who scored first following a quickly taken penalty deep in their own territory. Racing the full length of the pitch they scored under the posts to take a seven point lead. Totts then re-asserted
themselves in the second period of the half, only to be undone again. Yet again it was Worthing's lively fly half who exposed a gap in the Totts' defence to score. Half time, 12 – 0 down and facing an uphill
battle.
The second half saw probably the best rugby the Second XV have produced all season. Playing with vigour and tempo, they attacked right from the whistle. Within two minutes Dave Shepherd had started the Totts
fight back. Racing from the outside centre position, he took command of a penalty, took it quickly and barged over close to the posts. A great start to the half, setting the tone for a fantastic performance. Lee Brading added the extras. Totts
dominated possession in the second period with Matt Harris and Nick Timms imperious in the lineout. Mark Amey and
Graham Muchmore ranged across the pitch linking play and driving the ball forward. Both were a major part in the Totts comeback. Mike Taylor continued doing what he does best,
namely sticking his head where no other sane person would! This continued pressure eventually paid off when Ben Rainbow pounced on a loose ball and raced clear from a desperate defence to claim a superb try
under the posts, which Lee Brading again converted. Now in the lead, Totts stamped their dominance on the match and played intelligently, keeping possession and playing for position. In the dying seconds of the
game Wayne Gilroy was the grateful recipient of a stray pass from a Worthing player and he raced (well that's what he claims) down the wing to score in the corner.
Again, it is hard to single out any single player from a superb team display. The pack as a whole were fantastic, with a solid scrummaging display, overshadowed by some superb lineout work. The backs defended well, carried the ball forward
effectively and played with real intelligence. Keep it going fellas, it's great to see.
Barrett; Gilroy; Pearson; Harris M; Timms; Amey M; Muchmore; Northover O;
Taylor M; Brading L; Rainbow; Kitson; Shepherd; Hagen; Hordell.
(Neethling; Gray; Magrie.)
Gav Williams
Saturday 13th January 2007
TROJANS 5
TOTTONIANS 11
Another win, perhaps not the most exhilarating but well deserved and the product of a lot of hard work and intelligence. This team is rapidly developing an understanding of rugby rarely seen in a Second XV. True, the performance
was far from flawless but the ambition the team shows and the way they now adapt to changing situations speaks volumes for the ability of the players. The first half of this game was played with the wind at our backs, but despite that it was
Trojans that dominated early on, scoring a very good try after a poor kick-chase from Totts. Fortunately the try went unconverted. It took the team a while to adjust to the unexpected onslaught from Trojans, but once they did they had the home
team pinned down in their own half for the majority of the first half. It still took some time for Tottonians to secure their first points, with Matt Harris crashing over for a well deserved try from a five
metres line out. This in some way spared the blushes of captain Jon Brookstein after he had dropped the ball over the line, seconds earlier. The try went unconverted but Lee Brading
added a further three points shortly after, when Trojans infringed at a ruck. The half time score was 5 – 8 in our favour.
The second half was played into the wind and Trojans confined Totts to their own territory for the early part of the half. However as the game wore on Totts took command. With some excellent kicking from Jon Brookstein
we managed to pin Trojans back towards their goal line. Trojans never really looked like piercing an excellent Totts defence and it was only desperate defending and the odd handling error that prevented Totts from adding a further try.
Lee Brading finally sealed a fine Totts' win with a well taken penalty at the death.
It would be hard to single out any individuals, but it is worth noting that Nick Timms had a great game in the back row, as indeed did Ollie Northover and
Graham Muchmore. Mike Taylor continues to develop and Jon Brookstein staked a strong case for promotion back to the First XV. Yet again
well done all, keep up the pressure on our opposition and more importantly the pressure on your Club mates!
Goodger M; Gilroy; Pearson; Neethling; Harris M; Northover O; Muchmore; Timms.
Taylor M; Brading L; Smith; Kitson; Shepherd; Dibden; Brookstein.
(Harris J; Caton; Rainbow.)
Gav Williams
Saturday 6th January 2007
HAVANT A XV 5
TOTTONIANS 10
Like the First XV game, this match was played in horrendous conditions. With pools of standing water, thick mud, driving rain and a howling gale, this should never have been a great game. However both sides showed great ambition
and attempted to play attractive running rugby.
The first half saw Totts camped in Havant territory, but despite constant pressure they were unable to turn possession into points. Final passes not going to hand, knocks-on and occasional poor individual decision-making kept the Havant line
safe. Then, as often happens, Murphy's Law struck and Havant managed a solitary visit to their visitor's end of the pool and scored an unconverted try.
Down at half time 5 – 0 and facing the prospect of playing up-hill into the wind from the deep end! Some teams would have crumbled, but not Kev Barrett's! Some great driving play from the forwards,
marked by a superb scrummaging display, laid the foundations for a Totts' comeback. After a period of prolonged pressure on the Havant line, Lee Brading powered over close to the posts to give himself a
fighting chance of converting into the teeth of the gale. An excellent low drive into the wind saw Totts take a 5 – 7 lead. Further periods of attacking pressure, coupled with excellent defence saw Totts
awarded a penalty in a kickable position. Despite the boos and cries of “boring!” Lee Brading held his nerve to extend the lead to 5 – 10. Shortly afterwards the
referee (who had an excellent game) blew the final whistle to usher in a winning start to the New Year.
