The game started briskly and both sides were trying hard. Renegades scrummaging was holding firm and even managing to take some steps forward. The line-outs were also on top form, “The Glove” taking 90% of Renegades throws and stealing a good percentage of Wendens throws.

Once again, Wendens pack proved to be very strong in the rucks and mauls, however, it was the Renegades who scored first with Jay Hall breaking through. Unfortunately, the conversion was fluffed by Rob who let the ball fall over before having to hoof it towards the posts.

The Renegades won a penalty close to the Wendens line and Ren took a quick tap and scored almost unopposed under the posts. This time Rob was able to slot the conversion easily. Further tries were run in by Ben and Colin and if you listen to Ren, he will say he was instrumental in setting up both of them, as well as the first one, and scoring the second … Rob was again lucky in kicking two more conversions. The first half ended 26-0 for the Renegades.

Multiple changes at half-time, thanks to having 7 subs available. (What a change from last years fixture where we had 14 players in total).

This half belonged to Wendens who continued to make strong runs through both their forwards and backs. They managed to rack up 3 unanswered tries through Renegades sloppy defense. Having the hill to contend with in the second half showed up the forwards lack of conditioning and it was a welcome break when Jack Cowley nearly had his head wrenched off by a reckless tackle, although I suspect Jack didn’t welcome it!

With 10 minutes to go, Burkey broke through in open play and sprinted nearly half the length of the pitch to score a fifth and final try for the Renegades. Thus easing the tension that was building as Wendens closed the points gap.

Plenty of inspiring running from Ren, Barnaby and Burkey, support from the new guys and lots of experience gained. After the game, a trip to the Bell in Wendons for some great post match entertainment. Burkeys cream & ketchup horns were a special treat!

"Bloody marvellous, well done. Ok it was a good result, but more to the point it was a bloody good afternoon out! The level of banter on the sideline was 5* and I have more laughing injuries than playing ones. The pub was great too, even if Rik was dazed and confused. So thanks to you all." Flora.

"Don't forget to mention my long looping pass to Jay after drawing the defence." Ren.