Match Reports 2008 - 2009

Lichfield (a); Halesonians (h); Whitchurch (a); Cheltenham North (a); Camp Hill (a); Hereford (a); Stoke (a); Syston (a); Sutton Coldfield (a); Solihull (a); Burton (a); Bromsgrove (h) Cup; Stratford (a); Walsall (h); Camp Hill (a); Bromsgrove (a); Luton (a) Cup; Solihull (h); Sutton Coldfield (h); Bromsgrove (h); Stoke (h); Hereford (h); Burton (h); Portsmouth (a) Cup; Cheltenham North (h); Camp Hill (h); Whitchurch (h); Walsall (a); Stratford upon Avon (h); Bromsgrove (h) NM Cup; Luctonians NM Cup Final

Sunday 10th May - North Midlands Cup Final

Dudley Kingswinford 19 Luctonians 35

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Simon Fletcher 14 Jak Davis, 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Robbie Jones, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Tom Huggins, 8 Tui Asi Pito, 7 Sam Pedley 6 Andy McEwen (Capt), 5 Joe Francis, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 Tom Lockley, 17 Stefan Thorp, 18 Neil Chivers, 19 Jamie Ramsey, 20, Robbie Harlow, 21 Karl Lockley, 22 James Jefferson.

The big Luctonians pack gave the DK eight a torrid time in a one sided first half at Stourton Park that saw them score five tries to go 28-0 up after 37 minutes and had sweeping changes not been made at half time it might well have been a cricket score before the end! The Herefordshire side finished 2nd= in Midlands 1 this season and though DK only just missed out on a playoff spot for that division, they looked way off Midlands 1 pace in the first half. With influential skipper Ian Langford on holiday DK’s new forward line-up saw Andy McEwen take over Langford’s mantle on the blindside flank with Joe Francis coming into the second row. Tui Asi Pito was at No 8. For whatever reason this experiment didn’t work as the DK pack was pretty much taken apart in both loose and set play in the first half. DK’s problems were not exclusive to their forwards; halfbacks Tommy Huggins and Gareth Bown looked vulnerable under the first half pressure and despite heroic defence from Stef Shillingford and Simon Fletcher Luctonians seemed to find gaps with ease.

Key changes at half time saw Robbie Harlow come on at scrum half, Jamie Ramsey at No 8 with Tui moving into the back row and Andy McEwen into the second row replacing Joe Francis. This permutation certainly did seem to work and - Hey Presto! DK suddenly looked a completely different side! Scrum half Robbie Harlow was the main catalyst for this amazing turnaround, barking orders to the pack, organising his backs and generally keeping the DK side up on its toes. Whilst only a cameo role, his performance fully merited the DK Man of the Match award as his influence turned the match on its head to such an extent that Luc’s spent over 80% of the second period in their own half. DK scored a couple of tries to add to their late first half effort and Luc’s were wobbling at 19-28. However they missed two gilt edged chances that would have given them the lead and Luc’s sealed a deserved victory with an injury time try. Tui Asi Pito, Jamie Ramsey, Andy McEwen and Richard Kelly all played big parts in a stirring second half.

Luctonians shocked DK by taking a 1st minute lead strong, bustling forward play set up a platform for their backs for centre Brett Prior to touch down an unconverted try for 5-0. A poor defensive kick from DK set up another incisive Luctonians attack after 8 minutes when full back Mark Panniers scored in the corner to make it 10-0. The Luc’s pack were totally dominant but it was rank poor tackling that let in Luctonians winger Andy Garrod for their 3rd try after 22 minutes making it 15-0. A Brett Prior penalty after 25 minutes increased Luc’s lead to 18-0 before DK conceded a fourth try after 31 minutes when their diminutive open side flanker pounced on a badly tapped lineout ball that bounced over the DK goal line to make it 23-0. DK were floundering and Luctonians duly added a 5th try after 37 minutes when an excellent backs movesaw Cameron Hewitt brush aside another weak tackle to score making it 28-0.

DK finally got onto the score sheet in first half injury time with a very good try out of the blue. For once DK managed to secure a quick ruck ball that was moved swiftly out to full back Simon Fletcher coming into the line. The merest hint of a dummy sent the last Luc’s defender the wrong way and Fletch touched down at the posts. Gareth Bown added the extras for 28-7.

Half Time: LUCTONIANS 28 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 7

DK’s half time changes sparked an immediate revival and attacked hard from the start. Skipper Andy McEwen made a typical strong run into the Luc’s 22 and the ball was secured and spun out to Robbie Jones who scored in the corner to make it 28-12. Dudley should have scored again 3 minutes later when a superb flowing move took play right up to the Luc’s line only for an unaccountable forward pass under no pressure saw the chance gone. DK though were now a different side and continued to furiously batter away at Luctonian’s line. Their amazing revival was rewarded after 64 minutes when another fine backs move, a miss pass to Stef shillingford and then a subtle inside pass from the centre to Robbie Jones saw the winger in for his second try. Gareth Bown’s conversion made it 19-28 and the cup holders looked vulnerable for the first time.

Despite their second half dominance DK had missed their opportunity and after 78 minutes they missed yet another golden chance when Stef Thorpe tried to pick up a bobbling ball over the goal line and knocked it on! In a rare second half sortie in injury time and the game won, Luc’s scored a late converted try to wrap up a deserved victory by 35-19 though they must have been a little relieved given DK’s sterling second half effort. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Thursday 30th April 2009 - North Midlands Cup Semi Final

Dudley Kingswinford 33 Bromsgrove 17

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Robbie Harlow 14 Jak Davis, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Robbie Jones, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Tom Huggins, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Sam Pedley 6 Ian Langford (Capt), 5 Andy McEwen, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 Tom Lockley, 17 Stefan Thorp, 18 Neil Chivers, 19 Joe Francis, 20, Tui Asi Pito, 21 Karl Lockley, 22 James Jefferson.

This was a full blooded, pulsating cup tie played in tremendous spirit by these two very committed local sides before a surprisingly large midweek crowd of around 450 supporters at Heathbrook including a healthy contingent from North Worcestershire. Whilst league champions Bromsgrove fully deserved their league success, being easily the best and most consistent side over the season and landing the title by five clear points, they do seem to bring the best out of this young DK side who have now managed to win three out of their four encounters with them (2 cup, 1 league) this season. This particular win was probably the best of the four, a five tries to two victory, underlining DK’s achievement and position as the leading points scorers in the Midlands 2 West Division (707), a staggering 77 points more than their nearest rivals!

The midweek tie meant that both sides were missing a few players. For DK, free scoring winger Matt Taylor, influential Kiwi full back Leigh Foster and in-form centre Tom Weaver were all unavailable. They were replaced by Jak Davis, Robbie Harlow and Simon Fletcher respectively. After their customary slow start DK totally dominated the first half in which they played some of their best rugby of the season to lead by three tries to nil - 21-3 - at half time. The second half was far more evenly contested with Bromsgrove as expected, hitting back strongly with a couple of tries, only to be eclipsed by a brace of brilliantly executed tries from “back in form” winger Jak Davis. Centre and DK’s Man of the Match - Stefan Shillingford was in irresistible form, almost unplayable for the beleaguered opposition at times. He scored two first half tries and literally had Bromsgrove at panic stations every time he touched the ball! Gareth Bown had an excellent game at fly half, linking well, great kicking out of hand and four conversions. It was a tremendous performance too from the DK pack, with a couple of strikes against the head for the front row of Al Francis, Dan Shakespeare and Rich Kelley. One little niggle, DK gave away far too many penalties during the game constantly costing them valuable territory and possession and almost certainly an even larger winning margin.

Bromsgrove set a brisk opening pace, fly half Ben Copson put them 0-3 up after 2 minutes with a penalty but the visitor’s early barrage soon petered out as DK wrested back the initiative with a brilliant 9th minute 60m solo break from Stefan Shillingford that shredded the Bromsgrove cover. All he needed was a supporting runner for the opening try but no one could keep up with him! The DK faithful were not kept waiting long though, as after 14 minutes and heavy DK pressure the ball was spread wide in front of the visitor’s posts for Stefan Shillingford to power over wide out. A fine conversion from Gareth Bown saw DK go 7-3 up.

DK’s constant pressure brought them a second try after 22 mins. Another awesome, defence splitting 50m break from that man Stefan Shillingford saw him feed Jak Davis then take an excellent return pass from the winger in his stride to sprint another 20m to the line for a great try. Gareth Bown again added the extras to increase the DK lead to 14-3. There was to be little respite for the visitors as DK, sensing the kill, poured forward in droves. Tremendous defence kept them out for a while, but there was a sense of inevitability that DK would score again soon and the third try duly came after 34 minutes when full back Robbie Harlow totally wrong footed the harassed Bromsgrove cover to dart through to the posts from 15m out. Gareth Bown converted for 21-3. Bromsgrove’s resilience under pressure ensured they survived a harrowing 6 minutes to half time without conceding another try.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 21 BROMSGROVE 3

The visitor’s showed their Champion’s credentials with a determined effort at the start of the second half. After a period of pressure in the DK 22 following successive penalties, Nick Copson scored a good scrum half’s try on 47 mins with a neat dummy and 15m sprint to the line. Brother Ben converted to make it 21-10. Though Bromsgrove had much improved on their first half efforts they were hit by another spectacular DK try after 53 minutes. After good probing by Robbie Harlow up to the visitor’s 22 the ball was swung left and then right to Jak Davis wide on the right. The diminutive winger backed his scorching pace to take on no less than three defenders on the outside outpacing them with great panache to score a superb try in the corner making it 26-10.

Bromsgrove, seeing the game slipping away re-doubled their efforts and were rewarded on the hour when an uncharacteristic missed back row tackle in midfield by DK allowed a visitor’s centre to break and send in No 8 Drew Harper for a try in the corner. Ben Copson’s fine touchline conversion made it 26-17 and game on! DK though were not to be denied and their fifth try after 68 minutes must qualify as one of the tries of the season. Jak Davis collecting the ball between his 22 and the 10m line expertly chipped his opposing wing then chased the ball to volley it on the bounce over the head of the advancing Bromsgrove full back into the 22 and over the goal line. Jak’s incredible pace saw him flash past the visitor’s hapless full back to touch down an stunning try just short of the dead ball line. Gareth Bown’s conversion made it 33-17 and effectively sealed the win for DK.

Finally, our two talented Kiwi lads Leigh Foster and Robbie Harlow are now due to leave us and on behalf of the club I would like to thank both of them for their sterling efforts. Both lads have been superb on the pitch and very popular lads off it. Well played and all the very best of luck for the future boys!

DK will now play Luctonians in the North Midlands Cup Final at Stourton Park (Stourbridge RFC) on Sunday 10th May. Please note revised Kick Off time - 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 18th April 2009

Dudley Kingswinford 50 Stratford upon Avon 27

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Simon Fletcher 14 Matt Taylor, 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Robbie Jones, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Tom Huggins, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Sam Pedley 6 Ian Langford (Capt), 5 Andy McEwen, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 Neil Chivers, 17 Tui Asi Pito, 18 Leigh Foster.

On a brilliantly sunny day the DK faithful came in their hundreds to witness a sparkling display by two sides with very different ambitions. DK looking for a hatful of points to overhaul Hereford's total and Stratford looking to maintain a run which has only seen 1 defeat in 5 recently and that one...to Hereford. As news agonisingly filtered through from Hereford of a 12 -7 victory for the home side there was a sense of 'if only' hanging in the air. But, on this display, DK have a great deal to celebrate this season. Over 700 points scored in the League and still the North Midlands Cup to aim for. Indeed as DK kicked off into a fresh breeze the stall was laid out as Simon Fletcher took control of a loose ball to dummy and weave his way through the Stratford defence and off load to Gareth Bown to score under the posts after only 28 seconds of the game. Gareth’s successful conversion made it 7-0 with barely a minute on the clock. Buoyed by early success Al Francis turns over possession for Stefan Shillingford to make a dash down the right wing and his pass saw Robbie Jones close in for a try but he was stopped inside the 22 and this was the first of three breaks made by the experienced winger only to be hauled back by some frantic Stratford defending. Ian Langford got into the action on 4 minutes stealing good ball at the breakdown and a flowing move saw Matt Taylor in for a try to make it 12- 0 with the conversion missed.

DK enjoyed nearly all the possession and both forwards and backs were involved on 9 minutes as Al Francis intercepted a pass by his Stratford namesake, winger Will Francis, to feed Stefan Shillingford who made inroads into the opposition 22 only to see his kick through bounce back towards the Stratford defence and a clean chance went begging as they cleared to touch but, not to be outdone Robbie Jones again sprinted down the left wing and left it to Gareth Bown to take a simple pass and touch down but he failed to convert his own try. 17 -0 and the home fans began to realise the unlikely was a possible!

Stratford then began to show why they have been successful of late as concerted forward pressure saw them close in on the DK 22 and it was no surprise to see the arm go up from referee David Proctor and the resulting penalty was calmly kicked by Jake White the leading scorer for Stratford this season. Penalties have been a bane of contention but this young side will learn from this. Indeed praise for the referee who has been in the middle on several occasions this season for DK and he was fully aware of the importance of this match today and his handling brought applause from both sides, mark his name well...a certain Wayne Barnes refereed at DK not so long ago and the rest is history. This young man may well be as good! There followed a good spell of pressure by Stratford and their forwards were controlling the rucks and mauls pushing DK onto the defensive but after 25 minutes a clearing kick by Simon Fletcher saw DK back in their opponents 22 and from a ruck Jamie Ramsey scooped the ball up and ran at the defence which parted like the proverbial Red Sea and he enjoyed the moment as he touched down under the posts. Gareth Bown converted to make it 24 - 3

Some lovely linking play on 28 minutes saw DK moving the ball left and right and Mr DK, Ian Langford supplied yet another excellent inside pass to Stefan Shillingford to make one of his darting runs and, with players on either side, he opted for Ed Parry and he duly touched down to make it 29 - 3 and the conversion by Gareth Bown 31-3. DK then slipped into a quiet mode and, as half-time approached, Stratford ,trundled, towards the DK line and prop James Hancock scored for the visitors but Jake White saw the ball topple over as he ran up to convert and a snatched drop goal attempt failed to leave the scoreline 31-8 on 32 minutes. Increased pressure by Stratford was beginning to tell and the home supporters became anxious when G Bown received treatment and was forced to take a position at full-back as he tried to run it off. Stratford were rewarded on stroke of half-time with a try by full-back Dave Supperstone who seized on a loose ball on the DK line to make the score 31-13 at half time.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 31 STRATFORD ON AVON 13

The second half began with DK chasing a long kick from Stefan Shillingford and Robbie Jones was again in the action but his final pass to Matt Taylor was pushed into touch. On 50 minutes a short line out move saw Callum Cook the Stratford winger dart in to make it 31-18 and Jake White converted to make it 31-20 and a few DK nerves started to twitch! Andy McEwen has been outstanding this season and he stepped up to the mark on 52 minutes as he bulldozed his way over to calm the nerves and make it 36 -20 and Gareth Bown duly converted...38-20. On came Tui Asipito on 54 minutes and within 2 minutes he was yellow carded for killing the ball and Stratford were using the player advantage by working their way out of defence. On 62 minutes Leigh Foster came on for Gareth Bown and Simon Fletcher switched to fly half. This disruption and the man advantage saw Stratford mount an attack which put Callum Cook away for his second try and the score narrowed to 38-27 as Jake White converted. DK stormed back, mindful of what might be happening elsewhere and Tui, once restored to the field of play, came within a metre of making amends but holding on cost a penalty. On 70 minutes Neil Chivers came on for Al Francis who had an outstanding game alongside Dan Shakespeare and Richard Kelley. Simon Fletcher rounded off an excellent performance by touching down in the corner after yet another flowing move and on 71 minutes DK led 43-27.Robbie Jones made yet another break on 73 minutes darting past the Stratford defence only to be hauled down near the line but, with 4 men queuing up to score, Stefan Shillingford carved open the defence again on 76 minutes to seal an excellent victory with a try which was converted by Simon Fletcher to make a final score of 50 -27. Stratford made this an excellent game to watch and DK can be rightly proud of their efforts.

At the end of the game the team joined supporters on the field to wait on the Hereford result but they can be proud of their efforts. This was billed as the Dave Vaughan Memorial Game and his family were there to witness a wonderful match in his memory and he would have enjoyed every second...whilst filming it of course. And there is absolutely no truth in the rumour that Stratford tried to sign a Shakespeare for next season!!!!

DK are at home to Whichurch next week (North |Midlands Cup Quarter Final). KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 4th April - Midlands 2 West

Walsall 27 Dudley Kingswinford (a)

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Jak Davis, 14 Robbie Jones, 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Matt Taylor, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Tom Huggins, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Sam Pedley 6 Ian Langford (Capt), 5 Andy McEwen, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 Stefan Thorpe, 17 Simon Fletcher, 18 Joe Francis.

After three comparatively comfortable league victories in succession, scoring a total of 167 points to 21 against including 26 tries for and only 2 against, DK were in confident mood, but Walsall were very much “up” for this game and it went right to the wire with DK only securing victory in this thrill a minute encounter with a Gareth Bown penalty in stoppage time. Normally clinical in attack, DK squandered at least four clear cut scoring opportunities, two in each half and it could well have cost them the game. Walsall’s season has been disappointing to date, the team being beset by injuries for much of it. Now back to somewhere near full strength, they are playing much more to their real potential and they matched DK in most departments despite conceding two early tries. DK had won the game at Heathbrook in some comfort (46-7) in December, but this game was always likely to be a potential banana skin. However, despite being 27-17 down with only 15 minutes to play, DK’s young side dug deep in the final quarter, all fifteen of them stepping up a gear to bombard the home line and to ultimately record a tremendous victory. So DK still have an outside chance of a playoff spot assuming they can win their last league game at home to Stratford and champions Bromsgrove can topple Hereford away. A tall order, but still very much a possibility!

There were just two changes to the DK side that beat Whitchurch last week. Jamie Ramsey returned at No 8 with Andy McEwen moving into the second row. Stefan Thorpe, Simon Fletcher and Joe Francis were on the bench. In such a pulsating game there were heroes on both side both back rows were superb with o/s flanker Steve Halbert outstanding for the home side as was Ian Langford DK’s joint Man of the Match, Langy was absolutely crucial in defence for the visitors and also very influential in many attacking moves. Stefan Shillingford had another great game in the centre, uncompromising in defence and magnificent in attack, his superb last ditch try finally putting the skids under a great effort from the home side. He was deservedly named as joint DK Man of the Match. Other excellent performances from Andy McEwen and Gareth Bown who helped steady the DK ship after Walsall’s purple patch at the start of the second half.

DK dominated the opening exchanges and went ahead after 4 minutes. A typical bustling break through the middle from Andy McEwen had the Walsall cover in disarray and Sam Pedley following up took the scoring pass to open DK’s account. Gareth Bown converted for a 0-7 lead. Walsall hit back with a period of heavy pressure but it was DK that forged further ahead after 11 minutes with a spectacular try. Stefan Shillingford’s superb 45m midfield break and pass saw Robbie Jones in for DK’s second try. Gareth Bown again converted for a 0-14 DK lead.

