After a great catch in the subsequent lineout by Greg Coupe, Spartans were awarded a scrum 5 Yards out, from this, Spartans Scrum half Matt Watkins cleverly guided the Powerful Spartans pack over the try line with the ball at his feet, to put Spartans 5-0 up.

Mansfield came straight back at Spartans from the kick off with a flurry of possession in the Spartans half, only to little avail, thanks to some stern and brave tackles from Spartans full back Alex Brewster.

In the second half Spartans started a little sloppy after some unplanned changes due to an injury to Veteran Keith Freestone, and Mansfield capitalised on this with a breakthrough try to tie the scores.

However after a rousing talk from the fit again captain Dean Freestone, Spartans burst into life with some fast clean passing from the centres releasing winger Justin Marriott, who duly rounded his opposite number to put Spartans back in the lead, he then converted from an awkward angle to further extend the lead.

Straight from the restart Spartans again put Mansfield under extreme pressure with Lee Watkins eventually bursting through and offloading to Justin Marriott who Calmly touched down in the corner to complete his brace of tries.

After this flurry Spartans looked like running away with the game and Richard Draper was denied a great individual try by a desperate last ditch Mansfield tackle, however against the run of play Mansfield played advantage from a Spartans knock on to score a second try to set up a nervy finish.

From this restart Spartans again pressured Mansfield into a mistake and from the following scrum Lee Watkins offloaded to dean Freestone who smashed through 2 Players to cap off his return from injury with another one of his trademark tries.

The final whistle blew shortly after to give Spartans a comfortable 22-10 victory to stand them in good steed for next Saturdays all-important Three Counties Cup Semi-Final against Skegness at the East Coast.

Spartans Bow Out of Three Counties Cup to Cruel Late Penalty!! – 25th March 2006.

Skegness 12 –10 Spartans

Spartans started off cold at the seaside resort in this three counties cup semi final encounter, and but for some brave tackles from Scott Mcgarry and Matt Watkins the home side would have taken an early lead. Soon after however Skegness did take the lead from a well converted Penalty.

From the restart Spartans burst into life and after some good possession in the Skegness 22, Scott Mcgarry smashed through and offloaded to winger Paul Heath who was penalised for a knock on 5 yards from the try line.

Spartans continued harassing the Skegness backs forcing numerous errors and were eventually awarded a scrum inside the Skegness 22, from this scrum the Spartans inspired pack pushed the strong well renowned Skegness pack back for the first time in the game and subsequently Dean Freestone looked to have opened Spartans account, only the referee controversially ruled that he was just short.

This seemed to have lifted the Spartans even more and they were now playing as if their mortgages depended on it, and would not let Skegness out of their 22 with Andy Upton and Justin Marriott going very close, Skegness however hung on until half time somehow still 3 – 0 up.

Spartans started the second half where they left off and again set up camp in the Skegness half with Charlie Chiverton and Mark Hammond hounding the Skegness defence and eventually Spartans got the try they deserved when the superb Matt Watkins picked up the ball on the half way line, smashed through his opposite centre and dived over the try line to put Spartans in the lead.

From the restart Skegness enjoyed some rare possession but could not break through Spartans mighty defence with Justin Marriott putting in some brave tackles, however Spartans gave away a penalty and Skegness duly converted to regain the lead, shortly after Spartans again conceded another penalty, which Skegness again converted to open up a 9 – 5 lead.

With the clock ticking away and the chance of the cup final slipping away, Spartans threw all caution to the wind and put Skegness under extreme pressure with captain Dean Freestone eventually crashing through from a 5 yard penalty to put Spartans 10 – 9 up with only 5 Mins. Remaining.

Skegness came back at Spartans from the restart but after some stern tackles it looked like Spartans would make it to 2 cup finals in as many weeks, until with less than a minute remaining the referee awarded Skegness a dubious penalty which they calmly converted with the last kick of the game to win this thrilling encounter 12 – 10 and send the Spartans home heartbroken.

Spartans are now preparing for the biggest game of their season the Vase final where they hope to win their first silverware since reforming 2 years ago.

What The Opposition Said !!! – 25th March 2006.

Skegness 1st XV    12 pts     All Spartans  10 pts

It was not only at Twickenham were fingernails bitten to the quick on Rugby Super Saturday. At Skegness, tension was even more electric as the Seasiders entertained All Spartans from Nottinghamshire in the semi-final of the NLD Vase and this  close match generated less good rugby than vocal volume from both pitch and touchline. Skegness, with several key players missing, did well to earn an early penalty brilliantly converted from far out by full back Potts for a 3-0 lead, but the first half was more a story of intense repeated attacks by the keen visiting team, and had it not been for their multiple over-eager errors the half time tally of 3-0 to Skegness would have been very different. For once the Skegness scrum went backwards on their own ball, however, line-outs were well contested by Spiers getting the better of taller opposition with county credentials.  One visitors’ move should have alerted Skegness to the danger posed by the Spartans’ winger who, with lightning pace sliced through Skegness’ defence, almost to the home line.

This same player, just into the second half received the ball from a quickly taken penalty and jinked through for a well taken try to take the score to 3-5. Once again Spartans set up a series of dangerous assaults, but time after time the ball was spilled or an infringement was made, frustrating them of the score they desperately wanted. Play  swayed from end to end, with winger Andy Hill making a serious threat on the visiting line, setting up a penalty, which edged a narrow 6-5 lead. Another shot at goal made it 9-5, but the situation was far from secure. Threequarter attacks from Spartans were getting tantalisingly close to the home line, and a penalty in the Skegness 22 was quickly taken by the talented scrum half, who dummied and forged over the try line for a well taken opportunist score. To some, 9-10 seemed a fair reflection of the flow of the game, but in the final second, a penalty secured by Skegness half way out presented them with the opportunity of an appearance in the final, and Dean Mawer, Skegness scrum half and man-of-the match, coolly scored, leaving the visitors with the mammoth frustration of having scored two tries to nil, yet losing.

Skegness Team:     Broomfield, Hill T., Horner, Spiers, Stennett, Mason, Cummings ©, Machin, Mawer, Pollock ,Hill A., Santini, Jackson, Wheeler, Potts (Williams)

Sparkling Spartans put in a 5 Star Performance at Ilkeston 3rds – 8th April 2006

Ilkeston 3rds 12 – 52 Spartans

Spartans started off at an electric pace and soon set up camp in the Ilkeston half, after some heavy pressure Ryan Fisher Powered over for Spartans with Ilkeston players still hanging on to his legs as he crossed the try line, Captain Dean Freestone converted to give Spartans an early 7 – 0 lead.

From the restart Spartans again exerted some real pressure on the experienced home side, and Nathan Worthy Could have extended the lead but for an unfortunate knock on, however soon after Lee Watkins broke away on the half way line and touched down in the corner after being stalked by the  Ilkeston winger to put Spartans 12 – 0  up, Ilkeston then came back at Spartans with a break through try by their impressive fly half, who then converted to put Ilkeston back in the game.

However straight from the kick off after some up and unders from both sides, Matt Watkins who was a stand in prop for the day caught the ball close to his own 22 and ran at Ilkeston riding numerous challenges before touching down under the posts for by far the best try of the day, Dean Freestone Converted to take Spartans into a 19 – 7 lead at the interval.

Spartans started the second half where they left off in the first, and it wasn’t long before Scott Mcgarry extended the lead after some exquisite passing touching down in the corner. From the restart Ilkeston came back at Spartans and did not bury their head in the sand, scoring another try to put them back in the game at 24-12.

However Spartans soon rallied again and looked stronger as the game progressed, with Brett Coupe kicking over the Ilkeston back line and Dan Tompkinson eventually touching down, Dean Freestone again converted. After the restart Spartans were relentless and after some brilliant passes across the back line Chris Harker eventually found Brett Coupe who ran the ball home, Dean Freestone again converted to put Spartans into a comfortable 38 – 12 lead.

In the final 10 minutes of the game Ilkeston began to get frustrated and were reduced to 14 men when they had a player yellow carded for some over zealous play, after this Spartans looked like they were enjoying their rugby toying with the Ilkeston defence passing from one side of the pitch to the other, and\ eventually Alex Brewster broke through from the half way line to score a brilliant individual try which Dean Freestone again converted, shortly after the restart Brett Coupe scored his second after some more brilliant passing, and Dean Freestone in fine kicking form converted to bring the match to a close with Spartans winning 52 -12.

