After much anticipation, the last day of the season and the last HML fixture for Team Black was upon us. After a long drive to Hitchin, we were greeted by the Home club in full celebration of their Founder’s Day. The smell of burgers lingered, the sun shone and there was a sizeable turnout to watch the final game of the season. Team Black were at full strength ably supported by a few regulars from Team Gold.

Unsurprisingly, Wasps discovered they were the smaller side physically and, after some early tussles at the breakdown, decided to put more effort into tactical jackling and a strong defensive line than the ruck. It wasn’t long before this tactic started to pay off, with the boys pushing back the opposition in attack and winning a few early turnovers from the ground. Some early pressure from Hitchin did push the boys back to their own 22, but skillful kicking alleviated any pressure and fantastic chasing pushed them back up the field.

With fewer forwards committed to the breakdown and quick ball from the ground, Wasps were able to capitalise on the extra bodies in the back line. The ball was swung wide into capable hands and taken up the pitch through offloads, with the Captain ultimately going over the line. Wasps always appeared to have numbers in support and Hitchin’s inability to take down the forwards running in the back line led to a number of scores. This style of play dominated the first half and we continued to see inventive rugby with the backs executing some excellent set piece moves to open up the centre of the field for Kabe to go over for another try.

After a half time discussion with the coach and instructions to keep the focus on tackling and jackling the Team took to the field. The second half was an even stronger showing from Wasps, the forwards worked in conjunction to secure the ball and the backs controlled their passing to expertly draw in defenders and release runners. However, the attrition rate was high. The team were forced to switch the scrum around to cope with injuries.

The Wasps onslaught continued throughout the second half with pressure coming from every phase of possession. Again, forwards in the back line were able to penetrate Hitchin’s stoic defensive lines and release the speed merchants to go over the line a number of times. For a short period Hitchin put significant pressure on the Wasps line but heroic defence kept them beyond the whitewash until a timely jackal relieved the building pressure.

This was a tough game of rugby with two very committed teams giving it their all and it was enjoyed by all the spectators. The referee, Ollie, who was only refereeing his second match had an excellent game and contributed to the quality of the game. A total of 6 Team Black players getting scores on the board.

Wasps nominated Hitchin’s number 5, Ben, as their man of the match for his strength at the breakdown. Wasp’s No.8 Tristan was nominated Man of the Match both for defensive acumen, penetrating attack and game management!

What a way to end the season and roll on to next season.