Match Reports 2004/2005 Season
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Under 13's - October 17th
Evesham 26  Alcester 5 
 From Evesham Journal 

 DISTON LEADS THE WAY
 The youngsters were in action last Sunday when they boasted a strong 15 man squad captained by Russell Boyles.
They made a good start with a strong drive up field with Mike Diston making a good run over the line to give Evesham an early lead.
The hosts kept up the pressure with an impressive display of teamwork and were rewarded with a second try by newcomer Charlie Stanley.
Diston converted to add to his points total and then added two more points after Luca Grillo's impressive run to the line.
Player of the match Diston then converted his own score as Evesham continued to dominate before the pressure was taken off the visitors with three half time substitutions.
Alcester upped their game and pushed their hosts all the way with some strong drives that brought the reward of a late try that couldn't deny Evesham a first win of the season.		 Under 13's - November 7th
Evesham 12  Stow 5 
 From Evesham Journal 

 Under 13's Win Again!
Evesham Under-13's were in action again last Sunday when they entertained Stow.
Captained by Michael Gander, the youngsters were still on a high after their previous defeat of Alcester and they made a good start.
The hosts dominated the early stages and kept their opponents in their half of the pitch and player of the match Sam Hopkins made a break from the pack to dive over and open the scoring.
The hosts showed good team play and continued to pressure the Stow line and they were rewarded with another try at the end of the first half by Mike Diston who also added the extra two points for the conversion.
Evesham made several substitutions in the second half but still they continued to dominate.
However, Stow responded with some impressive play from their backs that forced the home side on the back foot.
Several scrums on the Evesham line brought reward despite gallant Evesham defence that brought a richly deserved 12-5 success.

Under 14/15s - November 12th
 Evesham 45 Tewkesbury 5
Williams and Goggins Make the Day
Evesham played hosts to Tewkesbury in a game which brought Evesham a convincing win. Rich Williams scored two tries with further tries scored by Luke Ward, Alex Rice and Johnny McMinn. Spencer Goggins successfully converted the five tries to give Evesham a convincing win.
Under 9's - October 31st
1st Match -Hereford 2 Evesham 1
2nd Match - Hereford 0 Evesham 2 
 From Evesham Journal 

Evesham Under 9's travelled to Hereford last Sunday morning when honours ended equal.
The Avon Street youngsters played extremely well when narrowly losing the first game by two tries to one. They showed real resilience second time out when winning the second contest 2-0.
Great tackles were made by the visiting youngsters, and a number of excellent driving mauls created openings for the tries that were richly deserved
Under 13's - November 12th
Evesham 7  Bredon 31
Evesham Lose Out at Home 
 From Evesham Journal 

Evesham under 13's, skippered by Ben Farrah, entertained Bredon last Sunday when it was Bredon who emerged victorious 31-7.
Bredon made sure that the home side were going to have to work hard as they crossed the line within the first ten minutes.
Evesham responded with a spirited individual run from his own half by Farrah whose fine try was converted by player of the match Mike Diston.
Bredon, though, continued to dominate the first half and added a further two tries to lead 17-7 at half time. Henry Appleby and Louis Willets came on the second half to replace the injured Steve Smaylen and Russell Boyles but Bredon remained on the attack. The hosts kept themselves together and good team play pushed their opponents back on to the defensive.
Diston, Sam Hopkins and George Dickinson took the game to the opposition with some impressive ground gaining runs and tackles. However, a strong back row kept making sustained attacks on the Evesham forwards and a couple of converted tries followed for an impressive visiting outfit.

Under 16/17 - 21st November
First Win of the Season
 Evesham 46  Exiles 0
Dyer Star of the Show!

Evesham under 16/17 secured their first win of the season on Sunday against Birmingham Exiles following three very close games in previous weeks to Old Yardians, Hereford and Stow. Lead By captain Sam King Evesham dominated the game to come out comfortable winners 46-0.
The game started at a fast pace with the Evesham forwards, lead by pack leader and man of the match Callum Dyer, successfully dominating six phases of play with Callum Dyer scoring within the first two minutes.
Though the try was not converted, Evesham put on a very powerfull forward demonstration dominating all set plays. Both forwards and backs were moving well in the loose with some good phases of forward play releasing the ball quickly to the backs which forced further tries from Simon Holcombe, James Allen, Joe Whittaker and Adam Reeve-Burcham, with conversions from James Allan's to give Evesham a comfortable 27-0 lead at half time.
The Exiles came back stronger in the second half with good performances from Evesham loan players Jim Billington and Luke Anderson to slow down the scoring rate, though further tries from Keiran Lippett, Ashley Perkins and James Everett, with a further conversion from James Allan put the game out of Exiles reach.

 
Under 13's - November 21st
Evesham 22  Exiles 19
Sime sinks Exiles with late score
 From Evesham Journal 

Sunday's squad was captained by Matt Hyde and the Evesham youngsters were in determined mood on the back of their previous weeks defeat.
The Exiles, however, opened the scoring in the first ten minutes but the hosts piled on the pressure and, after a good drive up field were rewarded with a penalty which was kicked by Mike Diston.
Evesham showed excellent team play and Diston scored the first try with his conversion making it 7 - 5.
Mike Ibbotson, who was having an excellent game, was unlucky not to touch down after a brilliant individual drive but the Exiles responded at the end of the first half with a converted try to lead 12 - 10 at the break.
Evesham made several substitutions at half time to bring on some fresh players. Evesham were looking in command after the restart until the Exiles made another breakaway run for a second converted scored and 19 - 10 lead.
The home side regrouped and, after some superb team play, were rewarded by a try scored by Luca Grillo.
Evesham then began to dominate and Mike Gander was unlucky not to score when the ball was knocked from his hands as he crossed the line.
However, it was player of the match Ian Sime who drove over to give Evesham the lead and Diston secured victory with a successful conversion.
Under 9's - November 28th
Evesham 2  Droitwich 7
Matt Man of the Match
 On a cold and wet Sunday, Evesham welcomed Droitwich to the Avon Street Club.  Evesham did well holding off a well drilled Droitwich with Jack Witts and Matthew Camp both scoring fine tries for Evesham, however, Droitwich fought back to score three of their own tries in the first half. 
The weather turned horrid in the second half , with horizontal rain and a very cold wind which damped the spirits of the youngsters. Evesham were caught knapping which enabled Droitwich to score again.  That was the pattern for the rest of the match with Droitwich winning 7 - 2.  Matthew Camp was man of the match scoring in the first half and carried on bravely all second half.
Under 13's - November 28th
Evesham 0  Droitwich 29 
 From Evesham Journal 

 Depleted Hosts Battle in Vain
 Sunday's squad was captained by Jonathan Farrah who led by example to take the player of the match award.
Evesham had to borrow a spare player from the Droitwich squad to make up the numbers but, following victory in their previous match, the hosts were in high spirits and determined to build on that success.
Droitwich however, dominated the first half keeping Evesham back in their 22 for the first ten minutes. Evesham defended well but finally succumbed to the pressure when conceding the game's first try.
They regrouped after the restart and took the game to the visitors and showed some good phase play while taking control of the rucks and mauls.
However, Droitwich didn't yield and responded with another converted try before half time.
Evesham were reduced to 14 players when Tom Singleton-Wells went off with an injured wrist with the score at 12 - 0 to the visitors.
Evesham started the second half well pushing up field and keeping Droitwich on the back foot helped by excellent performances by Jon and Ben Farrah, Sam Hopkins and Luca Grillo.
Two more players were forced out of the action with injuries and and a depleted home team were no match for their opponents as they conceded three more tries.
Under 7's and Minis Results 17th October  Alcester-Home 
Over two close games the result was a draw.
Evesham battled well in the first of the two with  a strong all round performance.
Alcester came back well in the second game with a deserved win.
A draw was a fair result for both sides.		 31st October Hereford-Away
A good turn out saw ten making the trip.
In a set of two Evesham proved too strong in the first game with good running and ball control.
In the second round with a changed line up Evesham continued to pressure Hereford and clinched a well earned victory.
7th November Stow-Away
An exellent turn out saw fourteen under 7's and seven mimi's make the trip.
Stow fielded fourteen under 7's and two games were played.
After a slow start  Evesham recovered to take the first . After the switch round for the second a revitalised Evesham stole the game.
An exellent performance all round-Highlight of the season so far.
 28th November Droitwich-Home
In appauling weather conditions both sides struggled.Due to the turn out teams played with eight.The first of the two games ended in a draw .
In the second weather conditions continued to deteriorate Evesham down to five players at the close battled well but were overpowered by the Droiwich eight and lost to a try in the last seconds.