On the back of an excellent win away to Nomads, this squad of players is yet again demonstrating the strength in depth within the Club. Performances of note came from Mike “mini”
Taylor at scrum half, who is improving all the time, the front row as a unit were dominant throughout and Matt “press-up king” Harris had an outstanding
game in the loose. It was not solely the forwards who had a good day, with the threes contributing fully. The centre pairing carried the ball up effectively all game and Simon Hordell was always secure at full
back. It was also great to see Mike Dibden back in men's clothing on the wing. Shame about his head clash with Chris Smith which left Chris' modelling career in tatters! A
great game in real rugby weather, well done all!
Gav Williams
Saturday 9th December 2006
NOMADS I
TOTTONIANS 46
A great performance by a strong Second XV away to Nomads saw Ben Rainbow strike with five quality tries. The match also saw the returns to fitness of
Paul Goodall and Jon Brookstein. Both were instrumental in guiding the Seconds to one of their best performances of the season. Other notable performances came from Man of the Match
Graham Muchmore, who is surely too good to be languishing in the Thirds, and Matt Harris who had a great game in the lineout. Overall a fine game and another that shows the
great strength in depth we have in the Club.
Gav Williams
Saturday 18th November 2006
TOTTONIANS 63
FARNBOROUGH 14
Understandably, many of our regular balcony and touchline supporters felt obliged to help hapless England against South Africa by willing them on in the bar, whilst others had travelled to cheer on our valiant 1st XV in the cup tie
at Chichester. (By-the-by, some of our Old Pharts in the bar were later reminiscing re: Chichester High School v Totton Grammar School in the days of their prime, recalling the home-supporters despairing cries of “Oh! Do
come on, Chi” as, against all the odds, we won!). Well done, our guys, then and now.
For those of us who were privileged to watch Kevin Barrett and his gang yesterday, it proved to be a most enjoyable, albeit one-sided, feast of team rugby. Our opponents offered a defensive challenge that
veered between doughty and doubty, whilst our offence and our defence, apart from the few exceptions, were of the highest order. I thought the visitors kept their heads up to the very end, despite the mounting cricket score.
Once again, our pack was totally (and I mean totally) in control, denying them any advantages from their own ball in the scrum and few in the line-out. I recognise that we have first-team quality forwards, but the whole pack (and I
emphasise pack, here) shone in both the tight and the loose.
There were so many good things from good players, that I hesitate to pick out individual's contributions. However, the line kicking by our fly-half was exceptional (apart from a few fluffs), securing restarts deep in their half. Our centres,
enjoying a plentiful supply of good quality early ball, sliced through at will. They also were tigerish in defence against skilful counterparts, who were having to live off crumbs.
It is an old adage (well, actually, it is my own chairmanish summary, so yes, it is very, very old, then, I hear you say!) that all players of the game should focus on the most important thing which is the quality of their
"give-ball", recognising that, in order to achieve that, they must first concentrate on holding their "take ball". Simple, really, it is merely a matter of give and take, or, rather "take and give". I know, I know, it is easy to
say but, in the heat of battle, difficult to do, yet....
Elwyn Lewis
Saturday 7th October 2006
ANDOVER 31
The Second Fifteen travelled to Andover full of confidence, following good League wins against Havant and Gosport & Fareham. Several late changes, mainly due to the needs of the First XV, disrupted the team. Nevertheless they took
the field full of confidence.
Facing a very strong Andover side, reinforced by a heavy contingent of Fijians, the game was eagerly contested. Eventually the home side won, being stronger in most departments, the final score being 31– 0.
This result did not truly reflect the game and Totts can justifiably be proud of their efforts. Mark Amey and Neil Angell did manfully in the forwards and
Connor McConchie had a very impressive debut in the centres.
Well done guys, keep working hard at training and you will soon be back to winning ways. Well done to Andover, shame about the lone idiot on the sideline! Finally though, our thanks go to the referee, who had a great game.
Gav Williams
Saturday 30th September 2006
TOTTONIANS 24
GOSPORT & FAREHAM 0
A very impressive team performance, this time by the backs as a unit, by the forwards yet again as a unified pack, but, even more remarkable, by the interplay by individuals involving both units. Once again,
it was the dominance of the pack that provided a constant flow of quick and good possession for the backs to exploit, which they did to the full. Particularly impressive was every man's “dying deed and duty”, that is making the ball available for
his mates to carry forward. As previously, the reshaping of the driving maul as progress slowed in order to maintain momentum was intelligent and skilful. This time, too, the rucking was fast and protected, every scrum half's dream as opposed to
his worst nightmare. Our eager backs were licking their lips at the prospect and how well they performed.
It was not that our opponents were fall down guys in defence. They were simply dislocated by the speed and skill of our attacks from all parts of the pitch by every team member to the best of his ability whilst, during their sporadic raids, all
our guys were dedicated and determined hunters.
Who could ask for more? Well, probably the coaches by the very nature of their beings and the demands of their tasks. And yes, more scores were up for grabs, but for the spectators it was hugely satisfying. Well done, all concerned!
Elwyn Lewis
Saturday 25 March 2006
GOSPORT & FAREHAM 8
TOTTONIANS 24
Well it's been a while coming, we came close against some strong sides, but we final won a game! The amount of effort that went into this game is unbelievable! Right from the start the skill level was of the highest, passing the ball around, rucking hard, tackling harder and most importantly I feel, keeping the ball 7, 8, 9 phase. Outstanding! Every single one of us played our part, never letting off for a second in the lovely conditions of sunny Gosport. It would be hard to pick stand-out players when everyone played so well, but Neil was playing and looking at home in the number 4 shirt, Jez contesting and winning more than his share of ruck ball and the two young lads Simon and Mike attacking with easy, the way you would be glad to see our best first team players doing so. All in all the sort of game which reminded me why I love to play this game as much as I do. Well done guys!