Brave Spartans Battle Until the Final Whistle. – 26th April 2006

The Vase Final – West Bridgford 25 – 14 Spartans

A Brave effort from the massive underdogs Spartans made this cup final a spectacle for all involved.

Spartans started off as massive underdogs in this David and Goliath battle against a strong and very well established West Bridgford side who play their league rugby at a much higher level than Spartans who will be joining the basement league next season after re-forming 2 years ago.

Spartans were barely recognisable due to a clash of colours forcing them to change strip, and from the kick off as expected West Bridgford put the Spartans under some extreme pressure inside their own 22. with only some brave tackles from centres Scott McGarry and Brett Coupe preventing them opening up an early lead.

However after some over zealous play from Spartans, West Bridgford were awarded a penalty which they duly converted to go 3 – 0 up. From the kick off Spartans early nerves seemed to have eased as they exerted some heavy pressure on the West Bridgford defence, with Matt Watkins and Justin Marriott both going very close only to be tackled close to the try line.

As the game progressed at a ferocious pace, the tackles were getting harder and the crowd were getting louder, you just could not call which way this game would go, however after some neat passes by the West Bridgford centres they finally scored a breakthrough try in the corner after finding a man overlap on the wing, after a missed conversion they were now 8 – 0 up and looking in control.

From the kick off West Bridgford again harassed the Spartans backs giving them no time on the ball and eventually broke through again to go into the interval 13 – 0 up.

At half time the game seemed to be slipping away from the underdogs Spartans and you had to wonder whether the pre match predicted whitewash was on the cards.

However after a rousing half time talk and two changes from team captain Dean Freestone and club captain Brett Coupe, Spartans came out in the second half and had a real go at West Bridgford.

With Kevin Teale and Charlie Chiverton making an instant impact, Spartans were now winning the scrums, and subsequently seeing a lot more of the ball.

After some good possession Spartans finally opened their account with a trademark try from Captain Dean Freestone, with Charlie Chiverton converting it was game on again with scores now at 13 – 7.

From the kick off West Bridgford came straight back at Spartans but some stern tackling from Sean Hukin and Spartans man of the match Mark Café prevented them extending their lead.

Shortly after however they did break through to touch down in the corner to extend their lead to 18 – 7 Spartans however did not bury their heads and came very close after some surging runs by Matt Watkins, Kevin Teale and Dominic Chiverton.

However against the run of play West Bridgford seemed to have ended Spartans dream of an upset with a catch and drive over the try line from a routine lineout, with this converted and the score 25 – 7 “most” teams would have rolled over however Spartans showed that they weren’t “most” teams and came right back at West Bridgford with a quick try after some brilliant passing between Matt Watkins and Justin Marriott releasing Scott McGarry to set up a nervy finish. Charlie Chiverton again converted to take Spartans closer at 25 –14.

From the restart the young Spartans team showed their fitness, grit and determination and dominated the last 10 minutes setting up camp in the West Bridgford half, Lee Watkins and Jez Cabe going very close but for some desperate tackles from the West Bridgford defence.

With 5 minutes left on the clock Spartans grounded West Bridgford in their own 22 having at least 5 consecutive penalties 5 yards from the try line, if this was a boxing match the referee would have stopped the contest, however Credit to West Bridgford as they hung on making clever time consuming substitutions, eventually the final whistle blew with Brett Coupe 5 yards from the try line but after all their brave efforts time ran out on the Spartans.

This game brings Spartans remarkable season to a close after going so close in the three counties cup semi final at Skegness, winning the rugby 10’s “shield” at Mansfield RFU’s annual 10’s tournament and now taking a much more established club to the wire in this enthralling match.

Spartans Looking Strong in Their Pre-Season Friendlies – 23rd – 26th August 2006

A new look Spartans side kicked off their pre-season friendly matches under the watchful eye of new and experienced coach Arnie Brown, against a young Mansfield 3rd team development squad run by Ray Broadhurst on Wednesday night (23rd August).

Both sides looked fit and energetic in this pre-season friendly fixture with Spartans eventually overcoming the home side 30-0, Spartans scorers were Matt Watkins (2), Justin Marriott, Sean Hukin, Mark Ellis and Paul Heath, although the score did not paint a true picture of how closely fought this friendly was between these two up and coming young sides.

Spartans new boy Royston Barksby was man of the match on his outstanding debut, his highlight was an impressive 40-yard run, but he just ran out of steam and was tackled 5 yards from the try line.

Spartans then went to Worksop on Saturday and looked impressive beating an experienced Mosborough side 17 – 0 with some outstanding passing from the backs, backed up by some strong scrums from the newly formed Spartans pack.

Spartans then followed this 20 minute each way friendly with another tough match straight after, and they showed their fitness and determination by overcoming a strong Worksop side 22– 0, however but for some last ditch tackles from Worksop it could have been a lot more.

Spartans finished off their first gruelling week of pre season friendlies with a charity match against Linden Jacques Football club, playing half a game of football followed by half a game of rugby. Spartans would like to thank everyone who turned up for their support ad generosity, the day finished off in the Linden club on Chesterfield Road with fun, games and raffles.

Spartans Cruise To Victory At Matlock – 16th September 2006

Matlock 3rds 8 - 31 Spartans 1st XV

Spartans travelled to Matlock with an under strength team due to niggling injuries keeping out numerous first team players with the opening game of the league just 2 weeks away, however Spartans looked fit and energetic from the off against the experienced Matlock side.

Spartans started off with all the possession and Ian Dorsey went close early on only to be tackled 5 yards from the try line after an encouraging run, however against the run of play Matlock gained a penalty and converted it to take a 3 – 0 lead.

This seemed to lift the Spartans and they soon turned all the possession into points after their strong pack including Andy Upton, Royston Barksby and Dave Kemp eventually drove over the Matlock line with hooker Dave Kemp scoring the breakthrough try, with the conversion missed Spartans took a narrow 5 – 3 advantage into the break. After an enthusiastic half time team talk from coach Arnie Brown Spartans burst onto the pitch for the second half determined to turn the possession into points and they did just that when Chris Harker found winger Paul Heath with a long pass who then weaved in and out of 3 players to score under the posts, Justin Marriott kicked the conversion and Spartans were now in control of the game.

Spartans then camped in the Matlock half and Dean Freestone burst over the line only to find his try disallowed for a knock on, however soon after he picked up the ball from 10 yards out and smashed through two players to score a trademark try, which was converted to put Spartans 19 – 3 up. Matlock then bravely came back at Spartans and showed their experience with some neat moves from the backs however hard tackling from vice captain Sean Hewkin and Chris Harker preserved Spartans comfortable lead.

Spartans then got back on top and overturned a Matlock scrum on their 22 and Captain Brett Coupe picked up the ball from no.8 Lee Watkins and smashed through to score in the corner, Justin Marriott scored the awkward conversion to put the game out of sight at 26 – 3, Spartans now looked very comfortable and should have extended their lead but for some unfortunate knock – on’s.  Just before the final whistle Justin Marriott burst through to score the try he’d been threatening and Spartans looked like they were enjoying it, Matlock caught Spartans napping at the death and scored a consolation try to end the game 31 – 8.

Opposition Match Report !!!! – 23rd September 2006

Belper 1st XV Vs All Spartans 1st XV

Belper’s first league game of the season saw them travel to All Spartans in what could only be described as a sizzler of a day. There were one or two changes from the side that had beaten Aylestonians comprehensively the week before, through injury and general gayness (John Lewis).
 
After a tough warm up in the heat with Mr Schlong Belper were ready to go. Belper started very bright with the whole pack taking the ball on and securing solid ball for the backs to feed off, unfortunately the final pass always seemed to go astray meaning Belper couldn’t capitalise on this.

The home team seemed to gain confidence and tried to use the crash ball in the centres, unfortunately for Spartans they had not realised Belper’s defence was as solid as a brick wall with Blake and Tennick knocking them back. However a fumble from one of the backs led to the Spartans centre picking up the ball and sprinting to the corner. Blake seemed to stop the touchdown and seemed somewhat bemused when the referee awarded the try.

