Wed 30 Apr 2025, 19:15
A bright sunny evening set the scenes for the Warwickshire Shield final.
Two talented sides.
Sutton Coldfield undefeated in their league season.
OC’s runners up in their league.
A great turnout of support. Both touchlines, pretty much full with spectators giving great vocal support for their teams.
This is not an attempt at a detailed match report; more a synopsis of the game and a tribute to the lads for their endeavours tonight and a season which has given tremendous pleasure to the travelling support.
We have a talented squad. They work for each other and are clearly well coached and have the respect for the coaching team.
Sutton were victorious 34-8.
Sutton had much of the play in the first quarter but our defensive wok was excellent, and we had the upper hand in the set scrum against a much bigger Sutton outfit. Their backs looked sharp, but we kept them at bay for the first fifteen minutes until they crossed for a converted try..
Chat Senavirathne responded with a penalty opportunity just five minutes later.
Another Sutton try came just before the half hour from a lineout on the left. The ball was moved right and Sutton crossed just right of the uprights.
Without bias or detracting from the Sutton sides skills, I have to say, there was some bewilderment regarding some decisions from the officials. OC’s saw a number of yellow cards. Puzzled expressions rippled through the crowd. It’s a tough game with a man down at this level.
Sutton respond to the first yellow with a run in up the right wing and the conversion was good.
They added a penalty goal to make the half time score 22-3.
Early in the second period we have a lineout, close in on the right. We drive it before moving it left. Emosi Nabakeke has a rare opportunity to show his pace and footwork and almost makes the left corner. Sam Miles is on hand to retrieve the offload and score a try . Chat’s conversion was adjudged unsuccessful.
Sutton are soon back pressing. A 5metre lineout following a penalty gives them the opportunity to drive over on the right.
The final Sutton score comes from more Sutton pressure on our try line where we fail to secure a loose ball and Sutton are awarded a try following a discussion between the referee and his line official.
34-8 the final score.
Our opportunities were rare tonight, but our endeavour was great. We were stifled. The chances for our talented boys rarely developed.
A joyous moment for colt Tom Hunter, coming off the bench, who made a dazzling elusive run up the middle but was hauled down just short.
Every player in the squad tonight can be proud of their performance.
Skipper Sam Miles can be especially proud for leading his team in what has been a very successful season.
I’ve had the opportunity and pleasure to watch our Extra’s side and Colts on a few occasions also, and I can conclude that I believe the club is in a very healthy place.
All you guys that put so much into our club week in week out should be very pleased with what you create and provide in the personal development and rugby skills of our young people.