Mark Amey
Saturday 17th November 2005
ALTON 33
TOTTONIANS 7
Totts arrived at Anstey Lane for a Senior Merit Table game expecting to face an Alton second string who had lost their last 3 games, conceding 230 points with only 19 in credit. What they
hadn't taken into account was the fact that Alton 1st XV had no game this weekend, and that a 'few' 1st XV players were enjoying the opportunity to keep match fit. Quite whether this is in the spirit of the competition is open to question,
but the team approached the task with a positive attitude.
Totts fielded a strong pack who dominated the set pieces and were always combative and effective in the close range encounters. Well marshalled by scrumhalf Joe Jarvis, making his return to senior rugby
after injury, the forwards put together a string of powerful drives and rolling mauls keeping Alton pinned down in their own twenty-two for the first ten minutes. Then quite against the flow of play, Alton broke from their goal line to
score a length of the pitch try following some poor defensive work in the midfield. A further three similar tries followed in a twenty minute period where Totts' midfield was again exposed. To be too critical of the players would be unfair,
as many of the three quarters were either playing out of position or converted back row. Unfortunately, this has been all too common recently with players being unavailable for various reasons. Being 26 – 0l
down at halftime was poor reward for the effort put in by the whole team.
The second half was a much closer affair with the tight five all putting in sterling performances, not least Matt Harris who was often involved in powerful surges. In the scrum
Darren Woodnutt was particularly effective and accounted for two opposition loose heads. With the pack providing some go forward Joe Jarvis was a constant thorn in Alton's side, being
unlucky not to score after a near 8, 9 combination down the short side. Then, just as Totts were imposing themselves on the game, Alton broke clear down the left wing. Despite the close attentions of three defenders, who were convinced the
flying winger was at least a yard in touch at one point, they scored their final try.
It would have been easy for heads to drop, but Totts kept hammering away at the Alton line and had a good call for a penalty try dismissed after Alton dropped three five metres scrums in a row. Unaffected by this disappointment, Totts ran
the penalty wide only to be stopped by a lingering and obviously offside Alton midfield. The resulting penalty was kicked into the corner following a confident call for a catch and drive by Matt Harris.
Matty had every right to be confident and duly took the line out. From the driving maul, the exciting newcomer at No. 8 Gavin Williams, proved to be unstoppable after a powerful surging drive from half a metre
out! The try was expertly converted by fly half Owen Faint.
Totts continued to apply pressure to the Alton line and apart from their solitary second half try, the whole second period was played in their half. Despite the pressure and possession, Totts were unable to score again and the game ended
with a rather flattering score line in favour of Alton.
The whole team performed with passion and tons of effort. Had the teams been a more evenly balanced in all positions, then a different result would surely have been on the cards.
Well done to everyone and let's look forward to better results on the pitch in 2006.
Watts; Gilroy; Woodnutt; Harris M; Neethling; Timms; Harris J; Williams.
Jarvis; Faint; Lee; Nichols; Bromley; Muchmore; Pye.
Gavin Williams
Saturday 8th November 2003
TOTTONIANS 32
TROJANS 0
The first half saw the two sides fairly evenly matched, and although Totts had more possession, we failed to capitalise as the much-changed team got to know each other! It was nice to see
Tonksie, Tom Phillips and Ben Pearce back in the Club, and welcome to hooker Owen Cavell from the now defunct Brockenhurst RFC,
who got almost as many against the head as I used to in the 'Sixties! The game stayed scoreless until the thirty-ninth minute, when Owen went over to score our first try.
The second half saw Totts taking charge and Paul Brading added three points from a penalty kick after Trojans were caught coming in from the wrong side. Seven minutes later the score was
13 – 0 thanks to Guy Tonkins who crashed over in typical style, after a good penetrating drive by Graham Harris down the left wing. On the
half-hour, Mike Searle opened his legs and showed Trojans what he had on offer, when he ran the ball from just outside our twenty-two, kicking ahead on reaching Trojans twenty-two, breaking away from their last
two defenders, then retrieving on their line to touch down for a fine try. Paul Brading converted to bring the score to 20 – 0. Trojans didn't give up though, and on occasion
made some excursions deep into Totts' territory, but the defence held well. A No.8 pick-up by Clive Wilkes saw him go round the blind side of the scrum and add another five points to Totts' score. With five
minutes to go, the ball was fed through the backs with some fine handling, which resulted in Craig Bromley breaking through Trojans tiring defence to score a well-worked try. Paul
Brading converted to bring the final score to 32 – 0.
Bill Barnes
Saturday 4th October 2003
ANDOVER 12
TOTTONIANS 18
What a difference a week makes! This was truly an excellent result for the TOTTONIANS away at Andover. Things are looking up with the return of some quality backs. From the start Totts forwards dominated the set pieces. The front five of Scott Noble, Owen Cavell, Dicky Marshall, James Angove and John Stewart looked very strong. Andover lived off Totts mistakes and looked dangerous in the centres. However Totts defence was superb, and a try-saving tackle by Spencer Scott demonstrated the effort put in by all. Welcome back to Andy Martin after his few months in sunny Darlington. Man Of The Match was Lee Brading, much revived after his visit to see Mickey Mouse. Adam Glover was the Bitch On The Pitch and wore the dress in style after knocking-on what should have been a certain try.