This seemed to work in Belper’s favour with Inns, Laven and Woodward making big runs into the Spartans defence. Secure ruck ball from Adams, England, Timberlake and Coombes allowed Burden to spread the ball along the line finally reaching Gray who unluckily ran out of room. Belper were starting to look threatening.

Half time was fast approaching with Belper getting nearer and nearer to the beckoning try line. It was from good support play from Harland and Blackwell, who had earlier come on as a sub because captain Tennick’s eye had decided to explode, that caused the defence to panic and give a penalty away. New captain veteran Micky Love Laven called Blount over to convert the penalty and bring Belper to within two points.

The half time whistle blew shortly after and Belper were pleased with the performance, now it was time to step up a gear with the slope, sun, and breeze all in thier favour. A change in the pack saw Harland come off being replaced by the jinxing 2nd Captain Peter Smith, Justin moved to flanker.
               
The whistle blew and the second half was underway and Belper really took the game to Spartans with Ogaram and Willan finding space to open there legs and make brakes. Again Spartans had to stop play illegally and Blount converted another penalty.

Now with their noses in front Belper really took the game to Spartans with nobody missing a tackle and every player making yards when on the ball. Spartans could not withstand this pressure for even and eventually the speedster Rossiter Gray found a gap and scored under the posts leaving an easy kick for Blount.

With Spartans needing two scores to take the lead they had to play risky rugby, which led to Willan going over for a try only for the ref to call it back for a forward pass. Belper never left Spartans 22 after that and after immense pressure Ogaram ran to intercept a pass, he was then one on one with the Spartans full back and a masterful sidestep left him standing there looking stupid.

18 – 5 to Belper and after a few minutes of pressure the final whistle called time on what was a scrappy but enjoyable game of rugby.

Opposition Match Report !! – 30th September 2006

Buxton 38 – 0 Spartans

Buxton 1st XV continued their excellent start to the season with a display of fast, free-flowing fun rugby and still have room for improvement writes Tom McGuigan.

From the kick off Buxton were rampant and it did not take long for the first try to come. Beswick came onto an inside pass and crashed his way under the posts. Captain McGuigan showing signs of Campbell syndrome as he missed the conversion from under the posts.

From the restart Passey took the high ball and unleashed the backs who went the full length of the field only to be brought back for a forward pass 20 yards out. From the resulting scrum Buxton’s forwards drove right over the top of the opposition and it was Sims turning back the years as he scampered over the line for the next try. Conversion missed.

All Spartans finally got hold of the ball but soon wished that they hadn’t as the back row of Morris, Ashby and Passey bullied them into mistake after mistake.

With the oppositions confidence now very low Bartram and Scully in the centres were ripping them to shreds. The next score came from Passey who used the referee to great effect by running straight at him it took two defenders out of play which left an open field for him to score. McGuigan converted. Half time 17 – 0

With a spring in their step Buxton started the second half at 200 mph trying to expand their game and be more ambitious. However this slowed the game up and it took 20 minutes to Buxton to get the score board ticking over again. A big tackle by Ashby on his opposite number saw the Spartans play try to pass the ball, only for the ever present McGuigan to intercept 50 yards out, round the last gasp defence and romp home under the posts. Try converted.

With the floodgates now open Scully danced his way through for another converted try.



Praise goes out to the engine room of Meir, Johnson and Beswick who kept powering on eagerly supported by Shipley and Dean. The final try of the game came from Naylor who bounced of three defenders and left the last one clutching for the hairs on his legs as he touched down under the posts. McGuigan converted.

A big thanks must go to Tim Peakman and Andy Sims, without their expert coaching Buxton wouldn’t be playing with the confidence we are now.

Buxton play Handsworth at home on Saturday in the EDF Energy vase 3pm kick off

Spartans R.U.F.C. Through to Next Round of Notts Cup. – 7th October 2006

East Retford R.F.U 10 - 29  Spartans R.U.F.C.

Underdogs Spartans travelled to East Retford knowing they would be in for a tough match with a club 2 divisions higher in the league structure, however after some key players returning from injury and holidays Spartans shocked the home side with a breath taking display of fast and energetic rugby.

Spartans started the game at electric pace and put the home side under enormous pressure with Spartans newly formed and now deadly looking pack pushing the home side back in every scrum, however against the run of play East Retford kicked a penalty to take an early 3-0 lead.

Spartans then rallied and took control of the game camping in the East Retford 22, however after some great tackling from the home defence Spartans still had nothing to show from all the possession until hooker Dean Freestone smashed through to score a trademark try and open Spartans account and take them into a 3-5 lead.

Spartans then piled on the pressure and were awarded numerous penalties inside the East Retford 22 with Ian Dorsey and Scott McGarry both going close, however the half time whistle blew and the game was still tight at 3-5. 

Coach Arnie Brown didn’t feel the need for changes and sent the same team out to finish the job in the second half, Spartans were now playing into the wind and full back Gareth Brewster was alert to some heavy kicking pressure, however Spartans soon took control again and Mark Ellis came close only to be pulled up for receiving a forward pass close to the try line.

Soon after stand in Scrumhalf Sean Hewkin who was controlling the pace of the game released prop Andy Upton who crashed over to extend Spartans lead and give them some breathing space, with the awkward conversion missed Spartans were now 3-10 up.

East Retford showed their experience and came straight back at Spartans, but some great tackles by Greg Coupe, Brett Coupe, Lee Watkins and Scott McGarry made sure they couldn’t get back into the game. After soaking up the pressure Spartans centre Chris Harker brilliantly released Justin Marriott on the half way line who opened his legs and side stepped the full back to score a brilliant try under the posts, which he then converted to put Spartans in a comfortable lead.

East Retford again came back at Spartans but couldn’t find a way past centres Scott McGarry and man of the match Chris Harker. Spartans soon won a scrum around the half way line and scrumhalf Sean Hewkin calmly released Chris Harker who burst through and found winger Justin Marriott who again showed electric pace to round his opposite number and score in the corner. Spartans were now in party mood and looking well on their way to another cup run.

After some good possession Paul Heath picked up the ball, burst through and released Mark Case who was unluckily penalised for a knock on when the try looked inevitable, however soon after Paul Heath scored under the posts to secure Spartans place in the next round, East Retford did score a consolation try and conversion at the death to end the game 10-29.

Spartans now face last year’s cup winners Worksop RFU 1st XV in the next round.

E. Retford Knocked Out of County Junior Cup – 7th October 2006

E. Retford 1st XV 10 All Spartans OB 1st XV 29

Retford were deprived of the services of a number of regular players for this game because of injuries and/or a pressing need for many of them to sample the delights of Nottingham for the weekend (not at the Goose Fair, apparently). The inevitable result was that an under strength Retford side was comfortably outplayed by a team from two Divisions below them in this preliminary round game for the Notts Junior Cup.

Retford played into a stiff breeze in the first half and managed to contain their opponents for the first quarter of an hour. Attempts to move the ball wide from the set pieces tested the All Spartans defence on more than one occasion, though the home side was guilty several times of aimlessly kicking the ball away rather than keeping it in hand and running it back hard at the defence. When Shaun Boyle kicked a penalty after 15 minutes, it seemed as if Retford might be able to take a firm hold on the game. This was not the case, however, and Retford’s score served instead to inspire All Spartans who took play deep into the Retford half from the re-start and launched several attacks. All Spartans were unable to finish off their passing moves, however, either because of forward passes or knock ons, and Retford were fortunate to keep their line intact for as long as they did. The pressure told in the end, though, and two unconverted tries saw All Spartans leading 10-3 at half time.

All Spartans started the second half as they had finished the first and applied continuous pressure through their heavier pack. Their forwards made ground through a series of pick and go runs, helped by Retford’s unwillingness to tackle around the legs. When will Retford’s players learn that grabbing an opponent around the shoulders will never stop him gaining ground? Having set up position inside the Retford half, All Spartans moved the ball quickly along their back line and this time were able to control their passing and ensure that their winger had a clear run to the line to score their third try. The conversion was missed.

