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As at 27 June

We now have all the 1st XV kit sponsored except for training tops – if anyone is interested in this superb marketing opportunity please contact Peter Blakeman M 07710094245 or Email Peter@jonicengineering.co.uk. Sponsors are also invited for the Second, Third and Colts XV’s kits.

The programme for next season is also currently being put together and if you know of anyone who would like to be advertise in it then please contact krfc@appliedgeology.co.uk ASAP. Details are on the web site.

Attention all Golfers: The Spurgeon Cup is to be played at Kenilworth Golf Club on the afternoon of Wed 23rd July – Details and booking tee times are on the notice board.

All players will be delighted to here that training re-starts on Tuesday 8th July. Only regular trainers will be considered for the pre season game in Jersey.

If you fancy running touch for the first XV in their league and cup games then we would be interested in speaking to you.

At the AGM held last week (the numbers in the bar still won I am afraid) this years Management Committee was voted back en block and Russell White was elected as South Warwickshire representative.

The following members are now having their emails returned to me so if anyone can help with their new email addresses then please email me at krfc@appliedgeology.co.uk

Russ Brayshaw, Alan Sutherland, Bruce Roberts, Andy Povey, John I’Anson, Sam Lewis, John Faulkner, Rod Webb, Miles Barker-Davies, Darren Garforth, Andy Winters, Elliott Brown, Colin Murrell, Victoria Willacy, Jez Noon and Mark Day.

There are still a large number of members who do not get emails as they are not on our email data-base and hence if you know of anyone then please let me know their addresses and/or contact them to contact me.

As at 24 JUNE

REMINDER

The club AGM is being held on 25th June at 8pm.

It would be good to see a full house and not the dismal numbers that have appeared in the last few years. It would also be good to have more people in the AGM than in the bar.

If you attend the AGM and listen then you will know what is going on in YOUR club.

A message from Sam Kincaid

The Party of Warwickshire Referees (supported by RFU and Warwickshire) going to Uruguay on the 16th July are having a brochure made to give to clubs,officials etc during their stay.There are opportunities for firms to have advertisements in the brochure £50.00 half page,£100.00 full page).We already have companies like Land Rover and Webb Ellis involved so you would be in good company-excuse the pun! Anyone interested should contact Ian Roberts at irobref@aol.com or 02476361874 or of course myself 01926511971.

As at 13 June

The club will NOT be open for the All Blacks v England game in the morning (14 June) but the game will be recorded and will be shown after the club opens at 4.30pm.

FURTHER REMINDER: AGM on 25th JUNE at 8pm

As at 11 June

Well we now have the fixture list for Midlands 1 next season and the big surprise is that it is not Sheffield who are joining us from the north but Chester and we play them away on the 15th Nov and at home on the 20th Dec. We start at home on the 13th Sept with a game v Kettering and follow this with an away trip to South Leicester, and home games v Longton and Broadstreet. Our final game of the season is away at Luctonians.

Recruitment for the new season is going well and we are currently talking to a large number of new players so watch this space for the new signings.

As at 30th May

The club will open tomorrow (31st May) for the Premiership Final. Club will open at 1pm and kick off is 3pm.

The club will also be showing the England v Barbarians game on Sunday 1st June, kick off 3pm.

This weekend is the Mini Clubman weekend at the club and if you are into minis then it is a must visit.

REMINDER – the AGM is on Wed 25th June and we do not want a full bar that night.

Training restarts on Tuesday 8th July but do not forget the informal sessions on a Wed night. Please also be minded to rotate your training on the Cow Patch pitches and keep off the first XV pitch.

We have no news of fixtures for next season yet as the RFU are awaiting the outcome of important decisons involving Coventry and Pertemps Bees. It does look though that Luton will be going into London 1 and Sheffield will come into Midlands 1. I will confirm this when I know more.

As at 15th May

The following awards were presented at the Club Dinner:

Clubman of the Year: Phil Hill – for his work in bringing the colts of 07/08 through from the age of seven.

Third XV

Joint Excuse Not to Play award: Tom Holmes & Chris Wheatley

Most Improved Player: Andrew Clarke

Player of the Year: Graham Ballinger

Second XV

Best Forward: Simon Bladon

Best Back: Andy Winters

First XV:

Best Forward: Nick Smith

Best Back: Andy Whitehall

Training Award: Luke Brown

Player's Player of the Year: Nick Smith

Following the defeat of Luctonians in the North/Midlands 1 play off and the win for Hinckley in the 2 play off Midlands 1 next season is shaping up as

Luctonians, Broadstreet, Sth Leicester, Peterborough, Newport, Longton, Kenilworth, Bedford Ath, Hinckley, Malvern, Kettering and Luton.

It is good to see us there and we look forward to renewing acquaintances with Kettering and Hinckley.

We retained the Harold Stilwell Cup a few weeks back but not before a wee fright in the semi v Old Leamingtonians.

Other good news is that three of our fine young colts, Messrs Bladen, Lowthian and Cooper have been chosen to represent Warwickshire in the National Colts Sevens this weekend.

Currently starring in the senior Warwickshire Squad are James Hersey and Chris Brown and we wish them well in their remaining fixtures.

Mat Cooper and Chris Brown are also running out for the Covcentry Bears RL squad.

And finally, to add to our success, a note from Jai Purewal

Seru Rabine Who?

Last Sunday the Wooden Spoon 7s team shocked players and spectators a like by winning the Spoon benefitting, 51st Sunshine 7s competition held at East Grinstead RFC. Widely recognised as one of the major sevens events on the circuit, Wooden Spoon were crowned champions of the 32 team competition that included teams from the British Army and the Kaiviti Crusaders.

