RFU 2015-2016 Season End Newsletter 7766 hertsrugby.co.uk

About erts Leaping to the top with Herts Rugby 2 016

COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP THE BILL BEAUMONT CUP CHAMPIONS 2012 UNDER 20’S THE JASON LEONARD TROPHY CHAMPIONS 2012 COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP THE BILL BEAUMONT CUP FINALISTS 2011 7766 COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP SHIELD FINALISTS 2009 COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP SHIELD CHAMPIONS 2005

Sponsored by Hertfordshire Union Hertfordshire Rugby Football Schools’ Union Hertfordshire Society of Referees Sponsorship News 7766

It is with deep sadness that I inform you that our main sponsors Weston Homes Plc have notified us that they are ending as main sponsors of Herts Rugby as of the end of this season, 2015-16.

Our connection goes back to 2002 when Chris Palmer (Cuffley RFC) introduced us to both Bob Weston (Chairman) and Stuart Thomas (Gr Finance Dir) and since then we have had a most fantastic relationship. We are so grateful for their incredible support whether on the field, in the clubhouse, on the golf course and of course helping to finance the amazing growth we have witnessed over the past 10 years in the playing numbers. There is no question that if we hadn’t had such generous financial support from them then the game of rugby would not be in such good health in Hertfordshire.

During this period Herts Rugby has seen success on the field as follows, 2012 County Champions, 2012 U 20’s Jason Leonard Trophy, 2011 County Championship finalists, 2009 County Shield finalists and 2015 County Shield Champions. For a small county we fight well above our weight and this is down to superb preparation which couldn’t happen without sponsors of the like of Weston Homes.

Life moves on and as said ‘one door closes and another opens’, well no discussions have moved on other than to say we are now in the hunt. Whether we look for one main again or two or three joint sponsors for the future that has to be decided. What is known is that we need the help from rugby minded people who may know of some company or beneficiary who would be interested in talking to us. Weston Homes’ name and logo is now well known throughout Hertfordshire and further afield maybe another local/national company could join the partnership, please contact me if one comes to mind.

Finally we wish Weston Homes all the success in the future and hope that our paths will cross once again and are confident that all clubs in Herts Rugby will have the door open to welcome them back to the game.

Colin Haslam, Herts RFU, Chairman of Marketing A Message from The President 7766

Dear Friends in Rugby, My final contribution of home spun wisdom as your President. Where did those two years go? As my term in office progressed, I came to realise the added value our sport has brought to my life, long after I was well past donning my boots.

It has been a privilege to join many of you, mainly at the Graham Walker invitation of committees, to walk in to clubhouses, normally Hertfordshire RFU President to a greeting of “Are you still going” or “You’ve stacked it on” and then roll back the years. Old adversaries on the pitch, friends for life in the clubhouse. Amazingly, the longer we are retired, the better we were. Thank you all for your wonderful hospitality and camaraderie.

So, is that the role of a President, dining out and spreading largess? Far from it. Unsurprisingly, the saying ‘IN VINO VERITAS’ remains as relevant as ever. Polite conversation over lunch gleaned a slight insight into any issues, the fourth pint after the match (and please drink responsibly) tended to lead into a frank discussion about the state of club rugby, good and bad.

What else then? I must applaud and thank your Executive Committee for the tireless work they undertake on your behalf. Managing and supporting The RFU, Safeguarding, Competitions, Finance and Developing our game all take more and more effort as our world complicates itself. Just as volunteers run your club, over 100 volunteers are involved in making Hertfordshire tick. Thank you one and all.

I am left with an overwhelming sense of pride, being part of one of the smallest constituent bodies, who continue to punch above our weight. Congratulations are due to Peter Baines, President of the RFU next season, a great honour and thoroughly deserved by him and Sue who has supported his efforts for many years.

Our County Championship campaign, could have, should have, would have. The best team in our division, yet didn’t get points on the board against Cornwall, who ran out as Champions of . I know the boys will be keen to have another crack next season. I am proud of them, as I am of our under 20’s who reached the national semi finals. Ladies rugby progresses, not only did we produce a crop of internationals, we took part for the first time in the Ladies County Championship. It is only time before the fixtures are twinned with the men to play on the same day.

To all clubs in Herts, thank you for making this county one of the best in England. To my successor, Martyn Kirk, I wish you well and look forward to supporting you in any way I can. To all those who have supported me, I remain in your debt. Enjoy the summer and let’s get back at it.

Graham Walker, Herts RFU, President President Elect of The RFU - Peter Baines 7766

Friday 3rd June 2016 will go down as one of the red letter days in Hertfordshire RFU’s history - the voting in of the first RFU President from Hertfordshire council representation. Peter Baines is the proud and fully deserving recipient of this honour and will be a fantastic ambassador for rugby and Hertfordshire in the year ahead.

Sitting at a top table of Bill Beaumont, Chairman of the RFU, Jason Leonard, England legend and current President and Ian Ritchie the Chief Executive of the RFU, Peter looked like the cat that has got the cream as the moment approached for him to get his blazer of office - as he had every right do. Peter was supported on the day by his wife Sue and their family as well as rugby colleagues from and the Herts RFU Executive.