9th January
Bromyard 7's 1 Evesham 7's 5
Bromyard 7's 5 Evesham Minis 1

Fifteen players made the trip to Bromyard.

The Under 7's fielded a strong team and took the lead early in the first half. Bromyard stuck to the task and showed great spirit. Evesham pressured through out and produced a 5 tries to 1 win victory. Scorers Ben Coley, Ben Jones and Tom Farrell.

The Mini's took on the Bromyard Under 7's and produced a great all round performance. The Bromyard team was just too strong and the Mini's went down 5 to1.

The Man of the Match was Joseph O'Hara who played for the Mini's , Scoring the try and producing some excellent tackles.

 
23rd January - Home vs Alcester
Another great attendance  with 28 mini's and under 7's turning out.
In the first game Evesham under 7's took on the Alcester under 8's and produces a spirited performance.The first half was all square with Evesham showing some fine tackling and passing.In the second half the age difference began to show and although Evesham battled well Alcester pulled away winning by 6 to 2.
The second game saw Evesham second under 7 team take on the Alcster Under 7's.A balanced game with the fairest result being a draw.
To finish a mixed game of Evesham/Alcester 7's and 8's was played and all participants enjoyed the match.
A good day with improved performances all round.

 

 

Under 16/17 - 5th December
 Evesham 7  Droitwich 32
Gigantic Forward Display

Evesham took on Droitwich on Sunday in a very hard fought close game whose 7-32 score line complemented the visitor's, Evesham took the game straight to Droitwich with good forward play and were unlucky to concede a breakaway try on the ten minute mark. This was followed by a break away by Callum Jackson which almost equalised other than a great Droitwich fullback covering tackle. This again was closely followed by a solo breakaway by Joe Whittaker who was stopped 5 meters out. Unfortunately Evesham fell to a late try with the last play of the first half to turn round 10-0 down.

With fresh drive in the second half, the forwards kept the pressure on Droitwich, with good driving from Dan Leigh and Ashley Perkins they drove Droitwich off three of their scrums and dominated the line outs, though two good back moves by Droitwich gave them two further tries which was followed by an interception try to give them a 25-0 lead seventeen minutes into the second half. At this point Evesham again rallied with sound defence from James Allan and James Everett (man of the match), Evesham finally crossed Droitwich's line with Sam King getting a well deserved try 20 minutes into the half. With James Allan retired injured, the try was well converted by Mark O'Conner to put Evesham at 7-25 and back in the game. The next ten minutes was another hard fought session which ended with Droitwich's forwards finally driving over Evesham's line with a converted try to give the final score. On reflection this was an excellent performance by the Evesham team against definitely one of the best teams in the two counties.

 

U11/12’s Sunday 12th December
Yardley & District RFC U12s 14 - Evesham 46

Evesham run rampant 

Evesham turned up on a cold morning in Stechford, Birmingham with a mixed squad of 11 and 12 year olds against mainly 12 year olds. Evesham were not going to let the conditions, distance travelled or opposition faze them. Right from the kick off they warmed spectators and coaches alike with a barnstorming performance. The first try came from receiving the kick-off. The ball was caught and driven up field via a series of storming drives resulting in Elliot Stook scoring the first of his brace of tries. Elliot scored 4 tries in total all of them characterised by the same dynamic runs shrugging off opposition left, right and centre all of them from starting at least 20 metres out from the opposition line.

 Evesham had collectively and intuitively decided to maul and ruck their way through the opposition with some excellent phases of “pick and drive”. It was heartening for all to see Evesham drive 20-30 metres plus, keeping the phases going nearly every time they went forward. Even more surprising, as they were pushed back in the scrum and lost most of the put ins. Evesham had the advantage of some powerful forward drives from some promising future 2nd Rows and Back rows.  Andrew Uncles showed what an emerging talent he is, time and time again making metres with what appeared to be half of Yardley’s Team Hanging from him. Whilst not as fast as some Andrew makes up for this by being for his age immensely strong and like the tide perpetual and unstoppable. Andrew Uncles bulldozed his way over for 2 tries and was unlucky not to add to his tally on two or three other occasions. Whilst, Stook and Uncles took all the glory in the forwards they were ably assisted by some bullocking runs and support play from Jamie Willis, who cleared up a considerable amount of ball for the others to feed off. Andrew Hemmings is another strong powerful runner who is not far off emulating the metres gained and ball winning activities of his try scoring partners. Scott Coulson the youngest but by no means smallest forward also had phases where he was able to make big in roads into the opposition. Finally the smallest member of the forwards playing hooker was Stewart Rock snapping away amongst his larger colleagues like a little terrier. He came away with one score by kicking a conversion.

 Not all the tries were scored by the forwards, Lewis Giles playing in the centres, scored 2 tries forcing his way over from loose play in both occasions. Evesham backs did not quite make the inroads that the forwards did but showed two things for certain some impressive tackling resulting in numerous turnovers. Tristan Walsh, Owen Jones, James Cox and Luke Fisher all putting in some excellent tackles, causing spectators from both sides to show appreciation. Evesham backs were not going to sit in the shadow of the forwards and gamely tried to run the ball Tom Hemmings, Tom Fitchett, Peter Johnson, Jack Coburn and Kane Edwards all had runs where they tried to beat the opposition and made excellent ground. Scott Grainger, Charlie Plawustiak and Chris all added the team performance. There was one move where forwards and backs combined from deep in Evesham’s half, which had all the Evesham Spectators in throws of delight as the ball was crisply moved down the line and then kept going until the Evesham were forced out just before Yardley’s line. It was a great team performance with all members of this squad contributing. Evesham have come a long way with a squad of players from those only just starting to some with a couple of years experience.

 
U13’s Sunday 12th December
Yardley & District RFC 12 - Evesham 5
Wilkes score, a deserved reward for brave losers
Yardley were short of Under 13 players and had arrived with a team of mainly older youngsters. The hosts, captained by James Ingleby, started the game with full squad of match age players who were overwhelmed by the oppositions bigger U14 squad.
Yardley scored an unconverted try in the opening ten minutes when Evesham were on the back foot and only superb performances from Mike Diston, Tom Singleton-Wells and Ben Farrar helped keep the visitors at bay.
Evesham showed great courage and determination and began to fight back only for them to be overpowered and Yardley scored two more tries in the first half to lead 17 - 0 at half time.
The hosts borrowed some of their own older players to try and make the teams more even and Spencer and Fraser Goggins, Alex Rice and Rob Wilkes seemed to do the trick.
After an excellent drive upfield, Evesham were rewarded with an unconverted try from Rob wilkes. Yardley though responded with another try to wrap up the win.
Christmas Funday - 19th December
 Evesham U17 24  Evesham Olduns 29
Oldies show them the way!

Evesham under 17 had their easiest match of the season when they faced up against an experienced bunch of oldies and baldies! The match was kicked off by the 17's who immediately went on the assault and after a good turnover scored their first try by Joe Whittaker within about five minutes of the kick off. The try was converted by James Allen to bring the score to 7 - 0 to the 17's.
A number of first team players had come in to boost the ranks and Simon Thwaite was determined to score an individual try. However, despite repeated calls from his team mates he defiantly hung onto the ball and was swiftly brought down on several occasions by the youngsters. Because of his size, he had several players hitting him at once.
Darren Hunter (No.14) for the 17's made a brilliant individual run, dodging not one but four attempts to bring him down to score right under the posts. The try was nearly converted again by James Allen who was unfortunate to have it bounce off the post
The Oldies were further boosted by the addition of 1st team player Mike Figgit. Figgy made his mark straight away receiving a fine pass from Simon Thwaite (who had realised that there were other players in his team!) to score a try. The conversion was unfortunately wide of the posts to bring the score to 12 - 5 to the 17's.
For the Oldies, 1st team captain, Gary Diston came on from the kick-off to replace Chalmers. Figgy and Dusty immediately made their mark setting up a fine series of moves which resulted in Lloyd Jiles scoring a try which was converted by Glyn Everett to bring the score 12 - 12. The remainder of the first half was evenly matched with plenty of rucks and mauls.