What makes this victory even more impressive is that 5 of the 10 players in the Spoon squad were from Midlands One outfit, Kenilworth RFC. Just weeks after the Glasshouse Lane club supported Spoon at their Pirates 30th Anniversary celebrations the club were again out in force. James Hersey, Aleks Stanojevic, Jai Purewal, Elliott Brown and Matthew Cooper were joined by players from Blackheath RFC (National Div. 2), Nuneaton (National Div. 2) and the British Army to claim the Lady Astor of Herver Rose Bowl which was presented to Spoon captain Dwain Brown (Blackheath RFC).

Spoon over came St. Mary’s College and then the Junior Irish Exiles in the pool stages to then face Hove in the quarter final. The Spoon team who were playing together for the first time were improving with every game and as a result dispatched Hove without too much trouble, knowing that they would next face, the Kaiviti Crusaders team that were all Fijian and contained three full internationals including Gloucester’s Akapusi Qera and Leicester’s Seru Rabine.

Despite being banned from all rugby, Rabine had been cleared to play and set his stall out from the start with a big smash on prop Hersey. Not to be out done and moments later, young talent Cooper hit Rabine forcing him to knock the ball on and with resulting possession, Spoon scored to take the lead. This was a lead that the charity side maintained until the final whistle taking them through the final.

In the final Spoon faced the Ruck U Spartans who managed by Will Carling’s brother had a wealth of U18s international talent with many of their players at Premiership Academies. In their semi final the Spartans demolished a strong and highly fancied British Army side playing some of the best sevens rugby of the day.

The first minutes of the final were an edgy affair but it was Spoon that took the lead first through an unconverted try from Jo Vakalala (British Army). Following a long delay resulting from a crunching tackle from Brown, one of the Crusaders was taken off to hospital with a suspected knee ligament injury. The delay didn’t phase Spoon and indeed it was they who scored next, extending their lead with a touch down (unconverted) from Hersey.

The second half saw the Spoon team under a great deal of pressure and tired legs accounted for conceding two tries to the man of the tournament Worcester Academy’s Stu Mackay, one of which was converted giving the Spartans the lead with just one minute to go. From the resulting re- start Spoon retrieved the ball and maintaining possession attacked down the left wing with a sweeping move that culminated in a try for winger Swanny (British Army) which unconverted left the final score at 15-12 to Spoon.

Wooden Spoon player/ manager, Jai Purewal said, ‘we really cannot believe that we have won, it’s a great result for the boys who played for each other and stuck to the task. It’s a fantastic tournament with some massive sides attending and to come out on top is a significant boost for raising the Wooden Spoon profile within the game as we continue to support disadvantaged children throughout the UK and Ireland.’

What a day- still pinching ourselves!

Jai

It is the club Dinner on the 9th at Kenilworth Golf Club - if you want to go and not down to go then speak to Pedro Lindsay ASAP.

Please aslo remember the AGM which will be at the club on 25th June.

As at 21st April

Kenilworth will play in Midlands1 next season courtesy of a 25-25 draw with second placed Luctonians, remarkably, the second draw between the sides this season. In the end Broadstreet's win at Dunstablians condemned them to relegation but the performance and effort put in by Kenilworth was superb as having used up all of their subs Kenilworth lost No8 Mike Smith for the last 15 minutes of the game to finish with 14 men. The celebrations went on late into the night.

Stratford 2's 23 - 24 Kenilworth 2's

A clash of the top two sides in the merit league left Kenilworth with a another win over Stratford, played at a fast pace throughout and both sides looking to play running rugby from anywhere on the pitch it led to a scrappy but entertaining game of rugby, with the scores up and down throughout.

Jimmy Middleton 1 try, Adam Trean 1 try, Tim Driffill 1 try, A Fox 1 try and 2 cons.

The final weekend of rugby is on Saturday where we defend our Harold Stilwell trophy at Shipston, anyone who wants to play is welcome, call foxy on 07809384826.

Our threes defeated Harbury 2's 41-17 with two tries each for Simon Jeavons and Paddy Flavelle and singles for Rhys Griffiths and Alex Jones. Paddy had four conversions and one penalty.

As at 18th April

On Saturday it is the last league game of the season at home to Luctonians and we have got ourselves into the situation of having to win or draw to be 100% safe from relegation as we are one of five in danger. If we lose then there will be some frantic phone calls made to Dunstablians (at home to Broadstreet), Longton (at home to Peterborough), Scunthorpe (at home to Bedford Ath) and Newport (at home to Dudley K). If any of the teams below us fail to win (Dunstablians, Newport, Peterborough and Bedford and Newport fail to win, we are safe. If Peterborough and Bedford win and we lose they go above us. If Dunstablians and Newport win and we lose it will be decided by points difference and currently there is a 29 points difference over both in our favour.

For further spice if Luctonians win then they take second spot and a play off against Huddersfield for a place in National 3 north. If Broadstreet win and we defeat Luctonians then it is Broadstreet who will head to Huddersfield and, of course, we will be safe. We will be safe in any case if Broadstreet defeat Dunstablians.

Our second XV are away at Stratford and our third XV are at Harbury.

Before the Luctonians game we have a Former Players Lunch which is a complete sell out and has a waiting list.

After the game we hope to have star performer Andy Honess play a few songs as well as our talented colts.

