Magnificent Marlins

Another great encounter, at the Pightle. Another visiting team put through the mill. Marlins defence stood firm against a marauding Chipstead attack, with a formidable pack, packed with weight (from Christmas) and height. Both teams started with 19 players, given this was friendly, and the first weekend of the year, no surprises that we were in for a duel. Marlins used their pace out wide with George aka Cracker, running 60 meters to score the first try, which in turn incited Kareem aka Streamster not to be outdone, scoring a brilliant try from 40 yards. Chipstead awoke with vengeance and camped in the PJRFC half for long periods with their favoured pick up and run from the base of scrums and continued cycling between backs and forwards, this led to a fast paced game, leading to the French referee exclaiming oh la la. PJRFC did well to defend, though eventually conceded a try from a penalty 5 yards out to the Chipstead prop who took great pride in dragging three defenders along the way. The score remained 10-5 for a long period extending into the second half, with what seemed like endless penalties going against PJRFC, testing the mettle and defence of each player, but like metal, PJRFC furnace forwards made successive tackles inspired by the back row of Mawer, Dan and Pete, supported by Kim, paddy and Larry. This attacking defence paid off with PJRFC tiring the opposition and in turn taking the game into the opponents half. A well worked back's move led to a decisive score through Jules, and this opened the flood gates for 2 more tries from Windsor Will who scored a snappy try from a penalty and Reem. There was gnashing of teeth in the Chipstead midfield, with Jamie and Norm spoiling any spark being ignited further down the back line. In the end a good win for PJRFC 29-5 Chipstead, and PJRFC Marlins will be pleased with their attacking defence. We travel to the Warriors next week. An ominous battle awaits...