Having known someone through rugby for many years, it is sometimes easy to forget the depth of their contribution. When Jason Leonard introduced Peter as the new President, it was a timely reminder of his amazing rugby career. There are not many people who can say they have founded a rugby club, been an inaugural trustee of two rugby charities (The Rugby Football Foundation and the RFU Injured Players Foundation) and been a strong influence on the game at amateur and professional levels in fundamental ways, especially in the Premiership Heads of Agreement and the integration of women and girls into the full union. The litany of achievements made clear that Peter is a worthy candidate for the honour of RFU President and a magnificent servant to the game in St Albans, Hertfordshire, England and world-wide.

Peter’s opening address as President Elect (he takes office officially on 1st August) was his usual blend of good sense, humility and humour. Whilst Peter was never a star player like them, he has been as influential off the pitch as Bill Beaumont and Jason Leonard were on it and he made clear that he will use his year as President to continue to be an influence in the quiet, practical but incredibly important ways that he has done for many years. He also made clear how important Sue and his family have been in supporting his career as a rugby volunteer and administrator, not begrudging his absence at family events due to rugby’s call. Sue and his family are owed a debt of thanks by Hertfordshire and the wider rugby community for that and she got a large bunch of flowers and a hug from Jason Leonard on all our behalves.

The good news is that Peter will continue to be an asset to Hertfordshire during and after his period of office as President. For that every player and club at whatever level in Hertfordshire should be thankful and raise a celebratory glass - To Peter Baines, RFU President - congratulations and well done, you thoroughly deserve this honour. Annual Dinner 7766

Yet another well supported county event again held at Mid Herts Golf Club where close to 100 valued rugby enthusiasts and partners certainly enjoyed their refreshments at the bar prior to sitting down for dinner. Once we were well into the food and drink the International Awards were presented to … Jimmy Spiers, Andy Berry and Henry Robinson, all for representing England Counties last summer. Sam Winter could not make the dinner due to working but we caught up with him at the Cornwall match where Graham Walker presented him with his award.

Following the desert we were welcomed by HRFU President Graham Walker who in his inimitable style gave his State of The Union address closely followed by our Guest Speaker in our very own Peter Baines as RFU Vice President, who was given great applause especially as it wasn't going to be too long now for him to be starting his tenure as President of The RFU. Finally we were royally entertained by one of the most popular entertainers on the after dinner circuit in Adger Brown. He certainly can pick on some of the audience both male and female with them all smiling throughout.

Sam Winter receiving his award Adger Brown Peter Baines from Graham Walker

Andy Berry Henry Robinson Jack Spiers Community Rugby Report 7766

As the end of season approaches, there is always the vague hope that things will slow down a bit – never seems to happen these days with emails flying in from the RFU seemingly daily and planning for next season already started; the joys of being an Executive member!

However the end of this season does mark an important milestone that derives recognition. The Schools Union AGM brings to an end the involvement of two absolute legends of Hertfordshire schools rugby as John Williams and David Maughan retire from their roles on the County Schools Union. I have been involved in County rugby for a long time and John and David were already involved – they have certainly been involved for 20 years but no-one seems to be sure how long they have been a part of the scene. John was Head of Rugby at Watford Boys Grammar and David at Queen Elizabeth’s Barnet. As well as their roles on the County Schools Union (Chair and Secretary), John and David have been regional and national selectors for youth representative teams and on the London and South East divisional committee. They have seen many England stars launched on their pathway to full England caps – too many to list here. They assisted with the transition of County teams from being largely traditional rugby playing school based to include club talent as youth rugby grew in importance and did a huge amount to build confidence in the changing rugby landscape. In addition they were very supportive in the early days of the Developing Player Pathway (School of Rugby) from its inception ensuring that schools were aware of and used the pathway for promising talent. I have witnessed in person their skill and care at performing selection roles. Their background knowledge of the game has been a tremendous benefit to me in my Community role and their talents will be difficult to follow. I have little doubt they will still be seen beside school and other rugby pitches around the County in years to come as rugby is in their blood. On behalf of the Executive, I wish them well in their retirement from active involvement in Hertfordshire and divisionally and thank them wholeheartedly for their brilliant work over so many years.

The end of the season is not a time normally to announce a new appointment but I am pleased to say after much searching and a couple of false starts that Angela Clifford from Verulamians has agree to take on the role of CB Volunteer Coordinator. Valuing our volunteers has always been a key piece of work and it will be great to have support with this part of the Community portfolio. Angela has already attended her first RFU conference and hopefully was not put off the role there!!

There are more new developments being brought to a simmer but I will save those for my input into the County Yearbook. Thank you to all those who have made me welcome at clubs, schools, festivals and meetings. It is a pleasure to support the energy and enthusiasm of the volunteers and professional staff who deliver rugby to thousands of children and adults in the County. International Honours 7766

England Counties Summer Tour No less than six Hertfordshire players were in the squad of 27 players that toured Canada for three matches in June, having been selected from their performance in this year’s County Championship.

