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Match Report v Ashley Down Old Boys - Away 17th August 2019

With the sun shining and a gentle breeze it was time for the season to begin in earnest, well Bristol, and a chance to put one over The Dolan’s old team.

Ashley Down Old Boys were the hosts and after alighting from the coach a hurry up ensued to ensure the boys could play before watching the Wales England game in the clubhouse.

The kick-off gave young Morris (?) the chance to drive up field and with Frank Dacey (good to see him back playing) offering support before passing to Adam Nyan.

Is there anything better than watching a second row, at pace, throwing an outrageous dummy? Well possibly but it was wonderful to behold and he made good yards.

The backs were playing well and after a good break by Nathan, Nima drawing a player and Swills side-stepping the Lions were on the front foot.

A vintage break down the right wing by the ever swift Carl Tyres and an infield pass gave Lewis the chance to score the opening try, with Alex converting from a difficult angle (23.4̊ if you asked).

A new season but still yee olde Achilles Heel as a charged down kick, almost straight from the kick-off, enabled the opposition to score under the posts. Déjà Vu time all over again.

Fear not dear readers as a great line out drive, followed by Lee splitting off the back of the maul and a pop to Nima brought the second try and conversion.

Another break by Carl (oxygen tank, please) and good support play by Frank set Chappers over for a good team try.

A further try followed soon after as the ball was moved across the back line freeing Swills to score a fine try, which Alex converted (four from four!).

Half-Time ADOB 7 Llanishen 28

Time for almost a complete change of team as 29 players made the trip, plus a hanger-on.

Soon into the half Paul drove towards the opposition line and not long after Swills scored his second try.

A number of players were playing well and a fine open-field tackle by Tom P set the tone. The boys were looking to play good rugby and a superb angled run gave Mike Rose a try. Alex converted the try – five from five.

ADOBs then gained good field position and a well controlled driving maul brought their second try.

With fifteen minutes to go Matt G made an appearance and almost immediately scored after a pop pass by Lee.

Having suffered a broken leg Sion somehow managed to make a reappearance and proceeded to run around like a rampant bull for a full minute.

The defensive line was steadfast and after a breakdown Bish broke into the open field. Could he go the distance? No. He passed inside (“I don’t do 60 metre runs”) to Adam Dove he sprinted clear to score a try which brought the game to a close.

Full-Time ADOB 12 Llanishen 52

So to part two and three: The team enjoyed watching Wales beat England and then completed the treble by winning the boat race by a full pint. Athletes all!

Paul had warned us about a long cider, ‘Natch’, but rugby players will be mmm silly. So the liquid was drunk and, safe to say, probably caused a number to lament their actions.

A really good day and thanks to ADOBs and the bus driver for their contribution. In addition thanks to the bar staff at Llanishen Clubhouse who had to put up with people talking gibberish (Natched indeed!).