19 August 2019
A team match report:
The second game on tour saw the boys play in one of the most picturesque settings for a rugby match in the world and their performance was equally impressive. Not only were they able to maintain pressure throughout the game but they were clinical with their chances when they came, showing great character as they fought back from 17-20 to score with the final play, making it 22-20. It would be hard to single out one player as this win was only possible because everyone excelled, however James Coombs was instrumental as he made the decision to go for the corner instead of taking a guaranteed 3 points and a draw. This game really was like being in a film as the boys overcame many challenges to win with cries of ‘no regrets’ ringing through the Andes. Finally a huge shoutout must go to all the boys on the touch line who cheered from first minute to last because without them this wouldn’t have been possible. Congratulations boys you were exceptional, and finally put some demons to rest.
B team match report:
Another amazing game of rugby here in Chile. The boys were hugely excited to play against Craighouse, who we hosted last year at Abingdon. The backdrop of the Andes, the memories of hosting, and the prospect of another competitive, physical fixture meant that everyone was raring to go. Again, we took the game to the opposition, playing with much more structure and accuracy than at The Grange a few days earlier. Again and again we crossed the gain line, and defence was ferocious. The result always hung in the balance, but in the end a hat trick from a very strong Craighouse winger – fresh from training with the NZ Wellington Hurricanes – was the difference between the two sides. Despite the result, none of us could have been any prouder of the team. Congratulations to Craighouse and a massive thank you for a fabulous experience, for a game played in excellent spirit, and for looking after us all so warmly. Now Argentina and Club Liceo in Mendoza beckon.
C team match report:
The Cs played in a superb 13 a-side game. The first 15 minutes we dominated field position and tested the Craighouse try line; their defence held firm until Fergus Sweeting broke through with both pace and power. Unfortunately this spurred Craighouse on and they responded with two quick tries through counter attacks. At the break we were nursing some bruised bodies and had to rotate the playing positions accordingly. The second half started in similar fashion to the first and although Craighouse extended their lead we replied with a second try for Fergus and a superb intercept try for Gregor Hawkes. At the end of the game there was amazing respect from both sides towards one another.