The Hertfordshire players are: centres, Chris May (Old Albanian) and Sam Winter (Bishop’s Stortford), scrum half Tom Banks (Bishop’s Stortford), hooker Matt Miles (Old Albanian), lock Rob Conquest (Darlington Mowden Park and flanker Harry Bate (Old Albanian) This will be Sam Winter’s second tour having played for the Counties last season in Romania

The tour began on Friday 3 June in Vancouver with a match against BC Bears who they last played on the 2010 Canada tour. The team then travelled 600 miles to Calgary where they faced Prairie Wolf Pack, winners of the 2015 Canadian Rugby Championship, on Tuesday 7 June. Their final match was against Ontario Blues in Toronto on Saturday 11 June who they beat 32-26 when the teams last met in 2010.

As well as paying three matches, the side also took part in several community outreach project while in Canada to help grow the sport.

England Counties Winter Matches Hooker Matt Miles and centre Chris May, both Old Albanian were in the England Counties winter squad that played Scotland Clubs XV and France Federal earlier this year.

The first match at Netherdale in the Scottish Borders was lost heavily to the host by 27 points to 57. The Counties returned to winning ways against the French at Blackheath winning by 32 points to 3

England Counties U20 XV The England Counties U20s squad of 23 players, including four Hertfordshire players, that will travelled to Russia this June for the side’s summer tour included four Hertfordshire players. The Hertfordshire players were: full back Tim Bitirim (Harpenden), props Karl Garside and Hayden King (both Old Albanian) and lock James Apperley (Bishop’s Stortford). Garside and King also made their senior County Championship debuts against Gloucestershire last month.

The squad will travelled to Moscow on Thursday, 2nd June where they played two international matches against Russia U20s at the Slava Stadium on the 5th and 8th of June.

Players from 15 counties have been selected for this year’s squad following the U20 County Championship competition. “It’s testament to the strength of county rugby that we have been able to pick such a wide group of players from 15 different counties,” said manager Peter Vernon.

England U18 Lock forward, Nick Isiekwe (Saracen, Haileybury) continued his successful international career featuring for England in the 2016 Five Nations Festival. Nick helped England record victories over Ireland, Scotland and Wales

England Counties U18 Tom Fawsett (Oaklands College, Chess Valley), having been on the bench for the England Counties U18 defeat at the hands of France, started on the wing against Ireland but could not prevent his side losing narrowly by 21 points to 17. Both matches were part of the Tri – Nations series in Dublin at the beginning of April County Championship Review 7766

Hertfordshire completed their County Championship season behind Cornwall in second place in the Division One South of the Bill Beaumont Cup. This was a satisfactory season, considering the difficulties of preparation and availability partly due to a club/county clash, which was a consequence of an overcrowded season. But with a bit more fortune in the Cornish match Herts could have been at Twickenham.

Following a number of retirements it was a relatively inexperienced squad that took part in the Championship, with three members of the Herts U20 XV included in the side and a number of others in their first Championship season. So, the Herts side has the potential to go further next season.

Hertfordshire scrambled to a win over Surrey by 31 points to 28 in their opening pool match at Woollams. With the scores level a Sharp penalty minutes from no side gave the home side their win and with four converted tries they gained a valuable bonus point.

It was an untidy affair with no discernable pattern as two sides, with little time for preparation after a long league season, struggled to find cohesion. A strong tricky wind did not help either and both side failed to find touch on numerous occasions.

Neither side gained any real ascendancy at the set pieces though there were spells when each side threatened to take control. Herts probably shaded the loose play where flanker Bate had an outstanding game. The Herts backs had plenty of possession especially in the first half but did not turn it into enough points

Hertfordshire started the game confidently and soon took the lead with a try by scrum half Banks after the forwards had won good loose ball. Sharp added the conversion. However Surrey soon reduced the lead when the Herts backs were off side.

Herts the dominated the next phases territorially and on the half hour were rewarded with a well worked try. Electing to scrum a penalty some 10 metres out they ran the ball and left wing Elliott joined the line to score giving Sharp and easy conversion.

Surrey soon hit back via a penalty from a Hertfordshire scrummage infringement and then just before half time they touched down from the catch and drive. So at half time there was only one point between the sides.

Herts again had plenty of possession in the early moments of the second half but were unable to convert it into points. Then Surrey broke away, ran the ball along the line and touched down in the corner for a converted try to give them the lead.

Surrey fumbled the restart and gave possession to Herts who ran the ball to the left, recycled and Banks found the gap to touch down. Sharp’s conversion restored the home one point lead.

Surrey then had their best period of play and were rewarded by another scrummage penalty and a try by their wing. County Championship Review 7766

With only 10 minutes left Herts had much to do, but replacement flanker Maka found a gap to touch down unopposed. The Sharp conversion equalled the scores, then moments later Surrey were off side and the subsequent Sharp penalty gave his side the lead. The Following week at Silver Leys, Cornish power at the lines out brought three tries from catch and drives to give the visitors a narrow victory by 23 points to 15.

Hertfordshire were by no means outclassed and if they had taken their opportunities could have forced a victory. However, despite having much the best of the scrums where they forced Cornwall to concede numerous penalties, the line out did not work well and too much ball was kicked away to the opposition.

The opening minutes of the game appeared more like aerial ping pong than rugby as both sides appeared intent on kicking possession away to their opposition. However when play settled down it was Cornwall who took the first positive initiative and their pressure resulted in two tries from catch and drives from lines out, the second of which was converted.

