Emanuel Lions Rugby

Friday 27th and Sunday 29th April 2012

Arrangements for Esher & Surrey C Festivals, and U13s Last League Match of the Season

Last chance for more Silverware!

Esher Floodlit Festival

We are now only a few days away – that’s 2 sleeps to our younger contingent - from the Esher’s Floodlit festival. Which for anyone who is in doubt is this Friday.

If anyone still owes their £5 entry fee, please pay your coach on the night.

The first games will start at 6.15pm sharp with the last games (if all on time!) at 8.20pm. You will need to arrive no later than 5.15pm, or other specific instructions given by your age group coach, to enable teams to be registered and be pitch side ready for the first games on time. Parking will be tricky and is available on a first come first serve basis at the club, the earlier you are there the better your chances of a space.

Overflow parking is available at Hersham Railway car park a few minutes walk from the ground. You can take the train from Raynes Park or Wimbledon to Hersham station and I estimate the train takes about 25 mins – though it is likely to be busy as well. Remember it is a Friday and the traffic will be busy a little earlier.

The address is;

369 Molesey Road Walton-on-Thames, Surrey KT12 3PF. Click the link below for the map:

www.esherrugby.com

The usual guidance applies – please ensure your child has a warm fleece and waterproof to put on when needed, please bring plenty of water and a few snacks for the boys and feed them something before 4:30pm if possible – nothing stodgy by preference. Warm clean clothes for the return journey are recommended.

The forecast is for outbreaks of rain from about 4pm throughout the evening so bring your own waterproofs too! (I have also read that the today’s weather conditions are set to remain for another week…so be prepared – Jo).

Surrey Development Festival

The Surrey Development festival will be at Old Reigations, Reigate Surrey www.oldreigatiansrfc.co.uk . The first game is at 9:45am so be there no later than 9:00am. Please note there is a long walk from our car park to the pitches. Take the map with you so you know where you are going. It is at least a 15minute walk and if you are carrying all your gear it will seem longer! Allow enough time for the walk as last time lots of our players were late!

Please contact your coach or team manager for additional details if you need to.

We have been allocated CAR PARK C, Reigate Railway Station, Douglas Road (off Rushworth Road), Reigate, Surrey RH2 0QG. Please find attached the car park details and the permit. You must bring the permit with you otherwise you will not be able to park and you are not able to park in any other allocated car park. Where possible car share. The entire club has been allocated a set number of permits. Please note this is a municipal car park so you may need to pay to park as well!

Coaches please note we have 50 electronic car park tickets to issue ONLY - so each car has one printed off at home to show upon arrival. Can I suggest we allocate as follows:

U7 - 12, U8 - 12, U9 - 12, U10 - 14

U13s at Guildfordians

U13s will be playing their last league match of the season at Guildfordian RFC. It is an important match. Guilfordian RFCwww.guildfordiansrfc.co.uk is based in Stoke Park, Guildford. The clubhouse is the pavilion at the north-east corner of the main park.

Please go to the web site for directions. The clubhouse address is: The Pavilion London Road Guildford Surrey GU1 1TU.

We know some of the boys are unable to make it to the awards day but we still want to present awards and get a team photo. Please be at the club for 8:45am. Please let Jo McIntyre Know if you are unavailable.

Remainder of the club on Sunday

The remainder of the club is either in Beverley Park or has away fixtures. The club is open for parking, showers and the bar, but there are no Kitchen facilities.

Sunday 22nd April 2012

Emanuel Lions at Surrey B Festival Report

Another Festival, Another Great Club Performance!

Festival Reports

U7s

The U7s performed with great merit at the Surrey B festival on Sunday. In the group stages, they comfortably beat Chipstead (3-1) and Old Whits Reds (4-2) and prevailed against a well-drilled Sutton & Epsom 5-4 with the winning score in the last play.

This meant that we easily topped our group, setting up a Cup Semi Final against Old Whits Blues, which ended up 5-5 in a see-saw encounter. Unfortunately, Old Whits had a superior try difference by 1, which meant that we lost on countback and were out of the competition, despite being unbeaten throughout, no mean feat in the team’s first major competition. The final was between Old Whits and Rosslyn Park, and was also drawn 5-5, with Rosslyn Park winning on countback.

After winning their last two festivals at Weybridge and Staines with some wonderful attacking rugby, Surrey B was slightly disappointing as we never really hit top gear. Too many turnovers were conceded and there was certainly an element of rustiness after three weeks away from competitive rugby. However, the team could not be faulted on their effort and commitment, and we move on to Esher on Friday, where we will be playing Esher and Old Ruts, two teams that played in Surrey A this year: we are hopeful that the team will rise to the challenge.

U8s

The U8 squad arrived at the Surrey B festival with expectations high after their two recent Cup victories. This confidence was reflected in a commanding 9-4 victory in the first group fixture against Old Caterhamians. The coaches felt that this was perhaps the best performance that the squad have produced during the season. The second fixture against a very good Battersea Ironsides team saw the U8s being less precise in attack than their usual high standards. The result was a fairly contested 6-8 loss.

Due to the vagaries of the draw when being in a 6 team group and playing 3 group games, the final group game saw the U8s up against their nemesis, Old Whitgiftians A. The teams have locked horns several times both at U7 and earlier this season, when Old Whits ran out convincing winners by 6-2. The fixture at Surrey B saw a very high standard of play by both teams, particularly when attacking. The U8s scored with the last possession to secure a 6-6 draw. This result led to qualification for the plate competition.

In the plate semi-final the U8s were drawn against the Old Whitgiftians B team. After a bright start the team suffered with a very, very strict referee who the coaches felt applied the laws of the game in a far harsher manner than we have ever come across in previous fixtures. During the second half the team faded and lost the match 4-5.

Several players showed their desire to win and commitment to the team by being emotional after this final fixture. This group of players have had an exceptional season so far and have shown themselves to be a credit to the sport of rugby by the beauty of their attacking play. A try count of 21 in 3 league games in the surrey B festival is evidence of this attacking ability. The U8 coaches are proud to work with this group of players and feel that more success will follow in the future. On this occasion the team produced rugby that was slightly below their best, but that in no way detracts from the performances and results that the U8s have shown to us all.

U9s

What a fantastic effort by our lads! We travelled to the Surrey Festival with a full strength squad, and almost came away with the Winners Cup.

In our group games we started strongly; beating Chipstead: 7-0, Sutton + Epsom: 5-0 and Old Ruts 4-0. We saw some superb performances from Cian, Dylan and Max. Our defensive play was excellent and we finished as best group winners with 18points, without conceding a single Try.

In the Cup Semi-Final we faced a strong Rosslyn Park side. Great defensive work from Oscar, Morgan and Charlie, strong running from James F and a fantastic individual Try from Jack, saw us get to half time with a 1-0 lead. Rosslyn put us under pressure in the 2nd half, and eventually scored in the last minute. The game finished 1-1, which put us through to the Final.

Whilst waiting for the Final against Wimbledon Warriors two things happened. Firstly, Winter returned in full force, and some of our players were feeling very cold, and secondly we lost players due to exhaustion, which meant we started the game at less than full strength.

Nevertheless, the boys played their hearts out, with bursting runs from Lewis, Iwan and Cameron, with good rucking throughout, and with Marcus, George, James T and Matthew defending valiantly. But in the end Warriors finished stronger and ran out as Winners.

All in all a fantastic team effort, and a superb display of the progress the boys have made in their first season playing contact rugby. Matthew earned the Player of the Festival for his relentless desire to win and keep the ball. They all did themselves proud and this experience will be a great platform to build from next season.

U10s (blue team)

After our performance the week before we went with great optimism…

We started the day against Cranleigh, a good fight was on; we went 1 try down but woke up and fought back, camping ourselves in their half for the second half and got the try back and finishing the game with a draw.

Going into the next game against Sutton & Epsom we were ready: the game kicked off and within seconds an intercepted pass was picked up and Sutton & Epsom scored, after that we were up against a strong team who had the better of our front line and battled but ultimately went down 4-0. Disheartened and heads down we picked ourselves back up for our final group game.

Due to injuries in other teams this game against old whits was delayed and we were edgy, we needed to win otherwise we were going home. The boys went out and showed what they can do, tackled and fought for it, scoring 4 and conceding just the one. We were happy and now waiting on other results.

We went through to the plate semi on bonus points just edging Cranleigh. In what seemed like ages we faced Richmond, this was it and whether we were tired and exhausted I don't know but we were out rucked every time but we defended like our lives depended on it and tackled like demons. We ran well with the ball but just weren’t there at the breakdown and went down 2-0.

A flat end to the day but this group can do it and will do it. Their time will come!

Pete Wright

U11s

We played 3 games in the rounds winning 2 of them 21/0 a piece and drawing 0/0 against Richmond.

This meant unfortunately we had to be entered into the Shield despite scoring most points in the preliminary rounds. Richmond scored less points however, received one bonus points for a 26/0 [4 tries] win, in the rounds. OEL = 12 Points / Richmond =13.

We went into the semis to beat Chipstead convincingly and then went on to WIN in the against Effingham 2 tries to 1 in the final!

A great exhibition of ‘team’ rugby [again], with some individuals showing some of their most impressive performances yet.

That is 2 wins out of 3 festivals this year!

It is great to see that our players are putting a lot of thought into their game, it is most defiantly is reflecting in their individual and team performances; this is helped also by their ‘match fitness’.

NB- Parents – They are now at the stage now where fitness plays a very important role in their game. Please consider our recent requests regarding the players fitness levels over the summer. They can lose ‘match fitness’ in a matter of 2-4 weeks. Keeping them well exercised throughout the summer will really help them take on newly introduced skills / techniques quicker in the new season in September 2012. ‘No training’ can actually mean taking a ‘step back’ in developing their skills for up to 2 months and this affects the whole squad. Many thanks!

Well done under 11s and good luck at Esher this Friday!

Your coaches are very proud of you!

Alex

U12s

What a day!! I was proud for the boys who played in this event it was their last ever Mini rugby event in Surrey and they will step up to the under 13 league next year.

Game 1

We had it in us to take the cup. The margin for error was narrow as it proved in our only loss to Battersea. For almost 9 minutes of the game we were on top scoring in the first half before conceding soft tries in about 3 minutes before camping in their half for the rest of the game despite a huge effort from our boys we could not get through - score 14-7. Battersea went on to win the cup - sat and wondered briefly what would have been had we nailed the first game.

Game 2

The boys bounced back to take on Sutton & Epsom. A narrow win 14-7, good result. The team were more balanced, working as a unit better, and closing space down in the forwards and out wide. Some great tackling going in. Teams that play us down the middle of the park, will invariably come unstuck, as was the case in this tight game. By this stage we still only playing at 60% capacity but the result counted.