Saturday 27th September 2003
TOTTONIANS 0
SOUTHAMPTON 2s 25
A very enjoyable game — shame about the result! In the first half, Totts gave away too many penalties, which kept Southampton camped on our line. Team spirit was high but, due to the lack of available backs, there was no choice but to play at least four people out of position. That meant forwards playing in the backs and a prop on the flank. The line out was a problem area and needs to be worked on. Man Of The Match was awarded to Andy Robinson who had to turn out as scrum half!
Rob Angell
Saturday 13th September 2003
ALTON 34
TOTTONIANS 10
This was Totts first Merit fixture of the season. The first half went especially well with Totts controlling much of the play. The tight forwards dominated much of the set plays and Shamus Noonan controlled the backs with great effect. The half time score was 5 – 5 all which reflected much of the play. Unfortunately at half time Shamus got concussion — and thought he was back in Ireland! A major reshuffle resulted in a much changed line up for the second half. Stuart (ex Brockenhurst) had an exceptional game and scored his first try for the club. Scott, despite arriving late, scored a try from a penalty move. Craig Bromby was awarded “Bitch on the pitch” and Stuart “Man of the match”. In all this was a positive start to the season despite the score line.
Rob Angell
Saturday 5th April 2003
TOTTONIANS 10
FAREHAM HEATHENS 23
After playing Paxton Pumas last week the TOTTONIANS always knew that the encounter with Fareham Heathens 1st XV was going to prove more interesting. A
special, select, XV gathered in the changing rooms on what was the hottest afternoon of the season - ideal conditions for ageing fat forwards! From the kick off, Tottonians made a lively and aggressive start dominating much of the play in the first half. It was an exciting and furious (well nearly!) first 30 minutes. Tottonians played well with forwards controlling much
of the play and Joe Jarvis and the backs looking very sharp. One of the best moves of the match involved a large number of Totts players handling the ball to
score in the far right hand corner. After much celebration and reports had been sent to the Echo our guest linesman deemed that feet had been placed in touch. As Brian Robinson knows I only brought this up once in conversation over dinner on Saturday night.
During the second half, Heathens had a much improved performance and put Tottonians under considerable pressure. It was much to everyone's credit that the team continued to try hard right up to the last minute.
In the forwards, Shaun Eustace and Mark Amey made
major contributions and the pick of the backs were Joe Jarvis and Dave Robinson.
Tries were scored by Alfie Jenks and Matt Target.
Special mention to Terry Young who enjoyed appearing on the field with his son Mark. Plus praise to 'two games' Spollin who made a cameo appearance for the last ten minutes.
Dicky Marshall
(Acting Captain)
Saturday 1st March 2003
TOTTONIANS 25
US PORTSMOUTH 5
Tottonians TOTTONIANS gathered in the changing room on Saturday comparing injuries. Highlights were Darren Woodnutt's bad foot and Spencer's bad absolutely everything! All didn't bode well as kick off approached. A distinct lack of 2nd rows meant that Tottonians had to field a massive combination in the second row. However, at least Matt Target who had to play there last week was relieved. For some reason (it's a funny old game really!) this was one of the 2nd team's finest performances all season. From the start an aggressive attitude in the forwards and some fierce tackling in the backs put U.S. Portsmouth on the back foot. David Robinson had an outstanding game at fly half and pushed U.S. back at every opportunity. Rob Budd had an excellent first half and organised both defence and attack.
Unfortunately, in the second half a bad back got the better of him. Dave Clements demonstrated that the old git hadn't lost any of his skills, killing the ball and generally annoying the opposition at every available opportunity. Spectator Chris Dutton identified Lee Brading as having an influential role to play in the victory. It was also pleasing to note that all the team followed acting captain Dickie Marshall's fine example of discipline and control on the pitch, especially young Dave Robinson.
Dicky Marshall
Saturday 2nd November 2002
TROJANS 2s 11
TOTTONIANS 2s 17
This game was played in atrocious conditions, but nevertheless the forwards put in an excellent performance, with some good scrummaging and effective line-out play. Regrettably
Andy Martin was sent off with twenty minutes to go for not retiring 10, after being sin-binned for the same offence earlier in the game.
The forwards adapted much better to the conditions than the backs, particularly new Colt Terry Young, but for an untiring all-round performance Man Of
The Match was Mark Amey. The tries were scored by Paul Veryard and Lee Brading (2), who also kicked a conversion.
Dave Matthews
Saturday 26th October 2002
TOTTONIANS 12
ANDOVER 17
Team 1) John Stewart 2) Bryan Goodall 3) Darren Woodnutt 4) Mick Grimes 5) Mike Green 6) Jez Ord 7) Andy Martin (capt) 8) Chris Bethal 9) Elliot Green
10) Paul Veryard 11) Spencer Scott 12) Chris Smith 13) Lee Brading 14) Craig Bromley 15) David Robinson
Tries Chris Bethel, Elliot Green. Conversion Lee Brading
Tottonians were very unfortunate to lose this tight, hard fought match, going down to a last minute try from Andover.
We played probably our best game of the season, showing for the first time a solid and organised defence. The game was played at a fast pace throughout with the ball quickly moving from one end of the pitch to the other. During the early
exchanges both teams tested each other trying to find a gap in the defences, with Chris Smith making some storming runs through the centre of the pitch to set up excellent territory from which Totts could
attack.