The home side redoubled their efforts and were rewarded with a try after 13 minutes when DK allowed Walsall’s Chris Mould far too much space and the full back sprinted through a large gap to score. Fly half Matt Wood converted and Walsall were right back in the game at 7-14. Suitably encouraged the home side surged forward and DK began to concede penalties from one of which Matt Wood closed the gap to four points with a 23rd minute effort. DK should have increased their lead after 26 minutes after Jak Davis broke clear on the right, his “scoring” pass to Matt Taylor was adjudged forward, somewhat controversially and to add insult to injury DK found themselves 15-14 down a minute later when they lost the ball infield and a strong Walsall attack through the middle saw the ball spun to former DK wing Adam Conniff who outsprinted the DK cover to touch down an unconverted try wide out. Walsall’s kicking game was causing DK a few problems Matt Wood and Chris Mould giving Walsall good field position time after time. DK then settled and Gareth Bown gave them a 15-17 half time advantage with an injury time penalty.

Half Time: WALSALL 15 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 17

Walsall came out strongly at the beginning of the half Matt Wood was wide with a 42nd minute penalty but the home side regained the lead 20-17with a 47th minute try when Adam Conniff showed good pace to round off a straightforward three-quarter move direct from a scrum with an unconverted try. Tails up, Walsall continued to press hard and after 50 minutes Chris Mould was amazingly and very unwisely allowed a 25m wide vacant corridor to saunter through for his second try. Matt Wood added the extras for 27-17 and DK were looking down the wrong end of the barrel with 30 minutes left to play.

Now in serious danger of losing the game, DK began to make inroads. They squandered a couple of glorious opportunities, one on the hour when Tom Weaver uncharacteristically dropped a pass in front of the posts and an even easier chance when Matt Taylor failed to hold a scoring pass on 63 minutes with the line beckoning. Gareth Bown held his nerve to bring DK three points closer at 27-20 with a 64th minute penalty, after which DK visibly upped the ante and for the first time in the game Walsall began to flag a little. Matt Wood and Chris Mould had worked wonders clearing several dynamic DK attacks to touch, but the DK boys kept coming and the game reached fever pitch after 78 minutes when DK scored a superb try in the corner. Andy McEwen and Robbie Jones combined well to set up Stefan Shillingford for a tilt at the corner. He smashed through a couple of tackles with great determination, was brought down just short but managed to stretch out an arm to touch down for a real gutsy try. Gareth Bown missed the difficult conversion but atoned perfectly with an injury time penalty in front of the posts.

DK are at home to Walsall next week (North |Midlands Cup Preliminary Round). KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 28th March - Midlands West 2

Dudley Kingswinford 63 Whitchurch 8

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Jak Davis, 14 Robbie Jones, 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Matt Taylor, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Tom Huggins, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 Sam Pedley 6 Ian Langford (Capt), 5 Joe Francis, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 Stuart Bratt, 17 Neil Chivers, 18 Simon Fletcher.

The club has been stunned by the sudden passing of their popular President John Viv Richards. John was a long time DK stalwart and a larger than life character who will be sadly missed by all. He is survived by his daughter Joanna and his three grandchildren. The funeral will take place on Tuesday 31st March at St Mary’s Church, The Village, Kingswinford, DY6 8AY at 11am. The DK club’s tribute to John can be read on the news section of the club website.

DK achieved a double figure try tally for the second week in succession, running in ten against their old rivals Whitchurch. They have now scored twenty six tries in their last three games and all of this with a serious shortage of senior players due to injury! Some of their first half play was sublime and left their visitors chasing shadows. They took a little time to settle as usual but then scored seven tries in twenty three minutes in a devastating first half onslaught that put the result beyond doubt very early on. The second half performance was less fluent, though a further three tries were added, the DK pack lost a little momentum and gave away too many penalties which had the effect of curbing their earlier flowing style somewhat.

There were three changes to the side that beat Camp Hill last week. With Jamie Ramsey crying of with a training knock, Andy McEwen switched to No 8 with Joe Francis taking his place in the second row. Richard Kelley came in at loose head prop with Stuart Bratt, Neil Chivers and Simon Fletcher on the bench. All the backs performed superbly well with fly half Gareth Bown in great form leading the line. His handling and passing were from the top drawer, brilliant at times. The pack also played their part and Al Francis the DK Man of the Match was outstanding. Al looks very fit and can play for 80 minutes these days. One tackle to bring down a Whitchurch winger in full flight proved the point perfectly. Looks like he may have given up the pies! DK’s whole front five are a pretty mobile bunch as fellow prop Richard Kelley’s marvellous solo opening try demonstrated.

Over eagerness at the start saw DK lose the ball twice in the Whitchurch 22 but the home pressure was continuous and Gareth Bown kicked a penalty to put DK 3-0 up after 9 minutes. Gareth Bown made a tremendous break to set up another ruck in the visitor’s 22 on 11 minutes but again the ball was lost. DK paid for their profligacy when ‘Church fly half Dan Nichols levelled the scores with a 15th minute penalty for 3-3. The dam was just about to break however as DK took a 17th minute lead with an excellent individual try from their dynamic loose head prop Richard Kelley. Receiving the ball inside the visitor’s half he barrelled through in an elusive 35m arc through to the posts for a great try that Jak Davis would have been proud of! Gareth Bown converted for 10-3. DK scored a second try a minute later when an inch perfect chip from scrum half Tommy Huggins was taken expertly by wing Robbie Jones who powered through to the posts. Gareth Bown again converted for 17-3. After 21 minutes it became 22-3 when Tom Weaver finished off a great break from Jak Davis superbly.

The pressure from DK was incessant and they went further ahead after 29 minutes with a 4th try when Tommy Huggins burrowed over after several rucks on the Whitchurch line to make it 27-3. Then, a typically powerful break from a maul saw Andy McEwen set up the 5th try, his inside pass sending in Stefan Shillingford at the posts. Gareth Bown converting for 34-3. Try number 6 arrived after 36 minutes. The ball was moved swiftly down the three-quarter line to Matt Taylor who fed the excellent Tom Weaver on the loop to sprint in for his second try to make it 39-3. Finally, in stoppage time last week’s hat trick hero Matt Taylor got onto the score sheet. Another flowing move out to Jak Davis saw the full back do well to get his pass away under pressure for Matt to power 45m to the posts for DK’s 7th try of the afternoon, Gareth Bown converting for 46-3.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 46 WHITCHURCH 3

DK resumed their offensive with an 8th try after 47 minutes. A mazy break from Jak Davis, back to his best form, saw him pass inside to Stefan Shillingford following up and the talented centre was swiftly in for his second try of the day to make it 51-3. Whitchurch tried very hard to make an impact through their forwards and were rewarded on 54 minutes when a DK scrum ball squirted out from the side of the set piece for alert openside flanker Tom Ruffell to pounce on and score and unconverted try to make it 51-8. DK seemed to momentarily lose their way and the game stuttered for a while. Normal service was soon resumed however as the home side again pounded their visitor’s line and forged yet further ahead when skipper Ian Langford drove through a gap after 61 minutes, Gareth Bown adding the extras for 58-8.

The home side scored their 10th and final try after 73 minutes. Again heavy pressure and excellent handling had left the Whitchurch cover defence floundering as Jak Davis raced in from 15m for an unconverted try to make the final score an utterly convincing 63-8 in DK’s favour.

DK are at away to Walsall next week. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 21st March - Midlands West 2

Dudley Kingswinford 67 Camp Hill 7

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Jak Davis, 14 Robbie Jones, 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Matt Taylor, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Tom Huggins, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Sam Pedley 6 Ian Langford (Capt), 5 Andy McEwen, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 Stuart Bratt. Reps: 16 Richard Kelley, 17 Simon Fletcher, 18 James Jefferson.

The home side scored an early try but there was little inkling of the carnage to come until well into the second quarter when DK hit their visitors with a four try burst in eight minutes which effectively ended the game as a contest. DK went on to score eleven tries (3 for the forwards and 8 for the backs) including a superb second half hat trick from their exciting young winger Matt Taylor and a brace for fellow winger Robbie Jones. Camp Hill fresh from an encouraging win against Burton last week started well but were simply overwhelmed once DK got into their stride..

There were three changes from the side that beat Cheltenham North last week. Robbie Jones returned to the left wing in place of Liam Reynolds, Jak Davis was at full back in place of James Jefferson and Andy McEwen replaced the injured Ollie Shakespeare in the second row. Richard Kelley and Simon Fletcher returned via the bench after injury where they were joined by James Jefferson. The packs were evenly matched in the set but DK were more fluent in the loose play with Ed Parry and Ian Langford in great form. It was through their backs though that DK caused real mayhem, The DK Man of the Match was 18 yr old wing Matt Taylor who followed up his two debut tries last week with three more excellent scores. He also made a couple of try saving tackles when Camps made a rare foray into the DK 22. Robbie Jones looked a powerful force on the other wing and weighed in with a couple of good tries Tom Weaver had a tremendous game in the centre; his incisive running had Camps back-pedalling furiously time and again. Fellow centre Stefan Shillingford was also in great form and is fast becoming a real class act. Half backs Tommy Huggins and Gareth Bown marshalled the side well.

In perfect conditions at Heathbrook Camp Hill showed all the early initiative and DK were penned inside their own half for the first 10 minutes. Centre Simon Edwards was narrowly wide with an 8th minute penalty before DK took the lead in their first attack of the game after 10 minutes. A strong 40m break down the right touch from Jak Davies up to the Camps 22 was then spread wide left for Robbie Jones to cross in the corner. Gareth Bown converted from the touchline for DK to lead 7-0. A magnificent tackle back from Stefan Shillingford prevented what looked like a certain try for the visitors after 13 minutes. At this stage DK were not at their best as they kicked away good possession time after time. A few choice words from coaches Shilly and Lockers seemed to settle things down and now playing more with the ball in hand they at last began to realise their potential and hit the visitors with a savage four try blitz in eight minutes!

Firstly sharp breaks from Stuart Bratt and Jamie Ramsey preceded a defence splitting break from Tom Weaver who sent in ever supporting second row Ed Parry after 24 minutes to make it 12-0. Rampant DK scored again on 24 minutes. After a couple of drives had been held up on the Camps line, prop Stuart Bratt neatly stepped through to the posts for his first senior try and Gareth Bown converted for 19-0. On half an hour Andy McEwen erupted from a maul to make 40m before passing left to Robbie Jones who cruised in from 30m to make it 24-0. Another great 45m break from Tom Weaver set up DK’s 5th try after 32 minutes, he handed on to Gareth Bown who set up a ruck from which the ball was swiftly spun out to Stefan Shillingford who barged over close in to the posts. Gareth Bown converted and DK were almost out of sight at 31-0. Camps managed to stem the tide for a few more minutes until in stoppage time quick thinking from Tommy Huggins saw him rob the Camps scrum ball and send Stefan Shillingford away on a superlative 40m run before sending in Gareth Bown at the posts. Gareth converting his own try for a 38-0 halftime score line.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 38 CAMP HILL 0

DK increased their lead to 45-0 with another converted try after 45 minutes. Gareth Bown changed direction from the open side to blind and gave the ball to Matt Taylor 30m out. The youngster tore through to the posts without a hand being laid on him for a super try converted by Gareth Bown. There was then a rash of yellow cards, DK’s Ian Langford (51 mins) then Camp’s No 8 Rob Hill (56 mins), both for offside before Camps second row Chris Goddard (58 mins) apparently for dissent. There was a five minute stalemate on the Camps line before DK moved the ball wide for Matt Taylor to cruise in for his second try to make it 50-0 on 64 mins. Matt Taylor was in again making it 55-0 after 66 minutes and reaching his hat trick after Gareth Bown’s incisive 40m break had carved open the Camp’s cover yet again, the youngster’s pace did the rest, again proving far too much for the fading visitors.

Camp Hill did get a momentarily respite after 68 minutes when a loose DK pass was intercepted by centre Simon Edwards who touched down at the posts and converted his try for 55-7. DK eclipsed this hiccup with a 10th try on 72 minutes when the ball was spread left and then right for prop Al Francis to score an unconverted try to make it 60-7. Finally a break from replacement centre Simon Fletcher sent replacement wing James “Speedy” Jefferson on a 45m sprint for DK’s 11th try of the day converted by Gareth Bown for 67-7. Full credit to the Camp Hill lads they showed fantastic spirit to lay siege to DK’s line for fully five minutes at the end but were just unable to penetrate a pumped up DK cover defence.

DK are at home to Whitchurch next week. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 14th March - Midlands West 2

Dudley Kingswinford 37 Cheltenham North 6

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 James Jefferson, 14 Liam Reynolds, 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Matt Taylor, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Tom Huggins, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Sam Pedley 6 Ian Langford (Capt), 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 Stuart Bratt. Reps: 16 Neil Chivers, 17 Andy McEwen, 18 Liam Reynolds.

Both sides came into the game with big injury problems. In DK’s case, they have practically had to re invent themselves over the past two weeks! To add to their already horrendous injury list, they lost three props before the kick off! Richard Kelley (toe), Stefan Thorpe (shoulder) and John Fallon (unavailable) then, in the game Ollie Shakespeare (knee) and yet another prop Stuart Bratt (ankle) hobbled off. Considering the huge disruptions this was an excellent result and great credit to the players coming into the side, joint Head Coach Mark Lockley was rightly proud of the fact that seventeen of the eighteen players in the squad had come through the DK Mini Junior ranks (No 8 Jamie Ramsey hails from Bournemouth). North, also beset by injuries, have not had the best of seasons and though their pack competed well for much of the game, they were totally outgunned in the backs, posing few threats.

Enforced changes in the front row saw Stuart Bratt come in at loose head prop and Al Francis at tight head. Sam Pedley was at open side flanker with skipper Ian Langford reverting to blind side. Neil Chivers, Andy McEwen and Liam Reynolds were on the bench. There were several good performers in the pack, Skipper Ian Langford was at his imperious best in the back row, Stuart Bratt showed some quality touches with the ball in hand, Al Francis was in good form carrying the ball well and Ed Parry improves with every game. In the back division young Matt Taylor crowned his home debut with a brace of well taken tries. His proud dad Robin watching from the sidelines scored many tries for DK and Moseley but he certainly couldn’t match Matt’s sidestep! Tommy Huggins had an excellent game at scrum half and kept DK moving forward. The DK Man of the Match however had to be fly half Gareth Bown who in a virtuoso performance led the line well and made several fantastic breaks, two of which resulted in tries. Gareth is an exceptionally gifted and well balanced runner but has had a somewhat mixed season, his undoubted talent shone through big time today.

The home side found themselves 0-3 down after only 4 minutes when they were offside in front of their posts and North full back John Morrison kicked the penalty. DK’s response was immediate. Tommy Huggins tapped and ran a penalty in front of North’s posts and it was quickly moved right where great hands from Stuart Bratt provided space for Matt Taylor to touch down, Gareth Bown converted for DK to lead 7-3 after 5 minutes. North came back well and another John Morrison penalty for offside brought North within a point at 7-6. DK again posted an immediate riposte when an excellent handling move involving great work from Tom Weaver saw Matt Taylor receive the ball 30m out. Pinning back his ears, the youngster ran at and then expertly stepped inside the last defender to hare in for his second try to make it 12-6 in DK’s favour after 16 minutes.

DK then enjoyed a long spell of pressure and North did well to keep the home side at bay. Gareth Bown made a sensational mazy break through at least six players after 34 minutes but with the line beckoning he passed it (to a prop!!) with predictable results! For all DK’s efforts it was North that had an opportunity to close the gap in stoppage time but this time Morrison was wide of the posts.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 12 CHELTENHAM NORTH 6

DK began the second half strongly and skipper Ian Langford, leading by example as usual, scored a superb individual try after 43 minutes. Receiving the ball 20m out, he simply tore through the North pack, crashing through one tackle after another before touching down near the posts. Gareth Bown converted for DK to lead by a more realistic 19-6. A couple of injuries disrupted DK’s flow as lock Ollie Shakespeare and then prop Stuart Bratt had to leave the field after 56 minutes and 62 minutes respectively.

Despite the disruption DK continued to press hard and North were forced to concede penalties, Gareth Bown (2) slotting two after 76 minutes and 79 minutes to make it 25-6 and close out the game, but the real sting in the tail came in stoppage time. A marvellous 50m break out of defence from Gareth Bown split the North cover defence and took him into to the North 22 where his inch perfect pass to Ed Parry following up saw the second rower over for the try making it 30-6. With North resigned to their fate another scintillating 50m break from Gareth Bown saw him again carve through the North cover to tee up Stefan Shillingford for DK’s fifth try. Gareth Bown converted for 37-6.

DK are at home to Camp Hill next week. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 7th March - EDF Energy Intermediate Cup Quarter Final

Portsmouth 25 Dudley Kingswinford 20

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 James Jefferson, 14 Liam Reynolds, 13 Stefan Shillingford, 12 Matt Taylor, 11 Robbie Jones, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Tom Huggins, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Ian Langford (Capt), 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Stefan Thorpe, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 John Fallon. Reps: 16 Neil Chivers, 17 Stuart Bratt, 18 Sam Pedley, 19 Joe Francis

On a blustery day on the South Coast DK took their patched up team to face London 1 side Portsmouth who, though not enjoying a successful season, fancied their chances against a side which they knew were missing key players. Not a game for the purists, but this was a real cup tie and several young players stepped up to the mark and fought hard up to final whistle. In the end it came down to the boot of the Portsmouth scrum half and captain Rupert Neville who slotted a penalty in injury time to deny DK the chance of a semi final place. On the final whistle a huge sigh of relief was audible on the touchline and both sides left the field to the sound of rousing applause and DK coach Neil Shillingford, whilst disappointed at the result, was full of praise for the whole team. DK had an unprecedented seven first choice players out injured from the Burton game last week! Kiwis Robbie Harlow (SH) and Leigh Foster (FB) both with broken fingers, IC Gareth Davies (knee strain), OC Simon Fletcher out with a suspected broken hand, LW Jak Davis with an ankle problem, LHP Al Francis with a rib injury and finally THP Richard Kelley pulling out with a back problem! The coaching staff were rightly anxious of the outcome, but up stepped centre Matt Taylor (son of former DK and Moseley stalwart Robin) from the Colts, Robbie Jones on the wing, Tom Huggins at scrum half and James 'Speedy' Jefferson reverted to full back with Liam Reynolds returning on the wing. Props John Fallon and Stefan Thorpe came in to the front row and DK named 4 forwards on the bench, Neil Chivers, Sam Pedley, Jo Francis and Stuart Bratt who has returned to DK following his time in the RAF

With Portsmouth kicking off into a stiff wind, handling proved difficult for both sides but it was DK who seized the initiative and a neat kick into the Portsmouth 22 by Gareth Bown saw the ball 'fumbled' into touch and, from the resulting line out Jamie Ramsey and Ian Langford almost went over but recycled ball to Gareth Bown saw a delicate chip into the in goal area just evade the DK winger Liam Reynolds. Straight from the 22 drop out DK asserted intense pressure and successive penalties for going to ground and off side gave DK the opportunity to open the scoring. Spurning these chances Stefan Shillingford made a good break and yet another penalty was final taken and Gareth Bown opened DK's account on 9 minutes. Portsmouth 0 DK 3.