Leading 15-3, All Spartans began to play a far more expansive game and Retford were very much on the back foot and forced to work hard to defend their line. Sloppy tackling was again their undoing when one of the All Spartans centres was allowed to run through the Retford back line, virtually untouched, to score, and a second try soon followed. Both tries were converted.

The visitors obviously knew that the game was now won and eased up on their efforts. Retford, to their credit, came right back at them and from a ruck close to the All Spartans line Adam Tasker went over for a try between the posts, which was duly converted. Retford will hopefully have a number of their regular players back for their next League game, at home against Mellish this coming Saturday, sponsored by the Galway Arms.

Spartans Secure 1st League Win of The Season Against an Experienced Chesterfield 1st XV

Spartans R.U.F.C. 1st XV 17 – 6 Chesterfield R.U.F.C. 1st XV

Spartans started this home fixture full of confidence after their impressive cup win last week, however they were still looking for their first league points of the season against an experienced Chesterfield 1st XV.

Spartans kicked off with a virtually unchanged side and went at Chesterfield forcing them to kick every ball, but full back Gareth Brewster and Winger Ian Dorsey were alert to this, after the early kicking flurry both teams settled and started to move the ball around quickly in the backs, tackles were flying in and the referee had to have a few stern words with both captains to calm things.

Spartans pack again looked very strong lead by Hooker Dean Freestone and they were setting good platforms for the backs to work from, however against the run of play Chesterfield kicked a 3 – 0 lead from a penalty, Spartans went straight back at Chesterfield and after some great pack play from Mark Ellis, Colin Wakelin, and Dean Freestone, Spartans were now playing in the Chesterfield half, Captain Brett Coupe picked up a loose ball and fed it down the line to Chris Harker, he drew his opposite number and released Justin Marriott, who then put in Winger Paul Heath, who rounded 2 players to score an exquisite try, Marriott then converted the awkward conversion to put Spartans 7 – 3 up.

Spartans now looked in control and really took the game to Chesterfield exerting heavy pressure on the try line only to be stopped by some last ditch tackles, Spartans then earned a penalty and Marriott duly converted to extend Spartans lead to 10 – 3.

Chesterfield came back at Spartans from the kick off and after some hard tackles tempers frayed and Spartans were temporarily reduced to 14 men when the referee made an example of a Spartans player showing him a yellow card to calm things down, Chesterfield now put Spartans under pressure for the first time and would have scored but for a brilliant last ditch tackle 5 yards from the try line by Captain Brett Coupe, Spartans then cleverly kept hold of the ball well until the 10 minutes had dispersed and they were up to 15 men again.

With the numbers even again Spartans again had more of the ball and came close a few times, but with little to show for their efforts and they went into the interval with a nervous 10 – 3 lead, Coach Arnie Brown didn’t change anything and gave some encouraging words for the second half, sending his team out to finish the game off and make the first league points safe.

Spartans put Chesterfield under pressure straight from the kick off and the pack again looked very strong with Sean Hewkin again standing in at Scrumhalf controlling the pace of the game, however Chesterfield got their selves back into the game with a long range penalty to set up a nervy final 20 minutes.

This seemed to be just the wake up call Spartans needed and they now knew they had to take the game back at Chesterfield, and after some good long range kicking Gareth Brewster should have sealed the game but he mistakenly kicked the ball dead when already over the try line, however Spartans did not let up and camped in Chesterfields 22 until a some clever kicking from Chris Harker and Justin Marriott set Winger Ian Dorsey up who dropped on the ball for his first Spartans try to put them in a comfortable lead, Marriott slotted home the very difficult conversion to take a 17 – 6 lead into the last 10 minutes.

Chesterfield showed their spirit by coming back at Spartans and put Spartans try line under extreme pressure for the last 10 minutes, with numerous penalties however man of the match Dean Freestone and Captain Brett Coupe were equal to every move, making some brave last ditch tackles to preserve Spartans lead right up until the final whistle.

Leesbrook R.U.F.C. 24 – 17 Spartans R.U.F.C. – 21st October 2006

Brave Spartans So Close To Pulling Off A Remarkable Comeback!

Spartans travelled to Leesbrook carrying a few injuries after last weeks win against Chesterfield, and after losing the toss they had to play into the strong wind against a mixed Leesbrook side of experience and youth.

Leesbrook were first out of the blocks and caught Spartans napping with a quick try and conversion to go 7 – 0 ahead before Spartans had woken up. Spartans went at Leesbrook from the restart and came close when Sean Hewkin and Brett Coupe strung some neat passes together only to be penalised close to Leesbrook try line.

Spartans now had a bit between their teeth and won every scrum with the front row consisting of Dean Freestone, Mike Freestone and Andy Upton, looking particularly impressive, however Leesbrook cleverly used their knowledge of their pitch well and kicked some good possession using the wind, but Spartans Full Back Ian Dorsey was equally alert to keep them at bay.

Spartans then exerted pressure on Leesbrook with Greg Coupe, Colin Wakelin and Lee Watkins working well in the lineouts, and scrum half Sean Hewkin controlling the pace of the game spreading the ball well, but Spartans just could not find that breakthrough pass, Leesbrook were then awarded a penalty which they kicked to go 10 – 0 up and Spartans were wondering if it just wasn’t their day.

Spartans again went at Leesbrook, pushing them back in every scrum, and winning every line out, but had nothing to show for it due to unfortunate knock-ons and good tackling from Leesbrook, with the half drawing to a close, Spartans knew the game was within reach with them having the strong wind advantage in the second half, however with seconds left on the clock, Leesbrooks backs again scored a try and conversion to go into the interval 17 – 0 up.

Spartans coach Arnie Brown didn’t make any half time changes and sent his team out with some stern but encouraging words, however with Spartans piling on the pressure Leesbrook broke away and all but sealed the game with another try and conversion against the run of play, with the scores now at     24 – 0 most teams would have rolled over but Spartans never gave up and set about turning all their possession into points.

After some heavy pressure inside Leesbrook half, Lee Watkins cleared up a messy lineout and set Scott McGarry on his way, who burst through the game line and offloaded to Spartans man of the match James Beaver who rounded the full back to get Spartans off the mark with his first ever Spartans try, the conversion came back off the posts and the score was now 24 – 5. Spartans now threw everything at Leesbrook for the final 20 minutes and Dean Freestone came within inches of closing the gap for Spartans, however after numerous penalties inside Leesbrooks 22, the referee awarded Spartans a penalty try which Justin Marriott duly converted to make a game of it at 24 – 12.

Spartans won a penalty straight from the kick off and eagerly attacked Leesbrook, with captain Brett Coupe releasing Marriott who was held up just before the line, Scott McGarry quickly rooked the ball out to Chris Harker who scored in the corner to set up a thrilling last 5 minutes, with the awkward conversion missed Spartans were now within a try and conversion of a remarkable comeback.

Winger Paul Heath and Sean Hewkin went very close in the dying minutes but it just wasn’t to be, Leesbrook hung on making clever time-consuming substitutions to run down the clock, the game ended with all the Spartans players camped in the Leesbrook half.

Spartans have a break from league fixtures next week and then they take on Meden Vale in the eagerly anticipated local derby on November 4th 2006, kick off 3pm on Queen Elizabeth School Pitch.

Spartans 24 – 12 Derby 4ths – 28th October 2006

New Boys Shine as Spartans Win!

Spartans took this friendly match as an opportunity to hand 3 new boys their debut, Luke Evans (Wing), Kanen Coupe (Hooker) and, Liam Searle (Back Row), and all three had an outstanding game as Spartans overturned a very experienced Derby 4th squad.

Spartans took the game to Derby from the off and won every scrum and lineout with Royston Barksby and Colin Wakelin looking particularly strong in the pack, winger Luke Evans went close early on after a quick move by Spartans backs, however with Spartans camped in the Derby 22, the visitors broke away and scored the opening try against the run of play to go 5 – 0 up.

With Spartans again pressing forward dominating possession Derby would have extended their lead but for an outstanding last ditch try saving tackle from debutant Luke Evans, with the score still at 5-0 Spartans had done everything but score in the first half and went into the break knowing that the game was still in their control.

