RNRU Royal Navy Rugby Union

Britannia Royal Naval College Rugby Club put on a strong display with their fresh faced team winning 37-12 against the Peninsula Medics RFC to kick off 2017 in a positive fashion.

With a fresh intake arriving at the start of January and a number of players missing due to being on Initial Sea Assignments, the BRNC Rugby Club had a breadth of new talent and faces to contend with for their first match of the season. With only a few sessions under their belt, the team had gelled well with the ability and determination showing as they warmed up on a cold South West night. Facing an already bonded and talented team in the form of the Medics, BRNC were aiming to stamp their intent for the remainder of the season on the pitch.

BRNC had the first kick of the game, with the Medics taking hold and trying to break through the high quality defensive line that had been set up. Within the first 20 minutes BRNC had proven their credentials by using the explosive strength of the back row to land the first of many tries. Although proving dominant on the line, the Medics responded quickly with a try of their own making the score 7 - 5. Both sides pressed heavily in the remainder of the first 40 minutes, with large amounts of possession held by the Medics in BRNC’s half, however, the forwards enduring defence kept them at bay. Notable displays by the forwards ensured well contested rucks and good ball possession enabling the backs to take advantage of the Medics growing fatigue by the end of the first half, with the score line standing at 22-12 to BRNC.

BRNC came into the second half the stronger side, further wearing down an already tired Medic side. A man of the match performance by No 13 bombarded their defensive line, allowing for several smart passes and sets of play to permit BRNC to punch through and press ahead with their second half dominance. Hit after hit brushed them aside, showing the side’s growing confidence. The closing stages of the match saw renewed vigour holding the Medics in their own half, with scrumhalf Woodhead achieving a hat trick on his BRNC debut.

With 3 additional minutes of time added due to an injury, BRNC came out heads high winning 37-12. Although being the first game the players had together, they showed a determination to fight and win, laying a path for further success in the season to come.

Words by Jack Stalley
Images Royal Navy Rugby Union © Mark Andrews