Our old way of thinking started to rear it's slightly ugly head at the start of the game. A bit of a panic about numbers started to creep in and concern, bordering on paranoia about Burnside Div3 players running out for the Blackadders. These are minor distractions that can be put aside until the after match beersies and training next week. I do put my hand up for making the coach aware of the situation, but we calmed down soon enough to focus on the matters at hand. Such as not giving up the Challenge Shield.
As I said to Chief after the game, if we start to focus on individual players in individual positions, then we lose sight of the fact that we're a team with depth and cunning and guile and the ability to fill any position with any player. Maybe not as well as some players are typically in some positions, but fill them we can and will.

Tam had a blinder of a game for his 50th club appearance and a well deserved MVP. Even taking over from Chief as lineout chucker in person didn't prove problematic. Chief however, had problems of the "Burnside at Burnside Curse" variety. The last three games against Burnside at Burnside Park he's done his calf. We may need to call in an exorcist.

Dene was Dene, but Dirk was Dirk on steroids. I am so disappointed that Muncher was not there to see him score. It was lovely to behold. But then, it was also nice to not have Muncher there lumbering about awkwardly getting in everyone's way. So it all evens out. Alex seems to have managed the transition from front row to Number 8 without problems and his efforts on the field are inspiring if you feel yourself flagging in energy. His efforts off the field are also valuable and good for the team.

Lopeti is playing in typical New Boy style, eager to claim an award at the end of the season, but he does have competition from both New Boy forwards and New Boy backs. Rowdy surely at this early stage must be up in contention for an award, as are probably Gus and Alex and maybe Jack. Or maybe not. Hard to play rugby when you're out of the country.
Speaking of, it was Toms last game for the year as he returns to the United Kingdom for an extended time. So naturally he celebrated with some high tackles and a bit of argy bargy costing him 10 in the bin. Nothing unusual there. As mentioned, Jack has gone for a few weeks, with Muzz also disappearing to be with family overseas. Not the best of excuses, but the one he's going with. All will be back for next season, or so they say.

Injuries are a wee bit of a worry, with a couple who've just gotten over a twinge, giving it an extra too hard of a push making recovery even longer. With no game next week due to Queen's Birthday Most hopefully should recover in time to play against Suburbs. If not, we'll work it out. We always do.

There's a few milestones still to come this season. 250, 200 and 100 games are, baring serious impediments, going to be achievements worthy of remembrance to follow on from Muncher and Kev's 100 and Tam's 50. Looking forward to the piss up. If the prision bar staff allow it, that is.

Training this Wednesday as usual.