Hertfordshire fought back into the game, disrupting the Cornish scrum and winning a couple of penalties to take play to the Cornish line. At the lineout Cornwall tapped back loosely and hooker, McNamee pounced on the ball to score in the corner. More home pressure resulted in an easy penalty for Sharp. Herts continued to press, forcing Cornwall to concede couple of free kicks and finally scrum pressure resulted in a penalty try on the stroke of half time. Sharp added the two points to put his side ahead by 15 points to 12 at the break.

Very early after the restart Cornwall equalled the score with a 45 metre penalty. Herts then put the visitor’s line under severe pressure, but unfortunately they came away empty handed. As soon as Cornwall broke the siege and got into the home half they won a penalty and took the lead.

Herts then put the pressure on once again but a combination of good Cornish defence and the weakness of the Herts line out resulted in no more points. Instead when Cornwall got down to the Herts line they were clinical with the catch and drive, resulting in another try. With 15 minutes left Herts had to score twice, but try as they might no score came.

Hertfordshire finished their season on a high note beating Gloucestershire by 23 points to 5 at Clifton. This was their fourth successive win over Gloucestershire and only their second away from home.

The Herts win was based on a strong performance by the pack, where they were superior in the scrums, gained a number of turnovers in the loose and had their best line out performance of the season. This was backed up by excellent line and place kicking from fly half Watt. The backs were unable to make best use of the ball because of the very difficult conditions, most of the match being played in heavy rain coupled with a strong cross wind, but they threatened the home line on a number of occasions.

Gloucestershire’s pack were bigger and they always threatened from line out catch and drives but in the main the Herts defence held up and only once did the home side succeed with this ploy. Stags most Successful Season since 2012 7766

Hertfordshire Stags had their most successful line out exchanges and dominated the loose play. season since 2012, reaching the semi-finals of the RFU U20 Championship, before losing to a strong However the cold wind cross wind did not help the Yorkshire side at Selby. Their good performance handling skills and the game was rather disjointed. was rewarded with the selection of three players for Continuity was not helped either by the fact that the England Counties U20 tour to Russia neither side came to terms with the refereeing of the breakdown, which resulted in numerous Hertfordshire Stags reached this quarter final after penalties and four yellow cards, Eastern Counties topping their Pool Table on 11 points, with two wins receiving three of them at various stages of the out of three and also gathering a ‘four try’ bonus game. point in each of their matches. Two tries, by scrum half Patton and flanker The opening match against Surrey was played at Scott-Grey, from catch and drives at lines out Saracens’ Allianz Park in February and resulted in a in the opening minutes gave the Stags a great narrow 27 – 22 win. Having taken an early 15 point start. Bitirim converted both and the Stags went lead, the Stags stayed ahead until, with 7 minutes further ahead before half time with a try from wing to go, Surrey went ahead by two points. However Manieson. with only three minutes left the Stags hit back with a converted try to win the match. A try by full back Bitirim opened the scoring in the second half and this was followed by a No 8 The Stags probably should not have left it that late Thacker touch down from a scrum drive. Eastern to clinch the victory, but a combination of lack of Counties managed a try before hooker Bond had team work, a rather frantic approach by individuals, the last word with a try converted by Bowden and some sloppy tackling allowed Surrey to stay in the game. The Stags put in a very disappointing performance against Kent at Cranbrook in their final pool match, In addition the Stags were under the cosh in the losing by 43 points to 26. scrums for much of the game, but the balance The Stags started well enough, centre Bowden of power changed when both sides made crossing the line for a try converted by Bitirim replacements and the Stags won two against the following a line out catch and drive. From then on it head in the closing quarter. The lines out were was a different matter. much better throughout where plenty of good ball was won including a number off Surrey’s throw. Kent decided to play a wide open game and take play away from the stronger Stags forwards. The Stags first half tries came from lock Peterkin Their backs put in an excellent display of running and centre Glynn. Bitirim converted the first and and passing which found the Stags’ defensive added a penalty to give the Stags a 15 point lead, lines wanting. Four tries came in the first half, all but Surrey responded with a converted penalty try converted by the immaculate kicking of their fly half conceded at a scrum, followed by a try to make it to give Kent a 28-7 lead at half time. 15-12 at half time. The Stags drew first blood in the second half, with In the second half, Glynn scored his second try to a try by Glynn, converted by Bitirim. However, extend the lead before two Surrey tries took them Kent immediately responded with a try. The Stags ahead. Then with only three minutes remaining clawed back to 11 points down via a Thacker try, Stags wing Lee touched down and Bitirim added again converted by Bitirim, but Kent quickly scored the conversion to give the Stags a 27-22 win. two more tries. However prop King touched down The second match at Tabard resulted in a on the stroke of full time to give the Stags their ‘four comfortable with over Eastern Counties by 38 try’ bonus point. points to 5. The Stags scored an early converted try The Stags reached the semi-finals by beating and thereafter took control of the game. Berkshire U20, and the weather, by 13 points to 5 The home forwards had the better of the scrum and at Bishop’s Stortford. Stags most Successful Season since 2012 7766

