Proud, Loud and the Crowd April 21, 2008

Yes although it sounds like a wierd story book, the title is my summary of our last rugby game of the year yesterday.  It was a winner takes all clash against the mighty Loughborough who are never to be taken lightly.  Although we’d won earlier in the year, we knew it would be the toughest match ever - whoever came out on top, topped the league (I’m passable at maths but even I struggle with the RFUW’s systems for leagues - a bit more clarity would be welcome, guys!).

Anyhoo, I took my pre-match place amongst our band of merry supporters in the bar ahead of the game.  An exceptionally good selection of buffet items was on the table before me: scotch eggs, pork pies and Ken’s home-made pickled onions.  A few pear ciders later, the game was ready to begin and from the off, my stomach was all aflutter (not because of excessive pickled onion consumption, you understand).  Myself and another girl decided our supporting tactic was to chant the John Barnes England rap as per Gavin and Stacey, which was a good way of distracting me from my ever increasing nerves.

The only way to describe the game is “epic”.  It is seriously the hardest game I’ve seen our girls compete in.  It could have gone either way; there were moments of great drama (a near-try for them, switched to a penalty to us) and some immense tackles (at least 2 dump tackles included). 

LOUD - Throughout, I’m quite convinced I sounded more like a screeching washer woman than a serious supporter.  My voice got higher and higher and raspier and raspier.  It’s a wonder I wasn’t told to shut it.

The story was ending Loughborough’s way as they managed to grind it out and get over the line to go 5-0 ahead.  Despite massive efforts from the girls, it was all over. 

PROUD - This was one of those immense games where every single player gives 100%.  They couldn’t have tried harder and I was so so disappointed for the girls.  But I was also hugely proud that they achieved the highest ever league position in the history of the side, and gave Loughborough a serious run for their money. 

Finally - the CROWD.  Once again, Olney supporters were there in all their glory, which for some included the coveted pink and grey striped blazers.  I’m reckoning we had at least double the supporters that the home side had, and what other away fans would turn up with a pre-match buffet and half time mulled wine?  I love our club, I’ve never played for a women’s team that was better supported by everyone from across the rugby club.  We had texts coming in from people in the Olney club bar, others who play for the mens team and absent players - everyone was on side and rooting for us.

So, the season concludes with a very very near miss.  Loughborough are through on points difference and go to the play-off game next week.  Having been a spectator for most of the season due to the ropey knee, I have to conclude, it’s been a funny old year in Olney Rugby.  Still, we’ve got plenty of socials to look forward to, the National 7s, and then another chance next year to properly crack this league.  Come on the girls!!