An immediate response by Portsmouth saw outside centre, Matthew Gronow escape the DK defence only to be hauled down by Robbie Jones as he tackled back. An infringement saw Portsmouth scrum half Rupert Neville step up for a penalty only to see the first of 2 penalties in the half sail wide as the strong breeze swirled around. DK used the wind to their advantage and Gareth Bown was enjoying success as a number of long clearance kicks pegged Portsmouth in their own 22. One such 'monster kick' from inside his own half landed 5 metres from the Portsmouth line and from the resulting line out John Fallon pounced and DK were now 8-0 up on 22 minutes. Gareth Bown put last week's 'demons' behind him and came within inches of a fine conversion as it rolled down the upright!

On 25 minutes Portsmouth again missed a penalty and DK came right back at them. In the loose John Fallon, Andy McEwen and Jamie Ramsey were menacing and Ian Langford and Ollie Shakespeare imperious in the line-outs and it came as a surprise and a relief to the home supporters and the many amateur referees on the balcony when Lane Gibson, the enterprising and playmaker at number 10 for Portsmouth, weaved his way past the DK defence to score under the posts on 29 minutes. Rupert Neville kicked the conversion and DK found themselves just one point ahead. By now the Portsmouth forwards, whose first up defence was awesome all afternoon, began to dominate the rucks and mauls and DK were grateful for a penalty on 35 minutes which Gareth Bown drilled into the Portsmouth 22. He followed this with one of his trademark sidestep runs and his supporting runners were none other than Jamie Ramsey and John Fallon and when Andy McEwen charged down a clearance from the full back on 38 minutes a further score seemed imminent. On the stroke of half-time a fine break by the fly half Matthew Gronow was not dealt with and Portsmouth surged forward in numbers and it was full-back John Wood who went over for Portsmouth to make the Half-time score 12 -8 as the conversion was missed.

Turning round into the wind DK followed up the high kick off by Stefan Shillingford and saw the Portsmouth full back fumble the ball and the DK pack began to outmuscle their hosts both in the set scrums and the rucks and mauls. On 46 minutes DK wheeled the scrum and made useful yards only to see the ball squirm out and possession was lost. Once again DK put the squeeze on and possession regained saw Tom Huggins, inspirational all afternoon, send the ball wide where an ever eager 'winger' Stefan Thorp took the looping pass in his stride to make the line and put DK 13-12 ahead. The conversion was missed but DK were back in it. Portsmouth regrouped and exerted pressure on the DK line with their forwards, and especially Michael Paniora and Tom Radbourne Nos 4 & 5 tackling like demons. An infringement on 52 minutes saw Portsmouth slot a penalty by Rupert Neville to restore Portsmouth's lead at 15 -13

At this point Matt Taylor was forced to leave the field with an eye injury and he fully deserved the applause he received from both sides for his first appearance in the DK colours. Both in attack and defence he belied his tender age. By now Portsmouth were summoning up a concerted effort and were using the long kick to effect forcing DK back into their 22. James Jefferson saved the day from one such kick touching down ahead of the onrushing Portsmouth backs. However he was powerless on 65 minutes to halt a swerving run by the Portsmouth Kiwi Lane Gibson who dived over to put Portsmouth further ahead and with the conversion Portsmouth 22 -13

On came replacement forward Stu Bratt for Stefan Thorp and Jo Francis for Ollie Shakepeare and they adapted quickly with Stu Bratt making several of his trademark forays. With Sam Pedley on for Matt Taylor the DK spirit rose again and the forwards made useful ground on 72 minutes when Andy McEwen stole a line out and left several in his wake only to be pinged for not releasing. With the Portsmouth first line defence in awesome form it seemed DK were destined to fall well short but a fine interception by Stefan Shillingford saw the centre streak to the line on 75 minutes to make the score 22-18, Stefan then coolly slotted his own conversion to set up an exciting last 5 minutes with the scores Portsmouth 22 DK 20. By now DK had used all of their replacements with Neil Chivers on for the ever reliable Dan Shakespeare and, with time running out and DK on the attack it seemed cruel that DK were penalised inside their own 22 following a kick through by the Portsmouth scrum half and captain Rupert Neville and it was he who sealed the victory for Portsmouth with a well taken penalty to make it 25 - 20.

On a final note there was a little twist in the tale.....the referee Mr Andrew Bickle from Launceston in Cornwall ....was in the side that beat DK in the League play-off in 2002. Both he and his touch judges were applauded by both sides as were the teams on an exciting and nail biting cup tie. Well done lads!

DK are at home to Cheltenham North next week. KO 3pm.

Saturday 28th February - Midlands 2 West

Dudley Kingswinford 25 Burton 25

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Leigh Foster, 14 James Jefferson, 13 Stefan Shillingford, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Jak Davis, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Robbie Harlow, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Ian Langford (Capt), 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 Stefan Thorpe, 17 Sam Pedley, 18 Tom Huggins.

DK’s frustrating season continues, a high unforced error count against both Hereford and Burton has conspired to almost certainly condemn them to another season in Midlands 2 West. With Hereford thrashing Stoke 65-3, DK’s chance of a play off spot this season would seem to have gone for a Burton! DK are now trailing in fourth spot with a far inferior point’s difference to the Wyesiders. It could and perhaps should have been so much different. For the second week running they outscored their visitors with four tries to three, (Burton’s last two came in the final 13 minutes) but yet again goal kicking proved a major factor in the final result with DK successful with only two of their seven kicks at goal (28.6%).

After a shocking start when they went 0-7 down in the opening minute, DK then got well on top and were leading comfortably by 25-10 well into the last quarter. With Burton on the ropes, a forty point score looked a formality, but consistency has been in very short supply for DK for much of this season and for no good reason they simply fell apart in the last 13 minutes. As well as their goal kicking problems, kicking out of hand was pretty abysmal too, serving mainly to launch Burton attacks as at least eight kicks went straight down the Burton fullback’s throat instead of into space or touch. In the last disastrous 13 minutes DK completely lost their shape and the result was something akin to panic as first up tackles were missed by forwards and backs alike, their defensive line was non-existent at times and Burton to their credit managed to secure the point that keeps their playoff hopes very much alive though over the two league games with Burton DK must be extremely disappointed to have only picked up one point out of the four available.

DK’s front five, stung by criticism last week actually played a lot better for much of the game and for an hour had the whip hand in both tight and loose where loose head Richard Kelley had a superb game, ultra effective in the tight and simply magnificent in the loose. He was the DK Man of the Match. Ollie Shakespeare also had a fine game as did Robbie Harlow. Skipper Ian Langford scored two tries and put in a huge amount of work as usual. The backs could perhaps have moved the ball wide more often; Stefan Shillingford looked back to his best in the centre and really could have done with a few more opportunities when Burton were under the cosh. DK certainly missed the tackling Leigh Foster who was injured just before the final debacle.

DK found themselves 0-7 down inside a minute. A missed tackle in the back row set Burton centre Craig Dutton away and straight through the DK back line unchallenged. Right Wing Dave Archer converted. DK responded immediately and pushed the visitors back but after good approach work they lost the ball in contact on three successive occasions. They finally got their act together after 11 minutes when quick ball from a lineout was quickly shipped to Stefan Shillingford who broke at speed, stepped his man and powered 50m before sending Jak Davis in at the corner for an unconverted try to make it 5-7. DK then lost tight head Al Francis to a rib injury from a reckless challenge that deserved at least a penalty but none was given. Francis was replaced by Stefan Thorpe.

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 15 BURTON 10

Though both sides continued to make constant errors, DK did get up a head of steam and from the second of two powerful scrums on the Burton line scrum half Robbie Harlow powered over for an unconverted try to make it 20-10 after 50 minutes. The home side were now playing with a lot of confidence and after several waves of DK attacks, Burton were stretched right then left with skipper Ian Langford finishing off the move to score his second and DK’s fourth try, again unconverted to stretch the DK lead to 25-10. At this stage Burton were just not in the game and looking at a possible hiding but they raised their game and their first spell of real pressure in the game. DK gave away three consecutive penalties in their 22 but Burton spurned the kicks as they desperately needed a try. They got it on 67 minutes when the pressure finally told and Burton scrum half Steve Edwards burst over from a 5m scrum, Craig Dutton converted and Burton were in with a chance at 25-17.

DK then had a dreadful spell where they were just all over the place, perhaps they thought they had won it! Burton could hardly believe their luck when replacement Tom Gregory was allowed to run 50m through several feeble tackle attempts to score at the posts. Craig Dutton converted to make it 25-22 after 76 minutes. There was more drama to come as Gareth Davies was adjudged to have held back a Burton player in the DK 22 and was summarily sinbinned. Craig Dutton held his nerve to slot the penalty to make it all square in stoppage time. There was one final cruel twist for DK when they were awarded a last gasp penalty, in front of the posts but a good 35-40m out. Unfortunately it was not Gareth Bown’s day as he pulled the kick wide and DK were denied the win.

Luton have been disqualified from the Quarter Final of the EDF Intermediate Cup for player registration irregularities and so DK have been re-instated and are at away to Portsmouth in the next week KO 3.00pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 21st February 2009 - Midlands 2 West

Dudley Kingswinford 23 Hereford 26

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Leigh Foster, 14 James Jefferson, 13 Stefan Shillingford, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Jak Davis, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Robbie Harlow, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Ian Langford (Capt), 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 Stefan Thorp, 17 Sam Pedley, 18 Tom Huggins.

DK blew their big chance to narrow the gap on second placed Burton with a listless performance against a very physical Hereford side. Although they outscored the visitors by three tries to two, Dean Powell, Hereford’s fly half won the game for them with a flawless kicking display, he scored sixteen of the visitor’s points from four penalties and two conversions making the most of his six opportunities whereas DK missed out on a possible thirteen points available from kicks at goal. This however was only part of the story. Rugby is a hard physical game and Hereford are by tradition, particularly proficient at this somewhat greyish area of the game – nothing at all wrong with that, though they did cross the line of what is acceptable on a number of occasions. In contrast forward aggression and edge was one of the DK pack’s major failings in this game, this must be much to the chagrin of their head coaches Lockers and Shilly, (neither of whom ever took a backward step during their playing days!). The front five’s failure or inability to “Front Up” in the face of cynical provocation at times was a little worrying. No doubt this facet of DK’s game will be examined in some detail by the aforesaid gentlemen! With Hereford gradually winning the forward battle, (DK lost 5 strikes against the head) possession and opportunities became limited until DK made a strong belated effort that almost paid off. All in all Hereford deserved their success as they showed a greater desire to win. In short they wanted it more.

DK made only one change to the side that beat Stoke last week. Jamie Ramsey returned at No 8 with Ian Langford reverting to open side flanker. Stefan Thorp, Sam Pedley and Tommy Huggins were on the bench. In a disappointing forward show only the back row could claim any real credit Andy McEwen was DK Man of the Match, one of the few DK forwards to relish, indeed revel in the hard physicality of the game, he was at his barnstorming best and scored two of DK’s tries. Jamie Ramsey made a welcome return at No 8 and played well whilst Ian Langford worked tirelessly throughout. The DK backs never really got going but Leigh Foster had a big game at full back, making several incisive breaks and putting in a couple of superb try-saving tackles. Robbie Harlow also had a sound game at scrum half.

Hereford signalled their aggressive intent within seconds of the start of the match with hooker Gareth Miles immediately being yellow carded for a stiff arm tackle. The referee, Tom Foley of the Bristol society and who was impressive throughout, had no hesitation. Gareth Bown was narrowly wide with the penalty but put DK 3-0 up after 6 minutes with another effort. A further penalty after 9 minutes was kicked to touch inside the Hereford 22 and Andy McEwen drove over in the corner for an unconverted try to make it 8-0.

Dean Powell made it 8-3 to with a 17th minute penalty before the visitors took the lead after 22 minutes with an excellent try. DK had lost the ball in midfield and Hereford put together a superb passage of play with a bewildering string of at least ten super quick passes culminating in centre Adam Knight crossing wide out on the left. Dean Powell converted from near the touchline for Hereford to lead 8-10. The try seemed to upset DK’s equilibrium a little and they began to take some unnecessary risks. Hereford were calling the tune at this stage and it was no surprise when deadly Dean Powell increased the visitor’s lead to 8-13 with another well struck penalty after 32 minutes. This was an unaccustomed position for DK but they could have no real complaints.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 8 HEREFORD 13

Returning to the fray with a renewed vigour DK narrowed the gap to 11-13 with a 42nd minute penalty from Gareth Bown but their bad habits soon returned to haunt them, poor distribution and lineout ball combined with them now beginning to have a tough time in the set scrums. The latter problem led directly to Hereford’s second try after 47 minutes. DK lost another ball against the head, this time on their 22m line and it was quickly moved out to Hereford’s impressive centre pairing where Adam Knight (13) sent in fellow centre Ceiron Griffiths for a well worked score. Dean Powell added the extras to stretch the Hereford lead to 11-20 leaving DK two scores adrift with half an hour left.

DK as has been their forte this season then showed great grit and tenacity to hurl themselves back into the fray and put their visitors under heavy pressure. After several waves of attacking Gareth Bown showed great strength and determination to break three tackles to score a fine individual try. Gareth also added the conversion to leave DK only two points behind at 18-20. This should perhaps have been the signal for an all out effort to ensure a result but DK gave another penalty away in front of their posts, handing Dean Powell an opportunity to ease the pressure on the visitors which he duly did, making it 18-23 on 63 minutes. Still DK attacked feverishly but Gareth Bown missed a penalty after 68 minutes and Dean Powell applied the Coup de Grace after 75 minutes with another penalty again putting Hereford two scores up at 18-26. Old habits die hard and Hereford hooker Gareth Miles received a second yellow card thus prompting a red for another act of skulduggery before Andy McEwen scored a very good third try for DK with a trademark blistering charge but it was as they say, too little, too late. DK are at home to

Burton next week KO 2.30pm p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 14th February 2009 - Midlands 2 West

Dudley Kingswinford 44  Stoke on Trent 12

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Leigh Foster, 14 James Jefferson, 13 Stefan Shillingford, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Jak Davis, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Robbie Harlow, 8 Ian Langford (Capt), 7 Sam Pedley, 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 Richard Kelly. Reps: 16 John Fallon, 17 Tui Asi Pito, 18 Tom Huggins.

DK avenge their defeat at Stoke in October in some style with a clinical performance, winning by seven tries to two. After taking an early lead they took a little time to settle down but once they scored their second try it was pretty much plain sailing. The home side, oozing confidence after beating Bromsgrove last week, had far too much pace and guile for their visitors though it has to be said the Potteries side had not played for three weeks, patently not at their best.

There was one change in the pack for DK. With Jamie Ramsey unavailable, Ian Langford moved to number eight with Sam Pedley coming in on the open side flank. Simon Fletcher is on holiday and replaced by Stefan Shillingford returning from injury at outside centre. John Fallon, Tui inch Asi Pito and Tom Huggins made up the bench. This was another highly impressive team performance but there were also several tremendous individual performances. Gareth Davis was the popular choice for DK man of the match with another excellent game at inside centre. he has rarely been in better form.  Gareth Bown always a danger with the ball in hand, and was a real handful for the Stoke defence. Robbie Harlow bossed the pack well and Leigh Foster made several incisive breaks from fullback. James Jefferson bagged his first tries (a brace) for the seniors . The DK front five were far more mobile than their opponents. Props Richard Kelley and Al Francis have been in excellent form all season and Dan Shakespeare adds a lot to the scrum from hooker. Ed parry has been a revelation at lock. He scored his third try for the first fifteen and he and Ollie Shakespeare are working well together.  Andy Mcewan had another stormer at number six.

DK were 5 - 0  up after only four minutes. A strong break from Andy Mcwen in the Stoke 22 ended with a ruck near the line from which the ball was spun to Gareth Davies who spotting a gap was quickly through it to score an unconverted try. The home side continued to press hard and it was fully twenty minutes before the visitors finally ventured out of their own half. DK's pressure told on 24 minutes when Stoke killed the ball under their posts and Gareth Bown kicked a penalty to increase the DK lead. A minute later a superb 50m defence splitting break from Gareth Davies saw him deep into the Stoke 22 before offloading for Stephen Shillingford to score DK's second try and lead 13 - 0.

After 27 minutes it became the 20 - 0 and it was Gareth Davies' turn to carve open the stoke rear guard with a scintillating 50m break then expertly hold the ball up before finally passing to Andy Mcewan who thundered over for the try, Gareth bown converting. The flood gates had well and truly open and after 32 minutes DK scored a fourth try. Ollie Shakespeare's trundle set up a ruck in the Stoke 22 of the ball flew down the line to Jak Davis who squeezed into the corner to make it 25 - 0 at the break. Stoke had defended valiantly for much of the first half of the lack of recent games was perhaps beginning to tell

Half Time land where DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 25 STOKE 0

The halftime break saw the visitors fired up for the start of the second half and they stunned the Heathbrook faithful with a try after 43 minutes. After a determined Stoke forward drive into the DK 22, scrum half James Voyce broke through and managed to reach the DK line for a well worked unconverted try to make it 25 - 5. DK though struck back almost immediately when Stoke lost the ball in their own 22 after 48 minutes Gareth Davies did extraordinary well to fashion a four to one overlap from which a delighted Ed Parry cruised over the line and to the posts for DK's fifth try converted by Gareth Bown for DK to lead 32 - 5.

The biggest roar of the day came after fifty eight minutes when popular right wing James Jefferson scored his first try for the first fifteen. Stefan Shillingford turned over Stoke ball close to the goal line and it was quickly moved right for Speedy to crash over near the corner making a 37 - 5. He must have really enjoyed the adulation because he repeated it again a minute later. A pacy 40m break from Leigh Foster had the Stoke cover in disarray and a dazzling exchange of passes saw the very same James Jefferson reached the heady height of leading try scorer in the game. Gareth Bown converted for 44 - 5 after 59 minutes. DK by then had used all eighteen players and it was good to see Tui back in the first team action after a long injury. Stoke though outgunned never stopped trying and they had the final word in stoppage time when scrum half James Voyce scored his second try of the the game direct from a ruck inside the DK 22 although a few uncharitable souls in the crowd thought he might t possibly of knocked on prior to his break! Anyway the ref missed it and fly half Ben Oakley converted to make it 44 - 12 with the last kick of the game.

DK are at home to Hereford next week KO 2.30pm - pstinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 7th February 2009 - Midlands 2 West

Dudley Kingswinford 21 Bromsgrove 12

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Leigh Foster, 14 James Jefferson, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Jak Davis, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Robbie Harlow, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Ian Langford (Capt), 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 Richard Kelly. Reps: 16 John Fallon, 17 Sam Pedley, 18 Tom Huggins.

This game was a superb advertisement for junior rugby, a thrilling spectacle for the spectators from start to finish with DK deservedly toppling a very talented Bromsgrove side that despite this rare defeat are still very much odds on for promotion this season. The win was no fluke; whilst the backs were evenly matched it was in the pack, especially in the loose, that DK dominated, pretty much throughout the game. The home forwards smothered the visitor’s eight at every turn and Bromsgrove will rarely have had their ball turned over up front quite as often as it was in this game. However Bromsgrove are not top of the division without good reason and their success is very much due to their ability to both absorb pressure and score tries out of nothing. Despite the visitors somewhat limited opportunities in this game, they were always dangerous on the break and scored two excellent tries albeit both as a direct result of unforced DK errors.