Game 3

We played with the right intensity, not giving space to Ruts big lads. Here we were starting to tackle harder, get turnover ball, and get into space for the big runs we have. Ruts were never going to score, and that's the measure of this team - the will to win and not concede points - score 21-0. Try count now stands at 7 to us.

Then came the long break as officials decided our fate. We missed the cup finals by 2 points - only conceding the one narrow loss. Anyway - plate finals here we come.

Game 4

Lo and behold our old friends Ruts were first up, well and truly dispatched by us 28-0. The lads were fired up, tackled, drove hard, resisted all efforts to beat us close in, out wide and going over the top. The pace of the game was phenomenal; we were pleased to see us getting better and better.

The plate final against Chipstead.

What a game. We won it in the last play of the game, through some fantastic work recycling the ball through tackles. The boys showed they had matured in getting the ball to the right place before delivering the killer blow at precisely the right time. Chipstead were good, strong runners and had a good flyhalf who kicked over the top to get them out of trouble a number of times.

It's games like that, which we may have lost previously, that counted. Everyone worked hard, worked as a team and did their best. Heart stopping stuff at times, but in the end a job well done and deservedly so because of our tackling, mauling, running, kicking and passing game. As our chairman said at one point – “they are like a fine wine, getting better as the day gets longer.” Amen to that.

Dale, Jo and Keith

Sunday 15th April 2012

Emanuel Lions U9/U10 Contact Festival Report

Another great performance by the Emanuel Lions at their own Festival!

Lions Roar – “Proud of our Prides”

U9s

Blue Pride – Plaque Winners

The fabulous thirteen or the come back kids ! Firstly, the performance from all of our fantastic pride needs to be put into perspective. We started well with a win and then we were outplayed by Hammersmith and Fulham (Who later went on to be runners up for the cup). Our third game was also very close match where we learnt that we need to tackle well. Game four we took the positive from game three and pulled back a 2-1 half time deficit to finish 4-2. It could have easily been a different outcome. Game five and its all to play for against our old foe Weybridge.

The boys played exceptionally well and kept the pressure on winning the Plaque final 3-1.

Special mention to all the Team

Merlin -great performance keep it up

Eddie and Jamie -superb mauling and driving

George and Shayn -great supportive play and great attacking runs

James and Noah- dependable and many positive plays to build on

Harry -smallest guy on the team (my boy) made me proud again

Tom and Tom -great performances, first try today plenty more to come I hope

Donal and Josiah -great defence and supportive attacking move

Sam listened well, scored a great try and defended well.

Yellow Pride – Cup Winners

Rosslyn Park came with two teams and we had the weaker of the two in our group and in our first group game we scored 7 to their 1. Next up was a strong Cobham team and again we scored 7 to their 1. As there were only 3 teams in our group we played both teams again. Rosslyn Park had improved dramatically and this time we won 4 - 1. Our last group game was against Cobham and they had also improved and we were witness to a very tight game and in the end we came out winners 1 - 0.

That victory meant we won our group unbeaten and went in to the final. Owing to the number of teams at our age group the final was a 3 way round-robin. First up was the stronger of the two Rosslyn Park teams. This was game was very tough and the boys really dug deep and at full-time it was 3-3. Rosslyn Park then then took on Hammersmith & Fulham and were defeated 6-1. Lions v Hammersmith & Fulham (H & F) in the last of the round-robin games and the Lions had to win with H & F only requiring a draw. H & F were extremely strong and had won the Staines festival 2 weeks earlier beating us 2-1 in the process. The boys used that experience to their advantage and aware of H & Fs tactics did not give them the opportunity to play their game. After a nail-biting 14 minutes the final whistle went and the Lions were victorious coming out on top 3-2.

The reason they were successful is that they all played as a team, with some of the boys playing well in unfamiliar positions. There were some outstanding performances: Dylan’s numerous try-saving tackles; Morgan’s picking up the loose ball to start another attack; Cian’s constant presence in the ruck; Cameron’s attacking running and Marcus’ fighting spirit. But more than anything, the team succeeded because they ran for each other; they tackled for each other; they passed for each other and they scored for each other and they made us all proud.

U10s

Old Emanuel Lions blue (1st team) came out of the blocks flying against a weak Ruts team, got destroyed by Rosslyn Park and due to the way the fixtures happened we had the chance for revenge, so once again we beat Ruts and this time we held Rosslyn to a brutally hard 2-1 win. We played well and fought for it all, each player taking knocks and getting back up and going for it and leaving a trail of bodies behind them. This took us through to the plate where we ended up playing Cobham in the semi and then the other Cobham side in the final, final in a thrilling game where the players dominated the middle field from the scrum and the maul and pushed Cobham all over the park. Both games were brutally hard and the players gave everything to walk away winners of the plate, this team’s first actual winning trophy.

Emanuel Lions yellow (2nd team), came out slowly losing their first two matches but thankfully picked up for a remarkable comeback. They played virtually back to back games with one 20 minute break. Having lost the first match 2-0, they were then well and truly beaten 7-0 by Hammersmith & Fulham but instead of their heads dropping they picked up their game and went on to some remarkable wins. After a disappointing result against Hammersmith & Fulham (eventual Cup winners) we played them again in the Pool and put in a fantastic performance to hold them to 2 : 1 this set us up for knock out stages ..... In particular they played an absolute blinding game against Rosslyn Park and then minutes later went on to completely thrash Camberley to win the Plaque.

This team repeatedly drove the ball forward at least 20 metres to take the ball to their own try line. The number of turnover balls our side won was phenomenal... Both of these opposition teams were shocked to the core as they fully expected to win these games. The final whistle blew to a huge cheer from the crowd as this team has really come on - from almost being cannon fodder at Christmas to walking away with their first ever trophy is a cracking achievement! What a team!

I thought everyone played very well with pride and guts well done to all of the players.

This age group may not do all the “fancy dan and whimsy stuff” other clubs do but what we are doing now is working as a team and fighting for everything, they go in hard put their bodies on the line and leave players from other teams lying all over the place. Not breaking any rules just going in double hard. The two Surrey competitions coming up give both teams a great chance for more trophies.

Massive congratulations to the coaches of all teams as none of this would have been able to be achieved without them or the belief and commitment from the boys.

Player of the Festival was awarded to all of them!

Sunday 1st April 2012

Emanuel Lions at Staines Festival Report

Another fantastic showing by Emanuel Lions at the Staines Festival!

U7s

The two U7 squads made good progress at the Staines festival.
The Blue team was unlucky to lose two of their group games by a couple of scores, whilst they drew the other game, and so they did not progress to the latter stages. Although many attacks started promisingly, too often good work was undone by knock ons, whilst in defence missed tags cost the team dearly in each game. Still, the team could not be faulted on the great effort they put in to each game: they concentrated and listened to their coaches, and I believe now that they fully understand that playing as a team is the most important thing. This team is capable of greater things at the Esher festival (27th April) and the Surrey Development festival (29th April), and we are looking forward to working with them to achieve their goals.
The Yellow team won the Cup, beating Hammersmith & Fulham 6-1 in the final, the same score by which they had beaten the same team in the group stages. They fully deserved their victory by playing some beautiful attacking rugby, which was praised by many opposition coaches and spectators, and the tagging was simply tremendous. Perhaps their greatest achievement was coming back from a 4-3 half time deficit in the semi final against the home team, Staines, to win an epic match 6-4. It would be invidious of me to single out individuals: they all played very well. They must now rest over Easter, not eat too much chocolate, and come back stronger than ever for the Surrey B festival (22nd April): this will be the true test.

U8s

The Panthers squad continued their rich vein of form with a second Cup win in two weeks.

A comfortable win in their opening game against Hammersmith and Fulham "B" was followed by a hard fought win over Hammersmith and Fulham "A" by 1 try.

The team managed to avoid their usual third game blip by beating a determined Egham side 6-5.

As group winners the semi final saw a tough but successful encounter against Old Albanians.

The final was against a well drilled and quick Farnborough team. A try in the last minute saw our lead go to 5-3. From the restart the referee called final play. The teams determination to see the job through was evident and defensive pressure saw Farnborough turn the ball over. And the final whistle!

Tenacious tagging and outstanding play with ball in hand now sees this team approach the Surrey festival more in expectation than hope.

The squad was a credit to the club both on and off the field and all players should be proud of another excellent team performance!

Two cups in two weeks!! What more can a coach ask!

And another big thank you to all parents for yet more enthusiastic help and support.

U9s

On a sunny day playing on a rock hard pitch the U9s played their first game against Old Albanians and for the first 4 minutes had no possession. But tackled for their lives and eventually got the ball and scored. Two more scores followed and the Lions eventually won 3-0.

Game 2 was against Hammersmith A and both teams tackled, rucked and mauled their hearts out with most play around the middle of pitch and only occasional trips into try scoring territory. In the end the Lions were only able to penetrate the Hammersmith defence once and the opposition came out 2-1 winners.

Game 3 was against Staines and we needed to win to go through to the semis. And win we did, scoring 6 and conceding none!

We came second in the group and set up a semi-final against London Irish. This was a very tough game and the Lions took a 2-0 lead. Irish hit back hard and with a minute to go it was 2-2 and that's how it finished. On count back Irish went through having won all 3 of their pool games. A great shame for the Lions but they can be proud of their performance and look forward to our own festival after Easter.

It's hard to single out one player but a very well deserved Player of the Festival goes to Iwan Stacey for an excellent all round performance.

Thanks.

U10s

Staines Festival U10
After the previous weeks attempts at playing , we entered into this with much hope that the team we know would turn up. It was warm and the ground like concrete so it was down to the players about whether they wanted it.
Thankfully they did, we had a team drop out of our group (I still like to think they heard that we were coming and ran away) so there was a lot of waiting around, which in the past hasn’t bode well for this group, but we are got our first game in against Ruislip and the score line of 4-1 flattered them, we battled but kept being drawn into the middle of the park, once the ball was free they were able to get it out very quickly to their fast wingers and we paid the price, we beat them with everything in the middle of the park and just lacked a little bit of discipline in the back line. So after a little wait and watching the next game we came up against Old Albanians, this team drew with Ruislip so to advance we needed to win. We went out there and battled for everything in a brutal game, a lot of determination from our players paid off and we went through with a win 3-2, this is what this team needed, a win over some good tough opposition to give them a boost. So onto the semi finals and we drew Hammersmith & Fulham, my god what a game, one of the best games of rugby I have seen these boys play and if it wasn’t for their one fast player we would of had them, but 3-3 at full time after a last play equaliser from them, 4-4 after 4 minutes of extra time, the only fair way for this to be decided would be through a golden try, So we continued and we battled and battled until they got a runaway ball and up popped their fast player and off he went, a last gasp tackle was made to no avail and we went out.
The boys were upset, us coaches were upset but they got up and congratulated the other team, blood sweat and tears were shed here by this group and they did so well, they played the way we know they can play, as coaches we were absolutely proud of the way they turned up and got on with it. The feedback from the other coaches we played was that they really didn’t want to face us as we were hard and tough and took players out without a question or hesitation. All the feedback that was given to me was how well they did and even Ruislip mentioned they were lucky.
So bring on the next one which is ours and bring on the fight as revenge on Hammersmith & Fulham in 2 weeks will taste sweeter than the chocolate eggs.