In the second half, Prop Lloyd Jiles was replaced by Andy Ibbotson and Simon Thwaite was also replaced for the Oldies. Marc O'Connor was replaced by Simon Holcombe for the 17's. Steve Hudson made several good drives but seemed to be attacked from all angles by the 17's for some reason! The 17's gave away a penalty but was not capitalised on by the Oldies. The Oldies kicked off the scoring with a fine try by Steve Hudson, conversion was missed by Glyn. Pete Boyles replaced Luke Harrison at full back position. No. 21 Forest ? then scored another try for the Oldies to increase their lead to 12 - 22.
The 17's responded with a try by Joe Whittaker which was again converted by James Allen to bring the score to 19 - 22 to the Oldies. Steve Hudson came off knackered!
A fine run by Callum Dyer resulted in a pass to Joe Whittaker who neatly side stepped Pete Boyles to score his hat trick to bring the score to 24 - 22 to the 17's. Steve Hudson, fully revitalised after a break replaced Ed Capaldi as referee!
From a line-out on the 17's touch line resulted in the Oldies receiving the ball and fine pass from Glyn Everett was then passed onto ? (No. 22) to score for the Oldies. The try was converted by Glyn to level the score to 24 - 29.

This match report was compiled from a 60 minute commentary by Julie Boyles into an MP3 player who has little idea of who any of the players were and even less knowledge about the game of rugby! The commentators man of the match for the 17's was Joe Whittaker and the Oldies was Glyn Everett. The most impressive kick was from Dusty for his bicycle kick from the back of the pack. The best cock-up was from Pete Boyles who, after nicely receiving a long kick up field from the 17's, did a fine kick up field for the Oldies only to forget to run his team on-side. What the Oldies lacked in speed and agility they made up for in sheer beer bellies.

 

Under 9's
 9th January
Bromyard 0 Evesham 9

The first Sunday back from the Christmas Holidays saw Evesham travelling away to Bromyard. 

Evesham were a little rusty to start the game but soon found their feet and it wasn't long before Jack Witts scored a fine try for Evesham. 

Evesham were always ahead keeping their formation well.  Matt Camp had an exhilarating solo run straight through the middle taking several Bromyard players to stop him before passing to Joe Beirns who scored.  Tries also came from Josh Perry and Ashley Charlton. Bromyard came back strong in the second half but with solid tackling from Evesham, they never reached the try line.  Josh Perry scored again followed by Joe Beirns and Alex Tarplee.  

Debutant, James Thomas played an excellent game setting up Jack Witts and Ashley Charlton who scored a further two tries making the result an impressive 9 -0.  

Man of the matched was well deserved by Ashley Charlton. 

Report By Andy Tarplee

 

Under 10's
 9th January
Bromyard 8 Evesham 0

We travelled to Bromyard this morning with a compliment of 12 players, not bad for first session back after the break. We all arrived without loss which was a promising sign, but as the morning ticked away , so did any hope of returning with a result. We last played Bromyard 2 years ago at home as U8’s and narrowly beating them – not to be the case today.
Evesham started strongly playing 10 aside on a heavy pitch, and for the first quarter had Bromyard pinned in their own half nearly breeching the line on several occasions with a combination of probing individual attacks and driving mauls.
Bromyard soaked up the early pressure and against the run of play worked the ball wide to touch down in the corner. From here the game started to slip away from the Evesham boys through a combination of missed tackles and large gaps in the defence. By half time Bromyard held a 5 tries to 0 lead.  
The U10’s turned round at half time determined to get back into the game and very nearly pulled off an early score which could have made a big difference to the final outcome, but Bromyard stole another try and the final result was always going to be victory to them. Final score 8 tries to 0.  
However the score did flatter Bromyard and the Evesham boys were unlucky not to register any points.
The whole squad played very well with strong performances from Simon Evans, James Roberts, Liam Charlton and Harry Charmley. Good support work came in the shape of Ben Capaldi, Daniel Bailey, Harry Perry, Josh Sands and Kieran Court .
Finally 2 players who deserve special mention were Jack Hughes for his tireless tackling and constant attacking play and Jake Barnett for all his effort and hard work ‘upfront’ in the thick of the action – my man of the match, Well done Jake !  

This was one of the best sides we will come up against at this level and we will learn and build on today’s experience.  Well done all – training as usual next week. - Report by Simon Hughes

9th January
 Evesham U16/17
Yardley & Dist 21 Evesham 25

Evesham fought hard to win a very close game against a very well drilled and disciplined visiting side.

Following some very strong play by both sides, Evesham broke the dead lock with a good wingers kick and chase try from Joe Whittaker on 14 minutes. This was promptly responded to by the Yards who on 19 minutes got a well deserved try from Tom Burrows which was well converted by Ashley Knight. The remainder of the first half continued to be a close hard fought contest with Evesham tending to dominate in the forwards and the Yards in the backs. Evesham's forwards getting the final say with Tim Smith scoring a hard forward try following a three minute spell on the Yards 5 metre line to give Evesham a 10 - 7 lead at half time.

Yards started the second half with the wind at their backs and put it to good use to gain ground and with a good back row move off a scrum and James Moran scored three minutes into the half which was again converted by Ashley Knight putting Yards back into the lead. Following several moves, the Evesham forwards again started to dominate in the loose which gave them the solid platform for both Kerren Lippett and Simon Holcombe to score on 8 and 16 minutes for Evesham to regain the lead. True spirit and good rugby from the Yards kept Evesham on their toes and with excellent captaincy from Sam King (man of the match),

 Evesham's defence held tight with their backs evening up the difference from the first half. Evesham dominated slightly towards the latter half of the second half and good running rugby from all quarters put Mark O'Conner in at the corner on 22 minutes to give them their fifth try. Yards carried on with their fighting spirit and with an excellent backs scissor move cut straight through the Evesham defence to score under the post in the 34th minute, the try scored by Ashley Knight who converted his try to complete what was a magnificent demonstration of goal kicking in difficult conditions. This put Evesham on edge for the last minutes, though they held up to be the deserved winners.

This all makes for an interesting trip in two weeks when Evesham go to Yardley and District for the return leg.

 

9th January
 Evesham U11/12
Battle of the Bromyard Bog
Bromyard 14 Evesham 14 

Evesham Under 11/12s travelled away to Bromyard on Sunday and started the New Year to good account.  They were faced with a not only quite a large pack but a pitch that was definitely not one for open flowing Rugby but was very “gloopy” to say the best. Evesham started very well with some excellent pick up and drives by the forwards and some of the backs, which is becoming something of this teams trademark. The match was very much a “tuck it up your jumper” slog. Evesham placed Bromyard under concerted pressure for about 5 minutes solid minutes. Evesham were determined to muscle their way over the line but were guilty of losing possession by keeping hold of the ball for too long and then getting players isolated when they need to recycle or let their backs loose. The first try was really against the run of play but was a well deserved effort on behalf of Bromyard as they defended with great heart and were able to capitalise on a turnover ball swing the ball wide and let one of their Wingers run virtually the full length of the pitch. Evesham missed the tackles and therefore were down to a converted try after retaining something like 60-70% of the possession. Evesham to their great credit did not let their heads go down and from the subsequent restart put Bromyard under pressure catching the receiver of the ball who was then bound up in an Evesham Maul which was driven on inexorably towards the Bromyard line when suddenly Andrew Uncles ripped himself and the ball out of the Maul and cantered over brushing a couple of defenders aside for Evesham s reply. James Cocks converted the try. 

