Slow start to 2007 for both London South Africa teams

6th January 2006

In dreadful conditions on Saturday at Imber Court, both LSA’s teams opened up the second half to their seasons with tricky fixtures. First up was the Shield XV taking on Rosslyn Park Dev’t.

Early pressure from a hastily crafted Shield XV sadly went unrewarded as the forwards could not find a way over the line to reward the early pressure. The sides traded penalties and it was difficult to get anything going for either team.

Early in the second half Rosslyn Park managed to create the match winning score to make it 13 – 3 in their favour. LSA were able to claw back the three points to make it 13 – 6 with 20 minutes to go but that was the way the scores stayed. The result could not hide the fact that once again LSA were able to attract a number of new players making their debut which can only signal a bright future.

The Surrey XV started brightly, in stark contrast to the conditions, but couldn’t begin the year with a desired result. Into a stiff breeze, LSA started slowly with Old Alleynian taking an early 3 – 0 lead. Old Alleynian continued their early dominance of the game, extending their lead to 10 – 0 after 15 minutes.

Conditions worsening, LSA decided to play smart rugby, adapting the game to suit the environment. LSA showed they were the better side, picking and driving in one movement the entire length of the field.

The rain subsided at half time however; there was still a considerable wind that would aid LSA’s fight back. LSA started the second half in fine fashion, as it was only after 5 minutes when Justin Rose crossed the line after a good passage of play that started from a burst down the touch line by Trevor Grunderlingh. LSA continue the assault, and took the lead when Dave Kelly crossed the line after another fine passage of play. Jarrod Vock had his kicking shoes on to convert from the sideline.

Matt Fendick continued to apply the pressure onto Old Alleynian, playing smart rugby to keep them well inside their own half. However, LSA were unable to convert countless opportunities, and with 2 minutes remaining a penalty to LSA was reversed. An ensuing kick to the corner, lineout and drive followed by a LSA mistake saw Old Alleynian escape with victory.

It was a disappointing start to the year for the Surrey XV, however things are promised to turn around. The players, staff and supporters are excited about the prospects of the new coach Bob Crooks coming in and taking over the reigns.

This week, the Surrey XV are away to Croydon (Shirley Wanderers), whilst the Shield XV are at home to Portsmouth.

Shield XV

AK Southey, Nick Stein, Martin (?), Allan Bezuidenhout, Andre Retief, Grant Bezuidenhout, Duncan Baxter, Sam (?), Vaughan Gilson, Louis Van Zyl, Dave Blackburn, Trevor Grundelingh, Nigel Bain, Dave Kriel, Anton Kriel, Jaan

Surrey XV

Anton Kriel, Werner Swanepoel, Gareth Dickson, Christian Van Rooyen, Justin Rose, Mark Porter, Kieran Gaffney, Mark Howell, John Turner, Matt Fendick, Jarred Vock, Trevor Grundelingh, Gary Johnston, Dave Kelly, Dave Blackburn, Dennis Schutte, Louis Van Zyl, Nick Stein.