U12

We arrived with 14 players – tight squad numbers as usual.

After a frustrating first tournament at Weybridge the team were keen to banish some rustiness to their match games – and that they did. I was very proud of some great play from the team.

First game we won comfortably against Farnborough who we had beaten the week before. Team played well, good use of the ball in the rucks and mauls, then getting it out wide to the wings.

The next game was against OId Albanians a team we had not seen before. Good team who threatened our defensive play, but to the teams credit they managed to stop the attacks. We ran out 3-0 winners eventually.

Then we faced London Welsh, who were held in the same manner. We won that game comfortably after errors started to creep into our game.

Last pool game was a must win or draw against Hammersmith. We drew 3-3 all.
A huge credit to the opposition who punished us for silly errors, but to our credit in turn we scored some great tries to pull the match back each time – drawing the game from open play through our smallest player Amir,
who ran in for a great opportunist try to rescue the draw.

Due to being unbeaten and finishing top of the lot – we were crowned winners. A super day for the boys and parents after a tough season of missing fixtures for various reasons. 2 more festivals, 2 more chances to
bring home some silver.

Junior League

U13s

The team put up a valiant fight against Camberley and played really well in second half (!!!) but succumbed in the end losing 37-19.

Esher Floodlit Festival

Please remember to pay your coach the requisite £5 if your child is selected to play. It is a real chore to chase up all the parents, so it is much nicer to have the money offered to you!

Sunday 25th March 2012

Emanuel Lions at Weybridge Vandals Festival Report

Emanuel Lions at the Weybridge ‘B’ Festival WON 50% of the age group Cups on Offer!!

Before you read the festival update, of which I am very proud as chairman to submit to you, ( I know it’s long but please read it all) I wish to remind the club that we have approx 100 players at home this weekend for festival training, which is very, very important.

I need some help in the kitchen and to help park cars from the parents whose children are training at Blagdons. Please step up and help as the normal people who usually help will be at the festival with their children (Steve please order enough for 100 players thanks Harv)

The under 13 Squad will be at Camberley on Sunday for a league match.

Parade at 09:00 sharp at the club please. If we do not get the numbers due to injury and holidays I will let you know by Friday evening and concede the fixture, then it will be training as usual at home.

Those away at the Staines Festival on Sunday have another practice, a chance to play or to move players around to produce match winning sides for the Surrey B festival on the 22nd of April at Nescot, Sutton & Epsom RFC.

I am away next week however for prayers coaches please contact Jo or me on harvey69@tiscali.co.uk not my MPS e mail with the festival results.

The OERFC Lions is one of the smallest and youngest clubs on the Surrey circuit, but we punch well above our weight. This is due to the commitment of our players, parents coaches and helpers.

At times I know that decisions that coaches make for team selections in the run up to festivals can seem unfair, but it is always done with the best interests of the team and club at heart. Please all retain your composure on the touch lines as you are all ambassadors for our club.

The results of all our hard work speak for themselves.

Emanuel Lions teams won 50% of the Cup trophies on offer at Weybridge ‘B’ festival together with some Cup runners up trophies & Plate Silver trophies as well.

We can not achieve these results consistently without all parents helping. If you can help in the Kitchen or park cars or be part of the recruitment team, please let me or Martin Baker (my house manager know) or for the kitchen Steve Ling, or let your coaches and team managers know. What is it they say – “many hands make light work”! How true.

Thank you.

In the order of age groups:

Under 7 winners of the cup final and semi finalists in the cup

Both U7 squads (Lions & Tigers) enjoyed great success at Weybridge, with the Tigers excelling in the group stages, comfortably winning all their matches, to set up a Cup semi final against the Under 7 Lions, who had come second in their group after a narrow defeat at the hands of Weybridge.

This all Old Emanuel face off was a close affair and was played in exactly the right spirit, and the Tigers were unlucky to lose 4-2: the third Lions try was controversial and will be discussed up and down New Malden High Street for years to come...And so to the final, a rematch against Weybridge, where the Lions equalised at the death to make the score 4-4 and take the game into extra time, which they then proceeded to dominate Weybridge to win a thrilling match 6-5 and take the Cup home to Blagdons.

Both squads played fantastically well, listened to their coaches, tagged as though their lives depended on it, and most importantly had lots of ice cream at the end...

If they continue to apply themselves like this, further success at the remaining festivals will not be far away, but they must not let this early season success go to their heads. There is still much to come from each squad.

The Lions Roar! Well done to all players, your coaches, parents and club are proud of you.

(Ian Harvey Chair)

Under 8 squad winners of the cup final

The bright sunny weather at the Weybridge Vandals RFC festival was matched by bright and exciting performances from the U8s.

Both Panthers and Pumas squads were a tribute to their club, coaches and parents. Their behaviour was impeccable, and both squads showed great team spirit, and support for each other, with the icing on the cake being some fantastic rugby and results.

The Panthers took the Cup with a 5-4 victory over Battersea Ironsides in a closely contested and exciting final.

Overall the Panthers won 4 and lost just 1 game, beating Reading and Battersea in the group stages before losing their last group game to Weybridge A squad. They qualified for the Cup half of the draw by finishing 2nd on try difference.

In the semi-final they put on an impressive performance to beat Dorking, before beating Battersea again in the final a real team performance.

The Puma squad runners up in the Plate final

Pumas were really looking forward to the Weybridge Festival; our first game was against The Vandals Eagles. The game was played at a cracking pace with good attacking and defensive play by both teams who ultimately cancelled each other out with a 3-3.

Our next match was against Twickenham which ended with another stalemate at 5 -5

We then faced a well-drilled Dorking side that beat the Pumas 5-3.

In the Plate Semis we faced Reading and won by 5-4 sending us through to the Plate Final.

We then faced Weyrbidge Vandals ‘A’ in the final. The Vultures are the Weybridge "A" squad and had beaten our Emanuel Panthers team in the group stages. The Pumas went for the Vultures and really fought well against what was clearly a good team. The Vultures went into the second half with a good lead. This did not deter the Pumas carried on playing with Great Spirit until the end, losing by 5 tries to 3.

Throughout the festival the Pumas were a joy to be with. Each player can hold their head up high and be proud of them. Yet again the team spirit was amazing and the team worked hard for each other. The coaches are extremely proud to work alongside such wonderful children.

The Lions Roar! Well done to all players, your coaches, parents and club are proud of you

(Ian Harvey Chair)

Under 9 runners up in the Cup Final

Yellow Squad

Pool games:Weybridge EaglesWon 5-1; Old Guildfordians Dw 0-0; Bracknell Won 8-1.

Semi Final: Weybridge Vultures Won 6-0.

Cup Final: Old Guildfordians Lost 0-1.

Match report from John.

We were all disappointed losing in the final but proud of the boys performance.
Think back to the Kings festival at the start of the season; how far the boys have come since. On Sunday the boys scored 19 trys and conceded just 3 (in 5 games)! It was a team performance. In defence we saw some awesome tackling from Charlie, Sam, James T and Oscar (3 consecutive big driving tackles from Oscar which the opposition were not expecting!). Great rucking from Iwan, Matthew and Cian (Cian was always there, annoying the opposition like every hooker should). Our scrum-halves Morgan and Max using the ball to set our backs free. Quick darting runs from Dylan and James F, both boys tying the opposition defense in knots.

A magnificent demonstration of straight running from Merlin, carrying two of the opposition defenders on his back. Then together with them in tow, over the line for a try.

Lewis "why run around the defense when you can run straight through middle of them" Ford! A deserved Player of the Festival for Lewis who was able to benefit from a massive team effort.

Blue Squad semi finalists in the Plate

Pool games: Weybridge Vultures Lost 1-3; Farnborough won 5-1; Dorking Lost 1-0

Semi Final: Weybridge Eagles L1-0

Match report from Ian.
Tigers Roar! Our first tournament this year and what a superb performance the boys put in.
We played four games and scored 8 quality tries. Unfortunately we were beaten in the semi final for the plate by Weybridge Vandals. Next time boys we will beat them!
Overall we played well with some particularly energy sapping rolling mauls occurring in each game.
For many of the boys playing in the Tiger squad this was your first season of Rugby so well done.
Tigers player of the tournament went to Cameron, well done Cameron your leadership skills on the field were noticed.
Key points to learn from our experience on Sunday will be our set play at the line out and scrum.
Hope you and your boys enjoyed themselves look forward to seeing them on Sunday.
Once again well done a very respectful performance.

The Lions Roar! Well done to all players, your coaches, parents and club are proud of you.

(Ian Harvey Chair)

Under 10 Plate runners up

A day of mixed emotions were had in the under 10s with one side playing like they have never played before and the other below their ability.

Firstly the Tigers - what a performance!!

Playing in Pool B, their opening game was an impressive display defeating Dorking 3-1. Their second game was against a strong and well drilled Weybridge Vandals (Eagles) side and they showed great determination and sprit to draw 2-2. In their last pool game they dominated the Farnborough Blues finishing 4-1 winners.

Unbeaten in their pool they progressed to the semi finals of the main competition where they faced the winners of Pool A (Weybridge Vandals – Vultures). They played as a team and despite conceding early tries they matched Vandals up front and showed true grit, losing 4-0 to the eventual tournament winners.

With several players who have only taken up rugby this year this was a fantastic all round team performance. I know the coaches, parents and supporters took great pride in the way they played.

The Lions playing in Pool A, failed to play as a team, the first game started against Farnborough and after 2 quick tries we were up against it from the start, after losing the first game we came up against Guildfordians and battled but still not as a team. We did score a couple of great individual tries though. The last game was up against Weybridge and they completely outclassed us. No teamwork was the problem, but we could see glimpses of what could have been, though unfortunately it wasn’t enough.

Then into the ‘Plate’ semi final against Dorking the boys started to play as a team, took the game to Dorking and destroyed them which took us into the plate final.

The final was against Guildfordians, once again a tight game which Guildfordians came out on top, so runners up in the plate, however this just wasn’t our festival, the boys were just not on top of their game, this group went home dejected but hopefully will grow from this and take it on to the next festival.

Although this was a mixed weekend, this group has so much potential, they will all fight for everything generally and can do some proper damage at festivals, so we have no reason to think they cannot come back with a Surrey Cup be it the B or C, they have all come on this year and deserve it.

The festival to win is Surrey B on 22.4.2012.

Peter Wright wants this more than anything else

The Lions Roar! Well done to all players, your coaches, parents and club are proud of you.