With DK’s talented young centre Stef Shillingford sidelined with a knee injury Gareth Davies moved to inside centre with Simon Fletcher outside him. Jamie Ramsey returned from injury at No 8 with Ian Langford at open side flanker. John Fallon, Sam Pedley and Tom Huggins were on the bench. This victory was due to a great team effort and every player stepped up to the plate. Bromsgrove are quite rightly proud of their ability to play strongly for a full 80 minutes, their high fitness levels regularly enabling them to pull away in the last quarter of the game. They certainly met their match in this respect against the hard working DK side. With just over 20 minutes remaining DK conceded a try and were 11-12 down but from that moment they almost totally dominated the last quarter to win in some comfort.

Whilst the whole DK side played out of their skins there were several super individual performances on the day. The back row completely overshadowed their opposite numbers with Ian Langford again in magnificent form with fellow back rowers Andy McEwen and Jamie Ramsey also in great form. DK have drafted in prop Dan Shakespeare as an emergency hooker and he was both accurate in the lineout and a real force in the set scrums. Brother Ollie and Ed Parry were both outstanding in the second row. In the backs Gareth Davies was absolutely superb. Besides his role as inside centre he was at various times scrum half and a fourth back row! In one tackle he knocked back a Bromsgrove second row forward at least 3 metres! No one worked harder. Outside him Simon Fletcher had another fine game and scored the decisive try. Finally an unsung hero! James “Speedy” Jefferson had a great game, sacking Bromsgrove’s talented full back Duncan Roke on no less than four occasions and proving a real handful with the ball in hand.

The league leaders started the game strongly, keeping DK very much on the back foot in the opening exchanges. DK soon settled however and began to make inroads. They were temporarily inconvenienced when scrum half Robbie Harlow was yellow carded for swinging at his opposite number Lee Ward after 10 minutes. The disruption did not seem to faze 14 man DK who still managed to play most of the 10 minute sin bin period in the Bromsgrove half. Once restored back to 15 DK began to apply some serious pressure and went ahead after 24 minutes. A poor defensive kick from the visitors did not find touch but found Jak Davies instead. Quick thinking from The speedy young winger saw him chip and chase into space near the visitor’s line and he was able to collect the ball and touch down an unconverted try wide out to give DK a 5-0 lead. Bromsgrove were unable to break DK’s stranglehold on the game and fly half Gareth Bown increased the home lead to 8-0 after36 minutes with a well struck penalty.

Bromsgrove then stunned their hosts with a well taken try in first half stoppage time, very much against the run of play. DK lost the ball in midfield and a slick inter-passing movement culminated in the visitor’s fly half Ben Copson touching down in the corner for 8-5. Though happy to be leading at the break DK would have been a little disappointed at the score line given that they enjoyed at least 65% territory and possession.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 8 BROMSGROVE 5

The start of the second half saw several determined attacks from DK and what looked to be a clear scoring opportunity was lost when the ball was knocked on over the Bromsgrove line after 42 minutes. DK did forge further ahead a minute later when Gareth Bown stroked over a fine 45m penalty after Bromsgrove transgressed under pressure. Stung into action Bromsgrove then had probably their best spell in the game and showed their class with another well worked try after 57 minutes to take a narrow 11-12 lead. A strong break from former DK full back James Lloyd Jones broke the DK line and again good handling saw full back Duncan Roke touch down at the posts. Ben Copson converted for Bromsgrove to lead for the first time.

Many sides may well have capitulated at this stage but DK just got stronger. Attacking in waves, they had a 4 man overlap on 65 minutes that should have been an easy try but the ball carrier failed to spot the opportunity. After 68 minutes though DK scored the decisive try their sterling efforts deserved. Robbie Harlow’s 25m break was carried on by Jamie Ramsey and moved down the line to Simon Fletcher who drove through a despairing tackle to cross wide out and then touch down near the posts. Gareth Bown’s excellent conversion put DK 18-12 ahead. The expected Bromsgrove late surge never materialised and Gareth Bown settled the issue with a simple penalty under the posts on 75 mins to give DK a fully deserved 21-12 final margin.

Saturday 31st January - Midlands 2 West

Dudley Kingswinford 27 Sutton Coldfield 13

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Leigh Foster, 14 James Jefferson, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Jak Davis, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Robbie Harlow, 8 Ian Langford (Capt), 7 Sam Pedley, 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Dan Shakespeare, 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 John Fallon, 17 Jamie Ramsey, 18 Gareth Davies.

DK duly completed their second “double” of the season by beating Sutton by four tries to one, two in each half. Though Sutton were defensively very strong, DK might have made more of the elements, a strong breeze at their backs and a wealth of territory and possession in the first half. At least two gilt edged scoring chances were spurned. However they proved just as strong against the breeze in the second half and ran out convincing winners before a sizeable crowd at Heathbrook.

There was just one change for DK from last week with Dan Shakespeare replacing the injured Adam Blackford at hooker. Ian Langford took over the captain's armband. Adam has a shoulder injury and joins Ben Connett, Dave Westwood and Shaun Griffiths on DK’s long term injury list. On a brighter note Gareth Davies and Jamie Ramsey returned from injury and joined John Fallon on the bench. Gareth Davies’s availability was particularly relevant after an early injury to Stef Shillingford. 

Whilst this was a good all round team performance it was the DK pack that provided the edge, scoring three of the four tries and generally shading the Sutton eight in both the tight and loose exchanges. Flanker Andy McEwen scored a super try and his blockbuster tackling was breathtaking, both for spectators and in another, more painful sense, for the unfortunate recipients! Shades of Wayne “Bosher” Millard perhaps? DK Man of the Match though had to be fellow flanker Ian Langford whose awesome work rate had to be seen to be believed, whether breaking up Sutton attacks, tackling or turning over their ball he seemed to be everywhere and a constant thorn in the visitor’s’s side. The front five were very solid throughout though the lineout needs some attention. The backs moved well, centres Gareth Davies and Simon Fletcher meshed seamlessly after the 11th minute injury to Stef Shillingford. Fletch is currently in a rich vein of form and was the spearhead for many of DK’s thrusts. Scrum half Robbie Harlow was as industrious as ever and Leigh Foster steady as a rock at full back and devastating in the tackle.

DK began strongly and opened the scoring after only 4 minutes. A desperate attempted clearance kick from Sutton was charged down by lock Ed Parry who was up in support like a good second row should be, he scooped up the loose ball to score close in. Gareth Bown converted for DK to lead 7-0. Sutton replied with a penalty from fly half Alan Rowlands on 8 minutes to make it 7-3. The home side continued to press and a Gareth Bown penalty after 17 minutes restored their 7 point advantage at 10-3.

DK increased their lead to 15-3 with an unconverted try after 20 minutes when a superb incisive break from Simon Fletcher saw him break the Sutton line and squeeze a pass to fly half Gareth Bown who still had a bit to do, but his strength and determination saw him touch down an unconverted try under pressure. The home side should have scored again on 26 minutes but a simple scoring pass was not given and the chance was gone. A few minutes later Sutton’s diminutive winger Nathan Burchell did incredibly well to somehow hold up big Ollie Shakespeare over the goal line! Ollie took a bit of banter later on over that one! Though DK were asking most of the questions, the penalty count against them was again way too high and one after 37 minutes allowed Sutton to claw back 3 points making it 15-6. The lead did not reflect DK’s domination and they were now up against the still considerable second half breeze.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 15 SUTTON COLDFIELD 6

DK shocked their visitors early on in the second half when, on the Sutton 22 Andy McEwen erupted from the base of a scrum to tear through the Sutton pack and score a tremendous try at the posts. Gareth Bown converted for 22-6. It was a case of Déjà Vu for Sutton Andy scored an almost identical try against them at the same period during the game at Sutton in October to boost what was ultimately to prove a winning DK lead.

Alan Rowlands narrowly missed with a long kick for Sutton after 56 minutes but DK were firmly in control until the 64th minute when John Fallon was very harshly sin binned for what seemed to be closing the gap in the lineout. A penalty certainly, but a yellow card?!* Now, with DK reduced to 14 men, the visitors managed a period of concerted pressure for the first time in the game and were rewarded with a try after 68 minutes when burly centre Alex White crashed over to score after forward pressure following a lineout. Alan Rowlands converted to give Sutton a fighting chance at 22-13.

There were no further nasty surprises and restored to a full XV again DK began to take full control against a tiring Sutton pack. In stoppage time another tremendous tackle from Andy McEwan saw him turn the Sutton ball over on their 22 metre line, pick up and feed a grateful Ollie Shakespeare who was lurking with intent to his left and the big fella cantered in for DK’s game sealing try (unconverted) for 27-13.

DK’s are at home against Bromsgrove (L) next week. KO 2.15 pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 24th January - Midlands 2 West

Dudley Kingswinford 43 Solihull 14

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Leigh Foster, 14 James Jefferson, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Jak Davis, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Robbie Harlow, 8 Ian Langford, 7 Sam Pedley, 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ed Parry, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Adam Blackford (Capt), 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 John Fallon, 17 Jag Singh, 18 Tom Huggins.

In terms of DK's performance, this game was almost a case of "When they were good they were very, very good but when they were bad they were horrid!" For fully 50 minutes in the game, the first half hour and the last quarter, DK huffed, puffed, and spluttered in an attempt to subdue a very ordinary Solihull side without ever being convincing. However, in the ten minutes before half time and for twenty minutes after they were simply sublime, scoring seven tries in a brilliant exhibition of attacking rugby that proved far too much for their hardworking but somewhat limited visitors. DK’s young side have bags of talent within their ranks, but consistency and concentration have posed the occasional problem this season.

This was DK's first league game since before Christmas and there were several enforced changes. Skipper Ben Connett is out for up to nine months with a cruciate ligament injury so Ed Parry replaced him in the second row. Tom Lockley and Jordan Brookes have gone to Australia for a few months, new skipper Adam Blackford and Robbie Harlow replaced them at hooker and scrum half respectively. Ian Langford replaced the injured Jamie Ramsey at No 8 with Andy McEwen on the blindside flank and Sam Pedley at openside. With Gareth Davies still injured Simon Fletcher came in at outside centre. John Fallon, Jag Singh and Tom Huggins made up the bench. There were several outstanding performers, DK's Man of the Match was Kiwi full back Leigh Foster had a tremendous game, playing with great skill and verve throughout and capping a fine performance with a hat trick of tries. He was pushed all the way by Simon Fletcher (2T) and Stefan Shillingford who both had authoritative games in the centre. Scrum half Robbie Harlow led the line well and James "Speedy" Jefferson did well on his home debut on the right wing. Gareth Bown kicked four conversions. In the pack the back row were well on top with Andy McEwen to the fore and a very good second half for Sam Pedley on the flank and a sound home debut for lock Ed Parry. New skipper and hooker Adam Blackford led by example with a polished performance.

The first half hour of this game was akin to watching paint dry as despite dominating both territory and possession DK foundered time and again through unforced errors or over complication. Just when it seemed that this was destined to be a frustrating afternoon for the home side, they finally broke the deadlock with an excellent try on the half hour. A super break from Leigh Foster was carried further by Sam Pedley who found Robbie Harlow 15m out. The scrum half's power and strength did the rest. Gareth Bown added the conversion for 7-0. The spell was broken and DK surged further ahead on 36 minutes with a spectacular try. DK's MOM Leigh Foster fielded a clearance just outside the visitor's 22 and his sheer pace caught the Solihull defence out as he scythed through to score a fine individual try. Gareth Bown converted to make it 14-0.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 14 SOLIHULL 0

DK began the second half in fine style from their first attack the ball was swept out to Simon Fletcher in the centre who stepped and dummied his way to the posts for another fine try, Gareth Bown again adding the extras for 21-0 after 42 minutes. A fourth try soon followed after 45 minutes as rampant DK kept up the pressure. DK attacked down the left and a superb step from Stefan Shillingford left the Solihull cover all on the wrong foot as Leigh Foster accepted the scoring pass. Gareth Bown converted and DK were well in the driving seat at 28-0.

A fifth try duly arrived after 48 minutes. Right wing James "Speedy" Jefferson's break began the move, great hands saw Robbie Harlow provide fellow Kiwi Leigh Foster with the scoring pass for his hat trick of tries and a large bar bill later on! At 33-0 there was to be no respite for a bewildered Solihull defence as DK applied the Coup de Grace on 53 minutes after a hold up for an injury to Solihull flanker Mike Gledhill who had to leave the field. Strong ball carrying from Sam Pedley split the Solihull cover again and the ball was spread wide for Simon Fletcher who imperiously turned the Solihull cover inside out for another fine try. DK's seventh and final try came from a stunning midfield break from prop John Fallon (yes, John Fallon!?*) after 55 minutes, the ball was moved left this time for Jak Davis to score an unconverted try wide out for 43-0. DK then gave a try away on 59 minutes when a loose pass was intercepted by Solihull fly half Aaron Higgins who cantered in from 50m and then converted the try for 43-7. An excellent break from replacement back row Jag Singh after 69 minutes resulted in skipper Adam Blackford "scoring" but unfortunately the referee was unsighted and it was disallowed. Unaccountably, DK seemed to revert back to their first half lack of fluency towards the end and Solihull managed another consolation try on 72 minutes when replacement forward Nick Powers was driven over from a penalty lineout and Aaron Higgins added the conversion.

DK’s are at home against Sutton Coldfield (L) next week. KO 2.15 pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 17th January - EDF Energy Cup Round 4

Luton 23 Dudley Kingswinford 17

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Robbie Harlow, 14 Leigh Foster, 13 Tom Weaver 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Simon Fletcher, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Jordan Brookes, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Sam Pedley, 6 Ian langford - capt 5 Ollie Shakespeare 4 Andy McEwen, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Tom Lockley, 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 Adam Blackford, 17 Stefan Thorp, 18 Ed Parry, 19 James Jefferson

After the final whistle DK spectators and players alike the looked round in disbelief at the result of a game for which large parts deekay totally dominated against their more illustrious London 1 opponents outscoring them three tries to two. The game was there for the taking, and was eventually lost in a mad five minutes spell just after halftime. On a cold and blustery day the game was played with great spirit with both teams trying to play open attacking rugby. In the opening exchanges Luton seemed quite happy to try and pin DK back in their own half by kicking for field position, whereas DK with ball in hand attacked at every opportunity but could not find highways through a strong home defence.

Both teams contributed to a very entertaining cup time where Luton's fullback Dan Howells was their match winner and probably the most talented player on the field. Having not played for almost four weeks DK made a few changes to the team that started at Bromsgrove with Jamie Ramsey returning at number 8. Gareth Davies was injured in training in midweek, and Tom Weaver took his place in the centre. Jak Davis was not available for work commitments, so Simon Fletcher returned after injury. In the forwards Ben Connett and Dave Westwood are still long-term injuries so Andy Mcewan moved into the second row and Sam Pedley took Westwood's place at open side flanker. This game marked the last game this season for New Zealand bound hooker, Tom Lockley and scrum half   Jordan Brookes who was always a thorn in Luton's side with his darting runs around the breakdown and scrummage. Both these lads will be missed for the remainder of the season and all at DK them a very happy venture down under

DK were quickly out of the blocks and some strong running through the backs eventually led to a penalty which full back Robbie Harlow just failed to convert. Not daunted by their opponents DK stuck to their task and were  rewarded with a further penalty this time on the right and closer in, but again Robbie Harlow just failed to convert

This seemed to despair on the home team and they were eventually awarded a penalty just in front of the posts a prop Al Francis the was penalized for not moving away after the tackle and looked and fullback Dan Howells converted to give the home side a three point advantage. DK immediately struck back and pinned Luton back in their own half but again were unable to convert that territory and possession into points. On a rare venture into the DK half the home side were awarded a further penalty when DK infringed at the breakdown where fullback Howells gratefully added the three points.

It remained that way until half time and no one could have forecast the way the second half started

Half Time: Luton 6 Dudley Kingswinford 0

Luton opened the second half intent on trying to seal the game and clearly changed their tactics, prepared to run the ball at every opportunity. DK again infringe to the breakdown and gave away a soft penalty which again Howells converted to increase the home sides lead. This signalled the start of DK's mad five minutes as conceding 17 unanswered points as firstly a needlessly quick line out was not gathered cleanly and Luton fly half Mark Gray gladly gathered the loose ball to run twenty metres unopposed to the line to increase the home side's lead. Full back added the extra points. Straight from the kick off Luton ran the ball in hand and some woeful DK defending allowed their very talented fullback blah blah blah to weave through the DK defence and eventually handed to flanker Andy Davey to score near the posts. Howells added the extra to give Luton a 23 - 0 advantage.

At this stage it would've been very easy for DK to capitulate and possibly handing Luton a landslide victory but the determination and teamwork of this young DK side dug in and set about reducing the lead. Having to chase the game DK were awarded a penalty in front of the posts but quick thinking tap penalty saw the ball moved to the right where young prop forward Al Francis gratefully received the pass to sprint the 10m to the line to score his first try for DK. Robbie Harlow just failed with the conversion. Spurred on  by the score deekay continued to press on, and with fifteen minutes left to go debutant lock forward Ed Parry was again on the receiving end of another DK attacking move when he scored the second try on his first team debut. Again Robbie Harlow was just short with the conversion.

Luton continued to try and move the ball but stalwart deekay defence was always there to thwart them. From a breakdown in their own half DK ran the ball out of defence before another great piece of enterprising play by DK's kiwi's Leigh Foster and Robbie Harlow combined to send Robbie in for try which he added the conversion. However time had run our for DK and a relieved Luton very gratefully kicked the restart out on the full to bring a match to an end.

Next week DK are at home against Solihull in the league - kick off 2.15pm 

Saturday 20th December - Midlands 2 West

Bromsgrove 31 Dudley Kingswinford 13

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Robbie Harlow, 14 Leigh Foster, 13 Gareth Davies (Capt), 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Jak Davis, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Jordan Brookes, 8 Ian Langford, 7 Dave Westwood, 6 Sam Pedley, 5 Ollie Shakespeare 4 Andy McEwen, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Tom Lockley, 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 Adam Blackford, 17 Ben Connett, 18 Tom Huggins.

The first half of this game provided a superb display of open, attacking rugby from both sides and after playing up the slight incline DK trailed by just a point (14-13) at the break and had looked increasingly confident in this period just prior to half time. Unfortunately this was also about the time when things began to go disastrously wrong for the visitors. Firstly o/s flanker Dave Westwood who had been in tremendous form, had to leave the field with an ankle injury, to add to this serious setback DK then gifted the home side a try at the start of the second half, just before skipper Ben Connett, Westwood’s replacement also had to leave the field with a leg injury! As you would expect, a good side like Bromsgrove were able exact full advantage from DK’s plight and duly did so with another killer try. Unbelievably, DK then lost tight head Al Francis to a neck injury and DK were really up against it but to their credit bravely took the game to their hosts and came close on a couple of occasions. Towards the end DK lost hooker Tom Lockley to a head injury and finished with uncontested scrums and 14 men. This was again ruthlessly exploited by Bromsgrove with a final try late into stoppage time of which there was an mind boggling, but perfectly correct, 15 minutes!

