Dixies 2s started the day with 16 men on the roster, but eventually arrived at Wolverhampton with 11, lacking a front row or recognised kicker and with 2 backs, to compete against a practised and well organised Wolves 2s.  A Wolves player, whose identity will remain confidential for his own safety (cheers, Adam!), kindly switched jerseys and the game kicked off 15 vs. 12 with Miles Nash at the helm for only the second time.

A large proportion of the match was played in and around Dixies’ 22 with Wolves’ backs making effective use the extra men with good hands and kicking, as well as their “Tiger” move (grrr).  Wolves’ pack also gained ground early on in the mauls, having noted that they had two more forwards than Dixies did.  That’s some fine math, guys.

Toby Lyndham, having travelled from London, arrived late on in the first half making it 15 vs. 13, which shored up the scoring somewhat for the remainder of the game.  It must be said that Wolves’ final score could easily have been double had it not been for the exceptional commitment and stubborn determination of Dixionians.  Dixies were strong in the tackle and made good use of their possession to repeatedly push back Wolves, making them work hard for their victory.  This was epitomized in the final 10 minutes when Wolves, camped out on Dixies’ 5-metre line, could not penetrate Dixies’ defence to score a final try.  It all looked very promising for when Dixies 2s are able to field a full side again.

Sam Smith did a great job at full-back (and various other positions) soaking up the pressure of Wolves’ kicking with some skilful running.  New guys Sam Large and housemate Joe were unfazed by the situation and put in solid performances.  You got big cajones, boys!  Joe Welch and John Massey also had strong performances whilst playing out of position in the backs.

A final mention goes to Joe Welch, Fin Bain, Sam Smith, and the anonymous Wolves stand-in, who all stepped up with some decent kicking at various stages of the match despite not being acknowledged kickers.