A number of firsts in Cheltenham

Cheltenham RFC welcomed us to Newlands on Sunday and asked if we could play the Gloucestershire rules of 12 a-side and competitive scrums as they prepare for the LandRover Cup, our lads were up for having a go so the stage was set. A first for some, those not at the Tewkesbury game last year, and only the second time for the rest, so Evesham were under instructions to treat it as an experience day, an opportunity to try some new positions and enjoy the run out.

After selection of Hamish Cross and Olly Neal as obvious second row candidates for some detailed 'Lock' coaching ‘stick your head between there and push’, we were off.

An early break from Will Gilderson, no pun intended, saw a high speed collision in open play that ended his morning with a suspected broken wrist. Off to A&E for confirmation of what is our first proper injury on the field of play, broken wrist – 6 weeks in plaster. Very best wishes from all U11 players and parents for a speedy recovery Will. Heroic endeavour to refuse the scissors and keep the playing shirt whole too. Good Lad.

Moving from uncontested to contested scrums is no small step for the front row in particular and our pack handled the whole experience admirably. We have not had cause or opportunity to coach scrummaging so it was a bit of a lash together on the day with the understanding that the Cheltenham ref would keep an eye on it and revert to uncontested if it started to look remotely squiffy. As it was our lads not only held their own, they pushed an experienced Cheltenham pack off their own ball on occasion which bodes well for future years when the Worcestershire rules catch up.

After four quarters the score line did not reflect the industry on the morning for Evesham but plenty of positives to take away, great tackling on show with Joel, Big Tom Merrall and Slippery Wycherley putting in some notable hits. Tom Stone was impressive with the boot and put in a try saver with no regard for his own safety at one end, Bretty contributed a flying stop in the second half at the other end to deny a try right on the line.

A tough encounter as expected, from a side experienced in the rules, but a most enjoyable morning and much to take away and digest.

Thanks to Bruce for guidance on the rules and relieving us of duties with the whistle and to Helen for making us so welcome.

Man of the Match: Will Brett for tackling like his lunch depended on it.

Well done to everyone for embracing the challenge and getting stuck in.

One last first of the day, ‘Dry January’ amongst the coaches saw the post match Guinness replaced by coffee – THAT will never catch on.