Last week the 200 club draw was made and the winners were:

£500 Chris Holmes

£50 Mai Phillips

£25 Andy Honess

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

26th April – Harold Stilwell Cup

27th April – Warwickshire Colts Sevens

26th/27th April – Minis Tournament

9th May – CLUB DINNER

11th May – minis presentation day

17th May – PLAYERS AWAY DAY

31st May – Mini Clubman Festival

25th June - AGM

Have a good weekend and here is hoping that we will be in Midlands 1 still come 4.30 on Saturday. Come on lads, it is in our own hands.

As at 14th April

We travelled to Peterborough on Saturday hoping to avenge the defeat inflicted upon us earlier in the season but alas it was not to be and we were duly defeated 21-7 with a try from Gareth Renowden all we had to show for our efforts. The hospitality was good though!

This defeat means we are still under the threat of relegation and must take something from our game on Saturday v second place Luctonians to make us safe - if we do not we are in the hands of others doing us a favour. At this point in time there are five of us scrapping for safety (Dunstablians, Newport, Peterborough and Bedford) and here is hoping our old friends at Broadstreet can do us a favour and knock over Dunstabliians whilst we return the favour by defeating Luctonians to give them second spot and get them into the play offs. Elsewhere Peterborough are away at Longon and need to win to overtake us if we lose, Newport are at home to Dudley K and need to win well and us lose badly to go above us, similarly for Dunstablians v Broadstreet. An exciting afternoon is in store and here is hoping that the old boys hearts attending the Former Players Lunch can take the excitement and drama that will inevitably ensue. It is all in our own hands though and if we win, or draw, we are safe. Please come down and give us your support.

On Saturday a very youthful second XV boasting eight colts and two U17 players lost 10-26 to Barkers Butts second XV with Sam Hobbins and Adam Trean scoring our tries.

On Sunday ther Pirates concluded their 30th celebrations with a game against a very lively and smokey Wooden Spoon select and lost 19-60. Our try scorers were Mark Bennett and Glyn Owen with two. The Spoon select scored many tries with the last one being converted by that well known place kicker Alan Donald.

200 CLUB

The winners of the 200 Club Draw last Friday (11th April) were:

£500: Chris Holmes

£50: Mai Phillips

£25: Andy Honess

Last Wednesday our colts played in the semi final of the Warwickshire Cup against a very good OC's Coventry (really a Coventry colts) and ran them all the way in a 26-32 defeat. Unlucky boys you did us proud and so very nearly pulled it off. A full report on the game is on the Coventry Rugby Club web site.

As at 7 April

A certain Martin Johnson returned to rugby at Kenilworth on Saturday – donning the No 60 shirt (along with 20 others) in a birthday celebration game between an Andy Clarke (60) select and a Simon Bladon (50) select.

The Bladon select comprising mainly Pirates but with a sprinkling of colts who took great delight in stepping onto the field with their hero (Martin, that is, not Simon).

For the record the score was 48-33 to the Bladon Select with two tries each for Russell White and Andy Bladon (some of Simon) and singles for Tony Philpot, Gary Stephens, Mark Nicholas and Ross Lowthian. Chris Sibley was successful with two conversions and singles for Russ White and Paddy Flavelle.

Peterborough need not fear – despite interest from Mr Johnson we are passed the deadline for signing players for next Saturday’s crucial relegation encounter!

As at 4th April

Following the first XV heroics of last week we are still not safe and need one more point to make sure we stay in Midlands 1 – our goal for the season. Crazy but true but the likelihood is that one or more of the teams below us will drop points. We have now beaten four of the top five in our last five starts and we have the fifth, Luctonians, in the last game of the season on 19th April, the day of the Former Players Lunch (guest speaker Darren Garforth) – suggest you book yourself in as it looks like being a good day with many of our talented colts performing music after the game and, if he will come, the one and only Andy Honess!

Next week (12 April) the ones are away at Peterborough who are unfortunately right in the mix for relegation.

The current games scheduled for this weekend are:

1. Our second XV v Market Bosworth – to be played at the Cow Patch, 3pm kick off.
2. A highly entertaining Si Bladon Select versus an Andy Clarke select as the main attraction on the first XV pitch, kick off 3pm. It is rumored that both captains have some nifty looking ringers up their sleeve so should be a good afternoons entertainment.
3. If this does not tickle your fancy then the Heineken Cup might with London Irish v Perpignan @ 15:00 and Gloucester v Munster @ 17:30, both on Sky.

Our colts reward for defeating Earlsdon in the Warwickshire Colts Cup is a difficult looking game against the high flying OC’s Coventry in the semi final and this is to be played on Wednesday night (9th April) under the lights at OC’s.

On Sunday it is the Heineken Cup again with Saracens v Ospreys @ 12:30 and Toulouse v Cardiff Blues @ 15:00, both on at the club.

On Friday (4th April) night there is the draw for the 200 club and here is a message from our leader:

There will be a 200 club draw on Friday evening around 7 pm - if anyone joins for next season and submits a standing order for before the draw it will be entered in Friday’s draw in addition to next years draws. Cost only £25 per year!

Prizes : 1St £500, 2nd £50, 3rd £25

The CLUB DINNER has been arranged for Fri 9th May at Kenilworth Golf Club – please start thinking of your tables as the bronzed Pedro Lindsay will finally do some work and organize it!

The CLUB AGM will be held on the 25th JUNE @ 8pm and it would be good to see a lot of faces there.

Please be reminded of the Pirates 30th Celebrations next week – the Sporting Dinner on the 10th (John Bentley), a Ball on the 12th and a game on the 13th against a Wooden Spoon Select. It is not too late to book the Dinner or the Ball.