Evesham kept up the pressure well into the 2nd half when they camped themselves in the Bromyard 22 and proceeded to try and bash their way through a stout Bromyard defence. Bromyard were getting players sucked into the rucks and mauls as Evesham repeatedly attacked tight and narrow. During this phase there was some excellent defending by the forwards and backs with Tim Stoddart and Lewis Giles holding the centres position and snaffling out quite a few attacks with some stout tackling and cleaning up around the breakdown.  James Cocks and Luke Fisher Fly Half and Scrum Half were instrumental in keeping their forwards going forward with a number of sniping runs around the base. Peter Johnson and  Kain Edwards held their own on the wings and also put in some stout tackling as they had very limited opportunity to run the ball at the opposition due to nature of the match. All this pressure told in the end as a passage of play where the usual suspects in the forwards of Elliot Stooke, Andrew Hemmings, Andrew Uncles, Jordan Nobes, Thomas Mansfield and Sam Browning kept up the pressure until for his first try for Evesham, Jordan Nobes powered over from 2 metres out.  James Cocks duly converted the try. 

In terms of possession and pressure Evesham were clearly the winners. It was a tremendous team effort and everyone watching agreed that really, Evesham through keeping it too tight at times and not letting their backs loose or stretching Bromyard, missed the overlaps that could have seen them easily three or four more tries ahead than they were. There were attempts to play the ball out wide with the likes of Tom Fitchett, Scott Granger, Tom Hemmings Jo Hodgson and Josh Allen all trying their best to get involved. However, Evesham tried and unfortunately whilst running at the defence got isolated and gifted Bromyard a consolation try in the dying moments of the game.  Honours even to both sides although Evesham may just reflect on this one getting away from them.  Sunday will be training this week 10:30 at Evesham RFC. Wednesday nights training has also started for  Under 9, 10, 11 and 12’s. One final note the rolling substitutions did not really work and the Coaches would like to say a big thank you for everyone’s patience over this.

 
Under 13's
Meadows makes a flying start!
16th January
Evesham 10 - Chipping Norton 10

Evesham was captained today by Luca Grillo and pack captain was Sam Hopkins. 
Chipping Norton took the kick-off and immediately piled the pressure on Evesham. Keeping Evesham on back foot, Chippy pushed the local lads back to their own goal line and scored the first, but unconverted, try within five minutes of the start. Evesham responded from the kick-off and took the game back to Chippy. After a good drive up field, incorporating several phases of play, with excellent efforts by Mike Ibbotson, Sam Hopkins and Mike Diston,  Evesham were rewarded with a try scored by Mike Diston in the eighteenth minute. Mike was unfortunate to convert his own try. Chipping Norton took control of the line-outs and won most of them. They were lucky not to concede a number of penalties though due to indiscipline in the scrums which proved frustrating for the Evesham players. The first half finished all square at 5 points each.

Evesham restarted the second half and took control of the game. After forcing their way to the Chippy 22 yrd line, new player Adam Meadows, making his debut game for Evesham, pushed his way over the Chippy try line to give Evesham another 5 points. The conversion was again unsuccessful.
With the score now at 10 - 5 to Evesham, Chippy upped the pace of the game, passing the ball wide at every opportunity and stretching the Evesham backs. No. 8, Ian Sime was replaced by Anthony Watts  and Russell Boyles came off with an injured shoulder and was replaced by Jamie Fisher. Chipping Norton kept the pressure on and responded in the nineteenth minute with an unconverted try to level the score at 10 points all.

Man of the Match was Adam Meadows making his debut game for Evesham. Notable performances for Evesham were by Ben and Jon Farrah, George Dickinson and Matt Hyde. Thanks to Tom Singleton-Wells and Louis Willetts for sportingly playing a half each for the Chipping Norton team who were a player short from the start.

 23rd January
 Evesham U16/17
Yardley & Dist 17 Evesham 5

A Balanced Result over all.

Evesham thought hard in another close game away at Yardley and District. Starting with three key players and following a long journey with little warm up time, the lads set about from were they left off two weeks ago with a strong forward drive that put yards under pressure. This pressure lead to a mistake behind the scrum which Sean Hudson quickly punished with a try under the post for an early 5-0 lead. Yards never let their heads drop and came right back at Evesham and held them in their own half for most of the rest of the first half. Unfortunately for Evesham another key player getting injured in defence and having to sit the rest of the game out. Evesham putting up some good defensive work but with a series of silly errors prevented them from pressurising Yards more.

The second half started out well for Evesham with them camped back in Yards Twenty two, but again the errors came back and with Yards Backs starting to dominate out wide Yards quickly levelled the score with a try in the corner from Jim Morrison. Evesham went on the attack again but the gremlins went with them and a tragic handling error in the backs gifted Yards their second try with Adam Knight touching down under the post for it to be converted by Ashley Knight. Evesham then received a further blow loosing their second back row player in the game and having to reshuffle the pack. This gave Yards the edge with backs already dominating and they managed to capitalise with a further try for Richard Conlon. With a spirited last five minutes camped on the Yards line Evesham could not break through and hence the score remained.

With an overall six tries a piece over the two games, both sides did well and entertained a busy touchlines.

 
Under 13's
Sam's score the catalyst for win!
23rd January
 Alcester 0 - Evesham 36 

The Evesham Under 13 Youth Rugby team were playing away this weekend at Alcester RFC. Evesham was captained today by Jonathan Farrar and pack captain was Ross Hayward. 

Evesham got off to a flying start, piling pressure on to the Alcester forwards who succumbed in the 3rd minute to a try scored by Sam Hopkins. From the restart, Evesham continued to dominate with a succession of driving mauls forcing the Alcester on the defensive, unable to break up a determined team of Evesham forwards. Mike Ibbotson, Scott Roberts and Adam Meadows added their weight to the pack with impressive driving and, after forcing Alcester to their five metre line, Ben Farrar, burst from the maul and forced his way through several players to score Evesham's second try, which was converted by a fine kick from Mike Diston.

With the score at 12-0, Evesham continued their onslaught, spoiling any attempt Alcester made to break free from the Evesham forwards. New player, Tom Zube made several good runs down the right wing as did Tom Singleton-Wells on the left wing after receiving good passes from the Evesham backs.

Evesham made several substitutions for the second half, with Anthony Watts replacing Ian Sime at No. 8 and Scott Walker replacing Tom Zube on the wing.

Alcester had regrouped from the restart and pushed Evesham back. Superb defensive performances from Man of the Match Mike Gander and Matt Hyde prevented Alcester from gaining too much ground. Several long kicks up field by Alcester were brilliantly dealt with by Henry Appleby, playing at full back for the first time. An injury to Adam Meadows, saw Josh Greatrix come on to make his debut for Evesham as a prop. Sam Hopkins once again made an opening and surged through the Alcester defence to score his second try of the day. The try was converted by Mike Diston to give Evesham a healthy 19- 0 lead. Scott Roberts, who had a fine game, was replaced by the now recovered Adam Meadows. Alcester once again began strong from the restart and pushed Evesham back into their own half.  Evesham now turned up the pace and had Alcester on the back foot in their own half. Evesham's pack were now in control of the scrums, with scrum half James Ingleby and fly half Matt Hyde passing the ball to the Evesham backs at every opportunity. Evesham had several line-outs on the Alcester five metre line which were thrown by hooker Ross Hayward and won on a number of occasions by the Evesham forwards, who used the opportunity to drive at the Alcester defence. Alcester stood their ground though and didn't buckle under the continued driving at their goal line from Evesham.

Mike Diston once again created his own space and burst through the Alcester defence to score a worthy try which he just as confidently converted to bring the score to 26 - 0. Evesham didn't relent and a fine run by Sam Hopkins who sportingly passed to Ben Farrar for Ben to score for Evesham with just four minutes remaining. Alcester were now struggling to contain the Evesham onslaught and yet another driving maul saw Anthony Watts once again force his way through in the final minute to score a fine maiden try. Evesham came out the victors at the whistle with the final score being 36 - 0 to the visitors. Alcester put up a good effort and the score did not reflect how well they played.

 
Under 9's
 23rd January
Alcester 8 Evesham 1
 
Only one year older, but Alcester Under 10's proved to be stronger and more physical than Evesham's Under 9's.
Perhaps an unfair contest you might say, but Evesham played with pride and passion.  Aaron Parks, Iain Stoddart and James Thomas all playing their hearts out.  Mike Harris often stole the ball passing to Ashley Charlton and Jack Witts, but with that extra advantage, Alcester took the first half 6 - 0.
Evesham came back in the second half with subs, Alex Tarplee, Sam Waller and Keiran Sherwood and with their help man of the match, Matthew Camp managed to score a fine try.