After making a few substitutions, coach Arnie Brown sent his team out to take the game to Derby and they did just that when Scott McGarry released Chris Harker who smashed through after just 2 minutes of the second half to bring the scores level at 5 – 5.

Spartans now exerted more and more pressure on Derby with Ashley Allsop cleverly dictating the pace of the game from the scrum half position, Mark Case eventually crashed over the try line for his first Spartans try which he would like to dedicate to his newborn daughter Meisha. Derby came back at Spartans and regained the lead after they intercepted a sloppy pass and scored under the posts, with the conversion scored it was now 10-12.

Spartans now dug in deep for the last 15 minutes and soon Captain Brett Coupe lead by example picking up a loose ball from the back of the scrum and crashing over in the corner, with Scott McGarry scoring the difficult conversion, Spartans were now in control at 17 – 12, Derby again came back at Spartans but could not find a way past man of the match Mark Hammond who was like a rock in defence for Spartans, with the clock ticking away Dean Freestone could have extended Spartans lead but for an unfortunate Knock on when all the hard work was done. However after some patient build up play, Paul Heath ran in another Spartans try which Dean Freestone converted to end the game 24 –12.

This win stands Spartans in good stead for their next League game, the eagerly awaited local derby against Meden Vale, 4th November 2006 kick off 2.30pm on Queen Elizabeth School Field.

Spartans R.U.F.C. 18 – 0 Meden Vale R.U.F.C. – 4th November 2006.

Spartans Win Local Derby!

Spartans won this local derby convincingly and the final score line could have been more emphatic but for some unfortunate knock-ons close to the try line.

Spartans started this much-awaited local derby in front of large crowd, kicking into the wind, however after some early kicking pressure from Meden Vale Spartans controlled the pace of the game and set up camp in Meden Vales half, Centres Scott McGarry and Chris Harker combined well and went close to opening Spartans account. Spartans now put heavy pressure on Meden Vale and Spartans Pack lead by Hooker Dean Freestone made sure the very experienced and heavy Meden Vale pack didn’t get into the game, with Mark Ellis and Royston Barksby getting noted for all their hard work and determination in the scrums.

With 20 minutes gone on the clock the game was all Spartans but the scores were still 0 – 0, until scrum half Ash Allsopp took a quick tap penalty on the half way line and released Lee Watkins who smashed through the gain line and set up fly half Gareth Brewster for a breath taking try in the corner, Dean Freestone slotted home the awkward conversion to put Spartans 7 – 0 up.

Meden Vale responded well to this and attacked Spartans try line for the first time in the game, but Full back Justin Marriott was alert to this and preserved Spartans lead with a last ditch tackle on the clean through Meden Vale centre, Now Meden Vale really made a game of it and attacked Spartans but just couldn’t find a way past the determined defence with Mark Hammond, Dean Freestone and Ash Allsopp putting in some brave tackles.

Spartans weathered the storm and went into the interval 7-0 up, Spartans Coach Arnie Brown didn’t make any changes and sent his team out to finish the job in the second half using the wind advantage.

Spartans started the second half as they did the first and were soon awarded a penalty, which Dean Freestone kicked to extend Spartans lead, Spartans were now in control of the game and Meden Vale had no answer to Spartans sleek attacking rugby and dogged defensive display, with the link up play between Spartans pack and backs being controlled by scrum half Ash Allsopp and Fly half Gareth Brewster.

After exerting more pressure on Meden Vales try line Spartans were awarded another penalty, which Dean Freestone duly converted to put Spartans in a comfortable 13- 0 lead, from the restart Meden Vale came back at Spartans but couldn’t find a way past Captain Brett Coupe or Man of the Match Ian Dorsey who was like a rock against his former club, after soaking up the pressure Spartans again attacked Meden Vales try line and Chris Harker combined with Scott McGarry who smashed through the defensive wall and scored under the posts to put the game beyond Vale at 18-0.

Spartans Teach Students a Lesson!! – 18th November 2006

University of Derby 2nds 0 – 85 Spartans RUFC

Spartans travelled to the university of Derby on Saturday and took this friendly match as an opportunity to try out some new faces and none of them disappointed as Spartans put in a 5 star performance against a young University side who never gave up right up until the final whistle.

Spartans started with caution against the young and fit looking university side on an extra wide pitch, which in the end suited Spartans expansive rugby, after pressuring the home side Spartans eventually scored the breakthrough try with Vice Captain Dean Freestone bagging a trademark try in the corner, he then followed this up with another soon after, before 2nd Row Colin Wakelin and Full Back Ian Dorsey got on the score sheet to put Spartans 22 – 0 up after 20 minutes.

Credit to the students though they came back at Spartans and put them under some good pressure but they just couldn’t penetrate the solid Spartans defence with Liam Searle and Mark Hammond putting in some crunching tackles.

After Spartans soaked up the pressure the scoreboard was soon rattling again when Captain Brett Coupe scored a brace in quick succession, Prop Andy Upton extended Spartans lead soon after and New boy Luke Evans (Man of The Match) scored his first ever Spartans try after another slick move from the backs to take Spartans into the interval with a comfortable 44 – 0 lead.

In the second half University of Derby didn’t give up and again Spartans try line was under threat but they just couldn’t find a way to score that elusive try, soon after Captain Brett Coupe lead by example and got Spartans scoring again when he ripped the ball out of the full backs hands and dropped over the try line.

Then the move of the match then came when Dean Freestone broke through and offloaded to Justin Marriott who unselfishly released James Beaver who looped round Colin Wakelin and Mark Hammond to score the exquisite try in the corner, Winger Paul Heath then got a brace and James Beaver another try before the impressive scrum half Ash Allsopp got on the board with a beautiful dummy from a scrum on the 22, Lee Watkins finished off the rout to end the game 85 – 0.

Conversions were from Ash Allsopp (3), Justin Marriott, and Dean Freestone, although the above score line does tell its own story Spartans would just like to congratulate University of Derby for their never say die approach, they came back at Spartans from every kick off and put in a lot of hard tackles right up until the final whistle.

Spartans Lose to Top of League !! – 25th November 2006

Spartans RUFC 0 – 29 Rolls Royce RUFC 1st XV

Spartans hosted the impressive top of the table Rolls Royce who have won 5 out of 5 league games so far and scored 125 points in the last 2 games, and took them to the wire but were undone by the electric counter attacking rugby from the visitors.

Spartans took the game to the visitors and pinned them in their own 22 for long periods but they just couldn’t find a way through the solid defence, and soon Rolls Royce punished Spartans with a quick counter attack which they found their winger in acres of space to put them 5-0 up, soon after they doubled their lead and using the wind and slope advantage, with the score now at 10 – 0, Spartans pushed forward looking for that elusive try and Dean Freestone and Captain Brett Coupe both went very close only to be tackled close to the try line.

Spartans had numerous scrums 5 metres out but just couldn’t get over the try line and soon the half time whistle blew with Spartans optimistic that they could turn this game around in the second half using the wind and slope advantage, coach Arnie Brown encouraged his players and sent them out to take the game to Rolls Royce in the second half.

Spartans burst into life in the second half and scrum half Ash Allsopp was now keeping the ball in the pack and driving them forward close to the try line, he then picked the ball up from the back of the pack and burst clean through only to be stopped by a high tackle, which the referee only gave Spartans a 5metre scrum, Rolls Royce cleared their lines from the subsequent scrums and it looked like it just wasn’t going to be Spartans day.

Rolls Royce made some changes and looked all the fresher for it, they now played more of an expansive game and showed why they are top of the league by scoring two quick tries to kill the game off, with the score now at 24 – 0 Spartans could of given up and opened the flood gates but the showed true grit and determination in still taking the game to the opposition and Mark Hammond, Dean Freestone and Brett Coupe put in some crunching tackles to keep the score respectable, however with 5 minutes to go Rolls Royce scored another break away try to finish the game 29 – 0 which flattered the table toppers somewhat.

Spartans next fixture is at Tupton RUFC on Saturday 2nd December 2006, all players to meet at the Linden Club on Chesterfield Road at 12.00 Noon.

All Spartans RUFC 10 – 0 Uttoxeter RUFC 1st XV – 16th December 2006.

Spartans finished off 2006 with an early Christmas present for coach Arnie Brown, 2pts and a solid performance against a well-drilled and experienced side who started off 3 places higher than Spartans in the league.