Under 11 Squad winners of the cup final

The Pretlove’s report of the Under 11 team “one our most memorable days of rugby”:

The U11s had a fantastic day of rugby on Sunday, playing as a team, with heart and controlled aggression. They met one of the strongest opponents in their first game, Farnborough RFC, and played a better game and they lost the first game 2:0.

This was not a good start, but the boys held their heads high and played London Irish RFC next and beat them 7:0.

They then played Twickenham RFC and beat them 2:0. The result meant that they were second in their group, beaten only by Farnborough.

In the Cup play-offs they played the Winners of the other group, Weybridge Vandals, a tough game, and beat them 4:0.

Ironically, then, the Lions met Farnborough in the cup final.

This was a really tough game and the Lions got the first try in. They then lost a try to a very strong Farnborough team - a hard tackling team with very good kicking skills. The Lions were drawing as we moved towards the end of time, got the ball to the wing, but a call from the linesman took the ball into touch. The Lions then got the ball from a Farnborough line out and a quick try was scored, literally in the last few seconds of the game. So we won the cup 2- 1, a well deserved win and some justice for the first game of the day.

The boys were fantastic, and all of the coaches must be commended for keeping the team focused and fired-up, for a long day of sport, and for being calm, and positive, for questionable and frustrating referee and linesman decisions.

Alex , Matthew and Chris Viney (coaches) stated One of the finest U11 performances ever!
The Lions Roar! Well done to all players your coaches and parents are proud of you

(Ian Harvey Chair)

Under 12 group winners

U12 had mixed fortunes on the day. The team had 5 games – 4 of which were 15 minutes apart and one after each other, due to some unfortunate scheduling.

We won the first game against Farnborough. We threw away a 2-1 try lead in the last minute to have to rely on kicks to win the game. Lost the second game to Guildfordians 2-1 after a disallowed try that would have seen us draw the game. The lads were performing well and were comfortably playing within their means.

Third and forth games were against large numbered A squads of Vandals and Wharlingham and we were comfortably beaten. A number of errors under pressure and some poor decision making from the team cost us dearly. However I was very proud the lads stuck to the task despite the odds, on rock hard pitches against 2 very large numbered squads who were able to sub at will, and run us off our feet.

The last game was against Dorking. With 40 seconds to go and 2-1 up we managed to concede a very soft try from a kick off, which was heart breaking. Each side converted the kicks which meant we drew the last game.

Conclusion, A day of mixed fortunes with some fantastic efforts from a number of players. It would be unfair to single out individuals, as it was team affair. Despite the results we are optimistic about our upcoming festivals. We learnt even more about where we need to improve and I am certain we will get better as we roll into April’s festivals.

Under 12 squad, there will be times when the game gets away from you and you feel deflated; a week is a long time in rugby - do not dwell on the past. Teamwork and discipline are a good platform on which to build your rugby squad, always have trust in your team members and the way you have been coached to play rugby. The festival to win is Surrey B on 22.4.2012.

The Lions Roar! Well done to all players, your coaches, parents and club are proud of you.

(Ian Harvey Chair)

The best result I could have dreamed of for our club at the start of the season. You have made us all very proud, well done. You will all be rewarded in the presentation ceremony on 6.5.2012 ,12.00 at OEFRC Blagdons (Ian Harvey Chair)

Other News...

Esher £5 fee

Esher Floodlight Festival – parents please note that as we are over-subscribed on festival entrance fees due to the number of festivals entered there will be a £5 fee for all players payable by you! Please pay the money to your head coach or team manager ASAP so Harv is not out of pocket. Coaches/team managers please make a note of who pays you.

St George’s Day Social Event

On 21th April to celebrate St George’s Day there will be a get together at the club from 5pm. It is a “bring a dish and turn up” affair. There will be a food list circulated so you can see what dishes are already provided. The only cost will be the cost of your own drinks at the bar.

It has been a while since we had a social event at Lions so let’s get together and make this a memorable one. Bring the kids too!

Thanks Folks!

Ian Harvey, Chairman Emanuel Lions

Sunday 25th March 2012

Emanuel Lions at Weybridge Vandals Festival Information

Right, here we go...it's festival time!

The majority of the club will be at the Weybridge Festival. We have 2 teams in each of the U7, U8, U9, U10 age groups and 1 team each in the U11 and U12 age groups

Your individual coaches/team manager will advise whether your child has been selected to play.

Girls, U5s, U6s and U13s - Unless you coaches/team manager advise otherwise you are training as usual; registration time 10:30 play from 11:00.

There will be a limited kitchen facility for about 60 players.

U13s please note your league match vs Guildfordians has been postponed until 29 April.

The general festival information for this Sunday is as follows:

The first thing to note is the clocks go forward by 1 hour this weekend as British Summer Time begins.

It gets worse though.... Not only do we lose an hour's sleep we have to be up early as well - but all in a good cause!   Given clock changes and the fact that it is going to be a long day, coaches request the kids get to bed earlier on Saturday so they can perform at their best.

We must submit our team sheets by 9:15am. This means that players must be present and correct at 8:45am - so please arrive at the ground between 8:30 and 8:45am.

Early arrival is essential if you wish to park at the ground. There is no off-site parking unless you are prepared to walk about a mile from the club.
Please car share where possible. If you need a lift please liaise with other parents/team managers well in advance.

There is a £5 charge per car for parking.

Parents please make it a priority on arrival to check your child/children in with your coach(es) so we can submit the team sheet on time.

If your child is ill and cannot make it please let the team manager or head coach know as soon as possible so we can find another player.

The festival is pretty much an all day affair so please be prepared by ensuring your children have appropriate clothing - including warm clothes for when they are not playing and also a waterproof if the weather is wet, a plentiful supply of water, suitable snacks such as fruit, and some non-stodgy food for lunch. So no burgers, hotdogs etc between matches. Please encourage them to drink water throughout the day (and preferably no energy drinks or fizzy drinks).

The weather forecast looks set to be a bit cloudy with some sunny spells, no rain forecast but with a high of 17C.

Please check their studs are undamaged, and their gumshields are packed.

For anyone who hasn't been to a festival before I recommend taking a folding chair or rug to sit on, and some snacks for yourself. Don't forget your camera! Speaking of photos - usually the official photographers are there so bring your cards/cheque books/cash.

Directions and location

Weybridge Vandals RFC
Brownacres
Off Walton Lane
Walton on Thames
Surrey
KT12 1QP
Tel: 01932 227659

Directions given at the end of this post.

For your Diary

There will be no home training on the 22nd or 29th as the pitches at OERFC need to be top dressed. Most of you will be at Surrey B on the 22nd but training for the U13s & Girls will be in Beverley Park.

Saturday match for the U12s & U13s on 14th April 2012 at 09:30. K/O 10:30 against Colchester. More info will be given in next week's club e-mail.

There is a St George's Day get together on Saturday 21st April at 5pm. Bring a plate of food, salad or sweet and the children for an evening out. Due to the pitches being top dressed children can only play in the garden area. Please all come if you can for this informal evening, it will only cost you what you drink and if you are not playing a match or Surrey C on the 29th you get a Sunday lie in as there is no home training.

Awards Day Presentation

Sunday 6th May, starts at 12:00, no training. Harv will deal in greater depth with these in later editions of prayers.

Directions to Weybridge Vandals RFC

From M25

Exit M25 at Junction 11 (A317/A320). At the top of the slip road, take the roundabout exit - A317 towards Weybridge. Follow the dual carriage way for 1 mile. At the roundabout Addlestonemoor take the 3rd exit signposted Weybridge. Go straight over the next two small roundabouts. At the mini roundabout directly in front of the church bear left into Weybridge High Street. Just past the ship hotel (on your left) turn left into Thames Street (speed humps). This becomes Walton Lane passing the Crown Pub on your left. Follow this road for 1 1/4 miles with Thames on your left. (Passing bridge with no-entry signs) Turn left over the one-way bridge. Keep the Thames on your right. Follow the narrow lane for 400 metres into the club grounds

From A3

Leave the A3 at Painshill - signposted Cobham. At the roundabout - Eastbound take the first exit; Westbound - take the 3rd exit, onto a short dual carriageway which bears quite sharply to the left. After 200 meters turn right at the traffic lights into Seven Hills Road. Follow this road for 1 1/2 miles continuing on over a small roundabout. At the major roundabout take the first exit towards Weybridge. (Queens road) After 1 1/4 miles turn right at the roundabout directly in front of 'Caffe Uno'. Take the first exit at the next round about. (40 metres) At the bottom of the hill (just past Focus Do-it-all) turn right into Thames Street (speed humps). This becomes Walton Lane passing the Crown Pub on your left. Follow this road for 1 1/4 miles with the Thames on your left. (Passing a small bridge with no-entry signs). Turn left over the one-way bridge. Keep the Thames on your right. Follow narrow lane for 400 metres into the club grounds.

From M3 / A316

Follow the A316 (west bound) or the M3 (east bound). Exit at Sunbury on Thames. At Sunbury Cross round about; From A316 take 3rd exit, From M3 take 6th exit into Green street. (2nd / 5th exit is into a B.R. station). Go over the narrow humpback bridge and follow Green street for 1 mile. At the river Thames turn right. At Marshall's Roundabout (Texaco petrol station) take 1st exit. Halfway across Walton Bridge, turn right along the river bank towards Weybridge. After 1/2 mile, turn right over the one-way bridge. Keep the Thames on your right. Follow narrow lane for 400 metres into the club grounds

Good luck everyone!

Ian Harvey
Lions Chairman

Sunday 11th March 2012

Emanuel Lions U7s & U8s Tag Festival Report

Last Sunday Emanuel Lions welcomed a large number of local clubs for our second U7 & U8 Tag Festival organised by Pete Wright and a small army of volunteers. On a beautiful spring day Blagdons was alive with excited players, supportive friends and family plus a lot of nervous coaches!

Here's how we all got on.....

U8s

U8 Panthers

It was a day of two halves for the Panthers. The team started with games against Rosslyn Park and Harlequins, with the team winning both with some of the best rugby they've played at a festival. Compliments were paid by the Rosslyn Park coaches as to the quality of rugby we played. Direct running from first phase ball, punching through the defensive line, and excellent support running and passing leading to very direct and fast scores.

In the third game we came up against Old Whitgiftians who played the better rugby and beat the Panthers fair and square. We then met the Panthers 'bogey team' our very own Puma squad. In a tight, intense and fairly error strewn performance we were fairly beaten by the better side on the day. Notable performances came from Archie Willett (who played all but the last game with an upset stomach), and Sam Ward who repeatedly broke the defensive line with first phase ball before offloading to support runners.

U8 Pumas

Due to a problem with fixtures the Pumas first game commenced at 11 am against a well drilled Rosslyn Park B team who had already played one game and beat the Pumas by 7 tries to 2. Our next game was against Guildford and the Pumas started well and despite a spirited come back from the visitors we held on to win.

