Birth Certificates Please!

New website for 2006/7 season

2006-05-16T14:37:00.000+01:00

We have just started to create a new club website for next season. We have purchased the domain name "woodsrugby" and now have developed our own web pages. This allows us to have many more features than the old website. Please pay it a visit at www.woodsrugby.co.uk The content on there is just test data, and will be updated as current information becomes available. Sign the guestbook to let us know you've visited, and use the contact feature if you wish to pass on any ideas for more features or further development.

Match Report v Chingford (a) Won 27-26

2006-05-05T11:12:00.000+01:00

Brentwood U14s 27 Chingford U14s 26

Brentwood snatch victory from the jaws of defeat…
Report by Becky Bassenger

Brentwood started badly, even by their sleepy standards. Tackles were being missed left, right and centre, the ball was being thrown away and also lost in contact. The only positive was that the strange flying things that had spent the hour before the match dive-bombing innocent bystanders seemed to be subsiding. Chingford were in control and deservedly so but Brentwood were starting to get their act together and from a good break from Jordan Hill got themselves in an attacking position. The pass however was forward and Brentwood could not shove Chingford off the ball at the scrum. Despite this the Brentwood back row were up quickly and forced Chingford into knocking on in a tackle. William Bassenger bashed up the middle, the ball went to Elliot who made a half break, committing two defenders to him, which put Tim in space, and he raced into the corner to score. The difficult conversion was missed, 5-0 Brentwood.

The good work was undone though as Chingford were straight through all the defence from the restart. Sam Fry was left one on one with his opposite number and despite an initial girly slap which I assume was meant to be a handoff from the Chingford player, Sam got his man in touch to save a try. Unfortunately Chingford nicked the lineout and some nice hands saw them over for a good score. The conversion was kicked, 7-5 to Chingford.

The next restart was much the same as the last with Chingford running the ball straight back down the touchline but this time there were no tackles and Chingford were straight in to increase the lead. The conversion was good, 14-5 Chingford and half time.

Onlookers knew it was bad as coach Ian adopted that stance – hands on head, grimace on face and if he’d been wearing a hat it most certainly would have been off!

The second half started off just as badly as the first half ended, Chingford running straight through and scoring again, the conversion went over and the score was 21-5 to Chingford. It looked like game over…but Brentwood was having none of it. And so the come back began. A bad box kick went straight to Sam Morgan who ran it back, straightened his line and sent out a good pass to Joel Ison who put the burners on and raced into the corner. Another difficult conversion was just missed, 21-10 to Chingford.

Brentwood’s next try came swiftly afterwards as a result of some great running rugby. James Paton at centre made the break, he passed it to Sam Morgan who did well to take the pass which was above his head, James your team mates aren’t quite your height yet! Roland, in the attacking line from fullback, received the pass from Sam, drew the defender and passed to Joel who was on hand to speed in for the finish. Conversion was again not the easiest and was missed. 21-15 to Chingford.

Chingford then struck back. Brentwood conceded a penalty and Chingford put in a very good kick, giving them a lineout 5 metres out. Brentwood stole the lineout but knocked on, scrum for Chingford. A number 8 pick up from the scrum saw Chingford set up a ruck on the blindside only metres short of the line and when their prop, not the smallest of players, popped up on the wing for the pass a score was inevitable. Joel put in a brave effort but from that range there would only be one winner. The conversion was missed. 26-15 to Chingford.

Things were seemingly getting worse as a scrum where Brentwood put on no pressure what so ever gave the Chingford kicker what seemed like an eternity to clear his lines and the ball went straight over Sam Fry’s head before bouncing for him very unkindly. However he eventually managed to collect it did extremely well to run straight back through the Chingford defence to gain ground from a very good kick. A maul was set up and William did his usual come from absolutely nowhere with the ball. Finding himself in a large amount of space, something probably quite daunting to a prop, he passed to Jordan who used the space to go in at the corner. The conversion was close but not quite there, 26-20 and suddenly Brentwood could win the game with a converted try.

Chingford regained possession from the restart and put in a clever kick with the aim of keeping Brentwood as far away from their try line as possible. Brentwood took the lineout cleanly and the ball was whizzed out quickly to Jordan who managed to find a hole in the middle of the Chingford defence and ran straight through. He managed to step the full back and with every Brentwood supporter who was aware of the score screaming, “POSTS! POSTS!” he dived over just to the side of them. 26-25 Chingford. The conversion looked relatively easy but with only a minute remaining and the kick desperately needed to win it was no easy kick. Under huge pressure Adam Mathias calmly stepped up and slotted it. The Brentwood fans went nuts. 27-26 to Brentwood but Chingford were already racing back to take a quick restart.

There looked set to be another twist in the tale as the ball took an unfortunate deflection off of Roland’s head, causing chaos amongst the Brentwood players trying to tidy up and in the kafuffle Chingford got the ball back. Fortunately the Brentwood defenders managed to wrap the man up and a maul was set up. The Chingford players shoved and were starting to edge towards the try line but the Brentwood forwards arranged themselves and put on a counter shove. The maul lurched back and forth for some time until finally with one last mighty shove the Brentwood boys got it into touch. The full time whistle went, 27-26 to Brentwood, a great, highly entertaining game and a good end to a good season.

Player of the Year 2005/6

2006-05-03T13:46:00.000+01:00

Brentwood RFC under 14's

Players player of the year 2005/6

Will all players please make sure that they have their player of the year forms in to either Keith or Steve by Sunday 7th at the latest. Keith will have voting forms available on Sunday or you can request a form via e-mail from steve at steven.doble@jardinemotors.co.uk . If you are not going to be at training on Sunday 7th May, please send your vote to steve via e-mail (These will be verified) by Monday 8th May at the latest.

All VOTES RECEIVED AFTER MONDAY 8th MAY WILL NOT BE INCLUDED

Extra Fixture - Sunday 7th May v Kent U14's - CANCELLED

2006-05-03T10:31:00.000+01:00

Extra Fixture - CANCELLED
Sunday 7th May - This extra fixture has now been cancelled
There will be a final training session at King Georges on Sunday @ 10.00am.

Fixtures & Results Season 2005/2006

2006-05-02T19:01:00.000+01:00

Brentwood Rugby Football Club Under 14's

Fixtures & Results

(Click on "Report" for full match report)

Played 23 - Won 17 - Drawn 2 - Lost 4 - Points F-737 A-191

2005
Sep 25th v Harlow (away) Won 72-0 Report
Oct 2nd v Braintree (home) Draw 12-12
Oct 9th v Westcombe Park (away) Won 62-0 Report
Oct 16th v Rochford (away) Won 42-0
Oct 23rd v Woodford (away) Lost 19-24
Oct 30th V Cambridge (away) Won 49-0
Nov 6th v Colchester (away) Won 29-10
Nov 13th v Barking (away) Won 24-12
Nov 20th v Upminster (away) Won 48-0 Report
Nov 27th v Stanford (away) Cancelled
Dec 4th Essex Cup v Stanford (away) Won 85-0 Report
Dec 11th v Westcliff (home) Won 38 - 0 Report
Dec 18th v Braintree (away) Cancelled
2006
Jan 8th v Sth Woodham Ferrers (away) Won 19-10 Report
Jan 15th Essex Cup v Rochford (away) Won 52-5 Report
Jan 22nd v Chelmsford (away) Won 24-14 Report
Jan 29th v Thurrock (home) Cancelled
Feb 5th v Medway (home) Lost 14 - 19 Report
Feb 12th No Fixture (Training)
Feb 19th v Harlow (home) Won 43-7 Report
Feb 26th v Chingford (away) Lost 14 -21 Report
Mar 5th Essex Cup v Thurrock (home) Won 25-0 Report
Mar 12th v Eton Manor (home) Won 17-0 Report
Mar 19th v Shelford (away) Draw 15-15 Report
Mar 26th No Fixture (Training)
Apr 2nd Essex Cup Final v Westcliff Won 10-5 Report

Apr 9th v Bishops Stortford (home) Lost 12-26 Report
Apr 16th No Fixture (Easter)
Apr 22nd/23rd Tour Bognor Regis (see Bognor 2006 Tour link)
Apr 30th v Chingford (away) Won 27-26 Report

End Of Season Presentation Evening

2006-04-13T16:36:00.000+01:00

Message From Keith

Dear all,

I have booked the clubhouse for the evening of Friday 19th May for our end of season presentation evening. Fun starts at 19:30 and we have to vacate by 23:30.

There will be a disco & buffet & I believe the bar may well be open.

Please come along & celebrate our boys memorable season. We will be presenting them with trophies for their fantastic achievement in the Essex Cup along with Player Of The Year.

I should have tickets printed by Wednesday next week / tour weekend.
If you could let me know your ticket requirements ASAP, I can work out the ticket price.

