Calne RFC

Sat 21 Sep 2024, 15:00

Devizes II

14 - 22

(HT 7-8)

Calne

Devizes II

Calne

September 21st saw Calne travel over the hill to face Devizes II in what was anticipated to be a fierce showdown – and it certainly delivered!

After a narrow one-point loss to Wootton Bassett the weekend before, a renewed and refocused Calne appeared to face an early setback in the first two minutes as Devizes scored a try followed by a successful conversion. However, after taking stock of the situation and assessing Devizes’ game plan under the leadership of Captain Pete Brownlie (sponsored by Step-Up Supplements), Calne regained their composure and responded strongly.

Dominant in the field, the bulk of the first half saw Calne and Devizes battling for possession, with a series of set plays leading to Devizes conceding a penalty. Calne’s Number 10, Rhys Taylor (sponsored by Rexel), converted this opportunity into the first 3 points for Calne. With Calne firmly controlling the game and scarcely allowing Devizes into our 22, a lineout just past the halfway line saw Calne pressing into Devizes’ danger zone. This culminated in the 38th minute when a slick backs move initiated by Taylor sent the ball out to Number 14, Rory Cranstoun (sponsored by The Wellbeing Clinic), who touched down to thunderous applause – partly because it put Calne in the lead at 8-7 just before the halftime whistle, and partly because he actually caught it.

The second half resumed much like the first, with both teams battling for dominance. However, a well-drilled Devizes briefly took the initiative with a try and conversion in the 61st minute, bringing the score to 8-14. Undeterred, a determined Calne took advantage of their stronger pack, and in the 70th minute, Captain Pete Brownlie flew over the line off the back of a ruck to score Calne’s second try of the game. With Taylor’s successful conversion, the score tightened to 15-14.

A highly contested series of plays followed, with both teams recognizing the stakes. However, it was Calne who prevailed when Taylor scored Calne’s third try of the match in the 74th minute. Another successful conversion from Taylor extended the lead to 22-14.

The final five minutes saw a defiant Devizes refocus and regroup, attempting to retake the lead. However, Calne’s resilience shone through, and the final whistle confirmed a hard-fought victory for Calne.

The match showcased standout performances, particularly from Number 13, Oscar Astbury (sponsored by The Movement Clinic), who was awarded the Riches Roofing Man of the Match award. After the game, players from both Devizes II and Calne enjoyed a post-match meal, courtesy of Devizes, and we extend our gratitude for their hospitality.

With the final score reflecting a fresh wind for Calne, it was a fantastic second game of the season following the previous week’s disappointing loss. We thank Devizes II for a memorable game and all who came out to support us.