Spartans lost the toss and had to play up hill and into the wind for the first half but they soon set up camp in the visitors half, winning every lineout and scrum with Hooker Dave Kemp having a solid game.

Spartans had all the possession in the first half and they thought they opened their account when Fly Half Matt Watkins brilliantly found Winger Mark Case in acres of space with a 20 yard pass who then rounded his opposite number only to be pulled back for a forward pass which looked a bit harsh.

However soon after Ian Bainebridge and Captain Brett Coupe rooked and mauled superbly to set up play in the visitors 22 where scrum half Ash Allsopp found Winger Mark Case who popped inside to Full Back Justin Marriott who was tackled 5 yards out, but the ball was quickly shipped out to Man of the Match Mark Hammond who smashed over in the corner to put Spartans 5 – 0 up.

Spartans hounded the Uttoxeter try line for the last 5 minutes of the half but just couldn’t extend their lead after some brave defending from the visitors, and soon the half time whistle went. Spartans coach Arnie Brown sent the same team out for the second half confidant that they could finish off Uttoxeter using the wind and slope advantage.

Spartans started the second half as they ended the first and again were even more impressive pushing Uttoxeter back on all their scrums with Dave Kemp getting noted for all his effort and hard work, however Spartans never got their flowing passing going in the second half due to various injuries and blood injuries causing constant delays.

However with the time ticking away Spartans try line had not been under threat all match with Man of the Match Mark Hammond and stand in centre Royston Barksby putting in some big hits to preserve Spartans lead, however with the visitors only needing a converted try to take the points Spartans made some changes to freshen things up and Lee Watkins scored under the posts after the best move of the match only to be cruelly pulled back for a forward pass, now the visitors knew they had to push on in the last 5 minutes and they started to slowly get into the game until Fly Half Matt Watkins brilliantly scored an individual try as he ran from the half way line to score in the corner with 3 players hanging onto him as he crossed the try line.

With the conversion missed Spartans were now 10 – 0 up and could have made it more but for some brave defending.

Spartans now break up for Christmas and hold their annual Christmas party at the Linden Club on Chesterfield Road on 28th December 2006 at 7.00 PM, everybody is welcome and there will be raffles, karaoke, fun and games for all the family, and a full Christmas buffet.

What The Opposition Thought!! – 6th Jan 2007

Melbourne RUFC 70 – 0 All Spartans Old Boys RUFC

Melbourne entered the new year lying 2nd in the league with two games in hand and a goodish points difference, and found themselves playing one of two teams we had not yet come up against, All Spartans OB's who were in their first year in the league but had won a few games. Melbournes team was missing Pete Bichall and Ian Lucas, but Bob Stowell returned at prop and Keir in the back row, in the centres Merve had opted to give Dave Middleton a run and also give Young John James a half at hooker.

Highlight of the journey to All Spartans was Euan getting stopped by the police but Melbourne were first out on the pitch and ready and waiting for the All Spartans team who had forgotten their shirts. The pitch was narrow and sloped to one corner, Melbourne opted to play up hill in the first half. Captain Merve was keen for Melbourne to use its backs, especially as he had been frustrated in the last two games by our inability to turn pressure into points in the backs.

Melbourne kicked off and were on the front foot, for the first ten minutes we camped in the All Spartans 22 and set up scoring chance after scoring chance only for Keir to drop the ball twice over the line and for a few other odd reasons for not scoring to take place, eventually the ball came out of the back of a scrum and Devany darted over from close range to score under the posts 7-0, this was swiftly followed by a penalty 10-0.
Dave Middleton in the centres kept bashing though at short range and eventually he too got a try to make the score 17-0.

In the tight Melbourne were doing fine, Bobs added bulk meant that All Spartans had their ball disrupted and apart from one unlucky bounce Melbourne held theirs fairly easily. In the line out Melbourne had a field day only loosing two all day despite the All Spartans jumpers being about 6 foot 10, Keir disrupted and the towering figure of Mace at the back of the line kept picking up the lose ball.
In the backs it was great to see Melbourne going through the moves off the training pitch, and getting the ball out wide, the pitch was heavy and narrow but we still made good ground.
In the lose Mace, Keir and Merve kept recycling the ball and it was clear the slimmer but less healthy All Spartans team were beginning to tire.

The next Melbourne scorer was Judgie who worrying lad started popping up on the wing, and then Keir finally got a try (ironically he did drop the ball but the ref did not see it) following good work by the forwards at close range. Euan got a couple of penalties and at Half time it was 32-0. Merve was happy with the performance but wanted more points and made a couple of changes with Andy Watts coming on for the rapidly aging Deano and Pop for James at Hooker. (James had played V Well)

Normal service was resumed in the 2nd half with more tries, following a break by Pop, Judgie got his 2nd, Euan nipped in for one and then Keir broke at pace to get his 2nd, Judgie then picked up the ball on the win and ran in his hat trick, (he claimed he was doing up his shoe lace, not loitering on the wing again). Steve Bell came on for Mace but Melbourne continued to press Euan got another Penalty.

Melbourne began to play a lot looser and perhaps lose a bit of focus and whilst All Spartans pressed the Melbourne half the ball fell to Stringer who ran the length of the pitch to score under the posts (see photo below) In the 2nd half Melbourne continued to dominate in the line and seemed to have a better time in the scrums pushing back All Spartans. Some of the Melbourne handling was more like the Harlem globe trotters than a rugby team with off loads in tackles and the most unlikely players flipping the ball about between each other. All Spartans were run around from one side of the pitch to the other but never gave up.

Keir sustained a nasty couple of knees to the ribs from a fly half with a couple of minutes to go, and the last 5 minutes of the game were played out with All Spartans pressing the Melbourne line. Final score 70-0 Merve declared himself very please with he performance and young John James at Hooker deserves a mention. The moves we worked on in training came off and where at Chesterfield we had just as much ball but far fewer points we converted our pressure to points by sticking to the game plan.

Top quality cheesy potatoes after the game and curly chips, Yogi Bear was Smithy and Devany got to drink 1/2 a pint of creamy liquid that Pete and Merve had prepared together. Next week its old rivals Tupton, who bet us last year. At home in the league in what promises to be a tough encounter

All Spartans Old Boys RUFC 12 – 22 Amber Valley RUFC “A”

Brave Spartans Battle Hard Against Higher Opposition !!!

Spartans took this break in the league fixtures as a chance to play a hard friendly against an Amber Valley “A” side consisting of at least 30 players from their 1st and 2nd teams.

Spartans lost the toss and had to play against the strong wind and slope in the first half against a much bigger pack and after 10 minutes Amber Valley went ahead from a drive over from 5 Metres out, with the conversion missed Spartans were 5-0 down but knew that if they could get the ball away from the massive visitors pack and play their expansive rugby in the backs then they could get back into the game, however after some good possession by Spartans, Amber Valley again held the ball in the pack and drove over to put them 12–0  up.

Spartans again pressed Amber Valley from the kick off but found it hard, playing against the strong wind and experienced pack and could have found themselves further behind, but for some great last ditch tackles from winger Ian Dorsey and Full Back Justin Marriott, however just before the half time whistle Amber Valley again drove through in the pack to put them 17-0 up.

At half time, coach Arnie Brown told Spartans to use the slope and wind to their advantage and to kick some good possession, Spartans went out for the second half and came up against 6 or seven new faces from Amber Valley who had an army of substitutes, but it was Spartans who looked fresher and more eager and after 10 minutes of good pressure in Amber Valleys 22, Captain Brett Coupe lead by example and smashed through two players to get Spartans back in the game, Marriott missed the conversion so the score was now 17-5.

The kick off went straight out, and Spartans elected for a scrum, and for the first time in the match Spartans pushed their much heavier opposition back with Andy Upton, Dave Kemp and Mike Freestone all working tirelessly on the front row, Lee Watkins eventually picked up the ball from the back of the scrum on the half way line, burst through two players and rounded the full back to score the try of the day under the posts, Dean Freestone converted to put Spartans right back in the game at 17-12.