Due to a bye, the next match for the Pumas was against our own "A" squad, the Panthers, in the Plate Semi Final. This was not a match either side had wanted and the coaches wished they could have avoided. The game was hard fought and the lead changed hands twice before the Pumas prevailed sadly sending their squad mates out of the competition.

The Pumas then faced Rosslyn Park C Team in the final. The teams were finely balanced and both played excellent attacking rugby in a hotly contested final reaching a full time score of three apiece. The game then went to sudden death and despite the best efforts of the Pumas, Rosslyn Park crossed for the winning try.

At the end of the Final Mark Eaden assembled the team around him and spoke of his and the other coaches immense pride in the Pumas. The squad played hard for each other throughout and upheld the true values of rugby. The Pumas are a credit to the Club.

U7s

U7 Yellow Squad

The Yellow squad entered the first festival of the year in great excitement. All squad members were eager to play and scoring tries was top of the agenda. Our eagerness to score overtook our desire to tag in our first game against Kings and unfortunately we conceded three early tries. The Lions came back gallantly against Kings and the children and coaches recognised we were caught napping. The children’s response to this first defeat was tremendous and they went onwards and upwards from that point. With a win against Hammersmith, an excellent draw with Rosslyn Park the Yellows moved into the plaque semi final. The Yellows won the semi final and then put out an excellent performance winning the final against Richmond. The try scoring and passing was of the highest quality and the tagging at times was ferocious.

The Yellows tasted their first final win and they enjoyed it. The parents and the club are very proud of their achievement and their exemplary behaviour within their team and towards the visiting club players.

U7 Blue Squad

For many of the Blue squad this was their first taste of a Festival. The team showed great spirit and passion as they battled hard against clubs such as Roslyn Park, Richmond, Chobham and Hammersmith & Fulham.

The Blue’s fought hard throughout the day and narrowly missed out on a last gasp victory when they held Camberley RFC to a 3-3 draw to take them to a Golden try play-off. You could cut the atmosphere with a knife as the two teams went head-to-head. The Blue’s kept on pushing but missed out when a final surge for the line saw Camberley get the Golden Try.

All the children had a good day, worked well as a team and picked up the invaluable experience of playing in a Festival. This will put them in good stead for future Festivals.

Most importantly they had fun.

Well done guys.

U7 White Squad

At the Lions festival we fielded a third U7 side, known as the Whites. This was very much a new team aimed at gaining experience for future festivals not only for the children, but also the parents and coaches.

We didn't need to have any concerns as the children immediately took to their first taste of competitive rugby. The mighty Whites got off to an excellent start and won their first ever game, against Camberley, 6-4. The team showed great character in the next match and came back from 3-0 to level the match at 3-3, but ran out of time before we got the last try.

The next match didn't go quite so well with a defeat to Esher B, but it was a great performance to come second in our group with a brand new team. We met Chobham B in the semi-final of the plate and put up a spirited performance but, despite pushing to the end, couldn't quite get the tries we needed and lost 5-3.

Overall we were really happy with the way the squad came together and the children responded very well to their first taste of competitive rugby. It gives us a great foundation to work on with them between now and the next festival.

Sunday 11th March 2012

Emanuel Lions U7s & U8s Festival Arrangements

The Lions tag festival for under 7 & 8 will take place this weekend at the club.

All lion’s players for this tag festival must be at the club for 0915 for registration and a warm up. The remainder should come down and support their team mates at 09.30-09.45. All U7s & U8s coaches to be at the club for 08.00 prompt.

The club needs help to:

Mark out the pitches from 07.30 and to assist Pete later in running the games, pitch marshals, litter collection etc (any senior players for this would be welcome).

Please contact Peter Wright Festival organiser on pete@one-body.com

The majority of this help needs to come from the U6, U7 & U8 squad parents as it is your festival and very labour intensive. This is our festival so please, please help and enjoy yourselves.

In the Kitchen from 0800 and to set up and run the BBQ outside contact Steve Ling.

Car parking assistance from 0800, see me or Martin Baker on the morning. There will be limited Lions Parking at no fee but once it has gone

The parking & programme is £4. Just a programme is £2.

The U9s, U10s, & U11s will be away at Kings RFC in Arthur road Motspur Park (New Malden borders) Surrey KT3 6LX, 5 minutes drive from Emanuel HQ. This starts at 10.00 so be there for 09.30 prompt. Anyone who wishes to watch and support on their return from Kings would be most welcome and it will be a good festival. There will be refreshments at the bar, park where you can (maybe B&Q - 3 hour limit).

The U12s & U13s and the girls teams will be training in Beverley Park, Park View New Malden (the park you can see from the club). Coaches please come and get equipment before training (preferably on Saturday). Please do not take too many cones. Registration at the park will be at 10.30 and players must sign in. Start time 10.45. There will be the usual £2 fee as there are hot dogs and drinks for players back at the club at 12.30.

Parking, in Park view and surrounding streets. On finishing the players will be walked back to the club (short cut footpath over the river) to support the final games of the festival.

If at all possible do not bring your car to the club as it will be very busy with visiting clubs.

Sunday 4th March 2012

Emanuel Lions U13s Win Tight Game at Home

LIONS Under 13 home match against Weybridge vandals on Sunday was won by the Lions 17 - 15 a very tight match in the rain that the Vandals did not expect to loose late into the game. Both teams played very well with courage and guts, Vandals leading the game 15 -12 with minutes to go, then Mo forced himself along the touchline breaking 4 tackles to score the winner with seconds to go.

Mo, won the man of the match for scoring 2 tries, but all the team worked as one and they were all ‘men’ of a memorable match.

Well done to all for a great display of effort and a great example to the players lower down the club of tenacity.

My thanks also go to Bill Prentice the ref who stepped in at the last moment, Steve Lacey head coach U/13 for his skill as a coach, together with the Coaches from Roehampton University who assist him. Also the players parents and the girl’s squad who braved the appalling weather to shout the boys to victory.

The man of the match challenge was won by Mo from Emanuel Lions in the bar afterwards.

The Mini side of the club had a great but very muddy day at Esher RFC, Esher are a very good ‘A’ club but we all played well and the results were really great, well done to all. Thanks to the coaches and team managers for their efforts and Mums who have a bit more washing than normal to attend to before next Sunday.

Saturday 3rd March 2012

Tesco & Sainsbury's Vouchers Collection

All points bulletin...we will be collecting Tesco and Sainsbury's vouchers again this year.

Last year, despite starting late we collected enough to provide the Lions with a dozen new rugby balls.

Collecting boxes will be on show at registration and in the bar after training.

Sunday 26th February 2012

OE Lions U9s roar in triangular fixture at Wimbledon Warriors on Sunday

We took both the Yellow and Blue Squads to the other side of the A3 to play in a triangular fixture with Wimbledon Warriors and Weybridge Vandals. The fixture was very well organised by Paul and Rob, and it was good to see
Fabio, Jason and the Vandals coaches again after our successful fixture there earlier in the season.

We played two teams of 10 players and also had three of our Yellow Squad join some of the Warriors in a Barbarians side (for those not familiar with the term, Barbarian teams are usually made up of up and coming stars from a range of clubs or countries and are known for playing with flair!)

The Blue Squad won both of their games, beating Warriors 6-1, and Vandals 6-3. Both matches were played with great spirit, with excellent performances from all the teams. The stand out players for the Lions were Marcus, Cameron and captain Merlin. Jamie won Player of the Day for the Blue Squad for his rucking and ripping the ball at every opportunity. Well done!

The Yellow Squad came out on top in their first 2 games, beating Warriors 6-0 and Vandals 7-2. There were excellent performances from the front row (Iwan, Cian and Matthew) and some super tries scored by Lewis and Dylan. The players in the Barbarians team were doing well, so we mixed them into the Yellow team for the final game, and had Dylan, Jack, Sam and James T in the Barbarians. In an enthralling and bruising encounter, the Barbarians team came out on top, with Sam scoring his first Try in a competitive game, and we saw wonderful tackles from Oscar and a powerhouse Try from Iwan. Player of the Day was Louis, whose powerful running was superb.

The Player of the Month for February was awarded to Jack, the ferocious tackling machine!

Friday 24th February 2012

Home Festivals

Parents/carers will be updated by the respective team coach/manager if your child is selected to play.

On the dates of the Tag Fest (11/3/12) and Contact Fest (15/4/12), there will be no home training at OERFC Blagdons. Coaches will try to get fixtures with other clubs or use Beverley Park for their training. The clubhouse will be open and players and parents/carers are welcome to come and support.

There will be very limited parking at the club due to the other teams coming so please leave the car at home if you can and park around Beverley Park if you decide to use that option.

Visitors to OERFC Blagdons will pay for parking and programmes. The club will need some help with stewards and parking attendants - please contact Harv or your Team Manager/Coach if you are able to help.

The Kitchen will be open so again we will need some help. Coaches of the teams playing in the festivals will be looking for volunteers for assistance.

Please contact the usual people if you can offer help.

Friday 24th February 2012

Minis & Youth Rugby Fixtures List for Remainder of 2011/12 Season

Minis

26/2/12 – Home Training

4/3/12 – Away at Esher

11/3/12 – Home Training / Tag fest for U7 & U8

18/3/12 – Home Training

25/3/12 - Weybridge Festival

1/4/12 – Staines Festival

8/4/12 – Easter Sunday - No Training

15/4/12 – Home/ Contact Festival U9 & U10

22/4/12 – Surrey B Festival

27/4/12 – Esher Floodlit Festival (Friday night 6pm start)

29/4/12 – Home Training or Surrey C Festival

06/5/12- Presentation Day - No Training

Youth (U13s)

4/3/12 – Home to Weybridge

18/3/12 – Home to Wimbledon

25/3/12 - Away to Guilfordians

1/4/12 – Away to Camberley

Sunday 5th February 2012

Emanuel Lions Training at Home Hosting Warlingham RFC

We will have an early start this week weather permitting – it is forecast to be very cold so please check your emails on Sunday morning to see if the pitches will be playable. For those of you without access to emails because it is a work email can you please ensure that you the contact details of your coach or team manager. Alternatively make sure you find out from another parents. You will be able to see from your own gardens if there is a heavy frost but it is still worth checking as rugby players are made of strong stuff!

The club will only put out a cancellation message to your coaches and Emanuel Lions mail but parents will know by 09:30 at the latest.

We await an inspection from, Mike, the groundsman re pitch availability on Sunday. Coaches please keep you phones switched on on Sunday morning and have team contact sheets available. All players in warm layers and track suit bottoms (no zips please) and hats are advisable for training but not matches.

Weather permitting, we have Warlingham RFC visiting with about 100/120 players; they will be here from 10:00 so we will have registration at 10:15 for a 10:45 start.

Parking will be very limited so please get here early, car share and find other means of getting to the club if you are able. We need some parking attendants from 10:00, please see Martin if you can help. Coaches and helpers please park in the garden & tennis courts. Additional parking; Tesco & B&Q 3 hours, Currys 2 hours before you have to move.