As at 1st April

Lee Simmons ( Dave Simmon's dad), a former player at the club and a great supporter over the years died yesterday. A most charming and hospitable man he was loved & admired by the many people who knew him. A real loss to a whole generation of players who enjoyed his support from the touchline & his wonderful pool parties at his house !

funeral tba

As at 31st March

The first XV duly obliged with a win against the League Campions, Loughborough Students in front of a big crowd of adoring sponsors. It was just as well we did as teams below us and around us also won and we are still not 100% safe of avoiding relegation and still need one more win to be sure although clearly this depends on teams below us winning. The two games left are against Peterborough away (they need the points) on the 12th April and Luctonians at home (they are in the hunt for the pay off spot) on the 19th April and if we beat Luctoninas we would then have defeated the top five in six games!

It did not look good on Saturday when we went down to 12 men with two in the bin and a rather harsh red card for Reg Varney who was on as a blood sub for Francis Nock but we weathered the storm and were well worthy of our 24-10 win. Tries came from Elliott Brown, a very late substitute for Alex Taylor, Nick Collett, Andy Whitehall and the truly superb Mike Smith.

Our second XV took on Nuneaton Development XV and lost 17-43. Our tries came from Jamie McCance and Andy Fox (2) with a James Hardy conversion.

Our threes played in the South Warwickshire Vets tournnament and lost in the final to Old Laurentians.

Our colts took the field in their Warwickshire Cup 1/4r final against Earlsdon without a few of their star performers but ran out 26-3 winners with the stars joining in the fun towards the end of the game. It was another truly superb effort from Phil Hill's guys - no news of their semi final opponents yet but the game is to be played next weekend!

As at 28th March

On Saturday (29 March) the ones are at home against the league champions Loughborough Students, kick off 3pm. We need one more win to be 100% certain of not being relegated and the boys are up for the challenge against the league champions.

We still need someone to do the gate for this so please respond if you can and help us out.

Prior to the game there is our annual Sponsors Lunch which is 12.30 for 1pm start. There is some room for non sponsors and if you fancy attending then please contact Peter Blakeman.

Our two’s are at home to Bromsgrove and the scheduled third XV game has been cancelled due to their participation in the South Warwickshire Vets Tournament on Sunday 30th at Old Leamingtonians.

Also on Sunday our colts are playing in the first round proper of the Warwickshire Colts Cup, 2pm kick off at home v Earlsdon and hopefully (weather permitting) on the main pitch.

Can I remind you of the Pirates 30th Birthday celebrations which kick off in two weeks with a Sporting Dinner (John Bentley) on the 10th and a Ball on the 12th. These events are being held in a Marquee next to the clubhouse and are black tie/posh frocks events. There is still time to book your place at these events by contacting Adrian Marsh.

On Sunday 13th the Pirates then take on a Wooden Spoon Select and this is being combined with a Beer Festival at the club.

Another interesting day at the club will be next Sat when we have an Andy Clarke over 60’s Select v a Tim Hunt over 50’s Select (give or take a few years) to celebrate Andy’s coming of age. More details on this, including guest appearances, next week.

The AGM has been fixed for 25th June and it would be nice to see a full house at the club

Due to circumstances outside our control we have had to raise beer prices by 10p a pint. If you think this is bad then the Virgins and Castle in Kenilworth have raised them by 20p!

We are continuing to have a dog problem, particularly at the Cow Patch. Our new groundsman Geof, and anyone else, has been given permission to throw dog walkers out of the Cow patch area when he sees them there. Please note that for watching matches etc dogs will be tolerated but only if they are kept on a lead and are under control.

You may recall that to encourage sales of our Xmas Raffle tickets we offered some free beer. Please note that if this offer is not taken up by the end of April then it will lapse. Steward Ian has a list of those who requested their beer tokens.

That nice little Vauxhall Astra diesel is still for sale and is available at the club to view. No sensible offer refused – see Ian Hadwin

As at 19 March

No game for the ones last week and our next league game is on 29th March, v the league Champions, Loughborough Students. This is also our annual Sponsor's Lunch. The two's (seconds and some threes and colts) took on Leamington (seconds with more than a springling of ones) and narrowly lost (someone send me details please!). The Pirates travelled to Bideford on tour annd also won but again no details yet.

The bad news from the weekend was the defeat of the U17's in their National Bowl regional semi final - they played well against a much bigger team but our technique was superb and proved the old adage that they were big but not any better. The score was 10-12 against Melton Mowbray and was close at half time 10-12.

This weekend (Easter) the two's are playing Stratford at home, 3pm kick off.

As at 10 March

What a superb weekend, well superb if you are either Welsh, Scottish and support Kenilworth!

A depleted ones with around 8No regulars missing travelled to a very windy South Leicester knowing that anything gained was a bonus - and what a bonus in a 15-12 win. Our boys (all 18 of them) were truly superb and deserved their win through tries for Nick Smith, Francis Nock and Jez Noon. We should have scored a few more tries and were hanging on a wee bit at the death but saw the game out with Captain Mattie Davies getting the guys together at the end to applaud their efforts, describing it as a better win than our last two, v Broadstreet and Longton. We are all but clear of relegation now but probably need one more win to make it truly safe and despite winning and defeating three of the the top five sides in the last three games we have managed to drop down a position in the league. Our next game is against the Students, the Champions, and I think we are all looking forward to it now.

Our two's did not play due to depleted resources but our threes beat Coventrians - no confirmation of score or scorers yet.