All the best & have a good Easter!!
Keith

Brentwood Under 14's Rugby Team

2006-04-13T13:51:00.000+01:00

Essex Under 14's Cup Winners 2006

Brentwood RFC Sober Gringo Tour 2006

2006-04-11T11:58:00.000+01:00

We are now less than two weeks to go before tour, so I thought I better let you all know what’s happening: -

Final numbers are booked in to Butlins are we are a touring party of 120. The event organisers have asked that should any issues arise during the weekend that your event organiser liase with the event coordinator (unfortunately there is a strong possibility that he may be drunk so make sure its more important than you not liking the colour of the toilet rolls in Chalet 57).

If you are interested in the facilities at Butlins please visit http://www.butlins.com/.

I’ve checked the brochure and I think “Complete Madness” the tribute band are playing Bognor that weekend, so that’s embarrassing dad time.

Directions

The AA route planner suggests the following route:

M25 south towards Dartford
Leave the M25 at Junction 7 and join the M23 towards Gatwick/Brighton
Leave the M23 at Junction 11 and join the A264 towards Horsham
Follow the A264 through Crawley and Horsham until you come to the A24
Join the A24 towards Worthing
At Findon join the A280 towards Littlehampton
Join the A27 towards Chichester
Join the A29 into Bognor Regis

They say its 95 miles and a 2 hour journey.

From the Butlins website

Traveling by road
We're easy to find. Simply follow the A259 coast road and you can't miss us. We're just one mile east of Bognor Regis on the Littlehampton road near Felpham Village. See who'll be the first to the Skyline Pavillion - you can't miss it as you approach the Resort.

Travelling by coach or rail
If you travelling by train, the Resort is just a minute taxi ride from
Bognor Regis station. And, if you are travelling by coach, you will
arrive at the Resort's main entrance where we look forward to
meeting you. Please note that the National Express coaches stop
inside the main entrance.

Check In

I am still waiting for confirmation on check in times, however I will be there from lunchtime and it appears I can check everyone in and distribute keys as you arrive. I will probably be in the Bar closest to reception but alternatively call 07989491256. At this time I will let you know the time and location of our tour meeting, this is when you will find out tour rules and officials.

Accomodation

We are in what Butlins call “Silver” accommodation:

Key features
TV
Shower
Lounge/Diner
Kitchenette with cooker, fridge and microwave
Tea/coffee making facilities
Bed linen provided
Please note Towels are NOT provided

Boys Travelling Alone

If your son is coming on tour without a parent or guardian, please make sure you have arranged who is responsible for your child’s well being while on tour. How is he getting there? When is he going? When is he getting home? Does he have any allergies, medication or special dietary requirements?

Whoever is caring for your child will need at least 2 emergency contact numbers for the weekend.

The coaching staff are always mindful of the children’s welfare but it is not their job to baby sit other peoples children.

What You Need

The boys are going to need their rugby kit including boots, gum shields and a waterproof jacket. They will be playing on Saturday and Sunday and should it rain putting wet kit on the next day won’t be funny. I would suggest swimming gear as there are pools at Butlins. They will need trainers, tshirts and jeans for evenings. The accommodation is self catering so they will need money to eat and for tour fines. As previously mentioned Butlin’s do not provide towels.

Important

This is an extract from the tournament rules:

Proof of Age
Each team must submita list of players to the Team Tours Direct administration before their first match in the tournsment. All players MUST be able to identify themselves and to certify their age with a valid passport or registration card from their respective Union. This must be presented to the registration officer for your age group on arrival at the tournament venue.

Any player who does not comply will not be allowed to play.

Tour Songs

Lyrics for this years Tour Tunes are available on the website. Click on the link "Bognor 2006 tour songs & rules" were all the song sheets are available to read & print. Spend time to learn the words, the fines for not knowing the lyrics are horrible.

Tour Rules

Tour rules are also available on the website. Click on the link "Bognor 2006 tour songs & rules" were all the rules are available to read & print. These are by no means final rules and can be modified at short notice.

Match Report v Bishops Stortford (h) Lost 12-26

2006-04-11T10:40:00.000+01:00

Brentwood U14s 12 Bishop Stortford U14s 26
Report by Kerry Bassenger

A bare fifteen!

With no subs, Miles normally a winger (who hasn’t played for months) at full back and the scrum half playing flanker, what could we expect? Not perhaps the catalogue of errors that featured through out the first half. Bad decisions, missing lineout ball, knock ons, constant missed tackles and where oh where were the forwards.
There was the occasional flash of good play like when Brentwood put on a good shove and held up the Bishop Stortford to prevent them scoring but then seconds later it all went to pot from the resultant 5 metre scrum and Bishop Stortford ran straight through and under the posts for their first try. No tackles!
Del at this point was puce and whilst Bishop Stortford duly converted he did the team ‘ticking off’ under the posts!
Things didn’t get any better from then on and Bishop Stortford ran through all the forwards to score their second try, which was again converted, 14-0.
At this point Billy got a bit cross and tried a bit of motivational shouting at his team mates. Funny, he sounded remarkably like Del!
Further missed tackles led to Bishop Stortford’s third try and with the conversion kicked at half time Brentwood were 21-0 down.
The second half started with the boys looking a little more lively with some good driving and pressure but unfortunately more missed tackles cost us another try, 26-0.
The boys continued to improve and started to play some proper rugby, which led to them having a try held up. They were obviously now fully awake and managed to string a whole series of passes together resulting in James Paton scoring a try which was swiftly converted by Stuart Frith, 26-7.
There were then some good runs made by Jordan Hill, linking with Sam Fry and some good drives from Brentwood put Bishop Stortford back in their own half. Brentwood’s final try came from a penalty taken in by William Bassenger and passed quickly to Luke Dennis who went over in the corner. 26-12 to Bishop Stortford.
All in all a much better second half performance and indeed, as coach Kevin said, “We won the second half.”
This weeks match report has been done under duress by Kerry Bassenger standing in for usual match reporter Becky as she snuck off to Twickenham to watch Wasps…

Cup Final Match Report v Westcliff - Win 10-5

2006-04-04T10:14:00.000+01:00

Essex Cup Final

Brentwood U14s 10 Westcliff U14s 5
Report by Becky Bassenger

Brentwood are the champions...

You could feel the nervous tension in the air in the hours building up to kick off and not just because the Deltours bus didn't look like it was going to turn up! I've never heard the boys so quiet and as the men were also a bundle of nerves (not that they'd admit it!) they had to break open the beers at around 10 o'clock. Yes we are talking 10 in the morning!
The boys looked happier once they were out warming up and Ian gave his team talk, emphasising the need for no lip and for the forwards to hit Westcliff early and give the backs the platform they need. And then the match finally kicked off!
The start however didn't go to plan. It seemed nerves were playing a big part in the very slow start as the boys weren't performing to their usual high standards. Gradually though the Brentwood boys looked to be getting into the game and were putting together a good passage of play until Westcliff turned the ball over and went charging down the middle. Fortunately Roland was on hand to make a thumping tackle, probably a try saving one. Brentwood then gained a couple of penalties and got themselves into the Westcliff half but lost the ball. Westcliff capitalised on this Brentwood mistake and made good ground and inside the Brentwood 22 sent through a great kick. Despite the covering Brentwood player's best efforts Westcliff regained possession and went over to score a try. The conversion hit the post and Westcliff were 5-0 up.
It seemed that the Brentwood boys head's visibly dropped, not being used to chasing games too often this season, but fortunately half time came.
The half time talk must have been inspired. I'm told by my sources that Ian said "You've had your 25 minutes warm up now go out and win" but regardless of whether this is true or not whatever he said worked as Brentwood came out after the break and blew Westcliff away, the nerves seemed to have vanished and Brentwood seemed to have got their belief back.
Chris McCarthy continued making good breaks as he had done in the first half and there was some good picking up and going around the fringes of the rucks from both Sam Morgan and Rob Finnerty. The rest of the forwards also upped a gear, forming a powerful maul which surged from some way out over the try line. It was judged to have been held up and Brentwood had the scrum. From the scrum Brentwood set up another maul which was bought down just before the line and William Bassenger picked and went to gain a further bit of ground. The ball was recycled and Rob Finnerty went over to score, the conversion was missed and the scores were level at 5 all.
Brentwood now visibly believed they could win and Sam Morgan's run from a quick tapped penalty summed up the new Brentwood energy as he bounced a Westcliff player off his head in a storming run. The Westcliff player was unfortunately injured due to this and had to be stretchered off the pitch, Sam you must have one hard head!
After the stoppage Brentwood continued to exert pressure and a neat break from captain Michael Dennis looked to have put Joel in acres of space only for play to be called back for a forward pass. Not long after, on the opposite side of the pitch, some good breaks and interlinking between Sam Fry and Jordan Hill sent Michael down the touchline and heading for the corner where he was just caught short and put out.
From the lineout something very surreal happened; Chris McCarthy managed to take a magnificent two handed catch on the opposition throw in! Another maul was set up and went to ground but the ball was recycled very quickly and Adam Mathias did well to keep play moving quickly, getting the ball and quickly moving it to James Paton at centre. James crashed into the Westcliff defence and managed to stretch far enough to put the ball down just over the line, 10-5 Brentwood and with the time remaining if the conversion was scored the worst case scenario would have been a draw and extra time. Billy Aldous though can always be relied on to miss vital kicks and had his conversion attempt charged down! (Apparently I always abuse Billy in the match report so why change a habit! In fairness to Billy though Westcliff did extremely well to get to the ball as it was an extremely well struck kick.) 10-5 to Brentwood and only 5 minutes remaining!
From the restart Brentwood tried to keep the pressure up but conceded a turnover and Westcliff hoofed the ball down field for their players to chase. Roland was unlucky as the ball stopped before it went in to the goal area and he had to play it but he did extremely well to stay on his feet long enough for support to arrive. Due to a maul being set up and going to ground without Brentwood being able to get the ball Westcliff had an attacking scrum too close to the Brentwood line for comfort and as the forwards packed down for the scrum I thought somebody was going to have to bring me an oxygen tank and by the sounds of things I wasn't the only one who felt that way! Thankfully Matt Whaley, always so lethally quick with his hooking, managed to snaffle the ball against the head and the ball was cleared into touch. Surely the final whistle but no, there was still time for the lineout and it was all still too close to the Brentwood line. Brentwood again managed to regain possession, I'm not sure if they stole the lineout or turned the ball over or what, I was too busy screaming but the ball was again kicked towards the touchline, and after what seemed like an eternity bounced out and then there it was, the final whistle! Brentwood under 14s were the Essex Cup winners!!
All joking aside, in the second half especially, all the boys played well and nobody out shone any of the others, the unused replacements also deserve a big mention for keeping team morale up and for being part of the squad that got Brentwood to the final in the first place, without vital performances in earlier games there would have been no final! Commiserations to Westcliff who were worthy opponents, very gracious in defeat and provided an extremely stern test for us.
I did try and get a quote from Coach Ian but for once he was speechless and by the time I remembered I didn't have a quote he was paraletic drunk and not talking any sense anyway! Captain Michael Dennis commended his team mates saying, "It was a hard game but I'm proud of all the boys and very glad to win." Chris Doble echoed these thoughts saying "It was hard work but we kept hold of the ball and cleared up at the end, it was a very good game." William Bassenger added that again "It was a difficult game but we found our strength in picking and going."
Unfortunately that was where the helpful quotes ended but for entertainment purposes I thought I'd include some of the better ones:
Matt Gray - "My nose hurts."
Joel - "I didn't get the ball."
Rob - "There was some good singing in the showers. Nice socks!" I'm not entirely sure whose socks he was talking about...
Sam Morgan - "It's the first time I've had a bleeding nose but it was bloody awesome!"
But by far the best was Chris McCarthy with the classic, "The food here's good."
A good day was had by all, although I'm sure there'll be some sore heads this morning, well done to all the boys and to any parents that were whinging at me after the game for never mentioning them in the match report, I'm open to bribes!

