Leo’s edge nine try thriller

Burley arrived somewhat bereft of backs but fortunately Leo’s had the luxury of a capacious squad to share with them ensuring that an open and competitive game could ensue.
CJ+ divvied up the riches and handed over on field leadership to the try machine Chris Cadge. With the Tacheree on whistling duty an open game was guaranteed and served up with enthusiasm. Leo’s started with the traditional Plan A and some sublime driving mauls steered by Scotty and the pack made inroads into the Burley defence. The backs cut loose but were repelled so the pack took control again. Elusive running from the back row was often left unsupported and turnover ball returned with interest as Burley and their guests proved more than a match for the home side. The game ebbed and flowed with neither side able to break through well organised defensive lines for the first quarter. Eventually Leo’s got on the scoreboard with a Tweds solo effort, converted from out wide by Scotty. Burley came back to equalise almost immediately before Senior Cadge added another try to his impressive season’s tally while also adding another 2 feet to his aggregate scoring distance. Scotty did the necessary with the little foot. Burley replied in kind as Leo’s took their feet off the gas and then the visitors blotted their copy book by opting to kick a penalty! Social rugby justice was served as the ball came back off the posts and at half time the scores were level.
The second half began with some more driving mauls from Leo’s but no score before the Scott axis of inaction ushered the Burley skipper safely through to the line with no impediment to allow the visitors a lead. Scott senior retired in shame to be replaced by the ever improving Rob B while Jamie resolved to be a game-changer. The pack took control, winning lineouts with aplomb (Tom G and Fishy) and a few “against the heads”. Further secure possession and maulage resulted in James H going over and Tweds converting. Scores level again. The pendulum swung back towards Burley as they edged ahead 28-21 with ten minutes or so left and Leo’s had to dig deep to avoid defeat. First Phil The Power did his thing and powered over for a try which Tweds converted to bring the scores level before the elusive Tim Martin scampered and stepped through the tiring Burley defence for the winner in the final minutes in true All Black style. Victory for Leo’s but a thoroughly enjoyable and good spirited encounter was enjoyed by all who took part. A big thank you to Burley for travelling despite being somewhat lacking in numbers and to all those who pulled on the maroon and white to contribute to this fine example of social rugby.