The Stags win was based on an excellent commitments, so they were unable to establish scrummaging performance by the pack backed their usual dominance and the back row and scrum up by solid defence. The strong wind and frequent half did not have a stable platform from which to heavy squally showers made handling difficult and work. In contrast the Yorkshire scrum half was able although both sides tried to run the ball the moved to have a telling hand in two of his team’s scores. frequently broke down in the conditions. Kicking The lines out were fairly even and the Stags held too was difficult and clearance kicks often failed to their own in the loose. find their target. When the Stags had the best of the territory in the The Berkshire pack edged the lines out and often second half, whether it was because they were threatened with catch and drives, but only once trying too hard playing catch up, the backs were managed to get points on the board. not as fluent as usual and the line interventions from full back not as effective as in the earlier The strong wind was in the Stags favour in the first matches. However full credit must be given to the half and they soon showed their scrummaging Yorkshire defence superiority, pushing their opponents back yards at a couple of scrums. After 10 minutes play Berkshire Yorkshire took the early initiative and were soon conceded a penalty at a scrum and full back Bitirim rewarded with a penalty and converted try from a split the posts with an excellent kick. line out catch and drive to give the home side a 10 point lead. Five minutes later a good catch and drive at a line out 10metres out saw 17year old debutant lock The Stags cut the deficit when Glynn made a fine Brownhill touch down, Bitirim converting to give the break to score a try converted by Bitirim converted. Stags a 10 point lead. However that was the only Stags score in the first half. As half time approached Berkshire won a couple of penalties at the breakdown and were rewarded with After 30 minutes play the Stags conceded a penalty a try from a line out catch and drive.. and just before half time Yorkshire scored twice A five point lead with the wind advantage to their more, through another try from a catch and drive opponents in the second half did not look like and a try by their centre the second of which was enough of a cushion for the Stags. However the converted to give Yorkshire a 25 – 7 lead at half Stags withstood the early pressure and midway time through the half won another scrum penalty on the Berks 22 and Bitirim made no mistake to extend Yorkshire were first to add to their score in the the home lead to 8 points. second half with an unconverted try by their wing. The Stags were then rewarded for some pressure Although by now the rain had stopped the wind when Glynn scored his second try. Unfortunately was just as bad and conditions for running and Yorkshire soon increased their lead with a handling were very difficult. Both sides made great converted try when a Stags clearance kick was efforts to score but Berkshire were unable to close charged down. the gap The Stags had the best of the remaining 20 minutes play and were twice held up over the line. However A spirited performance by the Stags against the solid home defence held until a couple of Yorkshire in the semi-final was not enough as they minutes before the end when lock Apperley went down by 37 points to 19 at Selby on Sunday. crashed over for a try converted by Bitirim to make An 18 point deficit at half time was too much to the final score 37 points to 19. overcome, but the Stags competed on equal terms in the second half and were a trifle unfortunate to Although it was a disappointing finish to the only share the points 12 each. season, overall the Stags have done very well. As more than half the side is eligible for next season The Stags pack was not at full strength, due to club they will only benefit from the experience gained. ALLIANZ PARK FINALS Saturday April 30th 7766

Presidents’ Trophy Final: (KO 11am) Verulamians v Watford (Verulamians accounted for Royston 24-17 and Cheshunt 35-15.Watford Beat Chess Valley 55-7 and then were awarded a walk over Barnet Elizabethans) Matches between Verulamians of HertsMiddx1 and Watford of HertsMiddx2 have not always been predictable with Watford winning the final in 2012. However although Watford scored first and last in this encounter they were unable to stop Verulamians for the 70 minutes in between. Verulamians winning 46 points to 10.

Presidents’ Tankard Final: (KO 1.30pm) Datchworth v Stevenage Town (Datchworth defeated Harpenden 22-19 and Fullerians 18-12. Stevenage Town accounted for St Albans 29-24 and Welwyn 28-25) In a very competitive (Derby) Final Datchworth edged it over Stevenage by 31 points to 24. The defence by Datchworth was just a bit better as two big packs slugged it out. Datchworth scored tries through Tom Wood (10) and Alex Nolan (12) and then after a fine try by Ian Crompton for Stevenage, Front rower Sam McBroom crashed over for another try. Back came Stevenage but could not make the converted try to bring them level.

Presidents’ Cup Final: (KO 4pm) Bishops Stortford Blues v Hertford Seconds (Bishops Stortford beat Letchworth Firsts in the semi-final 12-0 and Hertford seconds accounted for Old Albanian Romans by more than 50 points when the game was stopped) This was another very competitive final with two good sides having a real battle. Tries during the first eighty minutes were scored by Mat Bailey Hertford 14 and for B’Stortford by Ross Bird (14) Ben Baker (7). At the conclusion of the eighty minutes the score stood at 18 a piece and we had our first Allianz Park extra time. Hertford were tiring by then and there were tries for Bishops Stortford by Joe Clarke (11) Hugh Michell

Final nail in the coffin for Hertford as Stortford draw away in extra time. Herts 7s 7766 Herts Sevens Finals Scores from St Albans RFC Friday 20th May. Verulamians 7Dwarves were the surprize package at the Herts Sevens final and played some outstanding Sevens rugby accounting for Harpenden fairly comfortably. Unfortunately St Albans Voodoo the third best team on show hit injury problems before they could play against 7Dwarves on a chilly windy evening at St Albans Rugby Club. Our thanks go to St Albans RFC for keeping both players and spectators well supplied with Food and drink during the evening. Thanks to Peter Baines Senior Vice President of the RFU for presenting the Prizes.

