Calne RFC

Sat 16 Nov 2024

Calne

17 - 18

(HT 0-0)

Fairford

Calne

Fairford

Match Report: Calne vs. Fairford, 16th November 2024

A dramatic clash between Calne and Fairford on Calne’s Vice Presidents' Day provided a fittingly exciting spectacle for the large crowd of supporters. Despite Calne’s valiant effort, including a late try to keep hopes alive, Fairford held on for a narrow 18-17 victory, with a missed conversion by Calne in the dying moments proving decisive.

The day was a special occasion for Calne, with a well-attended VP's Day celebration bringing together past and present supporters of the club. The players put on a spirited performance in front of their home crowd, ensuring an unforgettable match for all in attendance.

Calne began the game with purpose, inspired by the strong support from the VP's Day attendees. No. 8 Mark McAlonan (sponsored by Ferns Group) opened the scoring in the 5th minute with an arcing run through Fairford’s defence, putting Calne ahead 5-0. Building on his brother’s momentum, No. 2 Chris McAlonan (sponsored by GC Pressure Washing) added another try in the 20th minute. With a successful conversion by No. 10 Rhys Taylor (sponsored by Rexel), this brought the score to 12-0.

Fairford, however, upped their resilience late in the half. A crucial try in the 44th minute closed the gap to 12-5 at halftime. Calne had an opportunity to stretch their lead further with a penalty at the 31st minute, but the attempt went wide.

The second half saw Fairford take control, scoring back-to-back tries and conversion to level the game at 12-12 and then edge ahead 18-12 after missing one of their conversions. The visitors’ ability to seize momentum turned the match on its head and left Calne chasing the game. With the clock winding down, Calne found a lifeline through Marcus Turner (sponsored by WR Fitness Solutions), who stormed over the line in the 86th minute for a late try, narrowing the deficit to 18-17. The atmosphere was electric as the home crowd anticipated a successful conversion to steal the win. However, in a heartbreaking moment, the kick sailed wide, leaving Fairford to claim victory by the narrowest of margins.

The vocal support from Calne’s VP's Day attendees spurred the team on, particularly in the opening stages and during their late rally. However, despite falling behind 10-0 early on, Fairford displayed determination to claw their way back and take the lead, with Calne’s missed conversion at the end deciding a match in which both teams fought tooth and nail.

Commenting, Coach Rich Kearney said that, “considering Calne’s perfomance, I feel gutted for the squad – they deserved more. Based on their hard work and progression the results will come.” #Believe

On what was a memorable VP's Day, both teams retired to enjoy a meal courtesy of Calne sponsor The Pewsham. The game delivered plenty of excitement and drama for the enthusiastic crowd, with Marcus Turner (sponsored by WR Fitness Solutions) being awarded the Riches Roofing Man of the Match Award. While the result didn’t go their way, Calne will take pride in their performance and look forward to building on the positives as the season progresses.