Spartans now harassed Amber Valley from the kick off and forced the away side into numerous errors, Spartans were now, camped in the Amber Valley 22 and winning most scrums and line outs and feeding the ball out to the backs, but they just couldn’t get over the line again with Scott McGarry and Dean Freestone both going close.

Spartans now had a scrum just inside Valleys half and Lee Watkins again picked the ball up from the back of the scrum, burst through and scored an exact replica of his 1st try only to be pulled back for an infringement in scrum, Spartans were still pressing hard for the winning try in the dying minutes when, Amber Valley broke quickly and scored in the corner to seal the game 22-12.

All Spartans Win Tense Local Derby !!!

Meden Vale RUFC 1st XV 10 – 12 All Spartans RUFC

Spartans RUFC, travelled the short distance to Meden Vale, to play this eagerly awaited local Derby, the game kicked off in front of a decent crowd and was played at a furious pace from the off with the game going from end to end, Meden Vale went close in the first 5 minutes but found Spartans defence solid with Jez Cabier and Justin Marriott putting in some solid tackles.

After soaking up the early pressure, Spartans started to get into the game and slowly edged their way into Vales half winning lineout after lineout, and then they were awarded a scrum just inside Vales half, after a controlled drive Captain Brett Coupe picked up the ball from the number 8 position, smashed through 2 players and outrun the full back to put Spartans 5 – 0 up.

Meden Vale came back at Spartans immediately from the kick off and soon levelled the scores with a try in the corner, with the conversion missed, both teams were nervous with the game delicately poised 5 – 5, with the interval approaching Dean Freestone went close with a trademark 5yard smash, but got pulled back by the whistle, Meden Vale eventually cleared their lines and the whistle blew for half time, Spartans coach Arnie Brown sent out the same team for the second half, urging them to use the backs more and have a go at Meden Vale.

However it was Meden Vale who were quicker out of the blocks in the second half and put Spartans under pressure, eventually driving over in the corner to take a 10 – 5 lead, this seemed to spark Spartans into life and from this point Spartans harassed vale and camped in their 22, with Lee Watkins and Ian Bainbridge combining to send Bainbridge over in the corner, however the referee judged that the ball was held up by the full back.

However soon after Captain and Man of the Match Brett Coupe lead by example and picked the ball up again from the foot of a scrum and smashed through a crowd of Vale players and scored under the posts with vale players still desperately hanging onto his legs as he crossed the line, Scott McGarry coolly slotted over the conversion to put Spartans 12 – 10 up with 10 minutes left to play.

Melbourne R.U.F.C. 1st XV 73 – 12 Spartans R.U.F.C. 1st XV

14 Men Spartans Battle Hard Against Unbeaten Top Of The League

Spartans travelled to Melbourne knowing they were in for a tough time, with the home side sitting comfortably at the top of the league, unbeaten and already having a 70 – 0 demolition against Spartans under the belt along with a host of other easy demolitions of the other teams in Midlands Division 6 East (NW).

Due to injuries Spartans only travelled with 15 men against the impressive Melbourne outfit and after suffering a heavy defeat earlier in the season with a stronger squad, Spartans were fearing the worse, however after a rousing speech before the kick off from Captain Brett Coupe and Coach Arnie Brown, Spartans went out and had a real go at Melbourne from the kick off.

After some good early pressure by Spartans in Melbourne’s half, it was the home side who took the lead against the run of play with 2 counter attacking tries, however Spartans again went back at Melbourne from the kick off and stand in centre and man of the match Lee Watkins didn’t give the Melbourne backs anytime on the ball as he dumped player after player with some crunching tackles, eventually Spartans got a scrum in Melbourne’s 22 and Captain Brett Coupe picked up the ball at the back of the scrum and smashed through a crowd of players to score a trademark try, Dean Freestone converted to make the scores 14 – 7 after 10 minutes.

The Game was now being played at a ferocious pace going from end to end and Spartans nearly got on level terms only for some great last ditch tackles, with the tackles flying in hard and fast Royston Barksby picked up an ankle injury and with Spartans having no substitutes, they had to carry on with 14 men, Melbourne now used the extra man as an overlap and started to score tries in quick succession and took a comfortable lead into half time.

With the game now out of Spartans reach, many teams would have rolled over but Spartans’ never say die approach started to win over, even sections of the home crowd when Royston Barksby came on for another run out, although he only lasted 5 minutes before the pain was too much and Spartans were a man down again, Spartans again were resilient in defence with Man of the match Lee Watkins and Dean Freestone putting in some big hits before full back Jez Cabier scored the try of the match and probably the try of the season for Spartans, he caught the ball in his own 22 before skipping inside and outside of numerous players before scoring under the posts, this brought a protest from the home side as they had never conceded 2 tries in a league game this season and they thought his foot crossed the touchline on his wonder run, and was missed by the touch judge.

All Spartans RUFC 0 – 41 Buxton RUFC 1st XV

An under strength Spartans hosted 4th in the table Buxton RUFC 1st XV who had already beaten Spartans convincingly at the start of the season, Spartans kicked off with a bare squad of 16 players due to work commitments and injuries.

However Spartans took the game to Buxton from the kick off and played the first 20 minutes in their half with Full back Justin Marriott putting his opposite number under pressure with clever kicks to the corners, however after 25 minutes Buxton opened the scoring against the run of play with a brilliant individual try from their impressive fly half with this converted and then followed by an impressive drop goal by the same man, Spartans were 10 – 0 down and not really done anything wrong.

As the game progressed Spartans became more and more of a threat with Dave Kemp and Andy Upton impressing against the larger and more physical Buxton pack, Buxton soon extended their lead with a clever well drilled penalty move and Spartans went into the interval 20 – 0 down although they had camped in the visitors half for long spells, Spartans just couldn’t turn all the possession into points.

Spartans RUFC 1st XV 5 – 25 Worksop RUFC 1st XV

Spartans Unlucky Against Cup Holders!!

Spartans started off at electric pace in this Notts Cup Quarter Final match against the holders Worksop RUFC 1st XV having already dumped last years runners up (East Retford RUFC 1st XV) out in the last round, It was all Spartans in the first 20 minutes with the pack winning every scrum and Man of the Match Dave Kemp having a fantastic game at hooker.
 
It wasn’t long before Spartans were camped in the Worksop 22 and Richard Draper and debutant Conway soon smashed through the gain line and set Mark Hammond on his way who scored what looked like a perfect try only to be penalised for a supposed double movement, so Worksop survived and the score stayed at 0 – 0, As Spartans kept pressing for the opening try, Worksop always looked a danger on the counter attack, however they never looked like breaking the solid Spartans defence who looked really up for the match after some recent disappointing displays, with Scott McGarry, Ian Bainbridge and Lee Watkins all putting in some crunching tackles.  However after all the early pressure of the first 30 minutes Spartans had nothing to show and the holders Worksop started to creep into the game with a well struck penalty to go into the interval with a slender 3 – 0 advantage.

Spartans started the second half with a few changes due to injuries and took a while to settle into the game, Worksop took advantage of this and scored a quick penalty to extend their lead to 6 points, and soon after they scored a controversial try after what seemed a massive knock on, but not to take anything away from the try scorer who still had to run half the length of the pitch to break Spartans hearts, however Spartans never gave up and captain Brett Coupe came very close only to be tackled 5 yards from the try line, Lee Watkins and Dean Freestone also came very close, until eventually Justin Marriott opened Spartans account with a fortuitous try after the ball bounced awkward in front of the Worksop Full Back, with the conversion missed the game was now tightly poised at 13 – 5 but just as Spartans looked to get back into the game Worksop scored 2 quick tries to win the game by a some what flattering score line after Spartans had dominated for much of the match.

Spartans wish Worksop all the best for the rest of the season, and now look to consolidate in their first season in the league structure.

Belper RUFC 1st XV 38 – 12 Spartans RUFC 1st XV

Spartans travelled to Belper who are going strong in the league in 2nd place and looking for promotion, with both sides knowing what to expect as they had already met on the opening day of the season in which Belper won 18 – 5 after Spartans should have had the game wrapped up at half time.