Despite the injuries this was not a violent game and was played in the right traditional spirit by both sides. With DK having played all of the other sides now, Bromsgrove look the strongest candidates for promotion and after some disappointing recent seasons few would begrudge them their day in the sun if they can make it happen.

DK had to make several changes, some positional, to the side that won at Camp Hill last week. Leigh Foster (FB) replaced the injured Simon Fletcher on the right wing with Robbie Harlow coming in at full back and Jordan Brookes taking Robbie’s place at scrum half. Skipper Ben Connett was on the bench having taken a heavy knock last week so b/s flanker Andy McEwen moved into the second row with Sam Pedley coming in on the flank. Rich Kelly returned at loose head with Al Francis moving across to tight head. Though DK lost a couple of tries through unforced errors, they never dropped their heads and the pack in the loose (until decimated somewhat!), were a real force to be reckoned with. None more so than their pocket dynamo of a prop Richard Kelley who had a superb all round game and was rightly voted DK Man of the Match for his sterling effort. Other notable performances were from Ollie Shakespeare, Dave Westwood and Al Francis in the pack and Robbie Harlow, Leigh Foster, Jak Davis and Gareth Davies (despite his faux pas!), in the backs.

Bromsgrove spurned an early kickable penalty before Robbie Harlow kicked DK 0-3 up after 7 minutes when Bromsgrove had hands in the ruck. Fly half Ben Copson then missed a straightforward kick at goal for the home side on 8 minutes. DK had made most of the early running but the home side quickly got into their stride and went ahead with a try after 15 minutes. DK fly half Gareth Bown, most uncharacteristically it must be said, knocked on in the act of fielding a high ball inside the DK 22. Bromsgrove attacked strongly from the scrum for a couple of phases which saw the ball spun out to left wing Warren Oliver who was in space and scored with ease. Ben Copson added the extras for Bromsgrove to lead 7-3. DK responded almost immediately. A good break from Gareth Davies was carried on at pace through Ollie Shakespeare, Stefan Shillingford to Robbie Harlow who drew the last defender before sending in Leigh Foster for an excellent try for DK to lead 7-8.

Bromsgrove’s talented full back Duncan Roke broke the DK line on 25 minutes and looked odds on to score before being brought down by a tremendous last gasp tackle from Stef Shillingford enabling DK to clear their lines. DK then lost Ian Langford to a yellow card for killing the ball and were really up against it. They defended well however until Bromsgrove scored a good try after 33 minutes. From a scrum in midfield the ball was spun right and an accurate miss move pass found full back Duncan Roke steaming up into the line with enough momentum to beat the DK cover from 40m for an text book try. Ben Copson again added the extras for a 14-8 home lead. With Ian Langford back DK began to look increasingly dangerous but ruined several opportunities with poor lineouts. They were not to be denied however and despite having lost Dave Westwood to injury, the pack stormed forward, driving Bromsgrove back to their own line before whipping the ball out to Jak Davies who easily outpaced the home cover for another tremendous try.

Half Time: BROMSGROVE 14 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 13

An early unforced error cost DK dear early in the second half when Gareth Davies’s intended chip over the Bromsgrove backs for wing Jak Davis was miscued and went straight down the throat of a home centre who ran the ball back at an unprepared DK rearguard. With the defence in some disarray Bromsgrove quickly spread the ball wide for replacement centre and former DK man James Lloyd-Jones to score. With Ben Copson adding the conversion Bromsgrove’s lead was increased to 21-13. DK then lost their inspirational skipper Ben Connett to injury after 48 minutes and had to bring on a scrum half, Tommy Huggins into the back row. As DK struggled to re-adjust the home side took full advantage to pile on the pressure. Ben Copson came close after 50 minutes but dropped the ball near the line. Two minutes later though there was no mistake as James Lloyd-Jones carved through DK’s overstretched defence to score an unconverted try to make it 26-13.

DK to their credit refused to lie down and had the better of the next 20 minutes or so the pack played out of their skins, especially in the loose but a combination of resolute defending by the home side and a little bit of luck kept the home line intact. Even after DK lost another forward, tight head Al Francis with a neck injury after 68 minutes, DK kept up the momentum and Jak Davis probably should have scored in the last 10 minutes when he turned Duncan Roke inside out with a neat sidestep only to be caught just short of the line. DK then suffered another front row injury with hooker Tom Lockley having to leave the field with a head injury which meant uncontested scrums and DK down to 14 men with all the replacements already on the field. Because of the constant injury disruptions there was almost 15 minutes of time added on and Bromsgrove added a late try from Duncan Roke at the death.

DK’s next game is at home against Solihull (North Mids Cup) on Sat 03/01/09. KO 1.45 pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 13th December - EDF Energy Cup Round 3

Camp Hill 0 Dudley Kingswinford 38

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Leigh Foster, 14 Simon Fletcher, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Jak Davis, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Robbie Harlow, 8 Ian Langford, 7 Dave Westwood, 6 Andy Mcewan, 5 Ollie Shakespeare 4 Ben Connett (Capt), 3 Stefan Thorpe, 2 Tom Lockley, 1 Al Francis. Reps: 16 Adam Blackford, 17 Richard Kelley, 18 Sam Pedley, 19 Jordan Brookes.

DK eased into the fourth round of the EDF Energy Intermediate Cup at the expense of their old adversaries Camp Hill by a comfortable six tries to nil margin at their Haslucks Green road “Shrine”. If the score suggests an easy win it was anything but, Camp Hill were very committed throughout and never flagged, but they were up against a very confident and talented young DK side whose dynamic pace and invention was not to be denied on the day. Considering the atrocious conditions it was an excellent free flowing game with first class handling from both sides despite the wet weather. Camp Hill have invested heavily in a new drainage system for their 1st XV pitch and it stood up very well to the extremely damp conditions. The game would most certainly have been cancelled on their old pitch.

With Jamie Ramsey unavailable over the Christmas period, Ian Langford replaced him at No 8, Dave Westwood returned to the openside flank and Stefan Thorpe came into the front row at tight head prop with Al Francis moving across to loose head. Robbie Harlow replaced Jordan Brookes at scrum half and the bench was made up with Richard Kelley (LHP), Sam Pedley (BR) Jordan Brookes (SH) and the welcome return of Adam Blackford (H) after a long layoff with a shoulder injury, he came on after half time and was very impressive.

Another excellent all round team performance made it difficult to single individuals out but Ian Langford was again in a class of his own with a monumental back row performance. Kiwi scrum half Robbie Harlow also had an excellent game, possibly his best to date and these two were deservedly voted DK’s Men of the Match. There were other notable performances from Andy Mcewen, skipper Ben Connett and Dave Westwood in the forwards whilst every one of the backs played well, Leigh Foster, Jak Davis and Gareth Davies in particular stood out.

Within seconds of the start DK were 0-5 up. A tremendous midfield break from Robbie Harlow saw him drive deep into Camps 22 before feeding skipper Ben Connett who was up in support and dived over for the unconverted try. Over eager perhaps, DK were giving away a lot of penalties, mainly for offside and it affected their momentum for a while but they were back on track after 20 minutes with a wonder try from Jak Davies. The diminutive left winger fielded a kick between the DK 22 and 10m line and took off; just before the half way line he chipped the onrushing cover and sprinted through to catch the ball on the bounce before powering on at a blistering pace to the line. Robbie Harlow converted to increase DK’s lead to 0-12.

The game ebbed and flowed as Camps tried hard to get back into it but they fell further behind after 28 minutes. Gareth Davies broke the Camps line and fed Ian Langford who made a tremendous midfield break before cleverly holding the ball up for Dave Westwood to burst onto 15m out. The quick openside flanker’s momentum was enough to take him over the line. Robbie Harlow again converted for DK to go 0-19 up. DK duly scored a fourth try after 38 minutes when Camps overthrew the ball at a defensive lineout, it dropped into the hands of burly tight head Stefan Thorpe who needed no second invitation to rumble 15m unstoppably to the line. Robbie Harlow added the extras and DK were 0-26 up on the stroke of half time.

Half Time: CAMP HILL 0 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 26

Camp Hill made a determined effort at the start of the second half and camped on the DK line. The visitors were not helped by a yellow card for flanker Sam Pedley who had come on for the injured Dave Westwood and had petulantly thrown the ball away after DK were penalised. DK however held firm and again began to assume control. Centre Stefan Shillingford put up a high ball after 63 minutes and raced through to brilliantly take the ball on the first bounce to go over for DK’s fifth try. Robbie Harlow’s conversion made it 0-33.

Now in total control DK added a sixth try after heavy forward pressure on 67 minutes. With the home pack in disarray, replacement scrum half Jordan Brookes shot through a gap to touch down an unconverted try. There was a late drama when Ian Langford and Ben Connett collided after 74 minutes. Both had to leave the field but DK comfortably saw out time with 13 men. Hopefully both players will be fit for next week’s crucial league game at Bromsgrove.

DK are at away against Bromsgrove (league) next week. KO 2.00 pm.

p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 6th December - Midlands 2 West

Dudley Kingswinford 46 Walsall 7

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Leigh Foster, 14 Simon Fletcher, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Simon Fletcher, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Jordan Brookes, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Sam Pedley, 6 Andy McEwan, 5 Ollie Shakespeare 4 Ben Connett (Capt), 3 Alex Francis, 2 Tom Lockley, 1 Richard Kelly. Reps: 16 Stefan Thorpe, 17 Ian Langford, 18 Robbie Harlow

DK hit top form against their local rivals Walsall in their first home league game of the season at Heathbrook, they had done well to turn around at half time 15-0 to the good after playing with the handicap of a blinding sun in their eyes but still managing to score a brace of tries. With the sun at their backs in the second half they simply ran riot with another five tries, rattling up their highest score of the season to date. Walsall had made a tighter game of it in the first half winning some good possession with a gutsy performance and looking lively in the backs, they certainly have several decent players but confidence is patently at low ebb after eight defeats and only three league wins this season.

The young DK side are clearly coming of age, in recent weeks they have shown an increasing maturity and confidence and their fitness has blown sides away in the second half of games, all credit to coaches Mark Lockley and Neil Shillingford (Can you imagine explaining to either of these two characters why you cannot come to training?!*). However in this game it was also a few of the more senior players that caught the eye. Skipper Ben Connett had another excellent all round game, leading by example. No 8 Jamie Ramsey played out of his skin in his best performance to date, causing mayhem with some superb defence splitting breaks. The “old man” in the backs Gareth Davies was simply superb; he was involved in absolutely everything, his incredible all action performance bordering on the manic at times! He and Jamie Ramsey were deservedly DK’s Men of the Match. Another tremendous all round performance from the pack, especially in the loose where they overran Walsall in the second half. Scrum half Jordan Brookes was a constant thorn in Walsall’s side with his sniping runs and kept DK on the front foot for long periods. Simon Fletcher scored over a third of DK’s points total, 16 points in the game from a try, four conversions and a penalty.

There were three changes to the DK side that won at Stratford last week. Jak Davis returned on the left wing in place of Manni Rangi, Jordan Brookes was at scrum half with Robbie Harlow benching and Sam Pedley made an excellent 1st XV debut on the flank in place of Ian Langford who took a knock last week but was on the bench.

Walsall had the first opportunity to score after 7 minutes but fly half Matt Wood was wide with the penalty attempt. Simon Fletcher put DK’s first points on the board with a 9th minute penalty, 3-0. The game was pretty evenly contested for the first half hour Matt Wood hit a post with a 13th minute drop goal attempt and the visitors generally gave as good as they got. DK’s first try was down to Gareth Davies. Fielding a ball deep inside the home half after 33 minutes, he spotted a large unguarded area inside the Walsall 22, his pinpoint kick saw wing Jak Davis arrive from nowhere and at an unbelievable pace to hack the ball over the Walsall line and score before the visitor’s cover could blink! Simon Fletcher converted for DK to lead 10-0.

Suitably encouraged DK went on the offensive and in first half stoppage time they scored again. A penalty catch and drive was driven up and over the Walsall line where impressive No 8 Jamie Ramsey claimed the unconverted try. A 15-0 lead with the unrelenting glare of the sun in their eyes was a more than reasonable return against a determined and committed opposition.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 15 WALSALL 0

DK continued to press hard and were rewarded after 50 minutes when great forward play from Al Francis and Jamie Ramsey near the Walsall 22 sent Jordan Brookes scampering down the blindside. He expertly drew his man to send in Stefan Shillingford for a well executed try. Simon Fletcher converted to increase the home lead to 22-0. DK then scored a bizarre fourth try after 57 minutes. Under pressure a Walsall defender threw out a wild pass that bounced of a colleague’s head into the grateful arms of the ubiquitous Gareth Davies. He still had a bit to do but pinned back his ears to outpace the cover for another fine unconverted try making it 27-0.

Walsall hit back on 59 minutes when a couple of uncharacteristic missed tackles gave former DK winger Adam Conniff space wide out on the right touchline and he did well to score close in to the posts. Matt Wood converted for 27-7. It was a short lived respite as DK stormed back into the fray. The ever alert Jordan Brookes intercepted a loose pass and broke forward to send in Simon Fletcher under the posts for DK’s fifth try (65m). Fletch converted to make it 34-7 and DK were pretty much out of sight.

The floodgates were opening and a sublime merest hint of a dummy from Gareth Bown after 67 minutes left the Walsall cover rooted to the spot as the young fly half cantered in for DK’s sixth try with Simon Fletcher converting to make it 41-7. After 73 minutes a tremendous break and chip ahead from Stefan Shillingford saw him vying with a Walsall defender for the loose ball on the visitor’s goal line, the ball then bounced awkwardly for Leigh Foster who was following up to pick up and touch down DK’s seventh and final try for 46-7. The game was ended with five minutes remaining when Walsall lock Alex Woodward was injured as he slipped awkwardly whilst being tackled and an ambulance had to be called. Hopefully Alex recovers quickly and is OK.

DK are at away against Camp Hill (EDF Intermediate Cup 3rd Round) next week. KO 1.45 pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 29th November - Midlands 2 West

Stratford on Avon 10 Dudley Kingswinford 30

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Leigh Foster, 14 Manny Rangi, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Simon Fletcher, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Robbie Harlow, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Ian Langford, 6 Andy McEwan, 5 Ollie Shakespeare 4 Ben Connett (Capt), 3 Alex Francis, 2 Tom Lockley, 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 Stefan Thorpe, 17 Jordan Brookes, 18 Jag Singh.

After an indifferent start to the season, including narrow one score defeats away at the two top clubs Burton and Bromsgrove, Stratford have begun to climb the table. They had won their last four league games and were certain to provide formidable opposition at home. DK made what has become their now customary slow start, Stratford must have thought Christmas had come early as their visitors gifted them a 10-0 lead inside 22 minutes through an early home try as a direct result of poor tackling, and a penalty. DK continued in a somewhat lethargic vein for much of the first half. However, following their shoddy start to the game, DK’s defence did tighten up considerably and was able to contain the home side’s attacking thrusts in some comfort, gradually gaining the ascendency to narrow the gap by half time and then take the game to their hosts in a second half that they dominated.

There were several changes to the side that beat Bromsgrove in the Intermediate Cup tie last week. The two try hero of that game Jak Davis had work commitments and was replaced on the left wing by Manny Rangi. Skipper Ben Connett returned to the second row after illness allowing Andy McEwen to resume on the flank in place of the injured Dave Westwood. Richard Kelly was back at loose head prop with Al Francis at tight head. In what turned out to be a very impressive victory after a slow start there were several good performances. The pack got better and better as the game unfolded. Skipper Ben Connett made an impressive return to the side; he and fellow lock Ollie Shakespeare were peerless in the lineout. The front row was very solid with young hooker Tom Lockley having possibly his best game to date for the senior side. The DK back row gradually wore down their opposition and was well on top by the end of the game. The backs too impressed with centres Gareth Davies and Stefan Shillingford prominent throughout. Wings Manny Rangi and Simon Fletcher saw a lot of the ball and both scored tries. Jag Singh made his 1st XV back row debut from the bench in the second half and immediately caught the eye with several good tackles.

This was an excellent team performance and everyone played their part hence no Man of the Match award, however rumours from a very reliable inside source have it that joint Head Coach Mark Lockley (late arriving at the game due to a tyre blow out on the motorway), was claiming to be DK’s MOM as they were 10-8 down when he arrived at the ground and his presence obviously and indeed immediately galvanised and guided the team to victory!!

Both sides probed for weaknesses in the opening exchanges but it was the home side that drew first blood after 8 minutes. Stratford had attacked down the left hand side and set up a couple of rucks. From the second one and with the DK back row otherwise engaged, Stratford’s big tight head prop John Joy broke forward from the ruck and ran at and straight through the unsupported Gareth Bown, to score a simple try. Fly half Jake White added the conversion for 7-0. Robbie Harlow was narrowly wide with a 15th minute penalty for DK but suitably encouraged by their early success the home side continued to force the pace, DK defended well but the inevitable penalty was eventually conceded when DK were caught offside and Jake White again stepped up to convert it for Stratford to lead 10-0 after 22 minutes. Robbie Harlow was wide with a 26th minute penalty but was on target with a 29th minute effort to make it 10-3.

Despite their inauspicious start DK were beginning to make inroads and the pack were getting on top in the loose play. After 36 minutes they narrowed the gap to just two points with a well taken unconverted try when, after good forward pressure they stretched the Stratford cover first right then left, close to the line for loose head Richard Kelley drove over in the corner for 10-8.

Half Time: STRATFORD UPON AVON 10 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 8

At last salvation was at hand for DK! Just in the nick of time, inspirational coach “Lockers” had now made his entrance and was prowling the touchline with a fearsome intent, the gratified DK lads were quick to buckle down to it and Robbie Harlow kicked them into the lead with a 43rd minute penalty for 10-11 as Stratford strayed offside. Simon Fletcher was wide with a 53rd minute penalty but now very much in the ascendency DK went further ahead after 54 minutes. Heavy Pressure near the Stratford line saw the ball spread wide to Gareth Davies who broke the Stratford line to send in left wing Manny Rangi for his first DK try. Simon Fletcher converted and DK were 2 scores up at 11-18. After a few near misses DK sealed the game after 78 minutes with their 3rd try. Stratford now playing catch up had to force the game and in trying to run the ball out of their 22 managed to spill it. Lurking DK right wing Simon Fletcher swept up the loose ball to sprint in under the posts and then convert his try for 10-25.

The game was up for Stratford but DK, sensing that their hosts were flagging, upped the ante and again camped on the Stratford line. From a stoppage time ruck replacement scrum half Jordan Brookes darted over from the blindside for DK’s 4th and final try to seal an emphatic victory in style.

DK are at home against Walsall (league) next week. KO 2.00 pm.

Saturday 22nd November - EDF Energy Cup - Round 2

Dudley Kingswinford 19 Bromsgrove 16

THIS WEEK’S MATCH REPORT COURTESY OF IAN BRATT

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Leigh Foster, 14 Jak Davis, 13 Gareth Davies (Capt),, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Simon Fletcher, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Robbie Harlow, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Dave Westwood, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Andy Mcewan 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 Stefan Thorpe, 2 Tom Lockley, 1 Al Francis. Reps: 16 Richard Kelly, 17 Neil Chivers, 18 Joe Francis, 19 Jordan Brookes.