Harpenden 29 v Royston 10 HatfieldQE2 0 v Voodoo Priests 28 Welwyn 12 v Voodoo Priests 29 Royston 0 v 7 Dwarves 38 Harpenden 38 v Welwyn 5 7Dwarves 42 v HatfieldQE2 0 Voodoo Priests 19 v Harpenden 31 HatfieldQE2 0 v Royston 29 Welwyn 7 v 7Dwarves 31 Royston 14 v Voodoo Priests 19 7Dwarves 26 v Harpenden 14 Hatfield QE2 17 v Welwyn 12

Due to Timing and injury problems the final round 7Dwarves v Voodoo Priests, Harpenden v HatfieldQE2 and Welwyn v Royston were not played. Herts Sevens Winners were Verulamians 7Dwarves. Runners up were Harpenden. These two sides will represent Hertfordshire at Allianz Park in early July. My thanks to Melanie Liley and our Referees for running the event so efficiently.

Hertfordshire/Middlesex Merit Tables 7766

Knock-Out Competition Season 2015-2016 This year the Finals of the Knock-Out Competition were held at Harpenden RFC and Saracens Amateurs RFC, a week earlier than normal due to the fixture congestion at the end of April. However, as most of the senior clubs were playing their last games of the season on this date, we were assured of getting genuine Merit Table teams in the finals.

The weather was fine and an exciting afternoon of rugby was played at both grounds. The buzz during the matches was very noticeable with those supporting their teams appearing to be having an afternoon to remember.

Both home clubs put their organisational skills to great effect feeding the players, referees and crowds, parking cars, managing medical centres and many other roles that helped to make another successful afternoon. We also welcomed Martyn Kirk, Hertfordshire Rugby Vice- President, to present the awards at Harpenden and Michael Searls, Middlesex Rugby’s Group Chairman to present the awards at Saracens.

Harpenden 3rds in happy mood after receiving their winner’s plaque from Martyn Hertfordshire/Middlesex Merit Tables 7766

HERTFORDSHIRE/MIDDLESEX MERIT TABLES KNOCKOUT COMPETITIONS FINALS - 23rd APRIL 2016

Played at Saracens Amateurs RFC Played at Harpenden RFC

Table 1 Final Table 1 Plate Final Ampthill Jets beat Belsize Park 2nd beat Hertford 3rd 50 - 13 Bishop’s Stortford 3rd 28 - 19

Table 2 Plate Final Table 2 Final Welwyn 2nd beat Hertford 4th beat Cuffley 1st 19 - 16 Harpenden 2nd 48 - 14

Table 3 Final Table 3 Plate Final Hatfield 1st beat Hendon 2nd beat Saracens Amateurs 2nd 15 - 14 Hampstead 3rd 32 - 17

Table 4 Plate Final Table 4 Final Bishop’s Stortford 4th beat Watford 2nd beat Barnet Elizabethans 2nd 43 - 6 Weston 21 - 17

Table 5 Final Table 5 Plate Final Finsbury Park beat Belsize Park 4th beat Hackney 3rd 65 - 3 Black Horse 40 - 10

Table 6 Plate Final Table 6 Final Verulamians 2nd beat Harpenden 3rd beat Cuffley 2nd 37 - 27 Amersham and Chiltern 3rd 31 - 5

Table 7 NE Final Table 7 NE Plate Final Biggleswade 3rd beat Hitchin 4th beat Datchworth 3rd 6 - 3 Hertford 5th 10 - 5

Table 7 SW Plate Final Table 7SW Final Hatfield QE 2nd beat Old Albanians 5th beat Chesham 3rd 36 - 5 Old Millhillians 2nd 14 - 7

Hertfordshire/Middlesex Merit Tables – Season 2015-2016

In discussions with the RFU Community Rugby Team and other Merit Table Organisers during the past season, we all agreed that our key objective was to get as many teams playing rugby as possible to help develop the game for those involved just below the League Structure. Merit Tables 7766

The first listed aim in our Competition Rules has always been “To encourage and facilitate a greater number of regular Saturday games for players of the participating clubs, who are not involved in the ‘RFU League’ structure.”

It is a grand objective and one which we need to embrace at the current time, but what did we do this season the help achieve that objective? Firstly, the clubs held the number of teams participating in the Merit Tables steady at 76 in 2015-16 and it is looking to be a very similar number in 2016-17.

Secondly, Foggy and I have been listening to what the teams have been telling us about playing in the Merit Tables. One of the ongoing gripes was from clubs who were working hard to bring in novices and young players and then to get hammered 90 – 0 by sides who were strengthening their sides with senior players, or when turning up with 13 men and the opposition having a full side with replacements failing to offer players. The novice and younger player do not get much fun from being beaten heavily every week and will walk away from rugby for ever! So much for empty 90 – 0 victories.

