KNOBS defend title in an impressive start to 2010
Season 2010 kicked off in tropical Townsville like conditions at Woollahra Oval on Friday. The team was assembled after some late pull outs and poor excuses (I mean who works Friday afternoon anyway). We battled on regardless.
In 35 degree heat the team set about putting John O’Neil’s words into action and ran the ball. Our newest recruits were on fire with a stunning debut from our Kiwi contingent, Irish half Paddy and Torrie a new second rower from Scotland.
We finished the day with only one loss to the eventual runners up who were a side consisting of Ex Joey’s players. We won’t hold that against them…
This set us up for a shot at the Plate which we won last year. Saturday was a rainy affair but our game faces were on. John Manu was added into the mix, Nick Boyle returned to the Knox Jersey and in a pony tail was Team USA 5/8 Mike Hercus who was charged with steering this vessel.
Andy Rasmus was everywhere covering every inch of the paddock. Having him on board for season 2010 is a massive boost for the club and can’t wait to see him develop with us. David Maxton (colt 2009) was the revelation of the tournament with huge turn overs, tackles runs and just generally making us all look bad with his 6 pack on show after each game making me think I should have gastric band surgery.
We made it to a soggy final against old foes Iggies Old Boys. They lacked panache of KNOBS but still looked like they could play. Oliver Sheer, Bryn Robertson and Laman Davies looked out of place on the tens field carrying over 120kgs between us. However coach Bromley knew that if push came to shove, we could shove harder and that we did.
With 3 minutes to go in the final we had 5 points up our sleeve and on our line. Scrum to Iggies and things looked ominous. The pack gave one massive shove and got the scrum re-set. We had the scrum darted up the sideline and game over.
The Sheaf was alive with celebration long into the night as we partied like we had won a Kentwell Cup. Our first trophy for the year and a lot of sprit and fun was had by all.
There is a feeling about 2010 that I must say not felt since we had battled in the lower divisions. There is a real pride in maintaining our clubs standards and winning mentality whilst also maintaining the fun and mateship. The way this club welcomes new faces and bond together is unique and something special that others envy.
How stupid to think that 2009 would be my last and I urge every player to get involved in the club and bring a mate down so we are brimming with numbers to match the early enthusiasm we are taking into the season. We are getting 5th grade back on the park, we have a new club captain in Robbie Crawford, Oliver Sheer is your Vice President and things are in place for a prosperous new era.
See you soon
Bryn (Gazelle) Robertson