All coaches and helpers please be at the club for 09:15 if possible, Martin knows the Clubs preparation routine to make the club safe for children after the adults teams games from the day before.

Under 13s have an away match at Guilfordians RFC at

The Pavilion, London Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 1TU

Travelling south on the A3, take the second turn-off after the M25, signposted to Guildford and Burpham, A3100 (the first turning is signposted to Ockham and Ripley).
Continue on this road, negotiating several mini roundabouts. At the fifth one (which is big and grassy) take the second exit, which leads into London Road. The clubhouse is about 200 metres along on the right hand side. Kick off is at 11:00.

U13s Please parade at the club for 09:15, to leave prompt at 09:30 travelling time 20/25 minutes. Harv has 3 spaces in hiscar, please car share when you can. Harv will bring the shirts and the practice balls and first aid kit. If you’re going to be late or in difficulty let someone know. If you cannot come let Harv, Jo or Steve Lacey Know ASAP.

Let's hope the weather is kind to us all..................

Sunday 22nd January 2012

Feedback from Emanuel Lions U13s v Farnham U13s

Following the U13s match against Farnham last week, the club received the following feedback from the visiting team's coach:

I would just like to thank you and your colleagues for your amazing hospitality thisafternoon (for our U13 match). From the moment we arrived until we left we weremade to feel extremely welcome by all. From all the coaches, players, supporters and,particularly, the ladies who served lunch, every person played a part in making Old Emmanuel the most friendly club we have visited this year (bar none!)

It was an absolute delight to see both teams playing such competitive rugby yet still staying in the spirit of the game - Ultimately, the game is all about making friends. The score-line definitely flattered us and I was very impressed with how well your boys stuck to the task in hand and never gave up! A real credit to the club.

We will look at our fixture/training list; hopefully we will be able to invite you for a joint training/friendly fixture and do our very best to return your high standards of hospitality

Please pass on my thanks to your U13 coaching team who were role-models of what the game is all about! (I think we may steal your "man-of-the-match challenge" for our homegames!!!!!!) Hopefully see you again before the end of the season.

Pete Hyland U13 Coach

Farnham Rugby Club

Emanuel Lions - Earlier Start & Finish

Sunday 22nd January 2012

This Sunday, 22.01.12, we are training at home with registration at 10:15.
Please be there as close to 10:00 as possible to start at 10:30 as we have to be off of the pitches by 12:30. All training teams to use the first 2 changing rooms.

PLEASE make sure that you all register in the clubhouse before playing; the £2 is primarily for your insurance.

We had a friendly U/13 match with London Welsh last Sunday 15.01.2012 which the Lions won well. The U 13 Squad, be at the club for 11:30 at the latest. Please use the home changing room. If you cannot come let Steve Lacey know urgently.

Farnham RFC will be our guests so please be polite and welcoming, as I know you will be. They will be allocated the third changing room along, and a meal afterwards. The Riverside pitch (it is in the best condition) will be in use from 12:30 for warm up, Kick off at 13:00. Please stay and support your team. They will be served (helpers required) with a pasta meal on conclusion of the match and then the 2 players of the match, one from each team, will be set a small contest in the bar.

Farnham RFC will have reserved parking spaces so parking will be at a premium so get there early. Could we please have coaches and helpers in the tennis courts and garden to help out.

Emanuel Lions U9's hosted Barnes RFC

Sunday 4th December 2011

We hosted Elliott and his fellow coaches, along with about a dozen boys from Barnes RFC on Sunday. It was a great training and game-play session, with some fun warm ups, following by the regular focus on standard techniques of tackling, rucking and ball handling. The loop pass is starting to come together in the drills, we just need to try it in a game! We mixed the teams up, and swapped players around to even the sides, but it seemed to work well and the boys showed great commitment and energy.

We awarded the November Player of the Month after the session. There were three Runners Ups – Marcus, James Thorp and Oscar. But this month’s winner is Morgan, for his enduring effort and the progress made with achieving his learning objective this month.

We also welcomed another new recruit, Kyle, to our Pride.

Normal session at home this Sunday. Please remember to buy your tickets for the Christmas Party the following week.

Emanuel Lions U9's at Weybridge Vandals RFC

Sunday 27th November 2011

On another sunny Sunday morning the Lions U9s made the most of the three way fixture at Weybridge Vandals RFC, along with Staines RFC. We had a very warm welcome from Fabs and his coaching team and the 22 players that made the trip did the club proud. The standard of play was excellent, with each team winning three games and losing one. Indeed because we had more players there than the other two clubs, some of our boys played for the opposition, and in one game helped the opposition to victory over the Lions team. Press-ups for those players this Sunday!

It was great to see some of the less experienced players gaining some important match play minutes. Notable were Cameron’s first technically excellent big tackles, Marcus’s first ever try, and Jamie developing a talent for ripping the ball from the opposition. We also saw strong performances from James Thorp, Iwan, Morgan and Charlie. There were many great performances, so well done!

Emanuel Lions U9's at Warlingham RFC

Sunday 20th November 2011

Well done to everyone that made the trip to Warlingham RFC on Sunday. We received the usual warm welcome from Barry and his coaching team there and had some amazing warm sunshine to train and play in. And what a pleasure it was to train and play with the Warlingham boys and girls, and what a fantastic showing from our boys. We were on top of the drills and came out on top in the games too. It made be proud to be involved with this squad of players, the commitment, skill and effort were second to none. Our tackling, ripping and mauling were particularly strong. Well done. Thanks also to the coaching team (although I’m not too sure what happened to our Team Manager!!).

6th March Match Reports

U6 /U7s at home
Around 25 U6s and U7s trained at Blagdons on Sunday. Once again, training focussed on match practice with a long game of Tag Rugby, where the Lions beat the Tigers by 55-35. Well done to everybody on the demonstrable progress that is being made.

U7s
Despite returning from Mitcham without silverware, it's safe to say that this was the best festival performance from an Under Sevens team in the four years that I have been involved with this age group.
Our squad finished top of their group after three convincing wins over Edenbridge, Weybridge Vandals and Mitcham Bulls. Team spirit was high and the squad was, as usual for the Lions, the best behaved and most respectful team out there.
The semi-final of the cup came with great expectations but in the end it was not to be. Our opponents, Streatham & Croydon, were a very physical and blisteringly quick side, with a couple being a yard quicker than our own very fast boys and girls. We lost momentum as result of a succession of turnovers from technical 'fouls' (tag belts) and one or two other awkward decisions early in the match (although as a referee I probably would have made similar calls). Nevertheless, the team kept going and showed spirit and determination to the end.
The coaches couldn't identify a player of the tournament as everybody played to the best of their abilities, with at least seven of them playing to a level beyond which we have seen to date. We could not be more proud.

U8s
Lions Roar!
The U8s Lions team thoroughly deserved the winner’s trophy, having come top from the four pools, and playing with flair and teamwork. We got off to a slower start than we would have wanted, drawing 5-5 with Weybridge Vandals in the first game, then getting our act together beating Park House 8-5 and Beccamians 9-6, to finish top of our group and top of the four pools on tries scored – a massive 22 tries in three games. Stand out players in the Pool games included Lewis – with his superb direct running and evasion, Oscar – with his strong handling skills and support, Morgan - with his pace and jinking runs, Iwan with his tagging and support and Max with his straight running and closing down the space.

We faced Mitcham Bulls in the Semi Final, and after a tightly fought game it finished 6-6. Noah – excellent tagging and support, Merlin – strong tagging and closing the space, Shane – scored a couple of superb tries and Cian – great support play, made a massive contribution. Mitcham were very quick when given space to run, and the Lions defence looked a little ragged and some variable handling meant that we went into extra time. Thanks to some solid defence and strong support play we scored the winning try, thanks to George Harris, the February Player of the Month. His constant support of the ball carrier was immense. We were in the Final.

We played Old Whitgiftians in the Final. Keenly contested, but with confidence and strength in bucket loads, the Lions were always ahead in the game. Louis came on in the middle of the first half and made an immediate impact, with a speedy, jinking try scoring run from end to end. Then Dylan took over and scored 3 tries back to back to put us beyond reach. What was more, his tagging was amazing – tag and hand back, tag and hand back. A wonderful role model to his team mates, and to other teams, and a deserved Player of the Tournament (as voted for by the parents). We finished off winning 7-5 and the team were delighted to be awarded the trophy by the Club Chairman, Ian Harvey.

U9s (a very full report)
This was the most controversial of the groups, hence the very full report.

We arrived at Mitcham with a sense of hope but left with a taste of disappointment, and no matter how well the children played this would not disappear.
This was the first festival at contact level for these children and they did exceedingly well overall.
We had two teams both of differing ability. The first team, although not playing to their full strength and not having a complete side did extremely well. This side have a lot of hope resting on their young shoulders and they didn’t fail to deliver. They played well and certainly a lot better than everyone else they came up against but not to their best. We had a huge wait between the end of the group games and the semi final for the cup as they were waiting for the late group to finish off. The team we played had only just come off the pitch and you could see we had gone cold; we weren’t playing like we had been and all in all if we had we would of won easily.

However we defending like our lives depended on it and kept the score at 0-0, we then found out that there was no back up for a draw and the finalist was decided on a toss of a coin. Our team captain stepped up but alas it was not meant to be our year here, so broken hearted and despondent, the team walked away but they still walked away with their heads held high. They had scored 13 tries and conceded none, and in everyone’s mind they were the real winners.

Some players played out of their skin in defending and going forward and each one of them stepped up and showed themselves at some point but one player who really showed everyone who he is and like a Jack Russell refused to let the game go was Gerard Hopkins - the first team man of the tournament!

Onto our second team who were not at full strength due to illness and absence lost a couple of their key players to the first team. At the beginning of the season some of these players refused to tackle, didn’t want to get involved and generally were a bit scared of getting stuck in and hurt. However, over the past months we have seen these players develop and they have come on so well and collectively they are starting to play like a rugby team. Alas because this was their first contact festival, they retreated to start with and weren’t sure what was going on.

This was only natural - first festival nerves and hopefully this will go by the time they play again. They did however keep going, a few heads dropped but they picked themselves up again and kept at it and a few key players kept battling. As coaches it was disappointing to see them retreat back into themselves as much as they did but they kept going, got through the group and then played for the bowl. Then they woke up and had their minds firmly on the game in hand and really stepped up!

We asked them to score twice and to tackle and ruck and this is what they did. What I should have asked for was a win as their opponents scored 3 and they went down 3-2 but did well in that final game. They had a few players that kept going Joseph McIntyre and Alfie Eaden; but the second team player of the Tournament was Michael McCaffery who kept running and tackling all day!

Now with this team back up to full strength they should put up a good fight at Surrey C , especially as they will have some good experience behind them.

