PENGUINS AGAINST CANCER

There was a sense of anticipation and excitement at HOP on 6th November  2021 as the Penguins played their first XV-a-side game for over 18 months against a GHRFC Freshers side.

 

Following the exploits and attrition sustained at the recent Jersey Veterans’ 10s tournament, the skipper was left a little short of numbers and was indebted to Keir Smith for bringing a number of new Penguins into the fold. 

 

From kick off, the players aptly demonstrated the recent scientific discovery that African Jackass Penguins have a rare ability to recognise each other’s faces and vocal calls, scoring early after a period of sublime off-loading and support play. 

 

The Penguins pack was dominant (if a little eager to engage on occasion) at scrum time and special mention must go to the front row which included a shift from George Tsokalides. Behind this pack it was no surprise that scrum-half Rauri Hadlington ended up with a hat-trick of tries.

 

It was following one particular pick and go from the base that produced the moment of the game. Heading blind, Rauri fond Breezy in space and what followed was a 50m mazing run that ultimately ended in a most spectacular try. Following the early exhuberance, the Penguins tired a little and the Freshers found some rhythm making it a decent contest.

 

Ultimately, the Penguin's skill in keeping the ball alive playing off 9 proved too much for the Freshers with the final score being 52-22. 

 

Another superb example of the battle between youth and experience, optimism against gamesmanship.