Proud to be South

Although South narrowly lost their unbeaten home record to league leaders Luctonians all the members of this team should be proud of their display. They showed considerable character, a collective desire to support each other in adversity and a renewed determination in a game where with a little luck they could have won. What a complete turnaround from last week's Roman disaster!

Unusually at this level, the first half was devoid of any score with only the retirement from the game of the Luctonians outside centre ( courtesy of the newly appointed South chiropractor, and Geri Halliwell look-a-like, Tom Armstrong) and a failed Lucs penalty kick as highlights. Both defences were on top throughout although South should have taken the lead in the 27th minute when a Greg Hurst led breakout gave Gaz Nicholson a chance in the left corner which eventually was covered by the Lucs drift defence. A wind assisted penalty chance should have been converted instead of being quickly tapped as we again let the league leaders off the hook.

Half Time score 0 - 0.

South now playing against the wind opened their account in the 42nd minute when Mark Lord converted a penalty kick to go 3 points clear.
The crucial moment of the game then occured as the inconsistent referee yellow carded Keiron Collins for a late tackle. He not only got the wrong man, but he confirmed his poor judgement as he had already ignored a number of similar offences. Players from both sides were becoming increasing frustrated as to the referees lack of empathy and his inability to control the breakdowns, resulting in some niggly exchanges.
Lucs, however, took advantage of the man mis-match and scored an excellent try by centre Cameron Hewitt. Full back Bruce Thomas was unable to convert the try, but added a penalty after an hour to conclude the scoring.
South replaced Gaz Nicholson with James Harrison and had the chance to narrow the gap, but Mark Lord inexplicably pulled a straight forward penalty attempt wide.

Overall, South fronted up well and proved that on their day they can be a match for anybody in this league. Decision making under pressure and the ability to hold on to ball in contact are aspects that, however, still need to be rectified.

Man of the Match: Sam Badham.

South team: Lang, Collins, Hurst, Armstrong, Nicholson (Harrison), Lord, McFredries,
Bale, Sands, March, Badham, Matthews, Harris, Green, Jones.

Cartwright, Mike Mark.

It seems my rally cry for an increased verbal home support fell on deaf ears again as a poor crowd of around only 60 watched the game. Other clubs make their grounds a hotbed of positive support for their team as the South home and AWAY faithful can testify. When will South Leicester RFC members follow their lead and show some passion in support of their team - it was, after all, a visit from the league leaders who no doubt will be in the mix for promotion to the National Leagues at the end of the season.
The players were up for it - WHERE WERE YOU?

Match report:Phil Lord