13 November 2023
Hello Everyone,
It’s only a week since the last President’s note but in that short time we have moved from the 3rd spot in the Division to 2nd place! I did suggest in last weeks comms that this was a match worth attending – and I was right. A win with a bonus point against a formidable Wesley side but what was really satisfying about this match was the brand of rugby we played. We played with tempo and pace, and we met a Wesley pack renowned for its size and power (is there any other type of Wesley pack) on our own terms and then played some really smart rugby. This was a game where we were always in control – bar the first 60 seconds – and delivered a performance we can be extremely proud of. A number of the Wesley Exec said to me afterwards that based on this match we should have no fear of any opponent, and Wesley have played the Division Leaders in St Mary's. We need to take this onboard, not become complacent but justifiably remain confident and go out to dominate our next opponents.
Which brings me back to our supporters – a big thank you to all who attended but it’s still nowhere near where it needs to be. This team deserves far more. This is as good a rugby team as we’ve ever been fortunate to have represent us. I used to hear talk about how we’re on our way back to the Halcyon days of Division 1 in the mid ‘90s – from someone who played on that team let me clear up a simple fact – this team is far superior to that one, has won promotion twice in a row, is sitting in 2nd place in the table and is gaining momentum. I would not like to be taking on this team with our ’95 AIL team in it’s prime. You’re depriving yourself of some of the best competitive games on offer but it’s not too late – we have three huge games left this side of Christmas with Naas, St Mary's and Buccaneers with Naas and Bucs at home.
This week sees a strong Naas side come to Stradbrook hot off the back of a win against Garryowen where they not only clawed back a 33-point deficit but won with a bonus point! That is a remarkable turnaround and means that this game is not over until we hear the final whistle. They are also rolling into town with Sean O’Brien in their backrow and feel invincible with him in their pack – I am pretty confident we’ll handle him and ensure he has his hands full.
The Women’s 1st XV had another great win away to Ballincollig 48-0, that is some result on the road. Unfortunately, the Women’s J1 match was cancelled.
The Men’s J1 was also cancelled – I’m afraid we’re heading into the stormy season. However, the 3rds are up and running and while they suffered a loss to Clontarf it’s great to see them back in the game. Our U20s were on a week off!
So – onto next weekend and another chance to get out and support our teams. It’ll be hopping down in Stradbrook on Saturday so I’m sure we’ll see people jostling for position pitch-side!
See you Saturday.
Paul
Paul Flavin
President 2023-24
Blackrock College RFC
Comentários