This midfield running together with total dominance of the line out by Mick Grimes and Chris Bethel meant that the hosts were able to set up a good position in the Andover
twenty-two. The ball then worked its way out to the right and Elliot Green shimmied his way over the line to score. Lee Brading converted.
More Totts dominance followed before the break but unfortunately we were unable to add more point to the board.
Following the break, the visitors stepped up the pressure on Tottonians and that gave them good attacking position in our half. A period of about 10 minutes of scrummaging on our five metre line followed before Andover eventually
squeezed over to score.
Totts again then played some excellent rugby, recycling the ball then quickly working it out to the backs to attack into the Andover twenty-two. The ball then worked its way out to the left to Jez Ord who tried
(but failed) a flamboyant round the back pass before getting nailed. Jez earned the Mug Of The Week for his efforts. Once again though the ball was played up field and some quick recycling and excellent support
play saw Chris Bethel cross unopposed to give Totts a 12 – 10 lead. Unfortunately however in the last minute we gifted Andover the victory when we allowed their flanker to run the
length of the pitch to score under the posts.
Andy Martin
Saturday 12th October 2002
TOTTONIANS 10
SWANAGE & WAREHAM 67
Team 1) Dickie Marshall 2) Simon Dine 3) Darren Woodnutt 4) Mick Grimes 5) Mike Green 6) Andy Martin (capt) 7) Andy Robinson 8) Gav Williams 9) Elliot Green 10) Paul Veryard 11) Spencer Scott 12) Craig Bromley 13) Lee Brading 14) Steve Emm 15) Dave Robinson
Tries Craig Bromley; Andy Robinson
Not a lot to report on this one! A disappointing performance in the first half meant that Totts were never really in this game. Having had our original fixture against Gosport & Fareham cancelled on the Friday evening, Totts made the long trip to Swanage & Wareham to play a very well drilled team. With a definite case of leaving the rugby in the car, we went down heavily in the first half, turning around 57 – 0.
The second half was much better with some good running rugby put together with forwards and backs supporting each other well. Craig Bromley was sent over in the corner following a period of sustained pressure from Totts. This was quickly followed with more chances that unfortunately Totts were unable to take advantage of, until Andy Robinson scored an opportunistic try when a ball went loose from the home side's lineout on their 5 metre line. Andy pounced on the ball and went over unopposed.
Andy Martin
Saturday 5th October 2002
TOTTONIANS 25
PORTSMOUTH 27
Team 1) Darren Woodnut 2) Simon Dine 3) John Stewart 4) Mick Grimes 5) Mike Green 6) Chris Bethel 7) Andy Martin (capt) 8) Clive Wilkes 9) Joe Jarvis 10) Paul Veryard 11) Spencer Scott 12) Craig Bromley 13) Andy Lee 14) Andy Lee 15) Elliot Green Subs Graham ?
Tries Chris Bethel, Spencer Scott, Craig Bromley, Joe Jarvis Conversions Lee Brading Penalties Lee Brading
Tottonians again lost a hard fought match going down to a late try from a tough Pompey side. For once Tottonians played with the passion and skill throughout the match that has only been shown in spells so far this season, dominating the early exchanges and opening up an early lead over the visitors with tries from Craig Bromley and Spencer Scott. Totts were unable to sustain this pressure and let in the visitors with a couple of very soft tries, made from our own mistakes, to keep them in the game before Chris Bethel scored for Totts to go in at the break with a slender 5 point lead.
The second half was much of the same with Joe Jarvis scoring to extend Totts lead, before Pompey began to grind down our defence. Having camped in the Tottonians 22 for almost 10 minutes the opposition were allowed to score a soft post to get themselves back into the game, this followed with another quick score, then a sustained period of pressure in the Totts 22 allowed them to cross our line for the winning try with just 2 minutes to go.
However there was still time left in the game for Chris Bethel to try his best impression of a windmill, wildly swinging at the Pompey lock, but never quite connecting, for which Chris was awarded the Mug Of The Week.
Andy Martin
Saturday 28th September 2002
TOTTONIANS 19
US PORTSMOUTH 22
Team 1) Richard Marshall 2) Terry Young 3) John Stewart 4) Mick Grimes 5) Andy Frend 6) Mike Hall 7) Andy Martin (capt.) 8) Clive Wilkes 9) Joe Jarvis10) Paul Veryard 11) Andy Robinson 12) Steve Emm 13) Craig Bromley 14) Andy Lee 15) Elliot Green. Sub — Mark Young
Tries John Stewart (2) Mick Grimes Conversions Mick Grimes, Joe Jarvis
Tottonians were unlucky to lose this game after a last minute try was disallowed. However the game should have been wrapped up long before this controversial decision was made. This was another game of two halves for Tottonians
2nds who never really got going in the first half, definitely leaving their rugby heads in the car from the journey over from Southampton.
The game started well enough with both packs testing each other out in some confrontational opening exchanges. Totts were able to disrupt in the scrum allowing Terry Young to take 4 scrums against the head in
the first 20 minutes, however they were unable to turn this into territory or points, for which Totts were to suffer in the second quarter.
After some sustained pressure in the US 22, Totts lost the ball in the tackle which was quickly recycled by their backs and kicked long for several of their quick men to chase. Unfortunately, Totts defence was caught very flat and US crossed
unopposed. Two more tries for US followed before half time, after Totts went to sleep.