Action from the Essex Cup Final V Westcliff

2006-04-04T05:43:00.000+01:00

Click on pictures for full size image

Cup Final Competition

2006-03-31T11:26:00.000+01:00

Name The Brentwood Easter Bunny??
50 Names available to purchase at only £1 per name. Select the correct name and you can take away the wonderful Brentwood Easter Bunny

Names will be sold on the Deltours Double Decker on route to the final on Sunday at Eton Manor.

Could one of these be the winner!!

Essex Cup Final - Sunday 2nd April 2006

2006-03-28T14:35:00.000+01:00

Travel arrangements to Eton Manor for Essex Cup Final v Westcliff - (12.30pm Kick off)

We have managed to locate at very late notice (through no fault of our own) a double decker bus for Sunday & Del is in the process of hiring it .

Ian & his coaching team feel that to give the maximum benefit of camaradarie amongst the boys for the BIG game it is important that they all travel together.

Obviously given time we would have made provision for everyone, inc family, friends & fans, who wished to travel Deltours. However as this was not possible, priority will be given as follows:-

The players (and non playing squad members who wish to attend)
The coaching & admin staff.
The wives & siblings of 2 above.
The fathers & mothers of 1 above.
Everyone else.

All squad members whether selected for the day or not will travel FREE. There will be a nominal fee of say £5 per person for all other persons.

The bus holds a minimum of 72 plus standing room, so we may still be able to accommodate all those who wish to join the boys & obviously on the flip side we wouldn’t want to under occupy!!

Please therefore URGENTLY let Del or me know either by e-mail, phone or in person of your wishes as places will be allocated on a first come first served priority basis.

If on the other hand you intend to drive anyway & have ‘spare’ seats, please also let us know.

Subject to confirmation we will be meeting at Brentwood RUFC at 9.30a.m. kick off time is 12.30pm & after presentations the BUS will be returning between 4pm & 6pm.

Regards

Bill Bassenger

Next Fixture - Sunday 2nd April v Westcliff

2006-03-26T19:07:00.000+01:00

Brentwood U14 v Westcliff U14

2006 Under 14 Essex Cup Final

@ Eton Manor Rugby Club - Kick Off @ 12.30pm

Eton Manor Rugby Football Club, The New Wilderness, Nutter Lane, Wanstead, London E11. Tel:02085322946

Click on link for Map to Eton Manor RFC

The line up for the cup final is as follows: -
1- William Bassenger
2- Matt Whaley
3- Rob Finnerty
4- Chris McCarthy
5- Matt Gray
6- Sam Morgan
7- Billy Aldous
8- Chris Doble
9- Michael Dennis (Capt)
10- Adam Mathias
11- Joel Ison
12- James Paton
13- Jordan Hill
14- Sam Fry
15- Roland Johnson
Replacements:-
Joe Burrows
Luke Dennis
Ross Dibben
Elliot Maclean
Stuart Frith
Dan Tomlinson
Gregor Deery

Match Report v Shelford (a) Draw 15-15

2006-03-24T20:08:00.000Z

Brentwood U14s 15 Shelford U14s 15
Report by Becky Bassenger

Brentwood, good effort but less lip…

Shelford came flying out of the blocks but Brentwood managed to repel the early pressure and was soon camped in the Shelford 22 despite an inability to keep their own ball in contact, especially mauls. This inability to keep hold of the ball did not go unnoticed by coach Ian, who could be heard bellowing no matter where you stood!
Brentwood eventually opened the scoring after some pretty static back play and a decidedly dodgy pass, which could easily have been intercepted, saw the ball get to Joel Ison. Joel did incredibly well to dance his way though the defence and Chris Doble was in support to take the scoring pass. The conversion missed and it was 5-0 Brentwood.
Shelford had a penalty instead of the restart due to Chris Doble having a minor tussle on the floor after scoring and were soon in the Brentwood 22. Brentwood however managed to regain the ball but decided to play suicide rugby on their own line with bad passes everywhere resulting in a score for Shelford. This however was disallowed for a forward pass but another suicidal clearance kick gave Shelford possession straight back from which they scored. The conversion was missed, 5 all.
Half time arrived just before Ian spontaneously combusted and the team were given a stern talking to.
Soon into the second half Brentwood had a scrum from just outside their own 22. The ball was fed to Jake Eagleton who made an eel like run through the Shelford defence but just got caught by the shirt. The ball was recycled quickly and flung wide to Joel who ran into the corner to score. The conversion was short, 10-5 Brentwood.
Shelford however were straight back on the attack, but just when they were in a promising position play had to be halted for a Question of Sport, what happened next type moment as a woman walked her dog straight across the pitch. Not just up the other end of the pitch though, but straight through the middle of play and she got a good three quarters of the way across before even noticing. From the resulting scrum Brentwood got the man in touch but then lost their own lineout, giving Shelford good attack position from where they scored, 10 all as the conversion was missed.
Shortly after the restart Brentwood managed to regain possession and just clung onto it on the half way line. James Payton got his hands on it and went steaming up the touchline where he looked to be put in touch but just managed to keep the ball in play. The ball was recycled to William standing in the fly half position, he handed off a player and offloaded to James, who threw a great pass to Joel who again raced into the corner to score his second. (you see Joel this run for the corner lark works!) The conversion was missed, 15-10 Brentwood.
However the win was not to be as with practically the last play of the game Shelford turned over a Brentwood ruck, although I can’t possibly see how they did it without using hands, and they scored. Fortunately the conversion was missed and the game was drawn. Final score 15 all.
Lastly, after Ian’s explosion at the end of the game due to the amount of penalties conceded because of back chatting the ref, it has been decided that there is going to be a whip round for muzzles at training next week!

