Positive Start

The pre-season friendly got off to a flying start with both sides playing high intensity rugby within the first of three, 30-minute sessions.

Nantyffyllon proved strong and decisive at the breakdown, but Oldfields defense in the first 30 minutes denied them both space and time, due to a quick and high-pressurized defensive display.
An outstanding passage of play on Oldfield's try line saw Nantyffyllon throw everything at the Red Army. But big hits and a well-organised defense kept Nantyffyllon from scoring for 9 minutes, before they eventually drove over the white wash to claim the first points of the day.

Oldfield were quick to respond with some strong carries in the middle of the park from centres, Jack Ricketts and Jay Whelan and eventually some well structured phases put Oldfield over in corner for a try by Charlie Yuille, which was converted by scrum half Max Gauntlett. Kieran Acornley also played considerably well in the second row for his first senior game.

In the second third, Oldfield showed improved fitness levels, with Nantyffyllon having many players on the bench to call upon; Oldfield competed well at the breakdown. Some messy defending by Oldfield at the fringe allowed Nanty too much space and conceded another 7 points. Some determined running from flanker, Sam Cummins in his first game for the Red Army allowed Oldfield to build momentum and eventually through breaking the gain line at every phase, returning hooker Jack Beazer drove over the try line and Gauntlett leveled the scores at 14-14.

Nantyffyllon broke away in their half and would have been in again, had some phenomenal scramble defense by Oldfield not have prevented them from doing so on the near touchline. Nantyffyllon continued their dominance at the breakdown and showed great ambition in attack.

Another driving scrum saw Charlie Yuille pushed over the line by forwards Ali Moger, Adam Watts and Craig Newman for his second of the day to put Oldfield 19-14 in front.

Some great physicality at the breakdown and some big hitting followed in the final third from both sides. Oldfield began to put some well-structured phaseplay together that almost created another score had it not been for a forward pass. Eventually, Nanty's fresh legs and Oldfields injuries, allowed them to edge in front and showing some great flair and creativity in the back line eventually a breakaway try put the final score at 19-21.

Overall, a great display from both teams in what was a welcome friendly with great support on both sides. Thank you to Nantyffyllon for travelling up from South Wales and well done to all the Oldfield players in what was an excellent display, despite many players missing and being out of position.

A positive start to the season lads!

1. Rich Stainer
2. Adam Watts
3. Finn Weston
4. Kieran Acornley
5. Jamie Williams
6. Rhys Redman
7. Sam Cummins
8. Charlie Yuille
9. Max Gauntlett
10. Nick McKenzie
11. Mikey Barrell
12. Jack Ricketts
13. Jay Whelan
14. Greg Atkinson
15. Zak Ellis
Replacements:
16. Jack Beazer
17. Ali Moger
18. Craig Newman
19. Jake Mole

RED ARMY!!!

Match Report written by Mike Armiger
Match Photos by Donna Bunton