A big welcome back to Adam Johnson who played well taking the ball forward passing to Josh Perry and Joe Beirns but Alcester managed to steal the ball, and scored another two tries. 
Under 10's
23rd January
 Alcester 5 - Evesham 3
The U10's started with what was believed to be a strong starting 9 of Evans, Charmley, Barnett in the pack, Charlton and Hughes at halfback and Sheppard, Sands, Bailey and Capaldi in the back line.
This proved not to be the case as Alcester gelled into a far more organised and focused team as the game developed.
Early exchanges took the play to each end of the field until the more organised Alcester forwards forced the first score. They notched up 2 more scores without reply before Tim Sheppard took the ball and forced his way through the Alcester defence on route 1 to score.
Poor tackling allowed Alcester yet another try before an inspired period of play saw Jack Hughes run the length of the pitch to score in the corner.
At 3 -2 Evesham were back in the game but some woeful attempts at tackling allowed Alcester in for 2 more tries.
Evesham's final try came from Kieran Court collecting the ball on halfway and weaving through the Alcester defence, brushing off several tackles to score with some defenders still attached as he crossed the line.
Kieran was today's man of the match, well supported by the tireless Jack Hughes.
Unfortunately we are still not functioning as a team and until we get to that stage victory's will be few and far between.
For any players who can make it midweek training is Wednesday evening 19.00 hrs.Those who can't; practise tackling and ball skills on your Dad .

 

 

Under 13's
Determined Evesham can't hold Hereford
30th January
HEREFORD 34 - EVESHAM 0

The Evesham Under 13 Youth Rugby team were playing away this weekend at Hereford RFC. Evesham was captained today by James Ingleby and pack captain was Sam Hopkins. 

On a high from their convincing win against Alcester the previous weekend, a 20 strong team made the long trip to Hereford on Sunday morning. Evesham took the kick-off, but the well drilled Hereford team immediately went on the offensive. Evesham defended well but Hereford quickly made ground with a series of driving mauls, forcing Evesham back and eventually scoring in the fifth minute.

Evesham regrouped but could not made any impression on the determined Hereford forwards who thwarted any attempt Evesham made to drive forward. Evesham defended well, but again Hereford pushed Evesham back and eventually scored a converted try in the fifteenth minute. Once again Evesham took the kick-off but Hereford just piled on the pressure despite some determined defending from Man of the Match Sam Hopkins and Mike Diston. Hereford scored a good breakway try in the twentieth minute bring the score to 17 - 0 to the home team.

Evesham now upped their game and went on the attack. Some good driving by props Josh Greatrix and Adam Meadows forced Hereford back into their own half and for the first time Evesham were looking equal to Hereford. Evesham were finally holding their own in the scrums and allowing George Dickinson to feed the ball out to fly half James Ingleby and onto the backs, Henry Appleby and Jon Farrar. In the twenty seventh minute Hereford made a break through the Evesham defence to score a fourth try and bring the score to 22 - 0 at half time.

Evesham made some changes for the second half with Ross Hayward replacing Russell Boyles at hooker and Tom Zube replacing Louis Willets on the wing. Tom Singleton-Wells replaced James Ingleby at fly half with Scott Walker taking up position on the left wing. Evehsam again went on the attack, thanks to some aggresive driving from Anthony Watts, Sam Hopkins and Mike Diston. Several times Evesham got close to the Hereford try line only to get forced back by a well drilled and disciplined Hereford side. Hereford once again took the game to Evesham and after a series of successive phases of play scored in the 45th minute.

Evesham looked good again from the restart and a long kick upfield from Evesham was finely caught by Tom Zube who luckily was played onside by the stray hand of a Hereford player. Tom sprinted up the right wing but was eventually caught and brought down by a faster Hereford player, spoiling Evesham's chance of a breakaway try. Evesham then conceded another converted try in the fifty first minute against the run of play to bring the score to 34 - 0.

Russell Boyles came back on replacing Zube on the right wing and Ian Sime replaced Henry Appleby at centre. Evesham, with the game now lost, were determined to score some points. Mike Diston, Sam Hopkins and Anthony Watts piled pressure on the Hereford forwards forcing them on the defensive and keeping them pinned in their twenty two metre line for the remainder of the game. Mike Ibbotson and Adam Meadows had some forceful drives at the Hereford players but just couldn't break their defence. Evesham put up a spirited effort and the score did not reflect how well they played.


Under 9's
6th February
Stratford 5 -  Evesham 0
Silhillians 1 - Evesham 0
Stratford 3 - Evesham 0
 
Evesham Under 9's played away last Sunday at Stratford upon Avon in a Triangular Tornament against hosts Stratford and Silhillians from Solihull. 
The first game being 7 minutes each half against Stratford resulted in the hosts winning 5 - 0.  Stratford were always the bigger team who took the lead early with a couple of runaway tries.  Evesham were always playing as a strong team, with fine runs from Mat Camp and Jack Witts, but just couldn't produce the tries. A few more missed tackles and Stratford scored again concluding the game.
 
Second game Silhillians 1, Evesham 0.  This game was more evenly balanced and the standard of rugby played today was better than Englands at the weekend!! Great  tackles were made from Joe Beirns and Kieran Sherwood and although both teams played well the referee seemed to place some harsh decisions against the youngsters.  Ashley Charlton and Aaron Parks battling out in the centre of the field were unlucky not to break through and score a try. 
 
Third game Stratford 3, Evesham 0.  The Evesham younsters, although coming away without  a win, produced outstanding defensive play.  Solid tackling by Alex Tarplee and rigid defence by Ian and Alex Stoddart, was not reflected in the score.  Sam Waller, Adam Johnson, James Thomas and the boys,  although defeated, were not down hearted and will be ready for their next game.

 


Under 10's
6th February

Stratford 2 - Evesham 2
Silhillians 4 - Evesham 0
 
Triangular fixture at Stratford including Silhillians.
We travelled with a squad of 12 for this fixture and were surprised to see both opposition sides fielding in excess of 20 players each !
 
The first game was against Stratford and was end to end play until James Roberts produced a power run from the half way line shrugged off several tackles to touch down for the opening score.Evesham maintained their shape and composure moving the ball well and playing with a maturity beyond their years which led to the second try scored by Jack Hughes.A classic first phase movement from breakdown to halfback allowing quick early ball to give Jack the chance to outpace the first defender and step inside the second to score a well earned 2 try lead.Some slack play in the second half allowed Stratford back in the game and with minutes to go it was 2 - 2.Harry Charmley very nearly made it over the line in the last minute after a fine run down the wing but failed to see his support and was stopped short of the line.
 
The second game was a completely different affair.Evesham still high on the fumes of the first match performance (which should have been a comfortable victory) never started and Silhillians ran in an early try from the kick - off.Heads dropped and the team lost shape and organisation against a determined Silhillian team.The score was kept down to 4 tries to 0 only by the efforts of some of the more determined defenders,with Ben Capaldi and Dan Bailey working hard.In the end Evesham were relieved to hear the final whistle.
 
We have a tough came coming up in 2 weeks against Stow and if the squad can produce the same standard of performance we saw against Stratford we should be on for a thriller !

 

Under 13's
Camp Hill just too Strong
6th February
EVESHAM 0 - CAMP HILL 37
The Evesham Under 13 Youth Rugby team were playing at home this weekend against Camp Hill RFC from Birmingham. Evesham was captained today by Tom Singleton-Wells. 

In determined mood to make good after their defeat against Hereford last weekend, the Evesham U13 squad faced up to Camp Hill on a very wet pitch on Sunday morning. Evesham took the kick-off, but the Camp Hill team immediately went on the attack. With a continued drive upfield Evesham were caught out and Camp Hill scored in the fourth minute.

In a repeat of the previous weekend's match, the Evesham squad were up against a team of larger players and had to work doubly hard to keep them at bay. To their credit though, the Evesham team came back hard after the restart and although they made ground into the Camp Hill forwards, they couldn't get close enough to score. Excellent defending by Mike Diston and Sam Hopkins wasn't enough and Camp Hill scored three further tries in the first half to bring the score to 0 - 17.

