Eastern Counties Wooden Spoon Inaugural Game Scores Big

The newly formed Eastern Counties Wooden Spoon team took to the pitch for their inaugural match, gathering players from across the region to raise funds for children with disabilities or facing disadvantage through rugby. Despite heavy rainfall during travel, the players arrived to find the sun breaking through over a softened pitch, perfect for play.

Players had pre-committed to the event through Ticket Taylor, with all proceeds going directly into the charity’s regional pot, solidifying the game’s purpose. The team roster boasted 18 players, providing a full squad with substitutes for rotation throughout the match’s four 20-minute quarters.

Captain Andy Daly led the Wooden Spoon team, supported by Co-Chair John Clements, who humorously intervened during the coin toss to “secure the glory” for the team by winning it. The Kings, already warming up, faced the Wooden Spoons from the opening kick-off, which they missed, giving the Spoons early momentum and allowing for a strong start.

The Wooden Spoon team’s offensive efforts were led by Essex import Ian Hanaway, whose skill at fly half paired with newcomer Ryan Curtis’s hard running in the center. This strong collaboration resulted in the first try, finished off by Ed Merry on the wing. Merry scored another try before halftime but had to leave to join his team, the Halstead Templars, along with his teammate Hobbit.

The Spoons showed strength in the scrums, where Sheldon Thake and John Gregg, playing their first game for the Eastern Counties, showcased experience and power. Scrum half Keir Stannard provided solid service, while Phill Frenie’s athleticism helped dominate the lineouts, securing both Wooden Spoon and Kings’ throws.

With the game intensifying in the second half, new players like Bart at fly half, Zak in the back row, and Darren in the front row joined the fray. The pace picked up, leading to Kings’ scoring efforts and increased competition at the rucks, turning the match into a more physical affair. The Wooden Spoon forwards powered through, with Sheldon and John each adding a try to the board, supported by effective wing play from Patrick Long and Crispy, who consistently advanced the team with deft offloads.

Veteran player Bish, despite an injury, managed to support his team throughout the game, playing the full 80 minutes and contributing significantly to the scrum alongside Clem.

The game, played in excellent spirits, raised over £500 through match fees and a post-match raffle, thanks to the efforts of players, supporters, and Wooden Spoon committee member Greg Hind. The final score of 29-46 marked a successful debut for the Eastern Counties Wooden Spoon team, celebrating a meaningful day of rugby for a noble cause.