This was a cup game to warm the hearts of spectators who came to see the first home game of the season!! After the disappointment of last week a biting cold wind welcomed the players onto the pitch for this EDF Second Round Intermediate Cup Tie against Bromsgrove who are riding high in Midlands West 2 and must have come to Heathbrook confident of a result. DK made a change in the front row with Stefan Thorpe at Tight Head and Al Francis switching to Loose but this did not seem to affect his performance as he produced arguably his best of the season and, with Ian Langford and Ollie Shakespeare having a huge impact, DK ran out worthy winners of a keenly contested game. Whilst all of the scoring came from the three quarters, both packs provided quick ball and this was seized upon but this could or should have been a much easier ride for DK. Ben Copson for Bromsgrove kicked 3 first half penalties to peg DK back but DK found an answer in the form of 'Billy Whizz' Jak Davis who had his turbo switched on but the Sat Nav was not quite homing in as he secured a brace of tries, but could have had more

Kicking off DK showed their intentions with their forwards securing immediate ball to set the backs away and as it came back inside Jamie Ramsey took full advantage to make his mark on the game. As with the last cup game at Syston he appeared to pop up around the park at every opportunity and he secured an early penalty for DK who opted to run it and Al Francis was on hand to spin the ball out to Jak Davis who just managed to overrun the ball. Bromsgrove secured possession with number 7 Chris Morgan and Number 8 Nigel Burrows controlling things in the line-out and a long punt downfield by the impressive Bromsgrove full-back Duncan Roke saw DK forced to concede a penalty on 7 minutes which Ben Copson duly slotted to make the score DK 0 Bromsgrove 3.

On 10 minutes Ben Copson had the chance to increase the lead but missed a second penalty given for not rolling away at the maul. By now the DK backs were enjoying possession set up for them by a resurgent pack and quick ball on 12 minutes saw Stefan Shillingford make a clean break through the Bromsgrove defence and he fed Gareth Bown who kicked through but his effort was tidied up by the Bromsgrove full-back Roke. Bromsgrove responded with some impressive running from their own backs and it was the scrum half Nick Copson who made space to drop a kick into the DK 22 but his forwards were too eager and DK managed to kick to touch. With DK forwards competing and winning line-out possession it was no surprise to see Stefan Shillingford, Simon Fletcher and Gareth Davies link up to send Jak Davis away again on the left but he was bundled into touch and Bromsgrove recovered to make another forage deep into DK territory , this time it was the DK forwards who went over the top and Ben Copson stepped up to slot his second penalty on 21 minutes to make the score DK 0 Bromsgrove 6

DK have shown plenty of character this season and it was no surprise to those who have travelled away with them to see the forwards posing a threat each time they go forward. In Dave Westwood and Andy Mcewen there is an ever willing engine and the experience of Ian Langford, in his second game back from injury, and the enthusiasm of Tom Lockley and Stefan Thorpe, there is a good feeling about this young side. Helped by the new ELV's this season (Law Variations) attacking sides can make breaks from a quick line-out and DK took advantage of some slack marking on 24 minutes to send the ball down the line for Jak Davis to make it 6-5 with a try which Robbie Harlow converted to make the score 7-6 to DK. Not content to soak up the pressure DK went on the attack and, once again, a fine flowing move by the DK backs saw Simon Fletcher away to the line only to be pulled back for a forward pass. Bromsgrove regrouped and made ground with their forwards enjoying some possession and their Number 8, Nigel Burrows, was a prominent player with several impressive runs which resulted in a DK infringement on 30 minutes and up stepped Ben Copson to slot his third penalty and make the score DK 7 Bromsgrove 9.

On 33 minutes another break by Gareth Davies in midfield left the Bromsgrove defence in trouble but a last ditch tackle by the full-back Duncan Roke resulted in a knock-on by DK and the ball was cleared to touch from the scrum. With DK enjoying plenty of possession it was good to see Ollie Shakespeare take on the Bromsgrove defence from a short line-out and the ball went wide again, only for a forward pass to halt proceedings but the pack secured more possession just before half-time and, with time running out in the half, DK opted to run a penalty instead of taking the points. Held up just on the line the DK forwards now looked for another option and Bromsgrove paid the price with Number 7 Chris Morgan receiving a Yellow Card for persistent infringements. As the whistle blew for half time a collective sigh suggested DK supporters wished the forward passes and penalty opportunities had secured more points for DK.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 7 BROMSGROVE 9

At half-time the Bromsgrove captain Richard Arnold gave some stern words to his team and finished with 'Empty the Tank' and DK supporters knew the second half would be tough. Bromsgrove kicked off but DK ran straight back at them and another fine move from the backs saw Stefan Shillingford break the cover and, with the line at his mercy, somehow the ball squeezed out of his hand to knock-on and the try went begging. As Bromsgrove surged forward again it seemed they too had problems retaining possession and DK pounced on a loose ball to spin it right where 4 men lay in waiting and Jamie Ramsey must be wondering how he managed to miss the opportunity but the ball was back with Bromsgrove and their impressive Number 8 broke free on 46 minutes and made 30 metres before Gareth Davies managed to haul him down but the Bromsgrove pack arrived in numbers and DK were forced to defend on the 5 metre line. It was DK's turn now to lose a man to the sin bin and Ian Langford went off on 47 minutes but the reliable boot of Ben Copson failed this time and DK supporters were left to wonder if all those missed chances would now come back to haunt them.

On 50 minutes Stefan Thorpe was replaced by Richard Kelley and soon after Jordan Brookes came on for Leigh Foster with Robbie Harlow switching to full-back. Straight away Gareth Davies made another break, only to be held up inside the Bromsgrove 22 as he looked to off-load a one handed pass and the referee then halted play for an injury to Dave Westwood who then left the field to be replaced by Joe Francis. On 55 minutes a nifty piece of footwork by Gareth Bown left the Bromsgrove defence in pieces and Jak Davis 'nipped' in for his second try of the afternoon but Robbie Harlow failed with the conversion.

DK 12 Bromsgrove 9. DK took the game straight back to Bromsgrove but they held firm and managed to secure some possession but on 58 minutes found themselves camped in their own 22 and forced to kick but Stefan Shillingford charged down the effort by Ben Copson and he could only watch as Stefan went in under the posts to touch down. As Robbie Harlow added the conversion DK seemed in a comfortable position going into the last quarter of the game. With the game going DK's way it was surprising to see the backs caught out by a similar move from Bromsgrove and on 64 minutes and their full-back Duncan Roke kicked through to outpace the DK backs and touch down making the score 19 - 14 and Ben Copson added the conversion to make it DK 19 Bromsgrove 16.

As we moved into the last 10 minutes Bromsgrove seemed to be enjoying more possession and their forwards were looking for an opportunity to make ground but a turnover by DK was spun out to the backs and Gareth Davies looked to set Jak Davis away on the wing but he had left a little too soon and was caught off-side. DK supporters must have feared the worst as Ben Copson stepped up to the mark but his missed penalty was greeted with a huge sigh of relief. Neil Chivers joined the fray for the last few minutes and Bromsgrove were making a fine game of it but their over exuberance cost them dearly with 2 penalties in quick succession and DK were grateful to Robbie Harlow who snuffed out a final attack by Bromsgrove and referee Fergus Ross of the Warwickshire Society brought a thoroughly entertaining game to an end and these two attacking minded sides will lock horns again in two weeks time in the league. Thank you to all the Bromsgrove players and committee for making this such an enjoyable rugby occasion. The 3rd Round of the EDF Energy Intermediate Cup will be played on Saturday 13th December.

DK are away at Stratford upon Avon (league) next week. KO 2.15 pm.

Saturday 8th November - Midlands 2 West

Burton 28 Dudley Kingswinford 25

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Leigh Foster, 14 Jak Davis, 13 Gareth Davies (Capt),, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Simon Fletcher, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Jordan Brookes, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Dave Westwood, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Andy McEwan 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 Al Francis, 2 Tom Lockley, 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 John Fallon, 17 Robbie Harlow, 18 Joe Francis

Inexperience and naivety cost DK’s young side dear at Peel Croft where they managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of what could and perhaps should have been a fully deserved victory, this after an appalling start. In the very last play of the game a premature lineout call gifted league leaders Burton possession from which they managed set up a scoring ruck in what was virtually their only incursion into the DK 22 of the second half.

DK had to overcome a whirlwind start by the home side who raced into a 15-0, three try lead after just 11 minutes with some superb back play. To their credit DK’s forwards then got well on top in the loose and the talented Burton backs rarely threatened again during the game. A hotly disputed disallowed try just before half time which puzzled both sides along with poor second half penalty options severely limited DK’s points tally and had kept Burton in the game until those last few fateful seconds. With no less than six of yesterday’s DK 1st XV still eligible for the Colts, some of them first year Colts at that, it would be wrong to be over-critical. DK are a very young side overall and will get better.

There were a few changes from last week’s side. DK welcomed back blind side flanker Ian Langford for his first senior game of the season after ankle surgery and he was inspirational, the best forward on show and a shoo-in for DK Man of the Match. “Langy” is a pretty awesome player at this level and one magical moment typified this when Burton’s feisty hooker and skipper Chris Arris had the temerity to try to run through him. All in one movement Langy not only swiftly brought him crashing down but also neatly extracted the ball from his grasp during the process, “sweet as a nut” as the saying goes, it was classic! Andy McEwen moved in to the second row from the flank to replace skipper Ben Connett (illness). Al Francis replaced John Fallon at tight head prop and Jordan Brookes replaced Robbie Harlow at scrum half. The DK forwards played very well throughout and after the first 20 minutes or so the Burton eight were finding the going hard in the loose as DK cranked up the pressure. The backs spluttered a little and their passing and handling, though improving as the game wore on, was poor in comparison to the Burton backs seamless execution of the basics. Early on the visitors were often left chasing shadows.

DK endured a pretty horrendous start to the game, conceding three unconverted tries in 11 minutes. It was a purple patch for the Burton backs, their movement and handling was superb. In the first minute quick hands set left winger Ian Gilmour away down the left, he waltzed through a couple of ineffective tackles to score wide out, 5-0. On 5 minutes the Burton forwards drove up through the middle then moved the ball quickly right to the wing and back inside for full back John Philliskirk to score, 10-0. Great tackles from Jak Davis and Leigh Foster prevented further scores before Burton scored a third try after 11 minutes, Ian Gilmour finishing off another fine flowing move to score his 2nd try for 15-0.

Bloodied but unbowed DK belatedly began to get a grip and as the game unfolded it became clear that the pack were beginning to outplay their hosts in the loose. They clawed back a try after 22 minutes when Andy McEwan scored a trademark try, smashing through from a ruck 8m out. Simon Fletcher converted and DK were now back in the game at 15-7. Ian Gilmour and Simon Fletcher swapped penalties on 24 and 32 minutes taking the score to 18-10. Though they were now getting the better of the exchanges DK naively gave away 3 points after 34 minutes when instead of an easy clearance to touch, Leigh Foster ran into trouble on his 22. Ian Gilmour slotted the resultant penalty to make it 21-10. DK stormed back up to the Burton line and Ollie Shakespeare was driven over for an excellent try only for the ref to disallow it for a crossing movement that the DK players were adamant did not occur, even Burton players were puzzled by the decision later. Simon Fletcher then missed a late penalty for DK. Half Time:

BURTON ON TRENT 18 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 10

Burton lost No 8 Jim Morris to a yellow card for stamping in the 1st minute of the half. DK should have scored a minute later when they had an overlap on the left but opted to take it into contact where a forward pass spoiled the move. Another chance went begging on 44 minutes when a poor pass hit the ground with the line beckoning. The DK pressure finally told after 47 minutes when a defensive kick was charged down for scrum half Jordan Brookes to pick up and sidestep through to the posts. Simon Fletcher converted for DK to edge within 4 points at 21-17.

DK were now on fire and had the home side defending for their lives. After 51 minutes and twice going close in the left hand corner the ball was spread back across to the right where full back Leigh Foster scored an unconverted try to give DK a 21-22 lead. It had been a remarkable comeback and DK had several more chances to kill the game. A tapped penalty and subsequent knock on in front of the posts after 55 minutes saw an easy 3 points squandered. Burton were giving a lot of penalties away and Simon Fletcher had a couple of unsuccessful long shots before landing a 45m kick on 71 minutes to stretch DK’s lead to 21-25. Disaster befell DK in stoppage time when a lineout call was made and the ball thrown in on their 22 whilst support lifter Andy McEwan was yards away adjusting his boots! Burton stole the ball to set up their only real attack of the half with flanker Jon Edwards being driven over and Ian Gilmour converting with the last kick of the game. An excellent game where Burton took their chances well and their visitors showed a lot of the old DK “Dog” to come very close to pulling off a spectacular result.

Saturday 1st November - Midlands 2 West

Solihull 22 Dudley Kingswinford 29

Dudley Kingswinford:15 Leigh Foster, 14 Jak Davis, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Simon Fletcher, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Robbie Harlow, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Dave Westwood, 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ben Connett (Capt), 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 John Fallon, 2 Tom Lockley, 1 Richard Kelly. Reps: 16 Stefan Thorp, 17 Joe Francis, 18 Jordan Brookes.

Despite winning their fifth match out of seven on the road by beating a gritty Solihull side by five tries to three at Portway, DK never recaptured the fluency they showed against Sutton a week ago. The home side retained the ball very well and disappointingly for DK, probably shaded overall possession. But DK had Stefan Shillingford who scored a hat trick of tries in a superlative performance and was the outstanding candidate for DK Man of the Match. The Solihull cover were simply unable to cope with his pace and power and with a little more clean possession he could easily have run riot! In difficult, blustery conditions, DK only managed to convert two of their kicks at goal during the game whilst Solihull managed three.

DK made four changes to last week’s side, Jak Davies made a welcome return after illness replacing Manni Rangi on the left wing, Robbie Harlow had his first game in his preferred position of scrum half, replacing Jordan Brookes (who will not be available in the New Year). Dave Westwood replaced Lewis Haniball on the open side flank and Ollie Shakespeare replaced Joe Francis in the second row. In a pretty low key overall team performance, Stefan Shillingford was outstanding, but there were also good performances from Robbie Harlow who showed some subtle skills and Jak Davis who scored a try and made a try saving tackle, Richard Kelly had another tremendous game at loose head prop, Dave Westwood tackled well and Andy McEwen and Jamie Ramsey carried the ball well in the forwards. The DK pack though was unable to dominate Solihull’s experienced hard bitten pack and was made to work very hard for every scrap of possession throughout the game.

Solihull should have scored in the first minute when an alarming and uncharacteristic large hole appeared in the DK centre, the try looked a certainty until the final pass was knocked on. Buoyed by this and a strong breeze at their backs Solihull pressed hard and DK had to defend in depth. DK took the lead against the run of play after 12 minutes when after receiving the ball on the DK 22, Stefan Shillingford set of on a 75m break, stepping at least four defenders en-route to score a stunning unconverted try. The home side were unfazed however and scored themselves after 15 minutes when a strong blind side run from centre Mick Powers saw him break a couple of tackles to score in the corner. Fly Half Andy Smallwood kicked a fine conversion from touch for the home side to lead 7-5.

DK found it difficult to make much headway against the wind but were generally able to cope comfortably with the home attacks until an unforced error saw them concede a soft try after 28 minutes. Gareth Bown spilled an awkward ball behind him and his opposite number, Solihull’s No 10 Andy Smallwood did well to hack the ball 20m over the DK line and follow up to touch down an unconverted try to increase the home lead to 12-5. Belatedly stung into action, DK went straight down the other end and laid siege to the Solihull goal line for several minutes. Finally Robbie Harlow found a bit of space and his perfectly judged chip over the advancing home cover was taken on the full by left wing Jak Davies who raced in for the unconverted try to make it 12-10. A fine piece of skill from the DK scrum half. DK got their noses in front after 37 minutes when good pressure from a scrum 5m out from the Solihull line saw the home side lose control of the ball as it squirted out on the open-side. DK o/s flanker Dave Westwood was on it like a flash and scored DK’s third unconverted try made it 12-15 in their favour at the break.

Half Time: SOLIHULL 12 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 15

With the strong first half breeze lessening considerably, DK still found the going tough and were unable to make much impact at the beginning of the half. Simon Fletcher was wide with a 46th minute penalty for DK, then Andy Smallwood kicked the home side level with a 52nd minute penalty to make it 15-15. DK re-asserted themselves and again attacked the home line, this time the pressure was concerted and after 57 minutes and four or five strong attacking phases Stefan Shillingford cut through at an angle that was too sharp for the home side to defend, to score his second try of the game. Robbie Harlow converted and DK were back in business at 15-22 up.

DK looked good with the ball in hand but Solihull were still winning too much possession for comfort and when Robbie Harlow was yellow carded for dissent on 69 minutes things got a little tense. Perversely however DK responded with their fifth try of the game after 72 minutes. From a scrum on the Solihull 22, Andy McEwen made some hard yards before swivelling round to find the irrepressible Stefan Shillingford steaming in to again take the ball at pace and score another superb try under the posts. Simon Fletcher converted and DK were out of site at 15-29. To their credit Solihull kept plugging away and were rewarded with a consolation try in stoppage time when former DK hooker Geoff Large was driven over with Andy Smallwood converting to make the final score 22-29 to DK.

DK are away at Burton on Trent (league) next week. KO 2.15 pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 25th October - Midlands 2 West

Sutton Coldfield 20 Dudley Kingswinford 28

Dudley Kingswinford:15 Leigh Foster, 14 Manny Rangi, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Simon Fletcher, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Jordan Brookes, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Lewis Hanniball, 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ben Connett (Capt), 4 Joe Francis, 3 John Fallon, 2 Tom Lockley, 1 Richard Kelly. Reps: 16 Dan Shakespeare, 17 Ollie Shakespeare, 18 Robbie Harlow.

This was an excellent game played in a tremendous spirit by two talented sides looking to move the ball wide at every opportunity and it provided great entertainment for an appreciative crowd. It was very much a game of two halves with a strong gusty wind blowing straight down the ground. DK made good use of the conditions in the first half to post a healthy 0-23 lead at the break, after Sutton, who had won the toss, surprisingly decided to play against the elements. DK had to dig deep in the second period but a superb early try from Andy McEwen gave Sutton too much to do, despite rallying well in the last quarter. The game was very well refereed by Claire Hodnett though the DK camp was more than a little nonplussed by Sutton’s rather controversial final try.

Considering the DK 1st team squad are still missing key forwards Adam Blackford, Tui Asi Pito, Ian Langford, Dave Westwood, Al Francis and long term injury victim Shaun Griffiths (good to see him supporting the lads!), the forwards played remarkably well. Sutton have lost only one game this season and that by a single point 20-19 away to league leaders Bromsgrove who just pipped them with a try in the last few minutes.

