Mighty Half Century

Tring travelled to Hertford this weekend with a tough fixture in mind. Historically this is a tough team to play at home. Hertford fielded a lot of players that we recognised and have played against over the years. We had a good understanding of the way they would play and having looked at videos of previous games the team entered the field of play with a licence to play and thrill. They definitely did that and worked hard to use the ball and the whole pitch. The players were all surprised when they came off the pitch that the result was that big. However from the touch line it was clear that Tring were the stronger, faster and fitter side, able to exploit the gaps in defence and rack up a few tries. Will Mitchel was excellent, attacking the line and setting the backs of at PACE. The forwards control all aspects of their play and in particular the lineouts we outstanding. There were too many good performances to mention. John Preston picked up man of the match for his athleticism, leadership and pace to score two superb tries. He said "I was really pleased with the performance, the whole team contributed well and I was lucky enough to score two. The second, a long run but I knew I had the pace and skills to cross the whitewash".

In the second half the impact bench was unleashed, with Guy Fountaine making a good contribution, Mike Stewart playing his first game in the seconds and put in some monstrous hits, you will know why when you meet him! And Elliot Byfield making his club debut, I was told he was fairly quick!! Within 10 minutes he had scored two outstanding tries. One from captain Jack Drapers boot up field, which their fullback decided to control with his foot, it bounced up and Elliot rounded several players to score under the post. Mat Boswell also had one of his best games for the second team. All 10 forwards used were superb throughout.

Simon Payne Train who missed the match due to attending civil ceremony said "I was gutted to miss the match but this was the most magical day of my life, I just hope I can get back in the team next wee".

Tom Whlyd one and Hixxy sets the standards for post match changing room duties, Hixxy stepped in at the last minute after Dan Wilton let his partner done and disappeared before the changing rooms were attended to.

All in all this was a fantastic day out and to beat Hertford on their own patch by that many points was very impressive. A tough game to follow next week against Bishops Stortford.