However when Totts came out for the second half it was a different game, with some ferocious rucking and some very quick recycled ball which saw the interlinking play between forwards and backs to put together some excellent phases
of play and take Totts to the US line. From here John Stewart went over from a quickly taken penalty. More phase play followed as we began to show the rugby that we are capable of and a similar phase of play
sent Mick Grimes over to score under the posts, which he then converted himself. John Stewart then crossed for a second time dragging most of the
US team over with him. Joe Jarvis converted this one to give Totts a slender lead going into the final 10 minutes.
Unfortunately Totts then went to sleep again and let United Services’ Fijian flanker break through several tackles, before their Fijian prop crossed through a gap on the line to put Totts 3 points down with 5 minutes to play.
From the kick off, Totts put together some good tackles to win the ball back, then moved the ball out left. The ball was then recycled and shipped out to the right for Joe Jarvis and
Andy Robinson to run three quarters of the pitch between them, before passing to Andy Martin who went over to score under the posts. Unfortunately the try was disallowed for a forward pass, so US
Portsmouth went home with the win.
Andy Martin
Saturday 21st September 2002
TOTTONIANS 13
WINCHESTER 31
Team 1) Richard Marshall 2) Miles Northover 3) John Stewart 4) Mick Grimes 5) Jez Ord 6) Simon Dine 7) Andy Martin (C) 8) Mike Hall 9) Jamie Perry 10) Martin Goodall 11) Paul Veryard 12) Steve Emm 13) Brin Marshall 14) Craig Bromley 15) Elliot Green Subs Spence Scott (VC); Darren Woodnutt; Matt Harris
Tries Jamie Perry Conversions Brin Marshall Penalties Brin Marshall (2)
Tottonians put up a good effort in this match but unfortunately too many errors let them down to flatter the visitors. Totts opened up as if they meant business with Steve Emm vomiting just
before kick off. Once the match started Mike Hall took Winchester’s kick off and charged for the line. The ball was then well recycled and more pressure put on the visitors' line forcing an early penalty which
Brin Marshall put over to give us an early lead.
Brin and the Winchester kicker then traded kicks before Winchester took up camp in Tott’s 22, forcing several penalty errors, because we were unable to organise our defence properly. The Winchester kicker duly punished these errors. Winchester
then crossed the line to go into half time with a substantial lead.
Again Totts started the second half with some aggressive running and began to regain some control of the match. This continued for about 10 minutes before Jamie Perry scored under the posts to put Totts within 5 points of Winchester. Unfortunately we were not able to take the advantage here and we let in two soft tries in a matter of 5 minutes to put the game out of our reach.
Andy Martin
Saturday 14th September 2002
Tottonians 22
Alton 10
Tottonians 2nds got off to an excellent start to their Hampshire Merit Table campaign, beating Alton 2nds. The match was played on a glorious day, on a very hard and dry pitch, so we went out with a pre-match plan to run the ball wide and use the pace in the backs. However Alton were set to try to spoil all the host's ball and were very effective at stealing the ball in the tackle.
The home side went down in the first 10 minutes to a well struck Alton penalty. A spell of Alton attack quickly followed, but Totts showed some awesome defence to keep them out for several minutes before they worked the ball out wide to cross in the corner.
This was the last time that our visitors looked like scoring throughout the remainder of the match. Totts began to take control once they had got used to the way that the match was refereed, dominating the scrums and lines out. We then showed some excellent handling and support play involving all 15 players, before sending Lee Brading in under the posts.
Solo tries from Jamie Perry and an excellent run from Dave Lamb from inside his own 22 followed before half time.
After the break the intensity of the match increased with Totts showing excellent communication and co-ordination in defence that kept the play firmly in the middle of the pitch, until we stole the ball on the half way line and again showed the superb flowing rugby that we are capable of, to send Steve Emm over in the corner. Unfortunately the game ended on a sour note when Lee Brading was very harshly sin-binned for not releasing the ball after the tackle.
TEAM — 1) Tom Phillips 2) Simon Dine 3) Roger Spollin 4) Mick Grimes 5) Jason Jones 6) Andy Martin (C) 7) Andy Robinson 8) Clive Wilkes 9) Jamie Perry 10) Paul Veryard 11) Craig Bromley 12) Steve Emm 13) Lee Brading 14) Dave Lamb 15) Spencer Scott (VC). Subs — Ed Sheppard.
Tries— Lee Brading Jamie Perry, Steve Emm, Dave Lamb. Conversions — Lee Brading (1)
Andy Martin
Saturday 7th September 2002
TOTTONIANS 46
Bournemouth 22
Tottonians 2nds got themselves off to a flying start to the season in front of a large home crowd (by 2nd team standards!!) against Bournemouth 2nds, running home convincing winners by 46 points to 22, doing justice to the first run out in the new kit (many thanks to Ali Ramus)
However it wasn't all plain sailing throughout a match littered with errors from both sides. Bournemouth opened the scores running in a soft try under our posts after some lacklustre tackling in the first 5 minutes. This seemed to serve as a wake up call for the Totts players, who promptly turned the run of play up to the Bournemouth 22. Jamie Perry and Spencer Scott then crossed the line in quick succession as Tottonians started to take control of the game.
We dominated the set piece, with Mick Grimes winning all the line out ball and Totts winning all the early scrums, taking most of them against the head. When the Bournemouth hooker had to be replaced early in the first half, our very own Tom Phillips came on for Bournemouth to avoid having to play with uncontested scrums. Unfortunately for us, Tom had a storming game for Bournemouth, stiffening up their scrum and generally causing a menace around the pitch.