Belper caught Spartans napping and took a 7 – 0 lead within 30 seconds, and they followed this up with another 2 rapid tries using their extremely wide pitch well to take a 21 – 0 lead, and after 15 minutes, when Dean the Dozer Freestone was told to leave the field after some over zealous play (not like Dean), and scrum half Ash Allsopp went off with an ankle injury, It looked as though it was going to be a hammering, however this seemed to spark Spartans into life and they now took the game to Belper and Dan Tompkins scored a brilliant try, after prop Royston Barksby cleverly found him on the blind side after diving on a loose ball, Dan ran 30 yards before cutting inside the full back to score a remarkable try to give Spartans some hope at 21 – 5.

Soon the half time whistle blew and Spartans couldn’t wait for the turn around knowing that they had Belper on the back foot even with a man down, after the break Spartans gave Belper a taste of their own medicine scoring within a minute, after Ryan Fisher and Ian Bainbridge linked up well sending Bainbridge over under the posts, with Scott McGarry, slotting the conversion Spartans were now making a game of this, much to the unease of the Belper players and fans, Spartans now against all the odds took the game to Belper and camped in their half for long periods but just could not find that elusive killer pass to score another try, soon after captain Brett Coupe had to leave the field with a blood injury (broken nose), Belper then came at Spartans only to hit big tackle after big tackle with Mark Hammond, Scott McGarry and both Brewsters putting in some big hits, however in the last 10 minutes against a now tired and worn out Spartans side, Belper used their man overlap well to score a few quick tries to break Spartans hearts and end the game 38 – 12, which flattered the home side to say the least.

JC Balls Belper 1st XV 38pts v All Spartans 1st XV 12pts

BELPER returned to the league campaign needing victory to keep alive hopes of promotion with the top two sides facing the bottom two sides respectively!

Belper started well scoring within seconds of the kick off with the ball being collected in the forwards from the kick off and the ball being run up field by Watson who popped the ball wide to Dymond who spun the ball wide to wing wizard Gray who sprinted in outpacing all in his way!
Blount slotted the conversion for 7-0.

Belper continued to press with some good flowing play, the forwards battling hard and feeding the backs well. Unfortunately they failed to add to the scoring despite Blackwell diving in at the corner but being adjudged to have made contact with the corner flag before grounding the ball.

Blackwell was unlucky twice more in the half when in open space the ball catching him off guard and not able to collect thus knocking on.

The hosts managed to add to their lead with an excellent team move. Inns had crashed a into contact following a penalty move and the ball was spun wide with Dymond holding the ball well and eventually Blake burst through the gap created and scored under the posts.

Blount slotted the conversion and Belper led 14-0.

Belper were starting to coast but Spartans didn’t roll over and kept pressurising Belper’s attacks.

A deep clearance was collected by Blount who caught the ball well and ran back towards contact. His attempted clearing kick was charged down and the Spartan Hooker was first to react picking up and spreading the ball wide for his winger to sprint in and score right of the uprights for 14-7.

Belper sparked again and started to move the ball well with Adams and Smith combining well in the line out to feed Meakin who moved the ball wide to Dymond. He dummied two defenders and crashed over to extend Belper’s lead

All Spartans RUFC 19 – 25 Ashbourne RUFC 2nd XV

Spartans started this friendly with a bare 15 due to injuries and work commitments, however scrum half Ash Allsopp them off to a blistering start after picking the ball up from the back of a scrum on the half way line, going blind before palming the winger off and scoring a fantastic try in the corner, 5 – 0 Spartans.

The young and fit Ashbourne side then came straight back at Spartans and scored under the posts, with the try converted the score was now 5 – 7 and the game had only just started. Spartans began to settle into the game now and camped in Ashbournes half for long periods, until scrum half Ash Allsopp had to go off with a reoccurring ankle injury, with Spartans down to 14 men captain Brett Coupe (resting due to a recent broken nose against Belper) got changed and Coach Arnie Brown was forced to shuffle the team around, this seemed to let Ashbourne into the game again and their number 10 soon slotted an impressive penalty to give them a 5 – 10 advantage, soon after the restart Lee Watkins linked up with Number 8 Ian Bainbridge and Watkins smashed through a crowd of players to score in the corner, Dean Overton scored the awkward conversion and Spartans went into the interval 12 – 10 to the good.

The second half saw Spartans dominate again until Justin Marriott limped off with ligament damage to his knee and with Spartans now down to 14 men again, Ashbourne went on to score 2 quick tries and a conversion to take the score to 12 – 22, however Spartans never say die attitude paid off when Ian Bainbridge scored a trademark number 8 try, smashing over from a 5metre scrum, Dean Overton again scored the conversion and Spartans were now back in the game at 19 – 22, Ashbourne were now feeling the pressure in the last 10 minutes but their number 10 kept calm to kick them into a 6 point lead, however with Spartans only needing a try and a conversion to snatch victory, the game was tightly poised and tempers frayed and Conway Evans and Mark Hammond were both sin binned along with 1 Ashbourne player, Spartans were now down to 12 men but they still pushed on for that elusive try and put Ashbourne under extreme pressure right up to the final whistle, final score Spartans RUFC 19 – 25 Ashbourne RUFC 2nd XV.

Spartans Win Mansfield RUFC’s Annual 10’s Tournament !!

Spartans went to Mansfield RUFC’s annual 10’s tournamenton bank holiday Saturday, looking to win the cup having won the plate last year. In the group stage Spartans beat a Mansfield “A” team comfortably, then beat Mansfield “B” Team by a 4 try margin.

Spartans were now joint top with Leesbrook RUFC who had also won 2 games, the league decider was then between Spartans and Leesbrook who had already met 2 times this season in the Midlands league, with Leesbrook winning both encounters, Spartans however got their own back with a thrilling victory just easing home by a 5 point margin, to go through to the final.

Spartans met Ashfield RUFC in the final, this was always going to be a tense final, because of the history of the two sides (Spartans broke away from Ashfield 3 years ago), and also Andy Upton and Matt Upton were playing against each other.

Nottingham Casuals Solstice 7’s June 2007

Spartans travelled to the international Nottingham Solstice 7’s tournament on 15th June with a bare 7 players due to injury (spinious losteous disease) and prior engagements (basically not many were brave enough to play London South Africa whose smallest player was 20stone and could run faster than Paul Heath (as he proved in the 1st game)

However for the lads that did turn up it was a fantastic weekend of rugby and beer, Spartans opened the event on the main pitch against a pre tournament favourite London South Africa and when the whistle blew both Brewster’s were still tying their boot laces and 5 men Spartans took and early surprising lead against the south Africans, Paul heath caught the ball (for a change) in his own 22 and ran around 3 man mountain south Africans on his way to a superb try, however with 20 metres to go he ran out of steam and was glad to see that wonder kid Tom Blythe was on hand to scoop the ball with one hand, side step the massive full back and put Spartans 5-0 up before drop kicking to extend the lead 7-0 all this before the Brewster’s had even got on the pitch.

The locals were all talking now about this 5-man Spartans side pulling off the giant killing of the competition however it just wasn’t to be. The South Africans came back at Spartans and showed their true class with some free flowing 7’s rugby, soon after Captain for the weekend Justin Marriott (meat fly) had to be carried off when his recurring knee injury caused him to drop like a sniper had shot him, he was then carried off and the bloke who was flipping the burgers on the side line was soon wearing a Spartans shirt, South Africa did rally at this point and scored some decent tries however it was Spartans who had the last laugh scoring in the dying seconds with a well worked penalty.

Spartans then played the home casuals “A” side “7 drunken pirates” and it was Spartans who were the drunk ones getting drubbed, when in reality this was the weakest team in the group and we should have been looking for the win.

That took us to the final game against Carmarthen Warriors (a professional looking welsh side who had just turned over south Africa and were currently topping the group) as the hooter sounded for the teams to get to the pitch Spartans were putting down their crates of lager and the warriors were getting their last minute team talk off their professional coach and finishing off their bananas, it was the same contrast on the pitch and there wasn’t really any contest with the welsh side running in 5 tries to no reply however, Spartans did not give up and Ash Allsopp soon ran in a wonder try side stepping most of the welsh side before diving under the posts to make sure it wasn’t a white wash, soon after Gav Brewster was knocked out after reciving an hospital pass and crashing into a welsh brick wall, he left the field with his eyes looking in opposite directions.