Seven New Caps
Seven new players joined Navy Rugby’s most exclusive club after their emphatic win against the Marine Nationale.
Earning an RNRU Cap is a huge achievement, and after the Senior XV comprehensively beat the Marine Nationale seven new caps were awarded.
AET Brad Janes was involved in the squad last year and narrowly missed out on Inter Service selection. This season he has been playing regular National 2 rugby at Redruth and deservedly earnt his starting shirt against the French. Mne Craig Duncan was the stand out player in the Inverdale Challenge and is a new to the squad. Against the French he was outstanding and will hopefully be an RNRU regular for many seasons to come. Cpl Kyp Bridgen has been knocking on the Senior XV door for a number of seasons. After impressing in the Inter Commands and performing well in the trial games Kyp joins the Silver Tie club. As does South African born SLt Mitchell Spencer who’s produced a number of eye-catching performances in a very competitive back row.
Last season LPT Pat Coy joined the Senior XV and developed well as a player and has approached the new season with an impeccable attitude. He replaced his former RM team mate, Craig Duncan to earn his cap. SLt Declan Johnson played for the U23’s before going to university as a Naval Scholar, the big No. 8 has been playing for Eastern region and enjoying his time in the squad.
AB(HM) John Kirwan was a late addition to the squad but took his opportunity when he came on, with a series of powerful carries.
“The players have joined an exclusive club and I’m delighted for them” said Scott Ashley. “They all know how competitive the squad is, and selection will be tough going into the RAF game. I’m really lucky that those seven new caps have a fantastic attitude and will work really hard to earn another cap against the RAF”
Join us for the Navy v RAF match this Friday 5th April. Tickets will be available to purchase on the gate. For more information please visit: navyrafmatch.uk
Words: Oliver Mason
Images: Royal Navy Rugby Union © John Walton