The first team will find it a lot harder at the next Surrey A, but they have the ability to do some damage there as well. One thing for sure is that at the end of the season, clubs around Surrey will certainly know who we are!

U10s
U10’s won all their pool games convincingly, went into the semis with their heads held high and bubbling with confidence; again winning convincingly and then went on to win in the final 3 tries to 0 against Old Cats.
Old cats were a very well drilled side, we put up such a fight; we destroyed their confidence and won with sheer determination and team work. We are very pleased with all our players who are now most unquestionably ‘Surrey ‘A’ ready’
Congratulations to all the Under 10 Squad !!!!

U11s
The U11s played brilliantly in the Group Stage easily disposing of Battersea Ironsides (3-0) and Chipstead (3-1) before a hard fought 2-2 draw with Edenbridge. This meant that we topped our Group and qualified for the Cup competition with the 2nd best record of the 10 teams competing.

However we were outplayed in the Semi Final by Weybridge Vandals who went on to win in the Final too. The team were naturally downhearted afterwards but on reflection the earlier performances should give them great encouragement for next Sunday's Sussex "B" Festival and also to get revenge over the Vandals when we seek to retain our Winner's Trophy at the Weybridge Festival in a few week's time.

U12s (lovely long report for you John)
The U12's started their campaign against a very strong Vandals side and really set the tone for what we could expect for the rest of the day. They were quick off the mark with an impressive score which came as quite a shock to a Vandals side that had comprehensively beaten us a month or so earlier. The rucking and tackling was first rate and we were unlucky to go down 2 tries to one, having been denied a score in the dying seconds of the match. Vandals went on to win the Cup competition so it is no disgrace to have been narrowly beaten.

Our next pool match was against Bromley who we convincingly beat with another excellent display. That put us into the Plate competition where we played Old Cats in the semi final. They never got into the game at all as our pack dominated up front with a text book display of how to ruck against a bigger side. Time and again we created a solid platform for the backs to show what they were capable of.

We played a big Chipstead side in the final and took up where we left off. From all the games I watched and refereed today, I would say that our technique and determination put us ahead of every other side, including Vandals. It just goes to show that a big pack is nothing to be worried about. When we play the ball on the floor and not in the maul, we come off best and make it to the next breakdown quicker than the bigger boys. Which is really what happened in the final; we scored three tries for a comfortable victory.

Special mention to Will Slater for a double try scoring achievement in the final, not something you generally expect from the hooker! Well done Will.
But like everything in rugby, it requires the effort and teamwork of all players to achieve success. What is particularly inspiring is to see the way that the boys are with each other. What a pleasure it is, and has been, to be involved with such a nice bunch of young men who truly enjoy each other's company and offers them friendship outside of the school gates.

On to greater things now..... Sussex, Surrey, etc
If you were to push me to name a player of the festival, it's a difficult call with the usual hard core performances from Ethan, Ollie, Julian, Ed, Will, et al, where do I stop? But it would have to go to Joshua Kim for his contribution to the overall effort. He has just joined us, this is his first festival in a Lions’ shirt and he put in what can only be described as the most monstrous, text-book tackle that I have seen in all my years at Emanuel. The parents were turning away almost apologetically for the ferocity of the tackle. I am pleased to report that the recipient did recover, to his credit. So well done Josh!

From Ian:
I cannot fault any of the fourteen boys’ performance yesterday. The commitment and team play was outstanding throughout the whole tournament. Congratulations to them all. Now is the time that the boys need to be going into school and tell their friends about this. I noticed a few of the boys speaking to others from other teams so clearly they know one an other. We really need to start recruiting now for next season, so spread the word so we can have good numbers for an U13s side. This will be a first for the club. Enjoy Worthing next week. Nice club with nice facilities.

Players of the Month
Well done to all our winners for February.

U6       Alex Bray
U7       Luke Van der Veen
U8       George Harris - and a special mention for Morgan Galloway
U9 To be announced next week as there was little time to do it on Sunday.
U10     Josh Kerr
Michael Cook – a real trier and for his commitment to improve
U12     Robert Spelman – what a long way you’ve come Robert
Girls   Molly Claridge

6th February Match Reports

U6s
A good turnout at Blagdons on Sunday. The U6s did a new passing drill, learning to pass the ball under pressure whilst running which, on the evidence of the weekend, is more than some of the Six Nations teams can do... They finished with two games of tag which were very keenly contested with some good attacking and defensive play. Well done, and keep it up!

U7s
Eight U7s were able to join us this Sunday at "Windy" Warlingham. We started off with a couple of games of bulldog to warm us all up and then began a marathon of tag rugby. Warlingham had enough players for three teams plus subs and rotated them against our one team plus sub. Warlingham took an early lead and continued to outscore us in the first ten minutes. But similar to Scotland against France on Saturday the Lions fought back and playing with real determination were back in the game. Our support play was, as usual, brilliant and our tagging got better and better as the game went on. Despite the constant fresh legs of Warlingham they were unable to pull away and after over an hour of play the ref blew the final whistle and declared the game a draw at 27 - 27. A mighty performance from the Lions and one Scotland will be trying to emulate over the coming weeks.

U8s
On a blustery morning our squad enjoyed the trip to Warlingham RFC, who were very welcoming as always. The players enjoyed and mastered the various drills set up by the Warlingham coaches, and then excelled in the games at the end of the session. The Blue team won both games with strong running and good support. The Yellow team need to be a little more focused on their defensive play. Both teams were again a credit to the club and in terms of preparation for the up-coming festivals; all our players showed a good understanding of both the letter and spirit of the laws of the game. As long as the referees are up to scratch we should do well. But we must continue to focus on our seven S coaching model – this week’s task is to watch some of the 6 Nations games next weekend and watch how well organised the defensive lines are and how they move up to close the space in a line together.

U9s
It was a good weekend of rugby where we kept moving forward and both sides did very well. Our team at Old Whitgitians started with 7 players to their 9 and really showed them what Lions are made of; all that tackling and rucking paid off again. Their U10s turned down an offer of a game with our U9s. At Warlingham the teams acquitted themselves very well and once they refocused on rucking well they were about to stop Warlingham from scoring from turnovers and put an end to ripping the ball from them. At one stage the Lions brought the ball back from within a metre of the Warlingham try line to within a couple of metres of their own try line.

U10s
They tackled better, they rucked better, they passed better and they beat their opposition 5:1……….well done!!!!

U11s
It was a much better day for the U11s this week. Their attitude and application improved greatly from the previous week. They played in mixed teams with Old Whitgiftians which is what our hosts requested. The teams did well and it was interesting for the U11s to work with another set of players and to go up against their own team mates.

U12s
The U12 squad arrived at Warlingham for a fairy arduous training regime followed by a round robin match with their squad of 30 players. I had asked for improvements in the areas of the game that needed attention, namely to get the ball out to the wingers and use the width of the pitch, to not give the opposition space when defending and, of course, to make those tackles early! And they gave it in spades! It looked like a different team from the sidelines and I'm sure that the parents who made that very early journey to watch enjoyed it as much as I did! We played their weaker side first and scored several tries without conceding any. They then brought on their better players and our boys performed really well, despite having played 30 mins of rugby already, were unlucky to concede just a single try.
It was, in my view, a first class effort of which they should all be proud!
They are learning that it takes a team to win at rugby. If the forwards hadn't done their job so well, the backs would not have the ball to show what they can do. I am looking forward to festival time when they will have to put all their experience together and work out how to win against different teams and with different referees. Let's see what happens......

OE Girls
Sunday was our last session with Amy Turner for a while and this week she was there to see if the coaches had learnt anything! This came as bit of a surprise. Needless to say all went well as the girls played well as a team; passing before being tagged and using the space well. Amy was pleased and gave lots of positive feed back. Thanks girls for making it easier for us.
Our tri club competition has been put back a while.

30th January Match Reports

Another cold day at Blagdons kept many of our normal spectators indoors - and who could blame them! But the girls and boys were still as keen to run around and show their skills off.

We played host to Effingham & Leatherhead U11s who brought a large contingent of extremely well drilled boys with them.

Match Reports and a Scattering of Training Reports
U6s
The U6s (including several U5s) played several small and one large game of tag rugby, focusing again on supporting the player with the ball, defensive lines and playing as a team. There is a core of around a dozen stalwarts that play week in and week out, and with this in mind, we are investigating the possibility of fielding a U6 team at one of the festivals in March. We will keep you posted.

U7s
In recent weeks we have seen how strong we are in the attacking element of the game as demonstrated by our excellent passing and support play. This was more than enough to ease our way past Warriors 2 weeks ago but last week against Vandals we met our match. We continue to be strong in the attack but not so strong in our defence. With this in mind, this week we focused on the defence element of the game i.e. tagging. It's not as exciting for the boys and girls as the attack but, it is a very important part of the game and, if we are half as strong in defence as we are in attack, they will really enjoy themselves at the festivals.

U9s
Not even the cold could deter our usual crew, they were out there getting stuck in, a good session was had, picking up new tactics and gameplay, players are now starting to play for the festivals and it is making our job harder in picking the sides but as a coach that is what we want.

U10s
Our under 10s put on an excellent performance against Effingham & Leatherhead's U11 side putting some great tackles and rucking which has been drilled into them for the last 2 weeks.

First game lions 1 EL 2 tries

Second Lions 1 EL 4 tries

Our boys showed some well channelled aggression.

U11s
We were playing Effingham's "A" Team so although the performance was disappointing, it should be put in perspective. There were some good highlights from our team. Amir Cherifi, a rugby player for just over a month, did what he was asked to and made a really good run straight run to tackle one of Effingham's biggest players, and Calum Wilde did a fantastic tackle on a big player and brought him down like a gazelle being hunted by funnily enough a LION. There were other good moments but unfortunately we failed to score and the boys seemed off-form and slightly intimidated by such a well drilled squad. Plenty of things to work on for next time.

Players of the Month
A full house to report this month! Well done to all our award winners for January.

U6s
Scarlett Sayfritz, who has shown excellent progress through her determined running and good concentration. Well done, Scarlett!

U7s
Sam Ward, although there were many contenders for player of the month and in the end we agreed it was Sam. Sam always works hard and takes what he learns from the drills and puts it into practice. Well done Sam and to all the U7s.

U8s
Max Tomlinson. Great work Max - keep it up.

U9s
Matt Fry for consistently high standards of rugby.

U10s
Charlie Pretlove. Well done Charlie.

U11s
Luca Boyd. Well deserved Luca.

U12s
Cillian Creedon. Congratulations Cillian.

Girls
Grace Mansfield for commitment and high standard of play. Grace has put her heart and soul into her rugby - just keep it up.

23rd January Match Reports

Added 25th January 2011

U7s
Match report to follow when the coaches have been able to relax from their day jobs.