Evesham made some changes for the second half with Scott Roberts replacing Mike Ibbotson at second row, Tom Zube replacing Tom Singleton-Wells on the left wing and Scott Walker replacing Louis Willets on the right wing.

Evesham went on the attack from the kick-off, with some impressive driving from Anthony Watts, Josh Greatrix and Scott Roberts. They attacked and defended well but Camp Hill were just the stronger side. Mike Ibbotson once again took to the field replacing Russell Boyles. Notable performances by Jon and Ben Farrar, Mike Gander and Man-of the Match Luca Grillo helped keep the Camp Hill team at bay but they succumbed to two quick tries in succession to bring the score to 0- 27 to the visitors.

Once again Evesham regrouped and attacked with enthusiasm. With only ten minutes remaining Evesham pushed forward and made good ground with several successive phases of play only to be pushed back to concede a further two tries before the final whistle. The final score was 0 - 37 to Camp Hill. Many thanks to Simon Thwaite from South Africa for stepping in at the last minute to referee the match.

 

Evesham U16/17
6th February
Evesham 10 - Camp Hill 53

 
This was a match were the score did not reflect the true nature of the game. Evesham got off to a good start pinning Camp Hill back into there own half for until a Camp Hill winger in the third minute got a quick ball off the back of the scrum, got around our winger to power home to score under the posts for a converted try.
 
Forgetting this Evesham again pressurised from the kick of and drove Camp Hill back into their own 22, additional pressure got the ball into their dead ball zone but Camp Hill got their first for a 22 drop out. Then on 6 minutes the winger struck again taking a quick kick to himself ran around a surprised Evesham to put the try down again under the post for a converted try.
 
Evesham again tried hard to recover and had a few chances but could not penetrate Camp Hill line though they continued to give away three more tries in the last ten minutes of the game through some woeful tackling to leave them 31-0 down at half time.
 
Evesham started the second half with renewed vigour though their defensive tackling let them down again with two more tries in the first ten minutes going to camp. Then it clicked and Evesham held their own for ten minutes which was followed by a well worked backs try for Adam Bircham to go in under the posts, unfortunately the conversion was blocked by one very quick winger.
 
The pressure remained fairly even after that even though Evesham let in a further two tries by poor defence and tackling, though they did get another score on the sheet with the last play of the game converting a well practised penalty move to put Adam in again for his second try. All in all it was a well tempered evenly contested battle (other than tackling) through out, with Dan Leigh, Simon Halcombe, James Allen and Beau Spinetti making it a tough call to pick a man of the match.
 
Evesham will have to work hard on their tackling to get a result at Stow in two weeks.

 

Under 13's
Under 13's unlucky again!
20th February
STOW 39 - EVESHAM 5  

The Evesham Under 13 Youth Rugby team were playing away this weekend at Stow on the Wold RFC. Evesham was captained today by Scott Roberts. 

Evesham took the kick-off, but Stow forced the Evesham team back immediately, scoring a try in the fourth minute.

Evesham took the restart but, some despite some impressive tackles by Matt Hyde, Ryan Clarke and Luca Grillo, the Evesham team didn't seem to have an answer to the strong Stow team. Stow forged ahead with Evesham not seeming to be able to contain the strong Stow forwards and conceded another three tries by half time to bring the score to 22-0.

In the second half Evesham started playing some better team rugby. Stow pushed on but the Evesham forwards were holding their own. Stow put the pressure on Evesham, pinning them in their 22 yard line for some time. Anthony Watts drove Evesham out of trouble on a number of occasions with Luca Grillo finally clearing the ball from the Evesham try line with an impressive kick to touch.

Evesham now upped their game with Ben and Jon Farrar driving forwards. Josh Greatrix made some impressive drives with the ball and also contributed to feeding the ball from the mauls into the Evesham backs. Jon Farrar had to come off with an injury and was replaced by Adam Trinder.  Despite all their efforts, Evesham could not stop Stow from scoring a further three tries bringing the score to 39 - 0.

Evesham forged ahead trying desperately to stem the Stow forwards progress. A long kick upfield by Luca Grillo was caught by a Stow player on the Stow 5 metre line who was immediately driven into touch by a hard charging Michael Ibbotson. This set up Evesham for a last minute attempt to score a try.
Russell Boyles took the throw in which was caught by the Evesham forwards who drove into the Stow defence. An off-side and verbal abuse by a Stow player resulted in Evesham getting a penalty on the Stow 5 metre line. Russell Boyles took a quick tap penalty and passed the ball back to Anthony Watts, who with the entire Evesham pack behind him, drove over to score the first points for Evesham. This signalled the final play of the game with Stow emerging the victors with 39 points to Evesham's 5.

 
Evesham U16/17
20th February
Stow 12 - Evesham 5
A Game Given Away
 
Evesham gave this game away within the first ten minutes, having not settled from the journey or the cold conditions. Having secured the ball from the kick off they whipped the ball out to the backs but an interception pass between fly half and centre had Stow seven points up in the first minute. This gave Stow great confidence which they capitalised on and pressurized Evesham more. The pressure finally telling with a second try on fourteen minutes to give Stow an early twelve point lead. Evesham finally woke up and started to defend well and finally turn the pressure back onto Stow. The silly mistakes from the previous games abolished, Evesham finally looked like they could take the game to Stow.
 
Evesham started the second half with the belief that they could turn the game around and started to dominate Stow both up the front and in the backs. With Evesham firmly ensconced in Stow's half they finally got a score with Callum Dyer scoring after ten minutes to get Evesham into the points. The conversion only just missing the post from James Allen. From this point on Evesham continued to dominate the forward plays with the back row having a storming game. James Everrett worked hard up front as well as covering brilliantly in defence, ably supported by man of the match Simon Halcombe who chased and worried the oppositions back line. Although Evesham pinned Stow into their half for the last fifteen minutes and were awarded numerous penalties they were unable to capitalise further and pull back the early lead they had frivolously given away.
 
With the next game at home in two weeks against Chipping Norton, it is hoped Evesham will be able to build on this excellent performance.

 
Under 9's
20th February
Evesham 0 - Stow 8

Sunday was a beautiful sunny winters day, until the wind got involved, then it was like playing in Siberia.

Stow are always a tough side to play, well drill and physical so it wasn't unexpected when they scored their first try seconds after the first whistle.

The Evesham lads were a bit shell shocked after that, but still played the game with passion and heart. Great tackles, passing and making the ball available at the break down wasn't enough as Stow were always there ready to drive over and steal the ball. Man of the match and co-captain Kieran Sherwood showed strong character leading his men on, nearly scoring a fine try after running down the wing, only to be stopped just short of the line. Evesham were playing catch up from then on but could not put points on the board.

Under 10's
20th February

Evesham 3 - Stow 4
 
After the early season encounter at Stow which Evesham won 7 - 2 we knew Stow would be looking for payback and it wasn't long in coming as for the first 10 minutes Evesham were still on the training pitch as Stow comfortably ran in 4 tries with a fine display of running Rugby.
Stow fielded their strongest side, one incidentally that are progressing to the later stages of the Gloucestershire cup competition and it looked like we were in for a lesson on how to play 9 man rugby.4 - 0.
However Evesham started the second period with a far more determined approach and refused to lie down. A crunching tackle from Liam Charlton deep in Evesham's half quashed a Stow attack and the ever present Jack Hughes snapped up the loose ball and sprinted 40 yards to touch down 4 -1.
This visibly lifted the home side with Jake Barnett and Tim Shephard stepping up to the challenge driving players of the ball in the rucks and mauls and maintaining possession to Evesham. This led to a fine drive up the field until Kieran Court peeled off the back of the maul 5 metres out and score 4 - 2.
This was repeated again by Jake Barnett after a superb break by Jack Hughes took play deep into Stow's half where, from the ensuing maul Jake showed great determination to break through and score 4 - 3. 
Stow came out for the final period determined to add more points and secure a comfortable victory only to be thwarted by a huge defensive display from Evesham and failed to cross the line. Final result 4 - 3.
 