Our U17's have been drawn at home in the regional semi final of the National Bowl. It is to be played on Sunday 16th March and is against Melton Mowbray with a 12.30 kick off. Dare we serve up pork pies to them!

As at 6 March

It was not to be and last night we lost our Semi Final 21-31 to a very determined Broadstreet team who exploded into life after we took the lead within the first three minutes with a Luke Brown try. Street responded big style and played the conditions well and scoring three quick tries and two penalties saw us trail 25-5 at half time. A crucial period was when we dominated and were camped on the Street line and failed to convert, even when they were reduced to 14 men with a sin binning after conceding a host of penalties.

We came out firing in the second half, helped by the wind, but two Danny Richards penalties kept us at bay every time we got close.

More worrying for us all is the number of injuries we suffered and our bench at the end looked like something out of Holby City.

Broadstreet now go on and play Earlsdon in the final on 6th April and we wish them well.

As at 4th March

The ones had a superb win against second placed Longton, 38-21 on Saturday to maintain our push to remain in Midlands 1. It was just as well we won as all the teams around us, bar Scunthorpe, won as well. We are now on 17 points, five ahead of Scunthorpe and three ahead of Peterborough with four games (South Leicester (a), Loughborough Students (h), Peterborough (a) and Luctonians (h)) and I think we need two more wins to make us safe. We scored six tries against Longton (Pete Roberts, Scott C Fenton, Andy Whitehall, Luke Brown, Chris Brown and Rupert Cooper) with Chris being successful with four conversions.

This win has set us up nicely for our Warwickshire Cup semi with Broadstreet on Wed 5th March at Leamington, 7.30 kick off.

KENILWORTH 2’s 70 LEAMINGTON 2’s 0

Four tries for colt No8 Matt Cooper, doubles for Rob Varney and Andy Fox and singles for Ian Bowden, Dom Carrick, Kieran Price and Mat Hulse. Four conversion for Glyn Owen and one for Dom Carrick.

COVENTRIANS 12 KENILWORTH 3’s 12

Mark Bennett one try and one con. Colt Andy Bladon, one try.

Our U17's squad did us proud on Sunday by defeating Leighton Buzzard 18-14 to reach the semi final of the National Bowl.

As at 29th Feb

On Saturday the ones are at home in the league to Longton and here is hoping we keep up the good work and capitalize on the big win over Broadstreet. Kick off is still 2.15. The boys need a big and vocal support to help get ourselves out of trouble and start to move away from the relegation zone so please come along and be seen and heard!

Longton 2’s have just cried off and we are in pool for a game. The threes are away at Coventrians and the colts are down to be away at Burton but please check the colt’s game as it may be in doubt.

On Sunday at 11am on the main pitch it is the turn of the U17’s to play in their National competition - the National Bowl. This is a quarter final tie and is against Leighton Buzzard and is the ideal opportunity to take your mother out on Mothers Day and treat her to a cheeseburger and Guinness after the game.

On Wednesday night (5 March) under the lights at Leamington (7.30 kick off) we take on Broadstreet in the semi final of the Warwickshire Cup. The winners will take on Earlsdon in the final at The Butts on Sunday 6th April. Dare I say it or have we ever been given a better chance of winning this elusive cup!?!

The Broadstreet game is followed by another league game against South Leicester, away on 8th March so it is a tough week for the boys and the squad will be stretched to the limit.

WHATS ON

2nd March – Kenilworth U17’s v Leighton Buzzard, National Bowl 1/4r final, 11am kick off

5th March – Warwickshire Cup semi final, v Broadstreet, Leamington

8th March – South Leicester, away

29th March – Sponsors Day, v Loughborough Students

30th March – South Warwickshire Vets tournament

6th April – Warwickshire Cup Final

10th April – 13th April – Pirates 30th Anniversary Celebrations (Sporting Dinner on 10th, Ball on the 12th and a game (Pirates v Wooden Spoon Select on the 13th)

12th April – Peterborough, away

19th April - Luctonians, home: Former Players Lunch

26th April – Harold Stilwell Cup

9th May – CLUB DINNER

31st May – Mini Clubman Festival

As at 25 Feb

The ones duly progressed to a Warwickshire Cup semi final with Broadstreet under the lights at Leamington on 5th March with a 58-3 win over Old Laurentians. Neither side was at full strength but an entertaining game was played in good spirits.

The two's travelled to Banbury and won 53-10 with three tries for new boy James Hardy and singles for Tony Philpot, Paddy Flavelle, Simon Jeavons, Gary Stephens, Mike Hulse (another new boy), and Tim Driffill. There were four conversions shared by Andy Winters and James Hardy.

On Sunday our colts played at National 2 side Blaydon in the last 16 of the National Colts Plate. They were truly superb and gave a much bigger and stronger Blaydon side one hell of a fright in going down 13-22. The boys were amazed to see and hear such a big Keneilworth support and put in a superb performance against a team which prompted PAG Jones (father of two of the side) to suggest they got their milk from Sellafield! Check out the photos and see for yourself - example the Blaydon No8 was 6ft 9 with the second rows not far behind. Their front row were rather big too. Twice our 'wee' guys took the lead but a two try burst in the middle of the second half proved decisive for the home team. However our boys came back with a push over forwards try that had us all in awe of their never say die attitude against their bigger opponents. The response of the club to the game in Blaydon is best summed up by coach Phil Hill:

Thanks for your personal support yesterday, both for making the long drive up to Blaydon and the pics. Not forgetting bringing our linesman and reporter.