Match Report v Eton Manor (h) Win 17-0

2006-03-15T23:33:00.000Z

Brentwood U14s 17 Eton Manor U14s 0
Report by Becky Bassenger

Brentwood unconvincing but win in the end…

The first half was dismal. I’m sorry but there is no other way to put it, take it as constructive criticism…With Brentwood unable to keep hold of their own ball and conceding turnovers left, right and centre Eton Manor had all the pressure, some last ditch defence, especially some superb defence from Roland Johnson, just stopping them scoring. (A prophecy as to what the England game would be like later perhaps?!)
With the substitutes and supporters getting equally as frustrated at the lack of ball retention and Del being in a particularly good mood with **** this and **** that being heard at regular intervals half time couldn’t have come sooner and unsurprisingly mass changes were made.
The tempo of the game picked up after half time and Brentwood were finally able to keep hold of the ball for a period of time. The forwards set up a good platform and the ball was spun wide to Joel Ison who, after a bit of stepping, raced in to score in the corner, the conversion was missed, 5-0 to Brentwood.
Brentwood were now starting to dominate in the forwards and from a scrum on the half way line after the restart had not gone 10 they gained a penalty. Billy Aldous, in-between nosebleeds, took it and crashed into the Eton Manor defence. The ball was recycled and Jake Eagleton made a good break and popped the ball to Tim who did well to straighten his line to give Joel space. Tim then passed to Joel who raced in and ran round to the put the ball down under the posts. Adam Mathias’s conversion went straight down the middle, 12-0 Brentwood.
Brentwood again piled on the pressure from the restart and had quickly turned the ball over. After numerous phases Sam Fry came through on a good line and looked to be in but was just tackled and Brentwood lost the ball. After some more hard forward work Brentwood gained a five metre scrum and as the scrums were now uncontested there was no chance of Brentwood losing the ball. From the scrum the ball was passed blind to Sam Fry who came flying in on another good line, very similar to the one in the Essex Cup Semi last weekend, and ran over to score. The conversion was missed 17-0 Brentwood.
Full time and despite starting very badly Brentwood came through in the end, the theory being that the boys were probably unsettled due to the absence of their coaches who’d snuck off to Paris for the weekend…
Also one last request for Rob, after being screamed at to come on as a blood sub for Billy so loudly for so long that you were possibly the only one in the Brentwood borough that couldn’t hear, could you please invest in a hearing aid.

Match Report v Thurrock (h) Win 25-0

2006-03-07T23:15:00.000Z

Essex Cup Semi Final
Brentwood U14s 25 Thurrock U14s 0
Report by Becky Bassenger

Brentwood stall at first but motor into the final…

As Brentwood knocked on yet again to the disbelieving cries of their supporters it appeared the occasion had got to them as they kept making simple mistakes that normally would not have happened. Thurrock had lots of pressure but Brentwood defended well, not allowing them any space to get through and towards the end of the first half they finally started to look more comfortable, with their best attack coming from some good forward work and the ball being spread wide quickly but being knocked on in the tackle by the touchline. From the scrum however Brentwood used their forwards to get a free kick that saw Sam Morgan go steaming into the Thurrock defence, making a large dent before he was eventually bought down. The forwards recycled quickly to give the backs good ball that was flung wide to Joel Ison who pinned his ears back and raced for the corner (yes the corner!) to score. Very strong wind made kicking the conversion very difficult and although Adam was on target the wind blew the ball back, 5-0 Brentwood.
The conversion attempt signalled the end of a very frustrating half for Brentwood however the positive of scoring just before half time seemed to give the boys their confidence back and they came out much more fired up for the second half, soon having most of the territory and many attacks.
After many phases of attack Brentwood were rewarded with a 5 metre scrum, and when the Thurrock scrum half went offside in a desperate attempt to halt the Brentwood forwards, Brentwood were given a penalty. At 5 metres out you’d generally expected either William Bassenger or James Paton to take the penalty and crash over, evidently Thurrock expected this too so when the ball went to Sam Morgan they were caught completely off guard and Sam went smashing through to score. The conversion attempt was just short, 10-0 Brentwood.
From the restart Sam Morgan took the catch and went hurtling through the defence. The support was good and the ball was recycled quickly for the backs who called a pre planned move which worked to perfection. Adam Mathias looked to take play towards the touchline but then popped a pass back to Sam Fry who’d come off his wing and ran a great line infield. Sam then popped the ball off in contact to Chris Doble who popped it to James Paton with the try line at his mercy. Again the wind caught the conversion attempt which just missed, 15-0 Brentwood.
It seemed that Brentwood now had Thurrock under extreme pressure and this pressure was made worse when Jake sent a booming kick down the touchline from a penalty to gain a 5 metre lineout for Brentwood. Although initially the ball was lost the Thurrock player was tackled into touch and Brentwood had the lineout only slightly further out. This time the catch was taken well and a maul was set up, the maul lurched forward until Rob Finnerty peeled off the side with the ball and ran over to score a well made forwards try. Wind made Adam’s life difficult and the conversion was missed, 20-0 Brentwood.
From the restart Joel Ison was caught extremely high, Brentwood penalty. Brentwood opted to run the penalty and tapped and went. The ball was shipped to Stuart Frith, now on at fly half for Adam Mathias, who put a beautiful chip over the top of the Thurrock defence for Jordan Hill to chase down. Jordan managed to out pace the Thurrock defence and chipped the ball over the try line, diving on it to score. Apparently I’m not allowed to mention the fact that Billy had to forfeit the conversion as he took to long (whoops!) so instead I’ll mention the fact that he got beaten by the majority of the backs in the post match crackers/mars bar and lemonade race…fairy!
Billy’s failed attempt at a conversion signalled full time and the celebrations of getting through to the cup final could begin. Coach Ian Dennis praised the boys for “cutting out mistakes after a slow, nervous start” and also said that “the second half was a demonstration of how they can play and they thoroughly deserve their place in the final.” Keith Morgan summed up the general mood saying, “I’m over the moon!” He then added that he was “proud of the boys for keeping there cool under constant provocation and gave a good professional performance.” Pete McCarthy however was more interested in other matters and asked me to quote him as saying, “The raffle was a fix! How could both Steve Doble and Bill Bassenger possibly win and not me?”
I’d also just like to say a quick thanks to Dee and Swampy for buying me a pair of fingerless gloves to stop me whinging that my hands got cold when I had to remove them to take notes!

Action from the recent Essex Cup semi-final V Thurrock

2006-03-06T23:30:00.000Z

Click on pictures for full size image

Wills sets up another Brentwood attack

Line out action

Joel hands off a Thurrock defender

Sam breaks through the Thurrock defence

Chris wins line out ball

Match Report v Chingford (a) Lost 14-21

2006-03-02T21:13:00.000Z

Brentwood U14s 14 Chingford U14s 21
Report by Becky Bassenger

Brentwood nod off at the wrong time…

After the mile hike to the pitch the match kicked off in freezing cold, windy conditions, much to my unamusement! Brentwood had the wind behind them in the first half and used it to their advantage by putting through some clever kicks which pinned Chingford back in their half. Soon a very good kick from Stuart Frith and good chasing from Sam Fry resulted in a good touch find which got even better when James Paton snaffled the lineout ball and eventually Brentwood gained a five metre scrum. Billy Aldous, playing number 8 this week in the absence of Chris Doble, picked up from the back of the scrum and charged for the line. Even though he was tackled he was strong enough to get the ball down. Stuart converted, 7-0 Brentwood.
Soon after the restart Brentwood conceded a penalty on the right touchline and seemed to suddenly all fall asleep, wandering back ten like they had all the time in the world. Chingford used their initiative and tapped the penalty quickly, it got to one of their quick players and he had an easy run in under the posts. The conversion was kicked, 7-7.
Chingford were now fired up but unfortunately it seemed Brentwood were the opposite, again conceding a penalty in the Chingford half just after the restart and again falling asleep. Chingford again tapped and went, shipping it out quickly to the wing. The Chingford winger had enough speed to out pace the Brentwood defence and ran in to score. The conversion was kicked, 14-7 to Chingford. Half time came soon after which Brentwood definitely needed to wake up a bit, evidently had all stayed up the previous night to watch the dismal England affair until half past seven, way past their bedtimes!
However from the kick-off in the second half things got worse. The Chingford player caught the ball cleanly and ran through three ‘attempted’ tackles to gift Chingford their third score. The conversion was spot on, 21-7 Chingford.
Something dramatic had to be done and Coach Ian sent on James Paton at inside centre. This proved to be an inspired substitution as the first time Brentwood got the ball James came from deep at pace and took a pop pass from Stuart to go steaming through the Chingford defence like a high speed train. Nothing could stop him as he carried on charging through to score. Stuart kicked the conversion, 21-14 to Chingford and Brentwood were right back in it.
Brentwood were now piling on the pressure, desperate to at least get a draw and Chingford were stuck in their own half. Chingford then gave away a penalty from which came hit of the day from Carl Phillips. The penalty was tapped and given to Carl running on to it at pace who smashed into the first Chingford defender. I doubt he even knows now what hit him. Ouch would probably be the best word.
Unfortunately for Brentwood time was not on their side and although they sent wave after wave of attacks Chingford defended their lead valiantly and were helped by Chris McCarthy, who decided to poof around after a high tackle instead of getting on with is so Brentwood could take the penalty quickly, and held on for the win. A brave come back but hopefully the boys will be more awake for the Essex Cup Semi next weekend!

Essex Under 14's 10 Middlesex Under 14's 15

2006-02-26T21:48:00.000Z

All five Brentwood players featured again in Essex's 10-15 loss to Middlesex at Chingford on Sunday afternoon.
The county side competed well against a strong Middlesex team, and were unlucky not to equal the score late in the game after a long period of pressure in the oppositions 22.
Well done to Jake, Sam, Joel, Matt, and Chris who all acquitted themselves well, and to all the Essex players in another good county display.

Match Report v Harlow (h) Win 43-7

2006-02-20T23:31:00.000Z

Brentwood U14s 43 Harlow U14s 7
Report by Becky Bassenger

Brentwood back to winning ways…

Brentwood got themselves back to winning ways with a victory over Harlow on Sunday although the game started badly when not for the first time this season we ended up with only 14 players on the pitch after Michael Good disappeared just before kick off and I nearly had to write a missing persons report…fortunately he turned up again!
Harlow started the game much better than Brentwood and were very close to scoring a try until Sam Morgan made a crunching tackle on one of the Harlow players into touch. From then on, due to weather conditions, the game got quite scrappy with both sides attempting to play rugby but numerous knock on's occurring resulting in many turnovers and scrums.
Eventually Brentwood managed to exert some pressure on Harlow and work their way into their 22, Sam Morgan making a powerful surge for the line to get the first score. Adam’s conversion from out wide was on target but just bounced off the wrong side of the crossbar, 5-0 Brentwood.
After the try the game was still quite messy with turnovers all over the place, despite this Sam Fry managed to make some strong runs and eventually Brentwood worked their way into the Harlow 22, the ball was then turned over again and in trying to clear their lines Harlow decided to kick, however the kick was charged down by a Brentwood player (unfortunately I didn’t see who but if you will play in the furthest corner away from the match reporter…) and Brentwood gained a 5 metre scrum. From the scrum Chris Doble did his usual number 8 pick up to bash over the line and score. The conversion was missed, 10-0 to Brentwood and half time.
Half time saw most of the Brentwood team changed and the immediate effect was that the scrum was suddenly much more dominant, because of this Brentwood created a try scoring chance almost immediately as Joel Ison made a good run and the ball was recycled quickly but the overlap was butchered. Harlow kicked away but some clever thinking by full back Roland Johnson and supporting Jake Eagleton got the ball to Joel who was one on one with the Harlow fullback, who he stepped and went over. Billy Aldous, now on at fly half with his groupies watching, kicked the conversion 17-0 Brentwood.
From the restart Joel Ison caught the ball and came steaming down the touchline and looked to be clear in, especially with his pace but somehow he was short of the line. The ball was recycled to Billy Aldous who popped a pass to Jake Eagleton, coming in on the angle to go under the posts. Billy Aldous again converted, 24-0 Brentwood.
The next restart was caught by William Bassenger who proceeded to make an eel like run through the Harlow defence (not another forward who thinks he’s a back!), He was eventually hauled down but despite the ball being recycled pretty slowly Chris Doble managed to spot a big hole in the defence and went charging through to run in from 40 metres. Billy’s conversion was just wide, 29-0 Brentwood.
The next try came quickly after as again Brentwood got into the Harlow 22 and were right near the line when William ‘5 yard’ Bassenger popped up for one of his usual run over from about a metre out tries! Billy converted, 36-0.
After scoring his try William wasn’t done yet, his next trick at the restart was to take a diving catch which caused a few chuckles among the supporters but unfortunately didn’t amount to anything.
Chris McCarthy was now on at number 8 and after some pressure Brentwood earned a scrum 5 metres from the Harlow line. Chris picked up from the back and crossed the line only to have his try disallowed, from the next scrum he did exactly the same thing and again had a try disallowed. I wish to know why the TMO wasn’t consulted on these…
From the next scrum Harlow cleared their lines but only as far as Roland who took a good high catch and passed to Jordan Hill who danced his way through the defence to score. Billy again converted, 43-0 Brentwood.
Harlow, however, were not about to give up and scored a great try of their own in the last play of the game which was well deserved, the conversion making the final score Brentwood 43, Harlow 7.

Referee Abuse

2006-02-17T13:01:00.000Z

ESSEX COUNTY RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION

DISCIPLINARY SUB-COMMITTEE

OPEN LETTER TO CLUBS

I am writing to all Club Secretaries to express my concern and that of Mick Norris, the County President, in respect of the alarming increase in reported cases of referee abuse, involving youth coaches and parents.

All Clubs should be aware of the consequences of any such abuse. Recently at National level, cases of verbal referee abuse have been treated most severely and this is something I feel I must endorse. The entry point for such abuse is 8 weeks and I will be using this as a bench mark.

I would ask you to circulate this message which is also posted on the County website Discipline Section:-

This Committee has become aware that the incidence of abuse from the touchline is increasing to the detriment of the game in general.

It is recognised that the line between that which is acceptable and that which is not is a fine one and often a matter of judgement. Nevertheless, any comment, however mild it may seem to the person saying it, which gives offence to anyone within earshot has to be treated as offensive.

Accordingly, this Committee reminds the officials of all clubs that they are responsible for the behaviour of every person on the touchline whether they are a member of the club or not. As such, they have to take an active part in ensuring that spectators behave in a responsible manner and take positive action against those who offend either at the time or later at an internal hearing.

It is the view of this Committee that nearly all of these incidents are avoidable if prompt action is taken by Club Officials at the time. Therefore, it is hoped that all members, playing and non-playing, will be informed of the dire consequences for their Club should this Committee be required to take formal action.

Sanctions available to this Committee range from a suspension of the individual involved to the deduction of league points and a total ban on the club playing for a period of time.

Rugby has always had the reputation of being a “friendly” sport with goodwill and humour both on and off the field of play. Everyone involved in the sport has the responsibility to ensure that this reputation is maintained. Those who seek to abuse or tarnish the game of rugby can neither expect nor will they receive any sympathy should they become offensive with comments directed either at match officials, players or other spectators.

All clubs should also be in receipt of the RFU Code of Conduct, which I would like circulated within your club.

Hoping this letter goes some way in eradicating referee abuse in Essex.

Yours faithfully,

Gerry Mansfield
Chairman of Discipline Essex

Match Report v Medway (h) Lost 14-19

2006-02-09T12:00:00.000Z

Brentwood U14s 14 Medway U14s 19
Report by Becky Bassenger

Brentwood's winning streak ended in a cracker of a match...

From the kick off it was obvious this was going to be no easy match with some thunderous hits being made, one especially from Sam Morgan which left many spectating mums grimacing and questioning whether it was safe for their 'baby' to play.
Although defence was solid from both sides Brentwood had slightly more attacking pressure but Medway's strong defence was quick to close players down which resulted in loose passes being thrown and turnovers from both teams in a colossal forwards battle.
After a grid locked first quarter where neither side could breach the others defence Medway broke down the touchline and despite another big hit from Sam Morgan they managed to ship the ball out wide where some clever running lines and offloads made it nearly impossible to defend and Medway were in in the corner. The conversion was missed, 5-0 Medway.
The character in the Brentwood team, however, shone through having not been behind in a match for quite a while now heads did not drop and Brentwood were right on the attack, setting up maul after maul which eventually rumbled across the try line where William Bassenger was judged to have been held up. From the resulting 5 metre scrum Chris Doble picked up from the back and was piled over the line. Stuart nailed the conversion, 7-5 Brentwood and half time.
The beginning of the second half saw Medway start stronger and eventually gaining a scrum right near the Brentwood try line. Fortunately Michael Dennis did some brilliant hassling of the opposition scrum half, which Matt Dawson (when he was still playing rather than whinging at the ref!) would have been proud of, and gained a crucial turnover.
After this turnover Brentwood began to maul it, a ferocious maul travelling right to the other end of the pitch before it collapsed. From the ruck Brentwood again set up a maul and when it halted near the try line it was whipped out quickly to the backs, Jordan Hill finishing off the forwards great work and Stuart converting, 14-5 to Brentwood.
Medway were not about to give up though and replied with a try of their own, after mauling it in the Brentwood 22 and then crashing over the try line, the conversion making it 14-12 to Brentwood and setting up a heart stopping last ten minutes. Brentwood clung on frantically to their 2 point lead but Medway sent wave after wave of attack, desperate to get the winning score. Medway got themselves into drop goal position to try and sneak a point victory but the drop goal missed. Then came the drama, the missed drop goal bounced into the in goal area and a Medway player dived on it, try Medway. Screams of "he was offside by about four miles!" were heard from the Brentwood supporters but after consulting the referee he wasn't as when the drop goal had missed it had hit the post, thus playing everyone onside. I personally have never heard this rule but I can't say I've read the rulebook so we'll go with the ref on this one...The conversion was kicked, 19-14 Medway.
For the last few minutes Brentwood struggled to get in the Medway half, visibly drained of energy after what had been a brutal encounter and full time came. Final score Brentwood 14 Medway 19 after a thrilling game in which Brentwood showed real character but were just pipped at (or rather by!) the post.

Tour 2006 - Bognor Regis

2006-01-30T13:06:00.000Z

Just a quick note to keep everyone updated.
The balance of £64 per person needs to be with me no later than Sunday 12th February. It would make life much easy for me if you can pay your balance by cheque, made payable to:

TEAM TOURS DIRECT

We have a total of 118 people touring with 18 under 12 players and 24 under 14’s.
The twelve’s will be playing against Bognor, Chichester, Cranbrook, Bank of England, Llantwit Fardre and 2 more teams from the Bognor area.
The fourteen’s will face Tondu, 2 teams from Harpenden, 2 teams from Dartfordians, Deal Wanderers, Caerleon, Beddau and Bognor.

You can always drop your cheque through my letterbox at 291 Chelmsford Road Shenfield.

Thanks Bryn

Essex Under 14's 7 Suffolk Under 14's 5

2006-01-27T23:27:00.000Z

All five Brentwood players featured in Essex's 7-5 victory over Suffolk at Colchester on Friday evening.
The scoreline did not reflect Essex's dominance, especially up front with a fine pack performance.
Jack Eagleton capped an excellent display with the Essex try.
Well done Jake, Sam, Joel, Matt, Chris and all the Essex players in another fine display.

Match Report v Chelmsford (a) Win 24-14

2006-01-24T13:00:00.000Z

Brentwood U14s 24 Chelmsford U14s 14
Report by Becky Bassenger

Chelmsford give Brentwood a tough game..

The first quarter saw play mainly in the middle of the pitch as both sides struggled to control the ball with turnovers everywhere. Brentwood produced some good mauling but Chelmsford also made some good breaks and right before the end of the quarter a Chelmsford player broke numerous pathetic tackles to score under the posts. The conversion was kicked and it was 7-0 Chelmsford, with a pause as the ball was retrieved from over the fence.
The second quarter saw a much better start from Brentwood with a strong run and HUGE handoff from Chris McCarthy. The ball was quickly out to the backs and some slick hands put Joel Ison in a inch of space. He used his pace and then stepped the Chelmsford fullback to dash in unopposed from 50 metres. Gregor Deery kicked the conversion and it was 7-7. Soon after Chelmsford were struggling to contain Joel who made another good run and also a nice break off the side of the maul with some good last tackles just stopping him from being clean through on both occasions. Another bulldozing run from Chris McCarthy and quick recycling saw the ball go to Matt Gray on the blindside. He offloaded to the supporting Billy Aldous who sprinted in from just inside the Chelmsford 22 to score, possibly the most spectacular try he has ever scored, not that there is many to chose from! The conversion was missed, 12-7 to Brentwood.
Scoring a try, despite wearing him out, made Billy go up a gear and he took a good restart catch, made a strong run and then offloaded nicely. James Paton went on a charge through the middle of the Chelmsford pitch and got as far as the try line with the Chelmsford players unable to get him down, however the try was held up. From the scrum Brentwood knocked on and Chelmsford made a great break which should have resulted in a try however Sam Fry made a great covering tackle to prevent it.
Half time came and sources tell me that the coach completely lost the plot and couldn't remember who was playing. This resulted in nobody being quite sure how many players we had on the pitch as nobody had enough fingers to count to 15!! At one point there was concern that we only had 13 but eventually we ended up with 15 again.
Chris McCarthy was now playing for Chelmsford and playing a blinder, much to the disgust of his Brentwood team mates, making some good runs, producing a potentially try saving tackle and also taking a clean lineout catch. James Paton made another clean break but the game got extremely scrappy with too many turnovers for either team to get into a rhythm.
Going into the final quarter the game was still there to be won by either team with the difference only being 5 points. It looked like Chelmsford were going to score when one of their players made a clean break but a brilliant sprint back from Joel and a diving tackle made sure he was just hauled down before the try line. Joel then managed to ignite an attack with another break, Jordan Hill continued the move and popped off a lovely pass to Daniel Tomlinson who raced in to score. Adam Mathias kicked a good conversion, 19-7 Brentwood.
Joel then made another clean break and ran in to score under the posts from around 40 metres out, the conversion was missed but the score was now 24-7 and with not long remaining the game was won. Chelmsford however had the final say with a good try and conversion, final score 24-14 to Brentwood.

U14 Essex Cup - Semi Final Draw

2006-01-19T08:30:00.000Z

Brentwood v Thurrock

Woodford v Westcliff

Matches to be played on Sunday 5th March.

Match Report v Rochford (a) Win 52-5

2006-01-17T07:05:00.000Z

Brentwood U14 52 Rochford U14 5
(Essex Cup Quarter Final)

Brentwood start slowly but run out convincing winners…
Report By Becky Bassenger

From the kick off Brentwood were immediately under huge pressure from Rochford who were visibly very up for the game. After a Rochford break which took them deep into the 22 Brentwood conceded a penalty and Rochford opted to kick for the posts. Brentwood were let off the hook as the kick was missed however they then piled the pressure straight back on themselves by allowing Rochford to charge down the 22 drop out. Fortunately Brentwood’s forwards came to the rescue, winning the resulting scrum against the head.
The Rochford pressure still continued though with Roland Johnson putting in a thumping try saving tackle into touch. This seemed to be the catalyst for Brentwood to shift up a gear and not long after Jake Eagleton made a break and passed to Sam Morgan who continued the strong running. When he was eventually tackled the ball was recycled quickly and Jake went in under the posts. Adam Mathias was on target with the conversion, 7-0 Brentwood.
Soon after from a Brentwood scrum the ball was spun out to Adam and then to William Bassenger (who for some reason was lurking on the wing!). He threw a lovely pass to Joel Ison who proceeded to score one of the individual tries of the season, cutting a beautiful line and beating three defenders to score under the posts. Adam converted and it was 14-0.
From the restart Chris Doble caught the ball at pace and somehow made an 80 metre dash down the touchline without a hand being laid on him to score near the corner. Adam’s conversion had the accuracy but not the legs, 19-0 Brentwood.
Right at the end of the half after more good work from Sam Morgan and Jake, Sam Fry made a great run to break two tackles and score in the corner. Adam’s conversion from the same spot again was just short but despite the entire first quarter belonging to Rochford, Brentwood were 24-0 up at half time.
The second half began with play mainly in the middle of the pitch with fierce battling from both teams but some pressure from Brentwood resulted in a well deserved try from Matt Gray. Adam kicked the conversion and it was 31-0 to Brentwood. Chris McCarthy made a strong run and a nice offload to Matt Gray but Brentwood conceded a penalty. The Brentwood pressure continued though as from the penalty Brentwood turned the ball over and from the resulting counter attack Jake scored under the posts. Adam converted, 38-0.
More good pressure from Brentwood and some superb stepping from Joel gave him his second try of the match and with Adam kicking a great conversion it was 45-0. For the last part of the game James Payton was on at centre and it was clear from the first ball he took that he was definitely a crash centre as he went charging straight through the middle. Rochford however scored a well deserved try and it was 45-5 to Brentwood. Soon after a clever kick over from Rochford nearly helped them to their second try but Chris McCarthy raced back magnificently to dive on the loose ball before the Rochford player got to it and saved the try (and Chris threatened me so I had to say that!).
The last try just had to go to one person, James Payton at centre, and it did after on another crash ball he bounced a Rochford defender and ran over to score, although only just after nearly running over the dead ball line! Adam kicked a great conversion and it was 52-5 at full time.
Although the score was large it didn’t really tell the true story of the game with Brentwood just being far more clinical. Brentwood’s coach Ian Dennis echoed these thoughts, being quoted as saying, “They [Brentwood] were rubbish!” On a serious note he said that they “didn’t play their best but this game was testament to how well they can play and everybody did their bit today, despite three from the 22 missing.” Keith Morgan added that this was “a good result” and that “the old faithful didn’t let him down but the players who came on played exceptionally well and are pushing for a first 15 spot.”

Woods Reporter Becky Bassenger Interviews Brentwood Head Coach Ian Dennis after the game.

Other Essex Cup Quarter Final Results : -
Chingford 5 v 5 Westcliff (Westcliff go through away rule)
Barking 0 v 15 Woodford
May & Baker 19 v 29 Thurrock

Action from the recent Essex Cup match v Rochford

2006-01-17T06:19:00.000Z

Captain Chris gives his pre match team talk

Boys, you need to get lower!! (from Pete)

Rochford win lineout ball

Matt Smith takes the ball into contact

Elliott & Billy fight for the ball

Coach Keith discuses Feb's tactics with Woods reporter Becky (see below)

12.01am 1st February 2006.

