James Smith and I spend most Wednesday evenings enjoying a
Chinese takeaway and watching a recording of one of the
weekend’s rugby union matches. The word enjoy is partly
conditional however.
We have a very good Oriental provider and without exception enjoy
our meal; sadly, all too often recently, the rugby has not exactly
been first-class fare, with ingredients lacking substance, skill, flair
and imagination.
We are bored with the way the game of rugby is being played!
Tonight’s recording, however, admirably complemented our special
fried rice (and chips!), featuring as it did a full 80 minutes of the
game in the heading of this piece. Praise be to the film maker!
The weather was dreadful and I saw only brief passages of play as I
retreated frequently to James’ pickup when the rain became
torrential. I knew very few of the players, a mixture of colts and
oldies and it would be impossible to name scorers and individual
performances; suffice to say that the game had everything that
grass roots (not to mention more senior level) rugby is about.
Despite at times almost impossible conditions, the game was
played in excellent spirit, was well refereed and boasted a devoted,
if extremely wet, medic in attendance. Minimal stoppages though,
quickly-set scrums, no arguing, no foul play, resolute tackling and
ball in play for maximum time. The scoreline of Selby 5 points—Old
Ots 50 odd did not reflect the game, which was played “full-on”
until the final whistle signalled a hot shower and a beer.
All credit to the players who, truly and honestly, provided
everything that the game of rugby is about.
The hosts thanked their opponents with a bottle of
“something to warm the cockles”, a lovely gesture.
The video maker is to be congratulated, as are the players, referee
and “sponge girl”.
AND NOT A BOX KICK TO BE SEEN!!
Praise be!
Arthur Bartle