Welcome Back

Midweek we were given the bad news that Anstey RFC had many players unavailable and were coming over with 6 players. A huge effort was put in by many members of the club to invite past players back up to the club to fill in numbers. The day was changed from a friendly fixture to a celebration of grassroots rugby returning. Welcoming back friends, new & old, and supporters to Covert Lane.

13:30 - As it has been around 1 and a half years since the last game of rugby was played at Aylestone St James their was an atmosphere of excitement throughout both changing rooms. After meeting with friends and introducing new team mates, all 35 players went out to warm up together lead by Andy Angell. All players listened to the referee briefing on the new COVID19 guidelines to returning to rugby, including the removal of scrums & mauls. The teams were then sorted into Jimmies & Anstey Barbarians before splitting to work on backs moves & line out formations.

15:00 - Kick off arrives, this whistle blows, the ball is kicked and Rugby has officially returned. A very fast paced 10 minutes ensued with many big carries & hits from both sides. Many penalties & free kicks were given due to players getting back into the game & implementing the new laws to the game. Anstey barbarians had the majority of possession throughout this first 20 minutes and it paid off as they put the Jimmies under a lot of pressure. The Jimmies began to build their flow in the 2nd 20 minutes leading to points. Due to injuries, returning fitness levels & the scorching heat a final 20 minutes was played where both teams fought tooth & nail to score. Resulting in a 31-31 Draw.

Jimmies Try Scorers:
Aaron Jones
Sam Simpson
Craig Caunt
Andy Angell

Dishonourable mentions:
Rhys Forryn - Knocking the ball on over the try line
John Deacon - Scoring for Anstey barbarians...twice.
Red Splevings - That Knock on.

Commiseration's:
Kudzai Katsande & Chris Burham - Both tearing their Achilles tendons. We wish you both a speedy recovery.