To combat the problems we changed our Rules in 2015-16, so that all teams had to take the field with the same number of players, either balancing by lending players to their opponents or by reducing numbers to achieve the same number on each side. This has had a dramatic effect on games being played because everyone started from a level playing field, but additionally teams that were short turned up to play because they knew a good game was still in prospect.

We were also hard on those sides that moved players from higher to lower sides when one team had not got a match that week. Four teams lost points in their Merit Tables and had the result reversed, while two others left the Knock-Out Competition.

On the positive side, the changes to balanced sides was welcomed almost unanimously by clubs and the regionalising of Table 7 into a north/east and a south/west split to reduce travelling for bottom sides was another success. We will continue these changes in the future, combined with another few tweaks that we have been considering.

How did the season go, after all the disruptions due to the RWC in September and October, plus the wet pitches in January and February? It was a tough year for everyone, with many re-arrangements of games, cancellations due to shortages of players and of playing conditions. Eventually we got most of the games played, including the Knock-Out Competition.

Six of our tables were won by Hertfordshire sides this year, with the other two going to Ampthill Jets from across the border in Bedfordshire and last season’s newcomers, Finsbury Park. While Old Albanians 5th beat Cheshunt 3rd in the Table 7 play-offs

Fred McCarthy Hertfordshire/Middlesex Merit Tables 7766

Final Merit Tables

Merit Table 1 CLUB P W D L F A PTS DIFF POS’N PTS FF PTS DD

Ampthill Jets 18 15 0 3 697 203 84 494 1 0 0 Belsize Park 2nd 18 14 0 4 518 283 82 235 2 0 0 Letchworth 2nd 18 9 0 9 389 406 72 -17 3 0 0 B. Stortford 3rd 18 11 0 7 586 420 70 166 4 2 -6 Tring 2nd 18 9 2 7 497 315 68 182 5 2 -6 Old Albanians Romans 18 9 0 9 359 427 66 -68 6 2 -6 Hampstead 2nd 18 7 1 10 375 480 63 -105 7 2 -6 Hertford 3rd 18 4 0 14 245 646 62 -401 8 0 0 Old Haberdashers 2nd 18 7 1 10 361 531 61 -170 9 2 -8 Hackney 2nd 18 3 0 15 325 641 60 -316 10 0 0

Merit Table 2 CLUB P W D L F A PTS DIFF POS’N PTS FF PTS DD Hertford 4th 18 17 1 0 758 162 89 596 1 0 0 Fullerians 2nd 18 15 0 3 599 157 84 442 2 0 0 Harpenden 2nd 18 13 0 5 500 277 80 223 3 0 0 Enfield Ignatians 2nd 18 11 0 7 310 337 76 -27 4 0 0 Datchworth 2nd 18 10 0 8 402 370 71 32 5 1 -3 Finchley 2nd 18 6 0 12 281 611 63 -330 6 1 -3 Cuffley 1st 18 4 0 14 257 483 62 -226 7 0 0 Harrow 2nd 18 4 0 14 238 465 47 -227 8 5 -15 Hitchin 2nd 18 4 1 13 180 471 45 -291 9 6 -18 Welwyn 2nd 18 5 0 13 211 403 34 -192 10 10 -30 Merit Table 3

CLUB P W D L F A PTS DIFF POS’N PTS FF PTS DD Cheshunt 2nd 18 15 0 3 621 192 84 429 1 0 0 H. Hempstead 2nd 18 13 1 4 342 231 78 111 2 1 -3 The Mount 18 13 0 5 592 250 77 342 3 1 -3 Hatfield 1st 18 10 1 7 351 199 75 152 4 0 0 Hampstead 3rd 18 9 1 8 310 253 71 57 5 0 -2 Saracens Ams 2nd 18 8 0 10 355 407 70 -52 6 0 0 Hendon 2nd 18 5 1 12 225 503 65 -278 7 0 0 UCSOBs 2nd 18 6 0 12 353 525 63 -172 8 1 -3 Biggleswade 2nd 18 4 0 14 151 494 50 -343 9 5 -12 Welwyn 3rd 18 5 0 13 207 453 44 -246 10 6 -20

Merit Table 4 CLUB P W D L F A PTS DIFF POS’N PTS FF PTS DD B. Stortford 4th 18 15 0 3 579 170 84 409 1 0 0 Weston 18 11 0 7 434 313 76 121 2 0 0 O.Albanians 4th 18 12 0 6 510 271 75 239 3 1 -3 Letchworth 3rd 18 12 0 6 398 231 75 167 4 1 -3 Fullerians 3rd 18 10 0 8 476 392 74 84 5 0 0 Tring 3nd 18 11 1 6 394 328 71 66 6 2 -6 Watford 2nd 18 7 1 10 310 360 69 -50 7 0 0 Royston 2nd 18 4 0 14 196 604 53 -408 8 3 -9 Barnet Eliz. 2nd 18 2 1 15 130 563 34 -433 9 8 -25 Tabard 2nd 18 4 1 13 173 368 29 -195 10 11 -34 Merit Tables 7766

