There was talk, as there always is about a new team, right from the start of the season about what sort of game we'd have against the Heroes. There were theories from the less enlightened that took their cue from their grandparents generation of how rugby should be played to theories that normal regular people have about rugby and sport and life in general. All of them postulated that we'd absolutely demolish the Heroes on the scoreboard, and no one was wrong on that. However, don't let the final score fool you. They are good opponents with a lot to learn, but they never held back in their tackles or attacking runs.
Exactly what you'd expect to see from rugby players eager to learn and grow.

Kevin trotted out for his 100th Keith appearance in the same manner he trotted out for his 1st. Never one for the limelight, but always noticeable on the field. All for good reason. Powerful crashing runs with ball in hand and a shock of flowing luxuriant golden hair. Although golden is now greying. Congratulations Kev on the milestone.
Helping celebrate were Toad and Poacher and Leyts whose skills still are with them even in their advancing years. Trout came prepared to play but only if someone gave him a pair of boots which he conveniently didn't bring himself. To his great chagrin, a pair was produced, but he never managed to get on the field being even older than I am.

Speaking of getting on the field, the Heroes only managed to bring 14 to the game, due to a high level of injuries, so we kindly lent them Colin who had driven down from Nelson to play with Kev, not against him, then Sonny Phil, Flannel and Mossie also pulled on the rainbow jersey and showed them what's all about, albeit, out of position. Kudos to them for helping out the opposition and here's hoping it's not a regular occurrence.

One part of the game that didn't sit well with us was the golden oldies scrums. Our front row didn't eat all those pies for nothing, so it was a bit disappointing to not see our scrummaging fully in action. But safety first I guess.

I should probably talk about the elephant in the room. Thomas "something shiney distracted me" CLARKE and Nick "my kids aren't watching me so it doesn't matter" PERCY both coughed the easiest of tries. All they had to do was fall forward and hit the ground but somethings are more difficult than at first glance. I wont mention at all how Kev coughed the easiest of right out in front conversions as that would take some of the gloss off his centenary achievement. But here's a photo of his attempt.

Not everyone scored today, but 16 tries is still a lot. Rowdy getting 3 with Perce and Tom almost getting a 3rd each was good to watch. Alex got 2 with a shit ton of other boys lining up for points. It's good to score but better to share.

After the match in the packed clubrooms we chatted and mingled laughed casually about rugby things with our opposition who it seemed, appreciated it. But in all honesty, it was not more than what we do for any team who comes back to share in a beer or two with us.

Looking forward to the re-match next round.