Something really fantastic happened for the club over the last week. Not just the way the colts played but the way the whole club rallied round

It’s not just about the financial bit, although that certainly helps, but a whole new level of support meant the lads knew they had so many people behind them.

The Mini and junior section gave us a great donation, the firsts and seconds supported us financially and so many people individually helped us out.

On Tuesday night Ian Ferguson and the first team devoted their training session to helping us.

Whilst we lost yesterday, against a truly huge side with better pedigrees than found at Crufts, the lads gave absolutely everything for the cause. Roll on the Warwickshire Cup

Thanks to all

Phil

It is hoped that our ones can put up an equally determined and committed performance when they play Longton at home on Sat, 2.15pm kick off.

As at 20th Feb

Well my wee trip to Cuba was very successful and I finally persuaded Fidel to stand down. Apparently he is a big Broadstreet man and their defeat on Saturday was the last straw.

Whilst I was away the ones got a bit of a doofing (6-20) at Newport (coach Ian reckons they are one of the three best teams we have played this season) and had the super win against Broadstreet (39-10) - what a game to miss. We badly needed this win as we are still in a relegation dogfight with others around us winning as well. Dudley K look doomed and it is probably one, maybe two, from ourselves, Newport, Dunstablians, Peterborough and Scunthorpe to join them. We appear to have the harder run in playing the top four (three at home) and fellow strugglers Peterborough away. We may still live to regret the silly losses to Peterborough and Scunthorpe and the draw at Luctonians but if the boys play with the style we evidently showed against Broadstreet then we should survive.

The two's have not played since their heroic cup final win against Broadstreet and in the last two weeks our third XV/Pirates have defeated AEI Rugby 54-26 and Sutton Coldfield, 66-38.

According to Bruce Doe the Pirates game was played in good spirit, on a good pitch, with not such good defences. Man of the match had to be Nick Hillard as he starred for us in the first half and then volunteered to play for Sutton in the second half when they lost their fly half due to injury. The Parrot could not be awarded due to Paddy Flavell leaving it at home again (it won't be forgotten). It is apparently on a 'top' shelf at home (no doubt thrown there with considerable disdain and dis-respect) and he can't find anyone at the moment tall enough to fetch it down.

Scorers:

Mark Bennet 3 tries (made no effort to buy a jug - also noted) Paddy Flavelle 2 tries, Nick Hillard 2 tries - plus one for the opposition = 3 - he made no effort to buy a jug either.

Keith Wise 2 tries - should have bought a jug for jug avoidance - after the 2nd try he made out he could not catch anything after that.

John Brain 1 try - brilliantly crafted try from the forwards.

Nick Hillard and Glyn Owen, kicked 4 conversions each.

The colts also played last week and defeated Bromsgrove 11-5 in a warm up game for their cup tie at Blaydon this Sunday.

This Saturday the ones are playing at home in the Warwickshire Cup quarter final against Old Laurentians, kick off 2.15. If we win this then it is a semi final under lthe lights against Broadstreet on 5th March at Leamington.

On Saturday the thirds are at home to Banbury, 1.15 meet for 2.15 ko

On Sunday our fine young colts are playing in the last 16 of the National Colts plate at Blaydon (National 2) – Cow Trees Ground, Hexham Rd, Swalwell, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE16 3BM. Kick off is 1.30 so if you intend going please leave early enough to get there for this early kick off. Allow at least 4hrs! The colts are leaving on a coach on Sat and staying overnight. This is costing a few bob which we are not getting back from the RFU so if you fancy donating a wee bit for beer for the lads and to help their expenses then let me know ASAP. We already have had some superb donations from various members and sections of the club.

I am now off to plan my next holiday - email me which dictator you next want out.

As at 5th Feb

It is with sadness that I announce the death of one of our Former Players, John Irish. His funeral will be held at:

St James The Great, Colwall, Malvern

At 11am on Sat 9th Feb.

There will be a Players Meeting on Thursday 7th Feb after Training.

As at 31st Jan

Sorry for the lack of updates people but I have been poorly and even missed the Second XV cup final!

It is there we start and we successfully defended our trophy despite going behind 17-0 early on to Broadstreet. However two tries from evergreen Charlie Brown brought us right back into it and a try in the dying minutes by skipper Andy Fox drew the scores level and into a period of extra time during which Jamie Peacock slotted a penalty and the cup was coming back to Glasshouse Lane. Well done lads.

This win sort of made up for a very poor ones performance on Saturday against bottom of the table Scutnthorpe. We led at half time 15-3 but the entire second half was played in our half and we conceded two tries to lose the game 17-15, the last one being in injury time with Andy Lawrence in the bin. We needed that win and need to conjure up at least two more wins me thinks to make us safe.

BREAKING NEWS - 23RD JAN

Our colts have been drawn away to Blaydon (near Newcastle u Tyne) in the 5th Round of the National Colts Plate to be played on the weekend of 23/24th Feb.

Our Warwickshire Cup 1/4r tie with Old Laurentians will now be played on Sat 23rd Feb, 2.15 kick off. The winners will then play Broadstreet in the semi final which has been pencilled in for under the lights at Leamington on 5th March. The other semi is Earlsdon v Old Coventrians to be played on 24th Feb at Old Leamingtonians.