Jamie Perry (again), Mike Green, and Andy Lee all then crossed the Bournemouth line for Totts to go in at half time 29 – 12 up.
Andy Robinson came on at half time replacing the increasingly rotund Craig Bromley on the wing after making a blood replacement for Olly Northover late in the first half. Totts once again went to sleep at the start of the second half, letting in a couple of tries for Bournemouth, before finally deciding to protect the ball again in the tackle.
After camping in the Bournemouth 22 for what seemed like an age, we finally managed to open the scoring for the second half from a well run move off a lineout, which saw Andy Robinson go over on the wing.
Spencer Scott then had a try disallowed before Olly Northover went over under the posts, after some excellent recycling of the ball in the middle of the pitch, with forwards & backs interlinking and supporting each other as we had been promising to do all match. Spence finally added another try towards the end of the game.
Many thanks to everyone who turned up to play and support, especially Lee Brading (who put over 3 difficult conversions) who made the trip up from Cornwall on the morning of the
match just for the game. Thanks also to David Martin for refereeing the match.
Man of the Match this week went to Jamie Perry and Mug of the Match to Micky Grimes.
TEAM — 1) Richard Marshall 2) Shaun Eustace 3) Darren Woodnut 4) Mick Grimes 5) Mike Green 6) Andy Martin (C) 7) Olly Northover 8) Chippy 9) Jamie Perry 10) Paul Veryard 11) Andy Lee 12) Steve Emm 13) Lee Brading 14) Craig Bromley 15) Spence Scott (VC). Subs — Andy Robinson; Tom Phillips.
Tries — Jamie Perry (2); Spencer Scott (2); Andy Lee; Mike Green; Olly Northover; Andy Robinson. Conversions — Lee Brading (3)
Andy Martin
REPORTS — 2001/2002 SEASON
Saturday 13th April 2002
MILLBROOK 2nds 0
TOTTONIANS XV 40
As the season rapidly approaches its climax an all star select XV clattered out on to a rock hard pitch at Millbrook this weekend. A club wedding (congratulations Mark), and a range of injuries had
decimated player availability. Therefore Dicky Marshall and Andy Jackson had the difficult task of moulding a truly great team out of 19 bodies - none of whom on first impressions looked remotely like a fly half!
However, after much deliberation 15 players started the game. It soon became apparent that the choice of Paul Veryard and Spence at half backs was inspired as we took early control of the game. Dave Lamb had a very good start
as did 'Gorgeous George' who was soon dominating loose play and cleaning up in the lineout.
An old and experienced Millbrook side competed well and Totts had to show some impressive defensive work to keep them out. Tom Pearson who was playing very well at this point received a nasty stamp to his head and had to be carried off. A cynic
in the backs was reported to have said 'It was lucky the kick missed his brains!' The loss of Tom resulted in the rearrangement of an already lightweight pack. An
interesting 10 minutes of scrummaging resulted at the start of the second half. It was much to our forwards' credit they stuck to the task.
As the second half progressed superior fitness and skill levels resulted in a number of breakaway tries. Especially memorable was Gary Barker's 75 yards sprint on one working leg. Spence who had informed acting captain Dicky Marshall that
he couldn't kick calmly proceeded to slot over all the conversions bar one. Particularly good was one from the far left touch line.
Most impressive back was Paul Veryard who looked keen and refreshed after his holiday. Gorgeous George was the pick of the forwards at number 8.
Amazingly, Terry Young scored a try at exactly the same spot as the last time he played Millbrook this season. I was going to give his efforts a write up but as he told everybody in the clubhouse afterwards personally this seemed a little
pointless! Well done to all the players.
Saturday 6th April 2002
TOTTONIANS 20
PETERSFIELD 35
Due to the fact that England has cancelled their Summer Tour to the South Pacific Islands a much rearranged second team took on Petersfield plus a large selection of Fijians.
Tottonians started the game with 14 players as winger Dave Lamb had arrived late. Lambie ran on to the pitch just as Petersfield kicked off and was delighted
to note the ball was heading straight for him. Luckily he soon recovered from the shock and the tackle.
For 15 minutes Tottonians played very well and took control of the game. Scrum-half Rob (Designer) Budd had an impressive start as did Aaron in the centre with
some very determined running. Wise captaincy from acting captain Dicky Marshall made Gavin Williams pack leader (because he never shuts up
anyway!)
The game looked reasonably under control, Tom Pearson, Neil Penderleigh and Ryan Eustace looked the pick of the forwards early on in the game.
However, as the game progressed some poor defence compounded by some unfortunate injuries allowed Petersfield back into the game and we were very much on the back foot due to some strong back play by the opposition.
Half time arrived and lack of possession and some weak ball retention allowed the visitors to dominate. It was soon apparent that Petersfield's strength in depth
was going to ensure victory but it was much to Totts' credit that all players continued to compete.
Very impressive in the second half was a southern pacific centre kindly loaned by Petersfield to Totts. We couldn't understand what he was saying
but he was bloody good!
Best Forward was Ryan Eustace and Rob Budd was most impressive in the backs.
Thanks again to players who played out of position without whinging (in fact some of them even volunteered). Well done Junior Robbo.
Dicky Marshall
Saturday, 23rd March 2002
TOTTONIANS 10
Basingstoke 3rd 18
An experimental weekend of selection resulted in an interesting variety of players collected in the 2nd team dressing room on Saturday.