U8s
Vandals succumb to the Lions! A very strong showing from our boys and girls on Sunday, with the kind of attacking play we have become accustomed to over these past weeks. Although, at times, our tagging and soft hand passes let us down. The Yellow team won one game and drew the other, while the Blue team lost their first game by a narrow margin against a team with one more player (and were unlucky in the last 10m before the try line several times), and then won their second game by a country mile. Well done everyone, you were once again a credit to your club!

U9s
Righto!
With a freezing wind on our backs our stronger team went out with glint in their eyes and scared the living daylights out of the Vandals A team to a point where as we came close to them, their players threw the ball away. It was a hard game where we showed some good rugby and put up with some dodgy reffing but we went on and beat them 5-0. Our not so strong team went off and played the Vandals’ B team; they showed what strength we have in depth at the club and this is what some other clubs lack. Some of the players that before haven't shone through have started to turn their light on and start to play, they went on to beat them 11-0, and they then went on to play the vandals A team and it proved to be a lot harder. We went down 2-1 and had a try disallowed, we played well, battled hard and showed them what we are about.
Apparently, we had someone from Reeds down to check us out as we are playing them in a couple of weeks and they have been hearing stuff about us. We still need to work on a couple of things and stop a couple of things that appeared yesterday but all in a good buy bloody cold morning.

U11s
We are seeing a huge improvement week on week. Good to see the basics being done much better and much more team play - well done. We made good kicking/running decisions on the pitch. Vandals had a big pack but we never let them dominate us. When we spread the ball to the runners; it paid dividends and our line tackled much better this week. Played with few Vandals players in support roles and beat them 2-1. Two moments of the day stood out - Michael Marlow(Fullback) taking a blinding catch and running up with the ball – Austin Adam's (flyhalf) try which would have made an England coach stand up and take notice.

U12s (the longest report his week!)
After a good warm up session today at Vandals, the U12's took on the might of Vandals in a 15 a side game. We played with six up front with the rest playing in the back line on a full size pitch.
We started well but by half time were three tries to nil down. The sides were fairly evenly matched with the exception that we missed three tackles and a very tall and strong runner which led to all three of their tries. Forwards were great in the scrums and line-outs and won their fair share of rucks, which was really pleasing to see and carrying on from their form at Wimbledon Warriors. The backs struggled to move the ball wide in the first half and gave their opponents too much space by defending too deep, which is something to work on next week. The second half, however, was a different story. We moved the ball faster and wider and it was only last minute tackling by Vandals that stopped us scoring in the corner. I was pleased to see that both wingers got the ball in their hands today and that this has to be the way forward against stronger opposition that we are not able to run through as we have been used to. Tackling was much better too in the second half and was illustrated by the fact that Vandals only scored one more try.
It would have been nice to come away with a score but at least it has highlighted the areas that we need to work on and the areas that we know we are doing well.
You will not find much stronger opposition than Vandals who have a lot of big players, good runners and are a well drilled side so there is nothing to be ashamed of in our performance. Next time will be different.........

Back at Blagdons

Girls
Sunday had 20 girls training and the session was again run by RFU, but this week by Matt Kemp who is the Regional Development Officer for Surrey, and very good he was too. He has taken over from Jo Martin professionally at RFU. Clare Cooper from RFUW was also there, and she wishes to roll out this programme nationally.
Girls enjoyed it and lots of variety as to what they are doing.

Amy Turner is expected back next week and there are plans for a Festival between three clubs in February. So watch this space.

U10s
The under 10 stayed at home and trained hard and there efforts showed as they were far better than at Wimbledon Warriors. Let’s play rugby and keep up the good work. (this week's economical report!)

U6s
About 20 members of the U6-U7 age group, trained at home on Sunday. The majority were U6s with a small contingent of U7s, unable to go to Weybridge, and also a growing number of U5s, which is good to see.

The U6 squad trained hard at learning the basics of tag rugby, focusing on understanding the offside rule, learning not to dive in when scoring tries, and developing better positional play in defence. The Lions beat the Tigers by 6 tries to 3. There is a good nucleus of U6 players, with one or two boys who are already playing in the U7s, such is their ability. Keep up the good work and remember what you have learned each week!

England Player Amy Turner Coaches OE Girls!!

16th January 2011

None other than England Squad Player Amy Turner, also an RFU Community Coach, who was seen in the last Women’s Rugby World Cup Final playing scrum half coached the OE Girls on Sunday. She has over 50 caps for England and has played in two World Cup Finals. Incredibly popular as a player she has developed her coaching skills and is now employed by RFU as she still chases more caps for England and plays club rugby at Richmond.

The girls enjoyed the session and learned a lot. Amy brought a new dimension to their training. She showed them lots of different ideas on how to support in attack and good defensive lines.

The Girls soon realised that when there is a scrum or lineout, there is more space out wide, and passing skills are important to move the ball. The girls learned the benefits of “depth” behind the ball so they can see where the gaps are in the defence and accelerate into them. All this is without contact but gives more variety to the game, but still using those running passing and support skills.
Amy said she was impressed with the skills of the girls and how they ran into spaces and quickly read where the gaps were.

In the clubhouse both boys and girls and a few adults asked for Amy’s autograph and as always she obliged with a smile on her face and in the signature. The programme with RFU is going to run another three weeks and includes a tournament to be arranged with two other clubs. Amy and other RFU coaches will be back at Old Emanuel to continue this development. Next week they will have to put up with the old men coaches but Amy will be back for 2 weeks after that in preparation for a tri-club festival against Chobham and Old Cats.

Old Emanuel Lions Girls’ teams have been chosen for an RFU pilot project where girls are coached to move from minis into junior rugby and decide if they wish to play contact or continue Tag Rugby or both. The fun sessions are a development known as “Tag Plus” where the game that girls have learned to play so well is expanded and introduces elements of competition for possession, scrum, lineout, pop pass and ball placement in a tackle situation: All this with minimal contact.

And the rest of the Emanuel Lions:

U12s
Good session at WW. The boys gave a good account of themselves winning three tries to one.

U11s
Whilst we accounted well for ourselves on the field with some very good play, the team were beaten by a team that played well for the whole period of the game. We allowed one player in their side to out play us - no one accounted for him for the entire period we played.
Kick off positioning, scrumming and lineouts all good - rucking, mauling, tackling and open play support let us down. We did however learn lots more about consistency, teamwork and support play.

U9s
The U9s had a good session with some good rugby on show and a vast improvement on the week before. We played 3 games with the first two being two strong teams with one drawing 2-2 with Warriors a team and the other winning 5-0 against their B team. In the final game we saw out strongest team available go 1-0 down as they didn’t wake up quick enough. We then responded with 5 try's and not allowing the Warriors out of their half in the second half against the Warriors A team.
Role on the Vandals and let's keep moving forward!

U8s
Well, what a series of excellent performances by the U8s at Wimbledon Warriors this Sunday. We saw some fine rugby: fantastic team play, speed, short passing, straight running, interceptions and closing down the opponents in a straight line. We worked just as hard when we didn’t have the ball as when we did, and that hard work paid off. Our opponents appeared less well drilled, and were less than happy when the games didn't go their way. Both the Lions teams won the majority of their games, and a special mention to the lads that played in the first Barbarians team (the team only had 6 players in it, 3 from the Lions and 3 from the Warriors; and they won both their games against 7 aside teams). They did the club proud with their good behaviour and hard work (Oscar, Merlin & Max).

We must though continue to work hard on our 7 S’s, because Weybridge Vandals will be strong opposition next week. Remember, the quickest route to the try line is running ......STRAIGHT !!

U7s
Our boys and girls in the U7 squad were as usual excellent, both teams teaching the Warriors a thing or two about tag rugby. The main points to note about last weekend's performance was the discipline and teamwork displayed by all players, both in attack and defence. We didn't keep score in either of the games played, but we were very much on top throughout

Emanuel Girls vs Grasshoppers

Added 23 November 2010

Congratulations to our Girls’ squad in winning against the Grasshoppers in their first competitive match. Girls’ score was 8-6. Although Emanuel seemed to tower above Grasshoppers we were playing a team that has been playing for a whole season before we started and who had some brilliant runners. The first game for the younger players we lost 5-3 but played a great game. In the second match our girls showed 100% commitment and good team work, with great ball handling, fantastic running and superb support play making them worthy winners. They made their coaches (Penny, Fergus, Malcolm and Gordon) very proud. I am sure it will be the first of many wins in the future. We will meet Grasshoppers again in January.

Floodlight Festival - Emanuel Lions vs Emanuel School

Added 15 November 2010

Great day on Wednesday at the floodlit festival against the school under 12 whom we beat, some strong rugby played by all but we were stronger in both halves. With some great play by our players, we eventually won 29 - 5

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who attended on Wednesday for all their hard work. Special thanks to our club volunteers who helped in the kitchen preparing burgers and hotdogs that were quickly consumed and all those who built the bonfire and provided us with a great firework display.

I would also like to thank all the parents for coming to support their team and bringing fireworks, we hope to repeat it next year. Volunteers at this club only provide their time for the benefit of children.

EmanuelRugbyLions

What's happening - Lions News

Friday 27th and Sunday 29th April 2012

Arrangements for Esher & Surrey C Festivals, and U13s Last League Match of the Season

Sunday 22nd April 2012

Emanuel Lions at Surrey B Festival Report

Sunday 15th April 2012

Emanuel Lions U9/U10 Contact Festival Report

Sunday 1st April 2012

Emanuel Lions at Staines Festival Report

Sunday 25th March 2012

Emanuel Lions at Weybridge Vandals Festival Report

Sunday 25th March 2012

Emanuel Lions at Weybridge Vandals Festival Information

Sunday 11th March 2012

Emanuel Lions U7s & U8s Tag Festival Report

Sunday 11th March 2012

Emanuel Lions U7s & U8s Festival Arrangements

Sunday 4th March 2012

Emanuel Lions U13s Win Tight Game at Home

Saturday 3rd March 2012

Tesco & Sainsbury's Vouchers Collection

Sunday 26th February 2012

OE Lions U9s roar in triangular fixture at Wimbledon Warriors on Sunday

Friday 24th February 2012

Home Festivals

Friday 24th February 2012

Minis & Youth Rugby Fixtures List for Remainder of 2011/12 Season

Sunday 5th February 2012

Emanuel Lions Training at Home Hosting Warlingham RFC

Sunday 22nd January 2012

Feedback from Emanuel Lions U13s v Farnham U13s

Emanuel Lions - Earlier Start & Finish

Sunday 22nd January 2012

Emanuel Lions U9's hosted Barnes RFC

Sunday 4th December 2011

Emanuel Lions U9's at Weybridge Vandals RFC

Sunday 27th November 2011

Emanuel Lions U9's at Warlingham RFC

Sunday 20th November 2011

6th March Match Reports

6th February Match Reports

30th January Match Reports

23rd January Match Reports

England Player Amy Turner Coaches OE Girls!!

Emanuel Girls vs Grasshoppers

Floodlight Festival - Emanuel Lions vs Emanuel School

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