On a breezy day at Stourton Parks artificial pitch, Stourbridge fielding four Wasps dual registered players, kicked off with the wind.
After almost constant possession Wharfedale won a scrum free kick which did not find touch and was run back by Stourbridge using speed and precision passing for Thomas Bacon to score down the left flank and under the posts, conversion by Frederick Morgan making score 7-0. From the kick off Wharfedale won a scrum penalty which Tom Davidson converted
From the kick off Wharfedale handled into touch and from the resulting lineout Stourbridge recycled the ball to Immanuel Feyi-Waboso whose speed and balance left the Wharfedale defence rooted for a try under the posts, converted by Frederick Morgan, making the score 14-3. For the next 20 minutes Stourbridge dominated and scored tries through Thomas Bacon, Ciaran Moore and Jasper Smith, of which one was converted making the score 31-3.
Now some magic from Wharfedale, Ryan Carlson collects the ball from the kick off and recycles to Jonny Moore whose mazy run results in Matt Beesley being driven over the line for a try, Tom Davidson successful with the conversion, 31-10.
Unfortunately for the few Wharfedale supporters, Stourbridge came back strongly and scored two more unconverted tries through Mark George and Daniel Rundle making the half time score 41-10.
Now playing with the wind, Wharfedale showed some enterprise and scored an excellent try through Harry Bullough, converted by Tom Davidson. This was quickly followed by a try from Oscar Canny but the conversion missed making the score 41-22.
A comeback was short lived when man of the match Immanuel Feyi-Waboso score his second try, converted by Frederick Morgan. Not to be out done, back came Wharfedale with a well crafted lineout and maul for Rhys Green to score the fourth try and bonus point, the conversion missed 48-27.
Stourbridge ended the game strongly scoring two more tries through Joseph Heatley and Matthew Moseley, one converted by Frederick Morgan making the final score 60-27
Stourbridge are to be congratulated on a superb game of running rugby with precision passing that pleased the 320 home supporters.
On a pleasing note, it was great to see two players reach personal milestones for Wharfedale in front of their parents, Harry Bullough made his 100th appearance whilst Beau Verity made his debut.
After the game Head Coach, Jonathan Feeley commented, “A tough result to take overall, they used their size advantage to create momentum we struggled with in the opening 30. The 13 on loan from Wasps was a talented runner and deserves credit. But we aspire to improving to a position where we are beating those players, not just competing. At half-time we set the 1st target of a bonus point and the reaction to get that in a 20min spell showed character. We are asking players who have had lengthy injury lay offs with precious little training time behind them to jump straight back in. We need to be patient as these players return to form and fitness. That said George returned and set a terrific example, his tackle count was phenomenal.
Massive congratulations to Harry on his 100th appearance, he’s always such a positive influence on the club and deserves this milestone.
Wharfedale Squad below:
