Can you get too much of a good thing? I suspect not, but Pete Southcott may disagree. He joined a group of former players, assembled by Chris Taylor, to enjoy an afternoon of reveries and remembrances.
Suffering from gout, Pete sensibly restricted himself to Lime and soda, however the club held insufficient supplies and the poor chap had to resort to drinking Tetleys. Such stoicism and fortitude; an affliction bravely borne.
The match would have helped salve his pain, it’s unlikely he saw any of it, but he would have enjoyed the performance of the front row. However, I doubt he could hide his disgust at the amount of times they handled the ball.
The performance of the Chester side came as no surprise. A good, well balanced side, they offered a threat through the energetic back row (Ford in particular was a threat all afternoon), their enterprising half backs and the powerful play of centre Foden and winger Craig Ross.
Fortunately I’s are no slouches in these areas. Torky, Santi and Danny Hague competed well at the breakdown and the back line, with Joe Barker and Luke Thundercliffe combining well in midfield, created a couple of sparkling tries for Nev Bateman and the rejuvenated Slingers.
If things were evenly balanced elsewhere on the park, in the front row I’s were King. Jonno (on his 21st birthday), Sacca and Lav were simply outstanding in the set piece.
There was no real downside to the performance. I still think 3 points should be taken when they are on a plate. Isaac is a very dependable kicker and you need four points before you can get five.
Anyway that is another difficult game out of the way, only five more to go. Next week it is Harrogate in the final game at Claro rd. This is bound to be a well-attended emotional affair ( for the home side) so please make an effort to go along to support the lads and counter the noise generated by the good folk of ‘gate.
Saturday was the final involvement at the club of Dave Butcher as forwards coach. His contribution has been considerable in the short time he has been with us. A quiet, unassuming bloke, he has impressed the players and fellow coaches with his in depth knowledge and analysis.
A senior back rower, enjoying a good season, attributes much of his improved performance to Dave saying he has just received some proper, top class coaching. Enough said. All at I’s wish Dave well in his new role in Canada. He will always be most welcome back.