After performing for thirty years, the Kenilworth Pirates are set to put their highly tuned bodies on the line, yet again. And to celebrate the milestone and recognise their many achievements Kenilworth Pirates have challenged the world famous Wooden Spoon Society to a game of festival sparkling rugby on Sunday 13 April 2008. The challenge has been accepted and the titanic match will be a must for any scholar of rugby football. Selection is underway and it is hoped to feature a number of former internationals in the Spoon side. The match will be the culmination of a Festival Weekend which will include a Sportsman’s Dinner on the 10th April and a Gala Dinner the 12 April 2008, both for up to 200 guests in a marquee set up adjacent to the club house. The entertainment will include a champagne reception, three course silver service gastronomic dinner, live bands and disco and special guest speakers. Proceeds from the festival weekend will go to charities supporting disadvantaged children and young people. To find out more and book tickets please contact either Bruce Doe or Adrian Marsh.

As at 21st Jan

The game at Dunstablians (5-47) is best forgotten and will quickly be erased from the memory bank. All credit though to Dunstablians who mastered the conditions far better than our boys and, from my seat in the nice friendly stand, seemed to want it more.

Our two's game was cancelled due to a waterlogged pitch and our three's game v Wellesbourne was switched to their superb pitch in Wellesbourne. Our boys won 24-22 with tries for Jai Purewal, Glen Edney, Paddy Flavelle and Simon Jeavons. Paddy had two conversions.

Now to the big one and the result and performance of the weekend - our colts defeating Northampton Old Scouts 10-5 in the fourth round of the National Colts Plate in front of a very big crowd. Our boys survived a second half onslaught and the whole game in the second half was virtually played in our half, if not our 22. Injuries to Tom Palmer, Seb Holt and Ollie Burman did not help the cause but the young guys who came and filled in were truly superb and congratulations to you all. The draw for the last 16 will be made this week and we eagerly await it.

As at 17th Jan 08

On Saturday 19th Jan the ones are away at Dunstablians. The team is looking similar to the one that played against Bedford. Directions to the ground are in the club and are on the Duns web site.

The two’s also play Dunstablians but at home. The threes are in the pool for a home game. Both 2.15 kick offs.

On Friday night there is Heineken Rugby on and you can watch Glasgow stuff Saracens (at the home of the mighty Partick Thistle) and pip them to the last eight. European Rugby will also be on all day Saturday and Sunday on our big screens.

On Sunday 20th Jan our fine young colts are at home in the fourth round of the National Colts Plate and they take on a very strong looking Northampton Old Scouts. Kick off is 2pm on the main pitch. Please come down and give the boys your full support. The bar will be open from 12noon and there will be hot food available. There is a big crowd coming over from Old Scouts and a good atmosphere is anticipated.

The club will also be open on Monday night for a BIG Darts game v the Wardens, kicking off at 8.30.

Next weekend is another big weekend for the club. The ones are at home to Scunthorpe on the Saturday and on the Sunday (27th) there is the Warwickshire Second XV Cup Final with Broadstreet at Old Coventrians, 2.15 kick off. Win, lose or draw the club will be open after the game until the last guy leaves! There is no reason why we should not repeat the win that we had over Broadstreet last season.

Our 1/4r final Warwickshire Cup tie will now be played on Sat 2nd Feb when we take on Old Laurentians at home, 2.15 kick off.

On the 16th Feb we have Broadstreet at home in the league and there is a pre match lunch to which ‘everyone’ is invited. Please contact Peter B if you fancy attending this.

Tonight if you switch on Cov & Warwickshire radio (94.8FM) you will hear the dulcet tones of Dom Carrick discussing the local rugby scene, and Kenilworth in particular.

PAG Jones has given us some sad news. "Fred" Picton-Turbervill who guested for Kenilworth on the Glyfada (Athens) tour in 1989 was killed in South Africa in the last few days. He was an outstanding centre and outstanding tourist who made an indelible impression on all who met him. He moved to South Africa 5 years ago with his wife and 4 of his 6 children. He was shot during a break-in in front of his children .

Can I advise that all of the Six Nation International Tickets have now been sent out and are behind the bar waiting collection. Any tickets not picked up will be sold!

ADVANCE WARNING (and get your good lady to put this into your diary) – the CLUB DINNER will be held on Fri 9th May at Kenilworth Golf Club. Transport will be laid on to and from the Golf Club to the club. More details to follow but if you wish to book an early table then please contact Pete Lindsay.

FOR SALE – ‘S’ Astra diesel, will run for ever. No sensible offer refused. Contact Willie W.

FOR RENT – nice wee pad in Carvoeiro, Algarve. This year is filling up fast so if you fancy one or two weeks in the sun then please act now – see Willie W.

The XMAS RAFFLE was a great success this year and it is many thanks to all those who sold tickets. Around 1800 tickets were sold and the net contribution to the club was around £1300. Well worth it!

The following envelopes were returned from the Raffle and if anyone knows the whereabouts or new addresses of the following then please let me know: Dr P Kenyon Rugby, Tony Snelson Kenilworth, Dan Sparks Leamington, Anthony Green Leamington, Daryl Marvelly Kenilworth, Andrew Cumming Kenilworth, Andrew Winter Kenilworth, Rhidian Booth, Alistair Burns Leamington, Nadir Irfan, Rupert Smart, Daniel Heathcote (M&J’s), ‘Dad’ Taylor Tywyn.

As at 14th Jan 2008

Stratford cried off our proposed first XV 'friendly' and hence there was no first XV game last weekend. The two's were down to play Leamington (one's) and hence a few of our first XV (just a few mind you) opted to turn out for the Second XV. The guys were gutted to lose 15-17 and that would have been a tremendous scalp for them ahead of their Second XV Cup Final next weekend (26th) agtainst Broadstreet at Old Coventrians. Our try scorers were Gaz Renowden and Francis Nock with Lee Cassell successful with one pen and one con.