Quick calculations from acting captain Dicky Marshall soon came up with the fact we had far more forwards than backs. A lot of people ended up playing out of position without moaning (well nearly everybody!). Inspired selection put Steve Broomfield at full back after he had just been telling everybody that that was the only position he didn't fancy playing! However full credit to everybody who turned out - the commitment was excellent.
From the start Totts forwards were under pressure in the scrums and lineout. Basingstoke forwards with an excellent front five must have been two stones a player heavier. Jez Ord has now started an intensive diet of Guiness and chips in an attempt to put on weight.
Despite the pressure Totts forwards battled on an made the most of any opportunity. The back row played especially well tackling fiercely and picking up much loose ball. At half time Guy Tonkins pointed out that many of the heavyweight Basingstoke pack were old blokes and would soon run out of steam. Tottonians forwards Marshall and Young (Club youth policy) fully agreed.
The second half saw a much improved Totts performance. On a number of occasions Tottonians put Basingstoke under real pressure. Full back Steve Broomfield looked dangerous and Guy Tonkins put in a number of his trade mark runs. Flanker Gareth Edwards had an impressive game in the loose. Unfortunately he received a bang on the nose. The referee asked a bemused Totts captain if he always looked like that!
As the game neared its climax Guy Tonkins scored the try of the match breaking through at least five tackles to score in the corner. Credit also to Terry Young who had an excellent
second half as hooker. This could be attributed to the fact that his wife turned up to watch — what a show off!
Well done to all the players for an excellent afternoon's performance.
Saturday 2nd February 2002
TOTTONIANS 38
FARNHAM 2nds 33
A change of ends meant a change of fortunes for the 2nd XV. Loads of possession was put to good use in the first half to give us a lead of 31 - 0 at the break.
In the second half, handling errors proved to be our downfall and allowed Farnham back into the game. Luckily, the final whistle saved us from defeat and we were relieved to come away with a 38 -
33 win.
29th December 2001
TOTTONIANS 21
OVERTON 1st XV 10
Following an inauspicious start to the day when skipper Mike Green failed to show due to a 'non-alcoholic' illness the lads set off for distant Overton with Gavin Williams nominated by a dubious process as skipper! With only 15 players and Gareth Williams, brother of Gavin roped in at the last minutes the omens were not good.
The squad contained 10 Colts, either current or recently grown up!
The pitch at Overton was heavy and seemed to favour the heavier and considerably more ancient opposition. However Totts defied the odds and scored a quick fire try in the corner with Gareth Williams touching down, following good approach work by Bryn Marshall. The time in medieval Gloucester rugby has matured Bryn into a fine player. Come back Bryn! The try was superbly converted from the touchline by the man himself.
A second excellent try by Kev Rushton soon followed. At least 10 pairs of hands were involved in the move that swept the length of the pitch for Kev to score under the posts. Again Bryn converted.
Further try scoring opportunities were spurned and the halftime score was 14 - 0 to us.
Halftime was greeted by a blizzard and the sensible Totts lads retreated to the handy ex-army marquee to re-group. Sadly the referee, Andy Joy was having none of this and ordered an immediate turnaround, only because he hadn't thought about it first! At this point it should be noted that the referee, who we had last week against Gosport was outstanding. Can we have him next week?
The second half saw a change in tactics by Overton, with a revamped front row putting more pressure on the Totts scrum. Two of our front row players were spoken to for their over robust play! No names, no pack drill!! The more direct style of play proved successful with two tries resulting. It would have been more had it not been for excellent defence close in and some superb kidology by Ben Pearce and Bryn Marshall when the ball was "held up".
However, just when Overton thought that they were back in it, Tottonians sealed the victory. Following a fast counter attack, Gav Williams saw the blind side was open and called for the ball. A superb long pass from Bryn Marshall allowed Gav to put Kev Rushton in the clear to score under the posts. Again Marshall converted.
An excellent win continuing the 2nd XV rise in fortunes. It is very possible that if some of the younger players were available more often they would be challenging established 1st XV players, The back row of Bethel, Pearce and Benham were outstanding and are all County players in their own right. Bryn Marshall at fly half is undoubtably a worthy understudy to Dave Palmer and the ever improving centre Kev Rushton and full back Dave Robinson are showing considerable potential.
Gavin Williams
22nd December 2001
TOTTONIANS 14
GOSPORT & FAREHAM 12
This turned out to be a great match, the 2nd Team's first win in seven.
This was a hard-fought victory with Jamie Pidgeley having a superb game at wing and at full back. Despite some great defence we went in at half time 7 - 12 down, our scorer being Craig Bromley, converted by Julian Howell.
In the second half, Craig scored again and this was also converted by Jules, to give a well deserved win.
15th December 2001
ROMSEY 21
TOTTONIANS 3
Despite the scoreline, Totts had a good game and played well against a Romsey 2nd XV which was strengthened considerably after half time, when they fielded six 1st team players as replacements.
Mike Green
24th November 2001
TOTTONIANS 0
NEW MILTON 1stXV 17
On Saturday I had the pleasure of watching a highly entertaining match between our, predominately Colts based, 2nds and an equally youthful New Milton 1sts. After an initial 20 minute onslaught during which we were fortunate to find ourselves only 10 points in arrears, due in no small part to some resilient defence, we contrived to spurn good try-scoring opportunities which would have put us back in the hunt. A last minute try sealed a deserved victory, albeit by a flattering margin, for the visitors. Playing out of position at inside centre, George Roberts had a cracking game. Finally, thanks go out to Dave Martin who stepped in as referee at the last minute and had a fine match.
Steve Anderson