Merit Table 5 CLUB P W D L F A PTS DIFF POS’N PTS FF PTS DD Finsbury Park 18 18 0 0 821 141 90 680 0 0 Belsize Park 4th 18 12 0 6 582 315 78 267 0 0 Enfield Ign. 3rd 18 12 0 6 373 321 78 52 0 0 Old Grammarians 18 10 1 7 415 306 75 109 0 0 Black Horse 18 11 0 7 449 408 73 41 1 -3 Chesham 2nd 18 9 0 9 351 436 69 -85 1 -3 Southgate 18 8 1 9 371 400 68 -29 1 -3 Hackney 3rd 18 5 0 13 354 544 64 -190 0 0 Stevenage T. 2nd 18 3 0 15 286 658 54 -372 2 -6 St Albans 2nd 18 1 0 17 192 665 50 -473 2 -6

Merit Table 6 CLUB P W D L F A PTS DIFF POS’N PTS FF PTS DD Cuffley 2nd 18 12 1 5 408 230 79 178 1 0 0 Amersham and C. 3rd 18 13 0 5 452 201 77 251 2 1 -3 Verulamians 2nd 18 13 0 5 390 224 77 166 3 1 -3 Hitchin 3rd 18 11 1 6 489 299 75 190 4 0 -2 Harpenden 3rd 18 11 1 6 535 283 74 252 5 1 -3 H. Hempstead 3rd 18 10 1 7 397 309 72 88 6 1 -3 Berkhamsted 18 9 0 9 407 367 69 40 7 1 -3 O. Ashmoleans 18 5 0 13 374 525 55 -151 8 3 -9 Mill Hill 2nd 18 2 0 16 152 759 52 -607 9 2 -6 OMTs 3rd 18 2 0 16 121 528 28 -407 10 10 -30 Merit Table 7 N/E CLUB P W D L F A PTS DIFF POS’N PTS FF PTS DD Cheshunt 3rd 11 9 0 2 329 180 51 149 1 0 0 Biggleswade 3rd 11 5 2 4 201 158 45 43 2 0 0 Datchworth 3rd 11 6 1 4 227 194 43 33 3 1 -3 Hertford 5th 11 5 0 6 234 211 43 23 4 0 0 Letchworth 4th 11 3 1 7 83 184 34 -101 5 2 -6 Welwyn 4th 11 3 1 7 132 229 28 -97 6 4 -12 Hitchin 4th 6 2 1 3 80 130 23 -50 7 0 0

Merit Table 7 S/W CLUB P W D L F A PTS DIFF POS’N PTS FF PTS DD O.Albanians 5th 14 13 1 0 371 6369 308 1 0 0 Fullerians 4th 14 11 0 3 346 200 64 146 2 0 0 O. Millhillians 2nd 14 5 3 6 240 256 55 -16 3 0 0 Tring 4th 14 8 0 6 262 208 52 54 4 2 -6 Chesham 3rd 14 4 3 7 163 220 47 -57 5 2 -6 Hatfield 2nd 14 4 0 10 177 349 41 -172 6 3 -9 Pinner and G 2nd 14 3 0 11 154 384 39 -230 7 3 -9 Chess Valley 2nd 14 4 1 9 244 277 30 -33 8 7 -21 Hertfordshire Schools Boys’ Rugby Finals Festival 7766

A total of 24 teams from Hertfordshire secondary schools took part in the annual Hertfordshire Schools Boys’ Rugby Finals Festival at St Albans School playing fields on Tuesday 15th March. The festival was for teams at u12 and u13, and all competing teams had won a local league or festival to “earn the right” to compete in this Finals Festival.

All schools are banded into either Trophy (more experienced) and Shield (less experienced) tournaments to ensure teams are playing against comparable opposition.

The scores in each Final were as follows: • U12 Trophy: St Clement Danes 7 – 5 Birchwood. • U13 Trophy: Parmiters 17 - 12 Broxbourne. • U12 Shield: Hemel Hempstead 27 – 0 Thomas Alleyne. • U13 Shield: Hemel Hempstead 12 – 5 Barnwell.

All schools played some great rugby, but perhaps special mention for Hemel Hempstead school who won both the u12 and u13 Shields having only started playing four seasons ago.

As always, many thanks to St Albans School for allowing the use of their fantastic facilities which are perfect for this event. Hertfordshire Schools Girls’ Rugby Festival 7766

A total of 29 teams from Hertfordshire secondary schools took part in the annual Hertfordshire Schools Girls’ Rugby Festival at Hertford RFC on Friday 11th March. The event was blessed with good weather and the standard of rugby on show was superb with several first time visitors commenting on how good the rugby was.

The event was for teams at u13 and u15 in line with the age bands played at club rugby. After an initial round of games, the schools were then ‘seeded’ into the Trophy & Shield tournaments with the top two performing schools in the Trophy going forward to represent Hertfordshire in the Area Finals taking place on 21st April.

The winning schools were as follows: • U15 Trophy Winners – Hockerill. • U13 Trophy Winners - Beaumont. • U15 Shield Winners – Nobel. • U13 Shield Winners – Hemel Hempstead.

All schools played some great rugby, but perhaps special mention for Hemel Hempstead school who won the u13 Shield having never played any girls rugby at all before this season.

As always, many thanks to Hertford RFC for allowing the use of their fantastic facilities which are perfect for this event. Proud sponsors of HERTFORDSHIRE RUGBY Bringing ideas to life

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