A special mention goes to the 3 forwards ;James Roberts, Tim Shephard (Man of the Match) and Jake Barnett who worked hard off the ball, Kieran Court for some strong running in the centre and Jack Hughes for the most 'yardage' and highest tackle count.
 
Well done all. 

 
Under 13's
27th February
EVESHAM 7  -  SHIPSTON 31

The Evesham Under 13 Youth Rugby team were playing at home this weekend against Shipston on Stour RFC. Evesham was captained today by  George Dickinson. 

Evesham took the kick-off, but Shipston showed their intentions from the start pushing Evesham back into their 22 almost immediately. Evesham defended well and did not yield to a sustained attack on the Evesham defence. Some good defensive play by the Evesham forwards, Josh Greatrix, Adam Meadows, Anthony Watts, Russell Boyles, Mike Ibbotson and Mike Gander eventually allowed Evesham to go on the attack. Shipston responded by pushing Evesham back again with some good running to score an unconverted try in the fifteenth minute.

Shipston again took command after the restart scoring again in the twentieth minute. Evesham then got themselves together and went on the offensive. Some good running by flankers Mike Diston and Sam Hopkins pushed the home team into the Shipston half. Evesham pushed on and after several good phases of play, Jon Farrar sprinted through the Shipston defence to score a try which was converted by Mike Diston.  Shipston responded by immediately scoring another try which was converted. With the teams now very evenly matched, Evesham came back and continued to push Shipston and held the visitors at bay until half time with the score at 7 - 17 to Shipston.

Shipston took the restart and in a repeat of the first half push Evesham back. Evesham occasionally managed to forge into the Shipston half and on one occasion, Man-of-the-Match Anthony Watts pushed over the Shipston try line only to have the try disallowed. Shipston now took control of the game and Evesham never really got back in the running. Mike Diston had to come off injured and was replaced by Jamie Fisher. Evesham held off sustained attacks by the Shipston forwards who had now taken control of the field and despite some desperate clearances by Luca Grillo, Ben and Jon Farrar and Matt Hyde Evesham conceded another two converted tries before the final whistle. The final score was Evesham 7 - Shipston 31.

 

 Under 9's - February 27th
1st Match - Evesham 0 - Camp Hill 1
2nd Match - Evesham 7 - Camp Hill 6

Evesham welcomed Camphill last Sunday to the Avon Street ground.  On a Sunday with such a  fine turn out by Evesham with 12 players and Camp Hill with a very strong  16 boys, the coaches made the decision to play two games.
 A very evenly matched first game, both teams playing fluid rugby.  Man of the match Ashley Charlton, carried the ball well making good yards passing to Matthew Camp but the ball was spilled. After a few quick hands, Camp Hill scored their first and only try.  Evesham kept up the pressure all through the game with good runs from Joe Beirns, Sam Waller and Mike Harris.  Adam Johnson had a huge game with excellent rucking and mauling throughout the 30 mines, while the two sides were so evenly matched that a tight game was only separated  by one try.
The second game brought on some of Camp Hill's younger players and Evesham did likewise, again turning out to be an evenly matched game.  Camp Hill scored early but Evesham retaliated with a fine try by Captain James Thomas.  Man of the Match, Alex Tarplee, scored an impressive four tries, Kieran Sherwood also added two to the score pipping Camp Hill to the final whistle.

 

Under 10's
27th February

Evesham 3 - Camp Hill 8

Double Blow as Evesham sink to a heavy home defeat
and Lose Charlton for the rest of the season.

 
Not only did the U10's fail to compete against a workman-like Camp Hill side who managed to run in 8 tries due to some woeful tackling but also sustained the loss of Liam Charlton at scrum half with a broken wrist inside the first 5 minutes.
 
Camp Hill were able to score 5 tries before Evesham managed to register on the board with 2 solo efforts from Jack Hughes and 1 from Harry Perry - all whilst 3 Worcester Warrior's players were stood on the touchline watching.Ben Capaldi did cross the line late in the game but the try was disallowed due to multiple movements while on the ground (looked more like a side-winder snake on a sand dune than a player trying to reach the try line without double movement!)
Unfortunately in reply Camp Hill produced 3 more to leave the final score 8 tries to 3.With the exception of Jack Hughes (man of the match) and Liam Charlton little effort was visible from the remaining 8 players on the park.
Evesham lost 95% of their scrums,all the lineouts and all the loose ball - a total lack of commitment that will lead to further heavy defeats unless the players change their attitude and start playing basic rugby.
Liam will be sorely missed at scrum half as he and Jack Hughes are starting to gel as a half back pairing (plus he is 50% of the team's tackling force)
 
The game against Yardlians next week is cancelled so it will be an hour and a half of tackling practice,ruck and maul and securing loose ball - ALL players make sure you bring washkit and a change of clothes  - as stated on the website news, muddy players will not be permitted to use the clubhouse facilities.
 
We have one fixture left this season and we need to finish on a high note.............so if you want a big' W ' we need a big effort - from eveybody - over the next 2 weeks.

 

Evesham U16/17
6th March
IT'S GREAT WHEN IT COMES TOGETHER! 

EVESHAM 51 CHIPPING CAMPDEN 0

 
Evesham got of on the right foot this week and turned the early pressure into points with a well worked penalty move on five minutes giving a try to Adam Bircham which rocked the visitors. This early confidence kept Evesham camped in the Chippy's half, but stout defending kept Evesham at bay until Callum Dyer managed to break through from close range to score a try in 26 minutes, which was converted by Joe Whittaker. With a more comfortable lead Evesham continued to push on, only suffering a minor set back when Dan Leigh had to leave the field with a suspected broken collar bone. This spurred on the team with Callum Dyer driving over again for his second try just before half time to give Evesham a 17 - 0 lead at half time.
 
The team started the second half with renewed vigour, at last the forwards were dominating with Simon Halcombe foraging all loose ball, Tim Smith, Kerren Lippett and Callum Dyer driving on good second phase ball and man of the match Stewart Mason tackling anything that moved. This gave the backs a platform to work off with stand in scrum half Dave Smith supplying clean ball for James Allan to unleash the backs. James Billingham scoring his first of hat trick of tries in 5 minutes of the second half from close range followed by two further tries from the half way line on 10 and 20 minutes into the second half. The close support and interplay of the backs cutting through Campden in waves who throughout defended bravely but were simply out manoeuvred.
 
This being clearly demonstrated by Joe Whittakers try on 24 minutes in the second half, coming in from full back and slicing through there defence. This was finally followed by a try a piece for the hard working centre pairing of Adam Bircham and Beau Spinetti in the 33 and 40th minute of the second half, the last try being converted by James Allen.
 
With this excellent win under their belts the boys will have to reproduce this magic again when they travel away to Marston in Gloucester in two weeks time.

 

Under 13's
5th March
EVESHAM 0 - CORSHAM 34  

Evesham under 13's were in action on Saturday 5th March when they played hosts in a special match against touring team Corsham RFC from Wiltshire.

The tourists were an unknown quantity and the Evesham team were missing some regular players, so some under 14's were drafted in. As it turned out Corsham had some under 14's so the odds were evenly balanced.

Corsham announced their intentions early on running in two tries in the first ten minutes, showing up weaknesses in the Evesham defence. Evesham then regrouped and began to play as a team, holding the visitors at bay and at times pushing them back. Good defensive work by the Evesham forwards helped counter the visiting team, but Corsham continued to find weaknesses in the Evesham backs. Under 14's, Tom Bailey, Jack Jordon and Dan Poole added weight to the Evesham pack but still seemed unable to hold Corsham in the scrums. Centre, Jon Farrar had to come off due to injury and was replaced by Scott Roberts. Corsham then changed their game play, playing the ball out to the backs and Evesham were caught napping on several occasions allowing the tourists winger to score three more tries before half time, two of which were also converted.

