JOSEPH’S AMAZING TECHNICOLOUR MOMENT USHERS IN YOUTHFUL ERA

HERTS-MIDDLESEX MERIT TABLE FOUR NORTH-EAST

JOSEPH’S AMAZING TECHICOLOUR MOMENT USHERS IN YOUTHFUL ERA

ENFIELD IGNATIANS IIIs 33 HENDON II 53

Beyond the mere confines of the bare result, which largely speaks for itself, the threes took the opportunity to blood a number of academy players with appreciable results against a strong Hendon outfit. However, before extolling the virtues of the younger brigade, we also need to reflect on ‘is it a bird or a plane moment’ in the form of gem provided by imposing second row Jason Joseph.

Claiming what it believed to be only his second try in second years, he showed a turn of foot readily associated with a top class racecourse after receiving a scoring pass some five-metres out. Readily swatting aside the last line of resistance in the form of a brusque hand-off, and by now having parted rugby’s equivalent of the Red Sea, Jonathan (sorry Jason) Joseph whistled clean through unchallenged. Even Wayne Bloomfield roared his approval.

Steve Renny, in his capacity as his side’s rod and staff sergeant, shepherded in a number of ‘academy’ youngsters with the likes of Matteo Ferrari, Anthony Cabaco, Daniel Redding, Jack Cook-Smith and Odane Linton all showing up well at various points.

Indeed, it was the well-named Matteo, whose ‘rugby’ Ferrari engine clearly works a little faster than some of the older, slower models which permeate the team, made his tackles, scored a try and ended up as MOM! It was some debut from the academy player!

Daniel Redding, quicker than you can say the word ‘Otis’, also impressed with his quick fire hands and territorial kicking.

However, what would the mighty threes be without their experienced heads, and there’s nothing like a couple of gardeners, or words to that effect, when it comes to digging your team out of a hole is there? Percy and Monty? Not a bit of it. Indeed the fraternal duo of the same name, Dale and Dean Gardner, both made it over the line and, indeed, the brothers worked well in tandem with the former turning provider as a try by the pacey ‘Dean’ brought Enfield to within two points.

However, this only served to spur the visitors on, and rallying to the cries of Hen-don. Hen-don, Hen-don, provided by a large and very animated support team, they stretched clear on the scoreboard.

Yet Enfield continued to have their moments. The ever dependable Sam Barnes had his kicking boots on, and Adam Collins unselfishly gave way which freed up a playing opportunity for Odane Linton in what was a combative display from the blue and golds.”

Steve Renny said: “It was a great result against an incredibly strong Hendon side and a massive show of respect from the mighty threes goes to all the academy players who stepped up today. The MOM was awarded to Matteo Ferrari. His continuous hard work and perseverance paid off in this game with his first try at senior level. I was extremely proud of the whole team but none more so than of our academy players.”