Sat 5 Nov 2022
Shire Hall 78 Phoenix II 0
After last week’s demolition of Hungerford when the forwards scored most of the tries, it was the backs’ turn this week to prove that they can also score. The opening came in the very first minute when a smart pick up at the base of the scrum by Gwyn Robins put Alex Webb in at the corner. Matt Margot was on kicking duties, and he duly slotted home the conversion. A typical Luke Jellicoe try followed after a mazy run from deep and then a good team try finished by Arun Luis put Shire in complete control. Both tries were converted by Matt Margot and Shire led 21-0 after 20 minutes. A great 50/22 kick by Jonny Parry then set Shire up with an attacking lineout close to the Phoenix line. A great catch by Gwyn Robins set up the perfect driving maul and Matt Margot grounded the ball for his first try of the season, but he was unable to land the difficult conversion. Alex Webb added his second try before Jonny Parry decided it was time for him to unleash his severe pace and split the Phoenix defence with a try under the posts which was easily converted by Matt Margot. Two minutes later he was on the scoresheet again and once Margot slotted the conversion. Despite the scoreline, Shire were making many handling errors and needed to improve their discipline in the second half.
Half Time Score: Shire Hall 45 Phoenix II 0
After a few choice words by President Jerry Godfrey, a different Shire started the second half. Better handling resulted in two quick tries from James Pritchard both converted by Matt Margot. Minutes later, returning veteran Tom Fisher started and finished a move from the halfway line with his typical swerving play. Watching proud father Chris must have been pleased! A second driving maul play resulted in Neil Evans going over from his customary 5 metres to extend Shire’s lead to 71-0. The final try was the best of them all. Jonny Parry received the ball on the half way line and put in a measured kick over the defence. Leaving the defence in his wake, he chased the ball and got a favourable bounce before going over for his third try of the game. Matt Margot slotted the conversion. At this point both captains and referee decided that should be the final score. Shire were obviously the stronger side and it was a good sensible decision to protect players from injury. Phoenix had put up a good fight, especially in their forwards but had no answer to the speed of Shire backs.
Final Score: Shire Hall 78 Phoenix II 0
Tries: Jonny Parry (3), James Pritchard (2), Alex Webb (2), Luke Jellicoe, Arun Luis, Tom Fisher,
Matt Margot, Neil Evans
Conversions: Matt Margot (9)
MOTM: Jonny Parry for his hat trick and general improved play
DOTD: Ollie Homan-Green for his inability to actually catch a ball!