For the second half Evesham replaced Russell Boyles with Fraser Goggin at hooker. The Evesham players seemed revitalised from the kick-off penetrating into the Corsham forwards in a series of driving mauls. Man of the Match, Mike Ibbotson, Mike Gander and Josh Greatrix were now showing some skilful play, ripping the ball from the opposition and setting Evesham up for several phases pushing the visitors into their twenty two. Evesham were very close to scoring on several occasions but just couldn't push past the try line. Luca Grillo, Tom Bailey and Jack Jordon made some impressive tackles preventing Corsham from scoring run-away tries as they tried in vain to counter the Evesham onslaught. Evesham winger, Scott Walker was having by far his best match this season when he got buried in a maul, dislocating his collar bone, which will put him out of action for the rest of the season. Russell Boyles was again brought into play replace the injured Scott on the wing.
Evesham were by now the dominant side, although the score did not reflect how well they were playing. James Ingleby was now feeding the ball to backs Ben Farrar, Scott Robert and Henry Appleby allowing winger Tom Singleton-Wells to run at the opposition. But this was still not enough to get Evesham over the Corsham try line. Corsham scored a run-away try towards the end of match totally against the run of play to leave the score at 0 - 34 to the touring team at full time.

After several recent losses, Evesham can take heart from a spirited performance and hopefully they can build on this to return to their early season winning ways.

Many thanks to Carol, Pina, Cath and Julie for their work in the kitchen and to Alan for opening the bar on a Saturday. I think Evesham put on a good show and an excellent meal which was very much appreciated by the visiting Corsham team. 

 

Under 13's
6th March
EVESHAM 5 - STRATFORD 25  

Stratford upon Avon arrived with an enviable reputation, having amassed over 170 points against two previous ill-fated opponents with their free running rugby but that didn’t faze Evesham who defended resolutely for the first quarter. This is an area where they had needed to develop and improve as they have all too often conceded early scores and allowed their heads to drop. Excellent forward play early on from the “tight five” of Captain Josh Greatrix (Man of the Match), Ross Hayward, Jamie Fisher, Anthony Watts and Mike Ibbotson created useful platforms and together with inspired tackling from Sam Hopkins, Mike Diston and the Farrar twins the home outfit prevented Stratford from even breaching the gain line on numerous occasions.
The pressure eventually brought reward for the visitors though with an unconverted try mid way through the first half but by now Evesham had begun to gain in confidence as they put some excellent phases together and were camped in the opposition half for long spells. Both wingers Matt Hyde and Tom Singleton-Wells were brought into play as Evesham spread the ball wide, but the hosts were again unlucky to concede another try on the stroke of half time in the corner.

Tom Zube, Adam Meadows and new boy Adam Trinder came on for the second half in a restructured pack with Mike Gander moving from flanker to his more accustomed role in the second row and Evesham were immediately on the attack. The most fluent move of the game resulted in a brilliant team try finished under the posts by Mike Diston who was then unfortunate to hit the bar with his conversion attempt. James Ingleby worked tirelessly at scrum half under considerable pressure all game and Luca Grillo was solid at full back once again. The visitor’s superior fitness and experience eventually began to tell however and they finally lived up to their awesome pre-match status by running in three more tries before the end.

The Under 13’s will be heartened by this enthused all round team performance and now eagerly await the arrival of local rivals Bredon next Sunday 13th March.

Report by Andy Ibbotson

Under 13's
13th March
EVESHAM 17 - BREDON 15

Evesham turned their run of bad luck around this Sunday in a hard fought match against local rivals, Bredon. After a number of defeats in a row, but some encouraging recent performances, the Evesham Under 13 squad were determined not to let Bredon repeat their win from earlier in the season. The Evesham squad was captained today by Adam Meadows.

Bredon took the kick-off and immediately piled the pressure on Evesham, who as always, were slow to react and conceded an early try after three minutes. Evesham kept their heads up though and responded by defending exceptionally well, with good tackling from Ryan Clarke, Sam Hopkins and Mike Diston. Anthony Watts was unlucky to have a try disallowed due to an earlier infringement. Evesham's pack were looking exceptionally strong with the first and second rows easily matching Bredon's forwards. Evesham were now pushing Bredon hard with driving runs from George Dickinson on the wing and Matt Hyde at centre, but Bredon responded with two breakaway tries before the half time whistle to leave the score at 0 - 15 to the visiting side.

Evesham made a number of substitutions for the second half, with Evesham Captain, Adam Meadows, sportingly joining the Bredon side after they sustained an injury and had no replacement players. Tom Zube, Luca Grillo, Jamie Fisher, Adam Trinder and Henry Appleby made appearances for the second half.

The second half was all Evesham. Evesham were dominating the scrums with some excellent hooking by Russell Boyles, not only winning their own, but stealing the oppositions put-ins. Sam Hopkins, playing at number eight  was also having a superb game stealing the ball from the back of the scrum and driving at the Bredon backs. Good passing from scrum-half James Ingleby and inspired running from backs Henry Appleby, Luca Grillo and Ben Farrar, kept Bredon on the back foot, whilst forwards, Mike Ibbotson, Josh Greatrix and Jamie Fisher kept the visitors at bay in the rucks and mauls.

Evesham were rewarded by an excellent try by Mike Diston which he unfortunately failed to convert. Man of the Match, Ryan Clarke, soon added to Evesham's score by running in a superb try under the posts which was easily converted by Mike Diston to bring the score to 12 - 15. Bredon were now a demoralised side and were struggling to keep Evesham back. Sustained attacks found Evesham camped in the Bredon five yard line for several minutes, setting up a number of phases of pick and drive, keeping the Bredon forwards pinned on their try line. With two minutes left, number eight, Sam Hopkins picked the ball from the back of the scrum and drove head down through the Bredon defence to score the winning try. Evesham kicked for touch in the final play to take the win with the score 17 - 15.

After a run of defeats, this was by far the best performance of the Evesham Under 13 team this season. They play hosts to Shipston on Stour next Sunday (20th March) in a match which they should be capable of winning.


Under 9's - March 13th
1st Match - Evesham 2 - Bredon Buzzards 8
2nd Match - Evesham 0 - Bredon Buzzards 2

First Match 
Evesham were away last Sunday at Bushley against the under 9's - Bredon Buzzards.  It was obvious from the start that Bredon were a very well drilled squad taking the lead in seconds from the off.  Whether it was the journey that deterred the youngsters, or the overwhelming site of the location, Evesham just couldn't get a grip with the very fast game. It wasn't until the second half, man of the match Ashley Charlton scored two excellent tries giving the lads that extra confidence that was needed.  The Evesham squad played long and hard with excellent tackling and good team work.  
 
Second Match
In the second match, Evesham came out fighting with determination, more aggression and passion for the game.  Needless to say that this was a far better and evenly matched game.   Again Evesham's tackling was by far superior to that of Bredon, but the opposition were just that little quicker with passing down the line and scoring 2 tries.

 

Under 10's
13th MARCH

Bredon 3 Evesham 2
Evesham gift Bredon Victory after solid First Half Performance

The U10's travelled to Bredon with 5 first choice players not available for this local derby. The available squad members where asked to step up to the mark and compete, which they did well. Interestingly with some of the stronger players not there several of them came out of their shells and put in the best performances we have seen this season.
The game started at a strong pace with Evesham pushing the Bredon line on several occasions before Harry Perry broke away from a maul close to the Bredon line and touch down - unfortunately as there was no dead ball line so he touched down over what he believed to be the try line clear of all cover for the referee to disallow the score saying the broken line was not the try line. As a result a scrum was awarded, which Evesham lost and play moved back into Evesham's half.
From the maul Jack Hughes broke free and sprinted past the cover to open the scoring. We turned round 1 - 0 and Jack soon added another on the back of some strong teamwork, especially from Simon Evans and Conner Greatrix. Dan Bailey competed well on his debut at hooker and Josh Sands stepped into Liam Charltons shoes at scrum half effortlessly, and Harry Charmley probably gave his best performance to date at center.
However the old tackling demon returned and gave Bredon three swift scores to steal the match when victory should always have been Evesham's.
Hopefully we can get a return fixture before the end of the season and put the record straight and finish on a high. Man of the match award goes to Simon Evans who worked hard in the scrums and the loose clearing out opposition players and securing possession for Evesham - well done Sime !! 

 

Under 13's
20th March
EVESHAM 22 - SHIPSTON 15

TAYLOR MADE DEBUT!</