Match Report v Sth Woodham Ferrers (a) Win 19-10

2006-01-08T20:00:00.000Z

Brentwood U14s 19 South Woodham Ferrers U14s 10
Report By Becky Bassenger

Brentwood have to battle hard for victory…

Another good start from Brentwood saw them knock on just under the posts early on in the first quarter. From the resulting five metre scrum the South Woodham Ferrers kick for touch was sliced and Brentwood had a lineout on the five metre line however the lineout wasn’t straight and so South Woodham Ferrers regained possession. This didn’t last for long as Chris McCarthy charged down an attempted clearance kick and from the resulting surge torwards the line the ball was held up. This happened twice as great defence from the South Woodham Ferrers team just kept the Brentwood boys out.
The try had to come eventually though. And it did from a great run by captain for the day, Jordan Hill. From just inside his own 22 he ran straight through the the middle of Ferrers defence to run in under the sticks without being touched. Stuart Frith kicked the straight forward conversion, 7-0 Brentwood.
Soon after from a slick back’s loop movement with superb ball handling Jordan was put into space down the right touchline. His pace got him to the try line and he ran round to put the ball under the posts. Stuart duly converted. 14-0 Brentwood and the end of the first quarter.
From the restart Chris McCarthy took a good catch and made a strong run, however Brentwood got penalised three times consecutively for killing the ball in the ruck (us cheating? I don’t think that would happen!) and a lot of pressure from South Woodham Ferrers continued but the boys defended well, Rob Finnerty especially making some good tackles and eventually Brentwood were back on the attack.
James Payton made his usual big run which again resulted in defenders clinging on to him to eventually bring him down, unfortunately the ball went loose but Roland Johnson, ever fearless, was well up on the loose ball but to no avail. No score in the second quarter.
Going into the third quarter the weather was still awful as it was cold and raining and with the pitch rapidly deteriorating into a mud bath (and my notebook getting soaked and the ink running!) the game became difficult to play. Brentwood conceded another penalty but a thumping tackle from Chris McCarthy again ensured South Woodham Ferrers didn’t gain an advantage after running it. Again both good defence and bad weather meant no scores in the quarter.
The last quarter of the match began very messily and it was becoming increasingly difficult to tell who was who under the thick layer of mud the boys were caked in! However South Woodham Ferrers broke the Brentwood defence and scored a try. The conversion was missed, 14-5 Brentwood. The try was then followed up by a penalty from where the restart should be taken. The cause of the penalty? One of the boys having too much to say! From the penalty South Woodham Ferrers ran straight through to score their 2nd try in as many minutes. The conversion was missed 14-10 Brentwood and suddenly it was game on! Brentwood upped the tempo and began attacking the South Wooodham Ferrers line until about 3 metres out the touch judge decided Brentwood were in touch (wonder who that might have been cough BILL cough!). The last twist however was still to come as Chris McCarthy stole the ball from the opposition lineout and crashed over the line to score. It was the first one he’d caught all day! Stuart missed the conversion leaving the score 19-10 to Brentwood at full time and also a bunch of very muddy players in search of a shower (as it turns out they only had to walk half a mile down the road, go round the back of the leisure centre and up a couple of flights of metal stairs to find said showers!)

Essex Under 14's 17 Bedfordshire Under 14's 12

2006-01-08T19:00:00.000Z

All five Brentwood Players in the Essex Under 14's squad played for the Essex team in the 17-12 Victory against Bedfordshire on Sunday 8th January.

Well done to Matt Whaley, Chris Doble, Joel Ison, Sam Morgan, Jake Eagleton, and all the other players in this closely contested county match.

Matt, Chris, Joel, Jake & Sam in County colours(click on photo)

Essex Under 14's

After the presentations

Match Report v Westcliff (h) Win 38-0

2005-12-12T23:37:00.000Z

Brentwood U14 38 Westcliff U14 0
Report By Becky Bassenger

Brentwood seal 6th straight win…

Brentwood again came racing out of the blocks in the opening five minutes after a lovely catch and run from Rob from the kick off. The forwards recycled quickly and the backs produced a dazzling move with good hands which saw Jake Eagleton, round on the loop, over for the first try. Stuart Frith kicked the conversion, 7-0 Brentwood.
Unfortunately soon after the try play had to be stopped when Jordan Hill took a crunching tackle from Westcliff and went down with a potential back injury. Fortunately however it was not serious and play resumed.
Soon after play resuming Brentwood worked their way deep into the Westcliff 22 where eventually William Bassenger, devastating from a metre, picked up and drove over. The conversion was fairly straight forward and Stuart kicked it, 14-0 Brentwood.
Brentwood continued to pressurise until the end of the quarter but the Westcliff defence held very firm.
In the second quarter Westcliff were immediately under pressure again as from the restart Chris Doble put in a great chase and hit his man hard. The ball spilled lose and a good pick up and run by Matt Smith put Adam Mathias over in the corner. Stuart was unlucky to hit the post with the tricky conversion, 19-0 Brentwood.
Westcliff put up a lovely high restart enabling their players to get underneath it for a chance to compete but Ollie caught it very well under a lot of pressure. From then on however the play got quite messy with the ball going lose quite often and the score remained the same at half time.
After half time Westcliff pressurised Brentwood and very nearly scored when the ball was chipped through however Jake managed to collect and clear well. Following his clearance, Jake made a good run and put Chris Doble over near the posts. Stuart again converted, 26-0.
After a stern talking to from the ref following some punches being throw, Brentwood mauled their way to the line where they were just held up. Eventually, after a lot of strong defending from Westcliff, Chris McCarthy was bundled over the line. Stuart missed the conversion leaving the score 31-0 to Brentwood.
The last score of the game came after some strong running from the wing Sam and also from Joel Ison which again took Brentwood to within metres of the try line. A maul was set up and this time did make it over the line although the forwards were some what miffed when a back, Joel Ison, emerged with the ball to claim the score! Stuart kicked the conversion and the score was 38-0.
The final quarter belonged to Westcliff as they attacked the Brentwood line again and again leaving Brentwood to keep defending but the defence held strong until the final whistle despite enormous pressure from Westcliff.

A lineout during the Westcliff Game (click on picture)

Match Report v Stanford (a) Win 85-0

2005-12-05T17:25:00.000Z

Brentwood U14s 85 Stanford U14s 0
Report by Becky Bassenger

Brentwood get their Essex cup campaign off to a flyer…

From the kick off Brentwood were raring to go. They must have all eaten their weetabix that morning as within the first minute Jake Eagleton had crossed the line for his first try of the match. Stuart Frith made it the dream start by converting, 7-0 Brentwood.
The next try came from Joel Ison, playing at fullback, who crashed over the line, Stuart again converted making it 14-0 with only a few minutes gone.
The third try of the match was from our high scoring prop, William Bassenger, who managed to avoid running into the posts this time. He assures me he made a dazzling run from his own 22 and was so fast I didn’t notice him run past me in a blur of speed. From where I was standing it looked suspiciously like he smashed over from about 5 metres in the usual fashion…Stuart again converted, 21-0 Brentwood.
There was some nice slick play with both backs and forwards running nice lines and linking well, Chris Doble in particular making some strong runs in both halves. Good play eventually resulted in Jake’s 2nd try of the game with Stuart again kicking the conversion leaving the score 28-0 in Brentwood’s favour.
The fifth try was scored by Sam Morgan. From the kick off and some neat pop passing he barged his way through a couple of tackles and was away, beating the Stanford fullback to the line before he was tackled. Stuart kicked the conversion, 35-0.
Chris Doble scored the sixth try, again in typical Chris fashion taking a few players over the line with him. Stuart’s difficult conversion dropped just short. 40-0.
Jake scored his third (another jug Bill, I hope you realise we’re keeping a tally!) with some strong running and Stuart kicked the conversion, 47-0.
The last try of the half came from Joel who moved into the line to take the ball at pace on the wing and left everyone else for dead to dot down in the corner. Stuart’s conversion was accurate but just short, 52-0 at half time.
At this point I would like to say that it was very admirable how, despite being 52-0 down, Stanford didn’t give in and came out in the 2nd half and made life difficult for us.
The second half began with Keith putting on all of our substitutes at once. We wonder if maybe he’s been watching Sven Goran Eriksson who also seems to sub half the team at once…
Soon Matt Smith crossed the line having been a persistent pest to Stanford through out the game. For one of the smaller lads he seemed to revel in launching himself at some of Stanford’s bigger players although occasionally he did bounce off there was no faulting the effort. Stuart kicked the conversion from the touchline, a very difficult kick, putting the score at 66-0.
Jake went in for his fourth try not long after as the ball was kept alive well by off loading in the tackle and a gap opened in the centre for Jake to take advantage of. Stuart again kicked the conversion, 66-0.
The next player to feature on the score sheet was Daniel Tomlinson who scored a nice try with some good linking play with Adam Mathias who was playing in an unfamiliar position on the wing. Stuart missed the straight forward conversion but can be forgiven as had otherwise had a great day with the boot!
Chris Doble scored his second try and Brentwood’s 12th when he broke straight down the middle and went racing over the line, Stuart making no mistake with the conversion, 78-0.
The 13th and final try of the match was scored by Jake for his 5th of the match. After some more good play and passing he broke down the wing and ran round the defence before side stepping one of the Stanford players in the in goal area to put the ball down under the sticks. No need for show boating Jake! Stuart kicked the conversion, leaving him with a personal haul of 20 points in conversions, to leave the final score 85-0 to Brentwood.
A quick mention must go to Matt Gray who had a good game, making some strong runs but also took one of the restarts in a true Martin Corry style by plucking the ball out of the air rather than waiting for it to come to him.
We’d also like to thank the referee, provided by Stanford due to the Essex nominee failing to show, having only been notified he was going to have to ref at 11 o’clock and for refereeing very well and fairly.
A joint decision was made late in the game by Sam and William, having been subbed by Sven, to slide off for an early shower thus securing the limited amount of hot water, who said forwards are thick?!

Action from the recent Essex Cup match v Stanford

2005-12-05T11:58:00.000Z

Click on pictures for full size image

Joel Ison sprints down the wing for a try

Chris McCarthy drives towards the Stanford line.

