Valliant Vandals Vanquished Veritably

Vandals had travelled a few short but willing to play and enthusiastic about some running rugger. The riches were divided and thanks are due to Vandals for making the effort and the Leo’s who stepped over to assist the diminished Vandal horde who included Onslow, Dave H, James the Bishop, and Rob (Try Scorer) Shaw.
With The Fozaree on the whistle an open and competitive game developed with Leo’s marginally better in all departments but the Vandals defence, spirit and endeavour never let up despite the regular concession of tries. The visitors competed strongly at every breakdown, turning over lazy Leo’s possession in the opening exchanges before the home side woke up and raised their game. Early drives from the forwards gave Polly space and position to score the opener which was soon followed by a flowing backs move as the full range of Leo’s skills was displayed. Twedds returned an impressive 4/6 conversion rate throughout the afternoon despite most tries being scored out wide, forced by the resilient Vandals covering. Ben’s lineouts to two were impeccable no matter who was receiving.The tries were spread evenly throughout the side with the forwards chipping in four from four different players. It could have been five when they embarked on an epic driving maul, Scotty’s assault tactic of choice, which made nearly 40 yards before exhaustion led to its collapse, although there was a suspicion that Dr Goff collapsed it himself as he was tired and had to save some energy for next week’s skiing holiday.
The backs ran some good lines and worked some impressive moves. Debutant Kenny linked well with Tim and Si as plenty of ground was made and scores registered. Their least impressive try was a 50 yard dribble from Tim Martin. Kinga returned from a long lay-off to place himself at the centre of everything for 40 minutes of clean catches, direct running, and falling over. Dr Macklin also returned and scored a try at the end of a sweeping move. Thommo kept up his friendly fire injury count by clattering both Nial and Quartermaster Ambler. Scotty almost scored a try with some pacy support running but Joe’s lofted pass was interfered with by a Leo as he was about to collect and a gallop home. Slick retention and recycling resulted in a try for someone else. The Fozeree kept the game decent, honest and of good humour as Vandals worked a well earned try, through a Leo’s guest.
Vandals never gave in and their tenacious half backs and strong running centres provided a tough afternoon for Leo’s but eventually a sporting encounter was brought to an end followed by few well earned cold beers.