An enjoyable spectacle for the crowd,

A large festive crowd at Kelham Road were rewarded with a thoroughly entertaining game which saw the 1st XV eventually come out on top and overturn a half time deficit of 22 — 27 against a star studded President’s XV.

Ex Captains Tom Coen, Matt Clark, Chris Tate and a cameo in the last 15 minutes from Steve Mathias showed that they all still have plenty to offer. The President's side was made up of recently retired players, ones that for various reasons have moved from the area and Students returning home for the holiday period.

There was agreement between the sides that there would be no kicking from hand which led to an enjoyable spectacle for the crowd, but a lung busting experience for those that may have over indulged the previous day!

The two Matts at fly half (Cox & Law) pulled the strings impressively for their respective sides and the other remarkable sight was 1st XV tight head prop Mason Coulam only returning to his usual position for the last 15 minutes to enjoy a good tussle with recently retired Dave Sheils after impressive spells on the wing, in the centre and the back row!

Evergreen No8 Dave Garland managed to find himself at scrum half for the last 1/4 and talking of evergreen, the remarkable Richard Byrom played the last 1/4 for the 1st XV and helped himself to a try in the closing stages!

Ed Poulson, Harry Adams and Josh Hubbard showed up well in the President’s pack.

The score stood at 39 - 37 to the 1st XV moving into the last 10 minutes which saw 2 more tries for the 1st XV including a spectacular 50 yard sprint from the outstanding Will Ellison to seal a hard fought victory.

Finally, many thanks go to Darren Gourley who again managed the recruitment of the President’s side.

Thanks also to Tom Pykett and Tony Wade for running touch and Trev Sharpe for reffing.

Tim Barker