Calne RFC

Sat 14 Sep 2024

Calne

27 - 28

(HT 0-0)

Royal Wootton Bassett III

Calne

Royal Wootton Bassett III

September 14th marked the much-anticipated season opener, with Calne RFC hosting their long-standing rivals, Royal Wootton Bassett III.

Following a disciplined, fitness-focused summer and pre-season, Calne began the match in strong form. With the match ball sponsored by WR Fitness Solutions, Calne dominated the early exchanges, forcing RWB into conceding a penalty, which Number 10, Rhys Taylor (sponsored by Rexel), converted to put Calne ahead 3-0 in the 7th minute. RWB quickly responded with penalties of their own in the 10th and 15th minutes. Despite this, Calne reclaimed the lead in the 28th minute when Number 8, Mark McAlonan (sponsored by Ferns Group), powered through to score the first try of the game. Taylor followed up with a successful conversion, bringing the score to 10-6.

RWB, displaying their usual discipline and skill, struck back with a try and conversion in the 36th minute. However, Calne kept their composure, with Taylor adding another penalty in the 41st minute to level the scores at 13-13 as the teams headed into halftime.

The second half opened with both sides battling fiercely for control of the field. Calne took the initiative early on, with Taylor successfully converting two more penalties in the 44th and 50th minutes to extend their lead to 19-13. RWB, however, were quick to respond, scoring a try in the 54th minute to narrow the gap to 19-18. The match continued in this back-and-forth fashion, with RWB inching ahead in the 62nd minute after a successful penalty, making it 19-21. Undeterred, Calne struck back almost immediately, as Taylor slotted another penalty in the 65th minute to retake the lead at 22-21.

The final moments were tense. In the 78th minute, RWB managed to score a crucial try and conversion, pushing the score to 22-28. Refusing to concede defeat, Calne regrouped and launched a last-ditch effort. In the closing minutes, Harry Humphreys broke through RWB's defense from a scrum to score a try, closing the gap to 27-28. The game hung in the balance as Taylor stepped up for the conversion that could have sealed the victory. However, RWB's defense managed to block the kick, securing their narrow one-point win.

The match saw exceptional performances, particularly from Rhys Taylor (sponsored by Rexel), who was awarded the Riches Roofing Man of the Match Award for his contributions.

After the hard-fought game, both teams shared a meal, courtesy of The Pewsham in Chippenham. We extend our gratitude to them for their sponsorship and support, and to WR Fitness Solutions for sponsoring the match ball.

Despite the result, it was a thrilling season opener that showcased Calne's renewed strength and determination after a challenging few seasons. We thank RWB III for an unforgettable match and express our appreciation to everyone who came out to support us.