Bringing in Jamie Ramsey at No 8 has allowed Andy McEwen to play on the blindside flank and he did so with considerable aplomb yesterday as he not only made a try for Gareth Davies but scored a superb one himself to deservedly earn this week’s DK Man of the Match accolade. No 8 Jamie Ramsey linked well with scrum half Jordan Brookes and both were instrumental in ensuring quick ball out to the backs where fly half Gareth Bown was able to show his undoubted class with several impressive breaks. Left wing Simon Fletcher also had a fine game, kicking a crucial 13 points and looking very sharp in both attack and defence. DK’s normally efficient lineout did not function too well on the day but in all other aspects this was a very impressive performance.

With the strong wind at their backs, DK soon had the home side backpedalling Simon Fletcher (2) kicked two early penalties after 4 and 7 minutes to give DK a 0-6 lead. Sutton kept the ball tight against the elements and stung by DK’s early assault, began to put the visitors under pressure. The DK defence stood firm and they continued to catch out the Sutton cover. They looked to have broken through after 15 minutes but a knock on near the line relieved the pressure on the home side. Then again after 20 minutes a strong DK attack looked very promising as they pounded the home line, but sterling defence from Sutton again saved the day. DK then lost flanker Lewis Hanniball to the sin bin for some robust footwork on 24 minutes but still managed to increase their lead to 0-9 with another Simon Fletcher penalty after 30 minutes.

This score signalled a purple patch for DK who, restored to a full XV, threw everything into attack and were rewarded with a very good try after 30 minutes. A superb line kick from Gareth Bown took play into the Sutton 22, the home side conceded a scrum after a crooked throw and scrum half Jordan Brookes broke to feed Andy McEwen whose barnstorming run saw him bounce off several would be tacklers before sending in Gareth Davies near the posts. Simon Fletcher converted to give DK a 0-16 cushion. Now in full flow DK scored again after 37 minutes, quick hands from Jamie Ramsey saw Gareth Bown fly down the blindside before sending in full back Leigh Foster. Simon Fletcher again converted to give DK a commanding 0- 23 half time lead.

Half Time: SUTTON COLDFIELD 0 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 23

Centre Alex White put three points on the board for Sutton after 41 minutes but DK scored a crucial unconverted try against the elements after 47 minutes. From a scrum on the Sutton 22 DK spread the ball wide, won a couple of rucks before Andy McEwen exploded from the loose 15m out to plough over for a fine individual try to make it 3-28. A brilliant break from fly half Gareth Bown on 50 minutes again required great defensive resolve from the home side to prevent another, game killing DK try, but after this they finally began to put some concerted pressure on the DK line. The visitors handled the pressure well but it eventually paid off after 63 minutes when Sutton worked an overlap and centre Dave Edwards scored an unconverted try wide out to make it 8-28. Sutton managed a second try after 73 minutes when replacement centre Rob Watts took what looked suspiciously like a forward pass for another unconverted try and 13-28.

That seemed to be that, but there was an extraordinary incident in stoppage time. Simon Fletcher chased down a ball that had been drilled through the DK cover and over the goal line, he dived to touch it down, contact was very obviously made as the ball squirted away after the contact, but Sutton centre Rob Watts, more in hope than conviction, also followed up to touch down and by the look of disbelief on his face when the ref awarded the try, you would have thought he had won the lottery! Still, not to much harm done and an important step in getting DK’s season back on track.

DK are away at Solihull (league) next week. Note: KO 2.15 pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 18th October - Intermediate Cup Round 1

Syston 20 Dudley Kingswinford 21

Dudley Kingswinford:15 Manny Rangi, 14 Simon Fletcher, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Jak Davies, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Jordan Brookes, 8 Jamie Ramsey, 7 Lewis Hanniball, 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ben Connett (Capt), 4 Joe Francis, 3 John Fallon, 2 Tom Lockley, 1 Richard Kelly. Reps: 16 Josh Bissell, 17 Neil Chivers, 18 Chris Bartley, 19 Robbie Harlow.

On a bright but blustery afternoon DK rediscovered their attacking flair which was a feature of their opening three league games and took the game to previously unbeaten Syston, league leaders of Midlands East 2, inflicting their first defeat of the season albeit in nail biting fashion at the end.

Some decisive breaks from the DK half backs built on quick possession from a much improved pack performance saw DK soon established a lead in this exciting Intermediate Cup encounter. Three changes in the front five saw Jon Fallon, Tom Lockley and Joe Francis replace injury victims Al Francis, Adam Blackford and Ollie Shakespeare whilst in the back row Andy McEwen moved from No 8 to the b/s flank with Jamie Ramsey making his debut at No 8 and Lewis Hanniball replacing Dave Westwood on the o/s flank. In the backs it was a debut start for Kiwi Manny Rangi replacing his injured countryman Leigh Foster at full back. It was a testing debut for the hard tackling New Zealander who grew in confidence as the game wore on. Gareth Bown replaced Robbie Harlow at fly half. On the bench were Josh Bissell, Neil Chivers, Chris Bartley and Robbie Harlow.

Kicking with the wind Syston opened with a huge kick from their right winger Ian Smith which Manny Rangi gathered easily, only to see his clearing kick charged down, DK infringed at the ensuing ruck and winger Ian Smith slotted the penalty with barely two minutes on the clock for Syston to lead 3-0. DK replied with some fine forward play which set up a lineout on Syston’s 5 metre line but with the line in sight, careless rucking gave away the advantage. Taking the play to DK, Syston were rewarded with a second penalty after 9 minutes but this time Smith managed to hit the post and the ball was cleared to safety. With the DK forwards in control it was Syston’s turn to feel the squeeze as the DK pack drove to the line and fast hands saw the ball quickly pass through Jak Davies, Gareth Davies and Simon Fletcher to Andy McEwen who almost reached out for a try only to see a Syston hand knock the ball away. Not to be outdone, DK took a quick lineout on 14 minutes from which loose head prop young Richard Kelly stormed in on the blindside for an unconverted try to make it 3-5.

Concentrated pressure from the Syston forwards was relieved by a penalty to DK for a ruck infringement and from the ensuing lineout the DK forwards controlled the maul in excellent fashion to drive over hooker Tom Lockley for DK’s second unconverted try after 24 minutes, giving DK a healthy 3-10 lead….against the elements! Syston kicked long from the restart and Manny Rangi was unfortunate to be pinged for a high tackle-----from behind? But Syston made good yardage and slick interpassing from the forwards created space for the hooker Luke Coltman to calmly put the ball down for a try on 33 mins. Score 8-10. This was a good day for half backs and DK rediscovered their form with some fine movement as Stefan Shillingford and Gareth Bown controlled things in midfield. On the day Gareth Bown made great use of the clinical boot he seems to have inherited from dad Simon and time and again put 40-50 metres on the ball!! One such break led to Gareth Davies finishing off a fine handling move on 38 mins to make the half time score 15- 8 to DK.

Half Time: SYSTON 8 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 15

The second half saw DK kick off using the elements to their advantage making good yardage but the winger Ian Smith carved his way through the DK defence on 43 mins to score neatly wide of the posts. He converted his own try to tie the scores at 15-15 and nerves jangled. The DK pack were under pressure now from a resurgent Syston pack and their No 8 James Sutcliffe made some telling inroads into DK 's defence. But the DK midfield held firm this week and in Jamie Ramsey they have a Number 8 who can make 40 metre runs as good as any of the half backs!!! It was his bludgeoning run that led to a Penalty for DK on 53 minutes which Simon Fletcher coolly slotted. 18-15. With DK once again in the ascendancy Simon Fletcher was given another opportunity on 59 mins to stretch the lead to 21-15 and DK were in control. A number of stoppages and replacements saw Syston bring on an attacking forward??? in the centre and his impact was obvious as DK withstood a number of strong attacks by the Syston half backs and, but for a number of handling errors, might have scored again before the 74th minute when a rolling maul saw Syston cross the line only for the referee to give a 5 metre scrum from which the number 8 James Sutcliffe controlled with his feet to coolly drop on to make the score 21-20. With Smith missing the conversion it was left to DK to withstand the pressure and see out the final minutes. There was relief at the final whistle but it was a true CUP game in the best traditions and DK were fully deserving of their hard fought victory.

Man of the Match? Unanimous from Coaches and spectators... the TEAM

Saturday 11th October - Midlands 2 West

Stoke on Trent 17 Dudley Kingswinford 10

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff and is not for the faint-hearted.

Dudley Kingswinford:15 Leigh Foster, 14 Simon Fletcher, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Jak Davies, 10 Robbie Harlow, 9 Jordan Brookes, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 Dave Westwood, 6 Chris Bartley, 5 Ben Connett (Capt), 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 Al Francis, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Richard Kelly. Reps: 16 John Fallon, 17 Lewis Hanniball, 18 Gareth Bown.

DK were mugged by streetwise Stoke in the opening exchanges, conceding 17 points in the first 12 minutes of the game, a defensive shambles that they were ultimately unable to recover from. On this form they are unlikely promotion candidates as for the second week running they were comprehensively out-hustled by an opposition back row that took a far larger share of the loose ball than should have been possible. The fact that Stoke’s hero was 41 year old No 8 Rich Brown who scored two tries and plundered a huge amount of ball during the game, says it all. DK have a wealth of talent in their squad but need more than a little fine tuning to get back to their best. The home side had several seasoned veterans in their pack but were more than a match for their younger opposition. DK’s ball retention and skill levels were dire in the admittedly difficult handling conditions but the home side coped far better with these elements. They were undoubtedly aided by the uncommonly frequent injury stoppages that allowed the old boys a breather. Some uncharitable soul from the DK camp hinted darkly that it seemed to be a home tactic! Heaven Forbid!

Simon Fletcher and Gareth Davies returned for DK at right wing and outside centre and John Fallon, Lewis Hanniball and Gareth Bown were on the bench. The front row performed well yet again especially Richard Kelly at loose head and up against the massive rotund figure of John Brookes, Stoke’s tight head prop. For once DK struggled in the lineout where the home side spoiled well, especially in the second half as DK strove hard to rescue the game. The DK backs were once again constrained by the painfully slow ball from their pack which meant that the home cover gave them little space. In a desperately disappointing all round performance Stefan Shillingford stood out and was DK Man of the Match. The young centre at least tried to vary the game, hoisting testing kicks that put the home side under pressure, sure handling and passing skills and tremendous defence. With a modicum of room he is a very dangerous player indeed, sadly, on the day DK were unable to provide neither the space nor time.

Despite playing down the slope DK came under immediate pressure from the big Stoke pack. Full back Steve Talbot kicked them 3-0 up with a 2nd minute penalty but far worse was to follow. On 7 minutes DK actually stole a Stoke throw inside their own 22 but a fumble (the first of many!) saw the Stoke pack onto the error very quickly and No 8 Rich Brown crashed over for the try. Steve Talbot converted for the home side to lead 10-0. Stoke kept up the early pressure and after 12 minutes another horrendous defensive faux pas led to Stoke’s 2nd score. There did not seem too much on as Stoke’s irrepressible veteran No8 Rich Brown picked up from a scrum just inside the DK 22 but the old fella was able to trundle down the open-side virtually unchallenged to record his and Stoke’s 2nd try again converted by Steve Talbot for 17-0. DK have now conceded 2 similar tries in the last 3 weeks. DK were all over the place and were fortunate not to concede a 3rd score after 19 minutes. Poor DK handling saw Stoke a fingertip away from an interception try. Talbot missed a 20th minute penalty for the home side before DK belatedly began to make a few inroads.

A good chance was wasted after 23 minutes as DK looked sure to score but the final pass was knocked on. DK finally got onto the score-sheet after 31 minutes when a mazy run from full back Leigh Foster, carving through the Stoke cover saw the Kiwi score a fine individual try. Fly half Robbie Harlow’s conversion made it 17-7. Now back in the game, DK pressed hard but were hampered by the wily Stoke pack constantly managing to slow the ball down out of the ref’s line of sight. In stoppage time Robbie Harlow managed a penalty to bring DK 3 points closer at 17-10.

Half Time: STOKE ON TRENT 17 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 10

Stoke No 8 Rich Brown got a rather harsh yellow card after 44 minutes for offside but even with Stoke’s best forward off the field DK were unable to take advantage. They piled on the pressure but Stoke held firm and when DK flanker Lewis Hanniball was yellow carded for foul play on 56 minutes it was the visitors who were on the back foot again.

Steve Talbot narrowly missed with a 68th minute penalty before DK hurled everything into a grandstand finish that might well have earned them a share of the spoils had it not been for such a large unforced error count, especially close to the Stoke line and the inability to win their own lineout ball cleanly during this crucial period. As it was Stoke deservedly held on for the win leaving DK to rue what might have been.

DK are away at Syston (Intermediate Cup – R1) next week. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 4th October - Midlands 2 West

Hereford 20 Dudley Kingswinford 8

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff and is not for the faint-hearted.

Dudley Kingswinford:15 Leigh Foster, 14 Jon Shankland, 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Jak Davies, 10 Robbie Harlow, 9 Jordan Brookes, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 Dave Westwood, 6 Chris Bartley, 5 Ben Connett (Capt), 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 Al Francis, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Richard Kelly. Reps: 16 Tom Lockley, 17 Joe Francis, 18 Gareth Bown.

DK got exactly what they deserved at Hereford – Nothing! Despite another excellent performance from the front five, the back row was comprehensively outplayed on the day. Hereford were quick to the loose ball, efficient once they arrived at the breakdown and quick to get the ball away. The set scrums were the same, even under increasing pressure the home pack managed to get the ball away smartly. By contrast DK struggled at the base of the scrum, both in the tight and loose; a fact that the home scrum half and flankers were quick to capitalise on, by regularly disrupting what should have been quick DK ball and rendering the talented DK backs impotent as they were for long periods against Cheltenham North. Decision making also cost DK points. Throughout the game DK’s superior front five had shoved Hereford backwards at will in the loose, yet not once, even with the breeze in the second half did they manage and effective catch and drive from the numerous penalties awarded against Hereford. Other disappointing aspect of DK’s play was the amount of good possession they lost in contact throughout the game and the poor defensive alignment in the backs at times.

The game was effectively lost in the last quarter, when an extraordinary incident seemed to totally faze the DK side. They had just scored a try to make the score 10-8 when an illegal shoulder barge from a home player instigated a brawl in front of the main stand. The posturing and fighting gathered pace for at least minute and a half, with the ref Tom Picton somehow still unaware of what was happening. Members of the crowd quickly became involved and the now serious incident which culminated in the unedifying spectacle of a senior officer of the Hereford club no less, going on to the field of play in full view of the crowd and assaulting a DK player by jabbing him in the eye and leaving the player requiring medical treatment. An early grip on the situation would no doubt have resulted in a couple of disciplinary cards and saved the Hereford official from what will ultimately be utter humiliation. However, this all happened whilst the referee blithely played on and to add insult to injury Hereford actually scored whilst the incident was taking place! A shell-shocked DK never really recovered.

The non-availability of Gareth Davies, Simon Fletcher, Tui Asi Pito and John Fallon meant enforced changes for DK. Tom Weaver came in at outside centre, Jak Davis was on the right wing and Chris Bartley was at blindside flanker. The front five had a very good day; Adam Blackford took a heel against the head, Ollie Shakespeare had another good game and fellow lock and skipper Ben Connett was at his imperious best in the lineout. However DK Man of the Match this week was the ever improving Al Francis at tight head prop. Al had one of his best games for the club. Along with front row partners Adam Blackford and Richard Kelly, DK’s front row is proving to be a very dependable unit.

Hereford missed an early penalty but took the lead after 12 minutes. DK were caught napping by Hereford hooker Gareth Miles’s quick throw in and before they could react the ball was whipped out to right wing Adan Gwnne who scored a good try in the corner. Fly half Dean Powell kicked a fine conversion for the home side to lead 7-0. DK hit back and dominated possession for a while but were unable to provide a decent platform for their backs and Dean Powell increased Hereford’s lead to 10-0 with a 29th minute penalty.

DK continued to win good territory and possession but flattered to deceive as they effectively squandered it, either committing basic errors or losing the ball in contact. Robbie Harlow reduced the arrears with a 34th minute penalty and it remained at 10-3 up until half time.

Half Time : HEREFORD 10 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 3

The home side again began strongly, their ability to quickly tap and run penalties gave DK problems but the visitors again got back into the game and came very close to a try after 51 minutes when No 8 Andy McEwen drove powerfully to the line only to knock on just short. Robbie Harlow narrowly missed a penalty after 63 minutes but further DK pressure brought a try after 65 minutes. A poor Hereford defensive kick was taken by Robbie Harlow who sent Andy McEwen away, his tremendous break set up an attacking ruck inside the home 22 and the ball was spun out to centre Tom Weaver who did well to break a couple of tackles to score an unconverted try wide out to bring DK back into contention at 10-8.

DK looked set for a grandstand finish and they got one but not in the way they would have wished! The touchline incident described above then took place with Hereford’s left winger Sean Day touching down on 71 minutes as it happened, with the hapless referee seemingly oblivious to the mayhem on the touchline behind him. At 15-8 down DK should still have been in the hunt but the situation had clearly got to them and Hereford ran the ball out of defence 3 minutes later for Sean Day to send in centre Adam Knight for the victory clinching try.

DK are away at Stoke on Trent (league) next week. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 27th September - Midlands 2 West

Camp Hill 15 Dudley Kingswinford 43

Dudley Kingswinford:15 Leigh Foster, 14 Jon Shankland, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Simon Fletcher, 10 Robbie Harlow, 9 Jordan Brookes, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 Dave Westwood, 6 Tui Asi Pito, 5 Ben Connett (Capt), 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 Al Francis, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Richard Kelly. Reps: 16 John Fallon, 17 Tom Lockley, 18 Karl Lockley.

In perfect conditions for open rugby at Camp Hill’s “Shrine” DK effectively won this game in the first half, scoring four of their six tries and playing with such intensity that Camps simply had no answer to their visitors pace and invention and were left to defend desperately for long periods. Camp Hill have had tremendous recent success, promoted as champions from Division 3 last season, they also won the North Midlands Shield and up until last week they had been undefeated for a year. Whilst well beaten on the day Camps showed their spirit by grimly sticking to the task and ending the game with a two try flourish. The Shirley based club is in mourning this week following the sudden death of one of their young players, 28 year old Tom Ulliot. The DK club would like to offer their sincere condolences to Tom’s family after such a truly tragic event.

DK made several changes to the side that won at Cheltenham. Two of their brightest young stars, fly half Gareth Bown (bruising) and full back Jak Davis (illness) were both unfit and were replaced by DK’s two Kiwi signings Robbie Harlow and Leigh Foster respectively. Skipper Ben Connett returned to the second row with Andy McEwen at No 8. Jon Shankland replaced Ryan Wicketts on the right wing.

There were several candidates for Man of the Match. The front row of Al Francis/John Fallon, Adam Blackford and Richard Kelly was superb, talking at least five strikes against the head, lock Ollie Shakespeare made his presence felt as did No 8 Andy McEwen. In the backs both of the Kiwi lads’ fly half Robbie Harlow and full back Leigh Foster, making his 1st XV debut, were in great form as was two try Stefan Shillingford who was very ably aided and abetted by Gareth Davies. However, the DK Man of the Match award this week goes to young scrum half Jordan Brookes, what a competitor! Jordan has been steadily improving week on week, his sheer tenacity on the ball created many opportunities for both the backs and forwards throughout the game.