2005 Christmas Competition

2005-12-02T00:29:00.000Z

Round 1: Caption Round

What is Miss Haslem describing to (there's only one) Ian Dennis? Answers in comments please.

0O0

Round 2: Odd one out

Spot the odd one out from the following 3 Photo’s?

Who is the Daffyd impostor? Tough one!! Answers in comments please.

Here's another

Who's the real bald cripple? (Yeah I Know) Answers in comments please.

0O0

Round 3: Name That Tune

Name the tune that our resident compare & MC is belching out on tour? Songs & lyrics in comments please.

0O0

Prize winners for the best comments will be announced at the Eton Manor game before Christmas

Rugby tour to Cardiff - Spring 2005

2005-11-25T15:04:00.000Z

The 2005 tour squad at the Millenium stadium, Cardiff earlier this year. Who's the fat boy in the funny hat?? Birth certificates please!!

(click on picture)

Hastings tour 2004 Champions Collage

2005-11-25T13:47:00.000Z

Click on image to enlarge to full size

Match Report v Upminster (a) Win 48-0

2005-11-21T12:41:00.000Z

Brentwood U14s 48 Upminster U14s 0
Report by Becky Bassenger

Brentwood power their way to another emphatic win ..

It all started well from the kick off, within minutes the Brentwood boys were camped right on the Upminster try line with the forwards eager to get the first try. Soon after Chris Doble gave Billy Aldous a helpful shove over the line as Billy picked up his second try of the season, already bettering last seasons tally of one and half (one and half you may ask. Well apparently his second try was scored but then disallowed by Ian Dennis so he claims he had one and a half). The conversion from out wide was missed to leave Brentwood 5-0 up.
Brentwood have finally established they need to put a name on the restarts and this area of the game worked particularly well as I don’t recall seeing one dropped restart all day. From a catch at the restart and some slick hands Jake Eagleton was over for his first try of the game. Stuart Frith kicked the conversion from in front, 12 -0 to Brentwood.
With the Brentwood forwards out muscling the Upminster forwards in the lose winning quick ball for the backs, it wasn’t long before Jake was in for his second under the sticks. This time Adam Mathias kicked the conversion, 19-0 Brentwood.
As well as out muscling the Upminster forwards in the lose, the Brentwood pack were also out playing them in the tight, although this wasn’t so obvious in the scrums due to the Upminster scrum half seeming to feed the ball to his number 8. As Pete commented “He may as well just let the scrum half have the ball and miss out the middle man.”
With the forward’s dominant, the backs were putting together some slick moves. A special mention goes to Adam ‘Twinkle Toes’ Mathias for dummy of the day where he pirouetted before offloading not only bamboozling the defence but the spectators as well. We had to remind Adam this was a rugby match not Swan Lake!!
A trademark Chris Doble try followed as he picked up and barged his way over the line, taking a few defenders with him. Stuart Frith, back on, had another horrible kick to take from out wide, which just dropped short. 24-0 Brentwood.
Skipper for the day and unsung hero, Sam Morgan finally got his reward after a huge effort in the lose and some spine breaking tackles when he broke free just inside his own half to run in underneath the sticks. It was quite clear that as soon as he started no one was going to stop him. Finally an easy conversion for Stuart, 31-0 Brentwood.
An excellent step from Twinkle Toes and a well-timed offload put Jake Eagleton under the sticks for his hat trick (that’s a jug please Bill!) and Adam Mathias converted, 38-0.
The next try was made by a spectacular run by our new prop James Payton who had at least half the Upminster team hanging off his left leg before they even got close to stopping him. When they did, he knocked on, scrum to Upminster. The pack put on a huge shove to win the ball against the head, scrum half Mikey Dennis picked up and tried to go for the line. It appeared he wasn’t going to make it until Upminster scored a bit of an own goal by dump tackling him over their own line. Adam hit the post with the conversion leaving the score at 43-0.
Another maul, again set up by a huge run from James, who appeared to be scaring the opposition with his powerful runs (well I wouldn’t personally fancy him running at me at that speed!) was dragged down at the Upminster 22, quick ball was won and some neat hands from the backs put Jordan Hill away in the corner for a well worked try. This left Stuart with yet another horrible conversion, which again he was just short with. 48-0 Brentwood.
This was the final score but due credit to Upminster who fought hard through out the game and were good sports at the end.

Missing Coaches found in "Gay" bar!

2005-11-17T17:16:00.000Z

Secret cameras spotted Brentwoods cheif coaching team, reported absent at this weeks training session due to specialist coaching, out on the town at "Gay Gordons Bender Bar"

Clever disguises might fool some, but not us at Birth Certificates Please!

When challenged by our undercover reporters, the couple said "we know nothing about Rugby"

Match Report v Westcombe Park (a) Win 62-0

2005-11-17T15:35:00.000Z

From The Westcombe Park website :-

What a great report - So good we named our site after it!!

WPRFC 0 – 62 Brentwood

The score pretty much says it all really. I’m not sure what it is with the U14’s. They seem to play together and really gel one week then the following week they aren’t even at the races. This early in the season, the U14’s are historically slow to get off the mark. Today, we’re not sure it if was it a case of too many larger shandies the night before, but the game looked lost before we had even kicked off. There was no urgency around the pitch and the pre match warm up was littered with lethargy. Brentwood were a big squad, not just the number of boys they brought along but their sheer physical mass dwarfed that of the Combe boys.

I haven’t seen that many pairs of hairy legs since my last arachnophobia evening class. We’re not bitter losers at Combe but birth certificates please!!
After the pre match briefing to our backs on the implications of ‘channel drift’ we chased the ball reasonably enthusiastically for the first 3 or 4 minutes. Phil Bunn getting a Brentwood stud in the face necessitated an immediate replacement. Combe sustained some serious pressure in this 1st quarter going into the 2nd quarter only 14 points down. Things weren’t lost at this stage, or so we thought. They say games are won and lost with the forwards. Today we won hardly any loose ball, lost a lot of our own scrums, lost virtually every line out and when we did win one of the previous three Brentwood where onto us so quick they nearly always won the ball back within 30 seconds. A major change from Bromley last week were it worked so well.

We ended the 2nd quarter 21 points to zero. This margin could have been much greater had it not been for a fine display from Fall Back Luke Maybank. He made two ‘last line of defence’ tackles to keep the score down.

Things didn’t get much better in the 3rd quarter. We did have our best break of the game with one of the centres coming close but a fine last minute Brentwood tackle enabled the ‘big lads’ time to get back and thwart our only real attack. A few more basic errors from Combe didn’t help. We kicked straight into touch too often and our restarts were far too deep which gave our chasing pack no chance of getting to the ball before Brentwood’s big guns had built up another head of steam and floored most of our lads on their way to more tries. Three quarters of the way through the game and we were 31 points to nil down.

In the 4th quarter, with Brentwood obviously getting tired (we wish) they secured another 31 unanswered points to end up worthy winners at 62 – 0. We are much better than the score suggests, albeit not today. If the boys want to progress to the next level and match teams like OE’s, Blackheath and indeed Brentwood they have got to get very serious with their coaching and discipline. No parent likes to stop the boys having fun, but if they turn up on a Sunday morning having had 5 hours sleep round their mates house the night before a game then they will inevitably be lacking stamina to last a full 80 minutes.

The positives from today: We still have a very large squad and the boys will take this beating on the chin and be better players next week. This has happened before and they have come back stronger and more resilient, nearly always ending the season with some silverware.

Action from the game..(click on pictures for full image)

Joel takes on the Westcombe defence

Chris practices his ballet step!

Match Report v Harlow (a) Win 72-0

2005-11-17T15:34:00.000Z

From the Harlow website

Harlow U14's 0 Brentwood U14's 72

The Junior Rams were overwhelmed by a far stronger and more skilled side at Ram Gorse. Brentwood was a big side which had been very well drilled and their forwards dominated the possession supported by a set of speedy three quarters whose handling was excellent. Harlow has to defend throughout and it was no disgrace to lose to such a talented side. Jordan Cable at number 8, Conor Sampson and Alfie Elston all played very well for their team.

Essex Under 14's Development Squad

2005-11-17T15:23:00.000Z

Congratulations to the five players from Brentwood Under 14's who made it through to the Essex Squad for this season.

Jake Eagleton
Joel Ison
Matt Whaley
Sam Morgan
Chris Doble

A special mention to the three players who made it all the way through to final selection, just missing out for this season.

Adam Mathias
Chris McCarthy
Jordan Hill

Well done to all of you!!

Team & Game Photo's Required

2005-11-17T15:22:00.000Z

Anyone with team or match photographs, forward them to Steve and we will post them on the website.

They only look 14 in these photos!!!!!!! (click on pictures for full image)

And here's the under 18's!!

Website Launch

2005-11-17T13:48:00.000Z

Brentwood Under14's Rugby Team new blog website.

Fixtures, Match Reports, News & Views, its all here on our new website.

If you wish to publish any reports, news items, gossip, or photo's then mail them to steve @ steven.doble@lancasterplc.com