DK had Camps backpedalling from the opening whistle. Robbie Harlow kicked a penalty to put DK 0-3 up after only 2 minutes and was narrowly wide with another, longer effort, after 4 minutes. DK’s first try came after 6 minutes. Gareth Davies’s astute grubber kick through the advancing Camps cover saw No 8 Andy McEwen show a tremendous burst of pace to touch down wide out. Robbie Harlow converted from touch to put DK 0-10 up. Full back Ian Briggs missed a 10th minute penalty for the hosts but there was no holding all action DK as they surged 0-15 ahead after 14 minutes. A slick passing movement in midfield saw Kiwi debutant full back Leigh Foster on the ball. His arcing 40m break at great pace through the Camp’s rearguard culminated in a superb unconverted try. Two minutes later (16m) DK scored their third try of the game and it was a gem! The ball literally flew from one pair of hands to another, Andy McEwen, Dave Westwood, Ollie Shakespeare, who broke three tackles before unloading to Gareth Davies who finally sent in Stefan Shillingford at the posts. Robbie Harlow converted, putting DK 0-22 up.

Battered and bewildered, Camps nevertheless made a good fist of it for the next 20 minutes or so. Ian Briggs kicked a penalty to make it 3-22 after 20 minutes and the home side managed to keep rampant DK at bay until just before half time. After 39 minutes DK, who were winning both the tight and loose contest hands down, won a ruck 15m out. Quick ball then saw Stefan Shillingford loop Gareth Davies to sprint in brilliantly for his second try; Robbie Harlow again added the extras for DK to lead 3-29 at the break.

Half Time: CAMP HILL 3 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 29

It didn’t take long for DK to further increase their already substantial lead. On 47 minutes Stefan Shillingford’s long pass saw Gareth Davies draw the cover before sending in Simon Fletcher. Robbie Harlow converted for 3-36. DK were now in full control and after 58 minutes scored their sixth try. Heavy pressure on Camp’s line saw Robbie Harlow drive over from close in and then add the conversion for 3-43.

It looked odds on that DK would run up a very big score, but missed opportunities and a sterling late effort from the home side meant that they actually conceded two late tries to Camps. On 77 minutes flanker Darren Forder drove over after good home forward pressure, then deep into stoppage time lock Rob Hill was driven over with Ian Briggs converting to give Camps a more respectable 15-43 scoreline.

DK are away at Hereford (league) next week. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 20th September - Midlands 2 West

Cheltenham North 13 Dudley Kingswinford 14

Dudley Kingswinford:15 Jak Davis, 14 Ryan Wyketts, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Simon Fletcher, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Jordan Brookes, 8 Dave Westwood, 7 Dave Westwood, 6 Tui Asi Pito, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 Al Francis, 2 Adam Blackford (Capt), 1 Richard Kelley. Reps: 16 John Fallon, 17 Andy McEwen, 18 Robbie Harlow.

In an exciting but error strewn game, on their first ever visit to Cheltenham North’s pretty Stoke Orchard Road ground, DK ground out the result in the face of a herculean defensive effort from the extremely committed home side. DK’s dominance of territory and possession throughout would, in normal circumstances, have been enough to win most games in some comfort, but North’s extraordinary “no frills” and “in your face” defensive performance rendered DK’s much vaunted attack almost impotent and very short of ideas at times. North’s two tries were quick thinking but speculative, opportunist efforts, both poorly defended by DK and left the visitor’s playing “catch up”. Both sides missed very kickable penalties on a regular basis, though perversely, both of DK’s conversions from Simon Fletcher were superb touchline efforts!

North’s tenacity in the tackle upset DK’s ability to get the ball wide at pace and at times individuals were guilty of hanging on to the ball instead of trying to stretch the home cover. The pack was solid throughout and DK Man of the Match - Richard Kelley at loose head had a great game in both tight and loose, small in stature he may be, but this was a giant performance from the young prop. Though there were excellent breaks from both Jordan Brooks and Gareth Bown it was generally a less than comfortable afternoon for the DK backs as a hesitant backline spluttered to perform at times. Robbie Harlow, DK’s Kiwi signing came off the bench into the centre for the injured Stefan Shillingford and slotted in very well, showing several nice touches with good handling and tackling skills.

Good early pressure saw DK attack the home line but fly half Gareth Bown was wide with a 2nd minute penalty. North came back into the game for a while as DK self-inflicted pressure by giving away needless penalties. Back in the driving seat and again putting heavy pressure on the home line, DK were shocked as North took a 5-0 lead against the run of play after 12 minutes. DK right wing Simon Fletcher had been bundled into touch and quick thinking saw North take a quick lineout and hare off with a 2:1 advantage down DK’s unguarded right flank resulting in a try for North left winger Justin Andrews. The quick move caught the ref out too but the fact that the final pass was blatantly forward is a mere detail as the smart move was well worthy of the try.

DK re-doubled their efforts and camped on the North line for the next 10 minutes, North were penalised for a late tackle on Gareth Davies on 16 minutes but Simon Fletcher was narrowly wide with the 45m penalty. The same player “scored” after 20 minutes but had a foot in touch. The pressure had to tell and finally the ball was moved swiftly from a ruck under the North posts for Simon Fletcher to score in the corner after 23 minutes and then add the conversion from the touchline for DK to lead 5-7. North full back John Morrison missed a straightforward penalty after 28 minutes before DK resumed the offensive with concerted pressure on the home line. Richard Kelly got over the line on 37 minutes but it was adjudged a double movement. Then in first half stoppage time a superb break from a tap penalty saw Gareth Bown scythe through the massed North defence only to run out of support close to the line.

Half Time : CHELTENHAM NORTH 5 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 7

If half time scoreline was disappointing for DK after dominating the first half play, they were soon to be absolutely mortified as North scored another try out of the blue only a minute into the second period. North were awarded a put in 30m out from the DK line from which No 8 Paul Scott broke quickly from the base of the scrum to scamper in unhindered with the DK back row seemingly AWOL and only a limping Garth Bown (deadleg) attempting a tackle. Fortunately for DK, the conversion from right in front of the posts was missed but North still led 10-7. Now more than a little concerned, DK began to infringe in the loose and were punished when John Morrison kicked North 13-7 ahead on 52 minutes.

DK raised their game and again laid siege to the home line. Simon Fletcher missed a 61st minute penalty but the visitors were not to be denied. Awarded a penalty 5m out it was quickly tapped and moved swiftly right to full back Jak Davis who dived over in the corner after 64 minutes. Simon Fletcher then won the game with a magnificent conversion from touch. There was still plenty of time left for the home side to reply, but DK were in no mood to let it slip again and they comfortably controlled the remainder of the game, the majority of which was played in the North 22. In fact Simon Fletcher missed a penalty in front of the posts in the dying seconds. It was just that sort of game! DK are away at Camp Hill (league) next week. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 13th September - Midlands 2 West

Whitchurch 5 Dudley Kingswinford 33

Dudley Kingswinford:15 Jak Davis, 14 Jon Shankland, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Simon Fletcher, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Jordan Brookes, 8 Dave Westwood, 7 Tui Asi Pito, 6 Lewis Hanniball, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 Al Francis, 2 Adam Blackford (Capt), 1 Richard Kelly. Reps: 16 Dan Shakespeare, 17 Tommy Huggins, 18 Tom Lockley.

DK Match report this week courtesy of “Uncle” Graham Robbins  

DK continued their fine pre-season form with a convincing win in their first league game of the season over old rivals Whitchurch. Edgeley Road is a traditionally a tough venue to get a result. Whilst the five tries to one margin should perhaps have been greater, the win will be a great confidence booster for DK’s young side and they will get better.

For the first 12 to 15 minutes Whitchurch put DK under pressure, however the visitor’s scrum and defence was excellent and they continually disrupted Whitchurch ball. After early pressure, DK had the first scoring opportunity, being awarded a penalty in the Whitchurch half. They opted for touch and from the resulting lineout Whitchurch conceded another penalty but fly half Gareth Bown was just wide with the kick. The first score came after 23 minutes when scrum half Jordan Brookes made a fine 30m break from a scrum before feeding supporting flanker Dave Westwood on the inside for an excellent try. Gareth Bown converted to make it 0-7.

A period of unforced errors then followed from DK, often when they were in promising situations. After 35 minutes open side flanker Tui Asi Pito dropped on a loose ball and from the ensuing ruck Gareth Bown made a scintillating 50m break only to be pulled down 10m short with winger Jon Shankland free on his outside and allowing Whitchurch to clear their line to touch. However from the lineout the ball was moved swiftly along the DK threequarter line to Gareth Davies on the crash ball. From the ruck the ball was switched to the blindside for Tui Asi Pito to bulldoze over for the try. Gareth Bown converted from wide out for DK to increase the lead to 0-14.

From the re-start Whitchurch knocked on and from the scrum Jordan Brookes made a 30m break but his pass was knocked on in a good position. Then Whitchurch made a poor clearance from a lineout and another flowing passing movement from DK was only finally thwarted 5m from the Whitchurch line. The half time score flattered the home side as DK’s unforced errors had seen at least two further tries go begging.

Half Time: WHITCHURCH 0 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 14

The second half began with scrappy play from both sides. After 48 minutes Whitchurch were awarded a penalty for a DK high tackle. The kick was deep into the DK half but DK stole the penalty lineout and launched a 70m counter attack finally petering out deep in the Whitchurch half.

On 52 minutes DK took a Whitchurch scrum ball against the head, fly half Gareth Bown brilliantly held on to a wild pass to make a superb 35m break, leaving three would be tacklers floundering in his wake to score an unconverted try just wide of the posts to make it 0-19. Dan Shakespeare replaced Al Francis at tight head prop and three minutes later a Whitchurch clearance kick out of defence was collected in his own half by DK full back Jak Davis who raced 70m, completely outstripping the home defence to score wide out. Gareth Bown converted from touch to make it 0-26 after 55 minutes

On the hour DK were further disrupted when they lost lock Ollie Shakespeare to injury. Brother Dan replaced him in the second row, skipper Adam Blackford moved to prop and Tom Lockley came off the bench to hook. Following these changes DK became a little disjointed, resulting in 10 minutes of Whitchurch pressure. Once again DK held firm until the Whitchurch skipper and prop Russell Lear was driven over from a lineout for an unconverted try (5-26). DK came charging back in the final minutes. Whitchurch picked up from a scrum inside their own 22 but were immediately turned over for scrum half Tommy Huggins to pick up and feed wing Simon Fletcher on the blindside to score. Gareth Bown nailed his fourth conversion for DK to run out comprehensive winners 5-33.

Apart from the unforced errors, a very encouraging opening to the league campaign with all the youngsters from last year’s Colts making significant contributions. Set pieces were excellent as was the defence. Above all Whitchurch could not cope with the pace of DK. Following this display, DK supporters can look forward can look forward to an entertaining season. This performance brought back memories of 7/8 years ago.

DK are away at Cheltenham North next Saturday.

Saturday 6th September - Pre Season Warm Up

Dudley Kingswinford 47 Halesonians 11

The game was switched to Heathbrook at the 11th hour as the Halesonians pitch was waterlogged. DK’s changing facilities are currently being re-built so there was a distinct “hum” in the packed bar afterwards!  

The comprehensive margin of victory achieved by DK on the day did not reflect what a tough game this actually was. DK’s pace and movement behind the scrum ultimately took its toll, but Halesonians, who have been incredibly successful over the past couple of seasons - winning every one of their league games last season - were well up for the game and gave the DK pack a torrid time in the opening 20 minute session which the visitor’s dominated, but tellingly found themselves 7-6 down at the end of it.

In the DK backs there were tremendous performances from fly half Gareth Bown, centres Gareth Davies and Stef Shillingford. Full back Jak Davis weighed in with a couple more tries and Kiwi scrum half Robbie Harlow made a sound debut, he looks to be a good acquisition. The forwards, after a difficult opening period, settled well and were well on top, especially in the loose, towards the end. Excellent games from Dan and Ollie Shakespeare, Shaun Griffiths and the youngsters in the front five and from Chris Bartlett in the back row. The side was well led by Ben Connett from No 8 until he received a knock in the third session.

Halesonians hit the ground running and DK were unable to get out of their half for the first 10 minutes, being turned over a couple of times and conceding several penalties. Hales full back Mark Wakefield missed one after 2 minutes but put Halesonians 0-3 up with his another after 9 minutes. A trademark 50m surging break at pace from DK full back Jak Davies on 10 minutes gave a glimpse of what was to unfold, but then DK transgressed under the visitor’s posts. Further heavy Hale’s pressure with loose head Steve Head, (son of former Halesonians, Moseley and North Mids prop Martin) to the fore saw Mark Wakefield double their lead to 0-6 after 17 minutes with a penalty from under the posts. Significantly though for all the pressure and possession gained, Halesonians were unable to penetrate the DK cover and they paid the price after 20 minutes when DK’s penalty catch and drive from deep inside the visitor’s 22 saw lock Shaun Griffiths driven over in the corner. Gareth Bown’s magnificent conversion from touch saw DK take the first session against the play 7-6.

The second session saw DK put concerted pressure on the visitor’s line for the first time and on 25 minutes a ruck on the Hale’s line was whipped out smartly for Jordan Brookes in midfield to chip over the advancing Hale’s cover. A defensive error saw DK right wing Jon Shankland follow up to score and put DK 12-6 up. Hales hit back with more pressure but DK hit them with a classic try after 34 minutes. Heavy pressure on the Hale’s line, a quick ruck, the ball quickly spun out to Gareth Davies whose superb angled run split the visitor’s cover asunder as he raced in to the posts unopposed. Gareth Bown converting for 19-6. With Halesonians momentarily in some disarray, DK added the try of the game 2 minutes later (36 mins). Simon Fletcher began the move then the ball was moved swiftly through Stefan Shillingford and on to Gareth Davies who surged clear to send in the ubiquitous Jak Davis for a superb try. Gareth Bown again converted for DK to increase their lead to 26-6.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 26 HALESONIANS 6

In the third session DK carried on from where they had left off. In form fly half Gareth Bown broke the visitor’s line after 44 minutes, slick handling from him and Robbie Harlow saw Stefan Shillingford steal in for DK’s fifth try, Gareth Bown converting for DK to lead 33-6. DK flanker Lewis Hanniball and Hale’s tight head prop were yellow carded for fighting on 51 minutes before Halesonians shocked the home side with a try out of the blue after 55 minutes. DK had actually secured the ball on their 22 and tried to spread it wide, cocking it up rather badly. Hales turned over the ball and an astute chip over the DK cover saw right wing Matt Johnson score a good opportunist try wide out to make it 33-11. DK should have had a sixth try on the hour but Adam”Beef”Blackford’s attempted final pass was intercepted 5m out

They were not to be denied however and their sixth try was duly scored in the fourth and final session after a superb break by Stefan Shillingford after 62 minutes again broke the Hales line, Gareth Bown was up in support and took the scoring pass and then add his sixth conversion to see DK out of sight at 40-11 up. DK scored their seventh and final try after 65 minutes when Stefan Shillingford again turned provider, brilliantly intercepting a loose Hale’s pass he sprinted 50m to draw the last man before sending in full back Jak Davis for his second try. With five minutes remaining DK should have added an eighth try when a quick tap penalty saw Gareth Bown halted on the Hale’s line, his hurried pass just eluding Ollie Shakespeare. Tui Asi Pito and a Hale’s lock were yellow carded after 77 minutes after a slight “misunderstanding”. All in all, it was a very entertaining afternoon.

DK open their Midlands 2 league programme at Whitchurch next Saturday. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 30th August - Pre Season Warm Up

Lichfield 7 Dudley Kingswinford 38

Following their unexpected and very impressive 31-43 away win against Midlands 1 side Bedford Athletic last week at Putnoe Woods, DK comfortably disposed of Midlands 3 side Lichfield in perfect playing conditions at Cooke Fields with a competent performance that bodes well for the forthcoming season.

Due to holidays, weddings and the odd injury, DK were short of several potential first teamers, especially in the forwards and occasionally struggled to contain a strong, aggressive Lichfield pack. However despite the ample possession won by their forwards, the home side never really looked like breaching the DK line, whose tackling was from the top drawer throughout, they were also unable to cope with DK’s pace out wide. The game was played in four twenty minute sessions of which DK won three to Lichfield’s one. In the first session suberb back play helped DK ease into a three try lead before being pegged back in the second session when Lich brought on some of their bigger forwards. DK again took control in the third session with a tremendous try from Tui Asi Pito and in the last added two further tries despite being down to 14 men when Richard Kelley was sin binned.

In the pack the new look back row of Lewis Hanniball, Andy McEwen and Tui Asi Pito proved very effective on the day and though it was a tough contest for the front row, Josh Bissell/Al Francis, Tom Lockley and the ever dependable Dan Shakespeare stuck to the task well. It was good to see scrum half Robbie Jones and influential centre Gareth Davies back in the squad, he and fellow veteran Pete Stinton led the backs well. DK’s more youthful backs, Gareth Bown, Stef Shillingford and of course the amazing Jak Davis all played their part in a clinical win. After soaking up some early home pressure, DK took the lead on 6 minutes with a textbook try created by a couple of DK’s elder statesmen. From a ruck on the Lich 22 the ball was spun to Gareth Davies who broke forward before finding Pete Stinton on the inside, the veteran fly half’s long miss pass shredded the Lich cover for left wing Jak Davis to power in for ths try and a 0-5 lead for DK. After 11 minutes DK went further ahead with another fine try. After stealing the ball from a Lich scrum, a neat break from Pete Stinton created space for impressive flanker Lewis Hanniball to break and pass to Stefan Shillingford, his inside pass saw Gareth Davies score at the posts, Pete Stinton converting for 0-12. Two minutes later another sweet DK backs move had Lichfield in disarray and Jak Davies ran in his second try with Pete Stinton Converting for 0-19 on 13 minutes. Lichfield beefed up their pack for the second session and the DK front five were under more pressure than before. The home side clawed back a try on 23 minutes when their outside centre touched down after concerted pressure from their pack. Despite increased pressure and possession Lichfield were unable to break through again and it remained 5-19 until half time.

DK threatened on several occasions before increasing their lead to 5-26 after 47 minutes with a stunning try. Scrum half Tommy Huggins on the home 22, spun the ball out to Tui Asi Pito on the burst, a fearsome sight! The powerful flanker simply tore through the Lichfield cover from 20metres for a superb score close in to the posts, Pete Stinton converting. Lichfield to their credit never faltered and tried hard to salvage something from the game, but much decent possession was either squandered or faltered against a rock solid DK defence.

DK went back on the offensive in the fourth session and No 8 Andy Mcewan, who had a superb match, was rather harshly adjudged to have made a double movement in the act of “scoring” after 62 minutes. DK then lost prop Richard Kelly to a yellow card on 68 minutes but 14 man DK had the last word with two excellently worked tries in the final minutes of the game. Firstly a subtle shimmy saw Simon Fletcher break the Lichfield line, fix the last defender before sending in Gareth Davies for his second try of the afternoon on 78 minutes for DK forge further ahead to 5-31. In the last minute after a sublime passage of play, it was Gareth Davies who turned provider, sending in Jak Davis for his hat trick. Fly half Gareth Bown added the extras for DK with the last kick of the game.

DK are away at Halesowen for their final pre-season friendly next Saturday. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

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