The threes were also up against Leamington and ran out 45-13 winners with three tries for Mark Nicholas and singles for Paddy Flavelle, Steve Green, Andy Clarke, Andy Maisey and Mark Bennett. Chris Sibley was successful with four conversions.

The colts travelled to Earlsdon and won 3-0 in a game they dominated but made very difficult by the sticky conditions underfoot. Tom Palmer was successful with a penalty early in the second half.

Next Sunday the colts play in the last 32 of the National Colts Plate against Northampton Old Scouts, kick off 2.00.

On the Saturday the ones are away at Dunstablians in the league.

As at 7th Jan 2008

A Happy New Year to all our readers and a good start to report for all of our senior teams that played over the weekend.

The ones had a hard fought 34-29 win over a determined Bedford Athletic side with the result in doubt right to the end. There were tries for Andy Whitehall, Dave Clements and Pete Roberts.

In the Warwickshire 2nd XV Cup semi final on the Sunday we were somewhat lucky to come away with a 34-20 win against a forward orientated Sutton Coldfield. Highlights of the day were a hat trick of tries within the first 12 minutes for Andy Fox and a superb debut try for colts back row player Matt Cooper. Broadstreet defeated Stratford in the other semi to set up a repeat of last year's final on the 27th January at a venue to be decided (normally one of the defeated semi finalists).

The threes also won and scored 34 points, winning 34-29 with tries for Paddy Flavelle, Nick Hillard (2), John Brain and Alisatir Johnson (2). Nick Hillard was succesful with two conversions.

The fourth winners were our colts who defeated Sutton Coldfield 17-7 with tries for Sammy Alkhalaf and Gareth Hill.

Next Saturday we were due to play our second round Warwickshire Cup tie against Old Laurentians but this has now been put back to 2nd Feb. On Saturday we have arranged a pool fixture at home v Stratford.

Our colts have now reached the fourth round of the National Plate and it is hoped to play this on Sunday 20th Jan against either Kettering or Northampton Old Scouts.

As at 27th Dec

KENILWORTH RFC XMAS DRAW WINNERS

Alan Herron, weekend for two in Paris

Michelle Tomlinson, week in villa in Carvoeiro

Nigel Davis, £250 Waitrose voucher

Dave Chrimes, Meal for two at Simpsons

John Gilbert, Cov RFC hospitality for two

Diana Sellwood, Cov FC hospitality for two

Joe Millburn, case of wine from Bablake Wines

P Bellingham, four ball at Kenilworth Golf Club

All winners will be notifed in due course.

As at 24th Dec

A 97-0 win to report in our "Warwickshire Cup" game at Sutton Coldfield. Sutton contacted us on the Friday to say they could not raise a front row but they wished to continue with the fixture with uncontested scrums as they did not want banned from next seasons cup. We turned up and were told we were playing the SC U21 squad with full scrums - quite why they could not play that front row in a full game defeats me. Fifteen tries were scored with three for Jez Noon and two for Ben Rand (on his first XV debut), Dave Clements, Dan Careless and Elliott Brown. There were singles for Chris Brown, Alexs Stanojevic, Gareth Renowden and Chris Collett - a 50m, sorry 50", dash to the line. Chris Brown was successful with 11 conversions. The game saw the first XV debut of prop Simon Bladon, age 49 and three quarters. There was some debate in the club afterwards if he was the oldest debutant but this appears to be held by Peter Fox, father of Andrew who claimed he made his debut when 50 and one quarter. Mark Powell's claim did not count.

Yours truly went to Veseyans to watch the colts in their third round National Plate cup tie and the superb squad duly won 24-3. The team featured a number of U17 players and they performed incerdibly well against a team who thought they had the divine right to win, particulalry the No8 who wanted to ref the game as well as boss his own players and moan at our players and the ref's decisions. One proud parent on the sideline was one PAG Jones who was there cheering on his sons Lewis and Reece. Their next cup game is on the weekend of the 19th Jan when they take on either Syston, Kettering or Northampton Old Scouts at home.

The Xmas Draw took some £1800 and the draw was made on Friday night - details of winners later. Many thanks to all who sold tickets - a good effort.

As at 20th Dec

On Saturday (22nd), weather permitting, we play our first round Warwickshire Cup game away at Sutton Coldfield with a 2pm kick off – directions to Sutton’s ground are in the club or are on their web site. This will not be an easy fixture as Sutton are a club with famous past and who are currently playing in Midlands 3 West south where they head the league with eleven wins out of twelve.

Our colts also have a cup (National Plate) tie away at Veseyans who also play in Sutton Coldfield at Little Hardwick Rd, Streetly.

On Friday night (21st) the Xmas Draw will be held at the club so make sure your tickets and ticket monies are in the club for 7pm to allow the draw to take place at 7.30ish.

It is not too late to order a Pirates DVD and if you want one then give your name to Ian Hadwin (and £10!)

There are no other games scheduled for Saturday but one big event is the stag night of Andy Fox which will begin at the club on return of the hopefully happy bunch of players and supporters from Sutton Coldfield and then continue in various bars in Leamington thereafter.

On Boxing Day there will be a game at the club with a 1pm kick off. It will be between an Under 25 team against an Over 25 team so if you fancy it come down around 12 noon, complete with birth certificate. Everyone is welcome for this festive game.

Over Xmas the club will be open on Xmas Eve from 6pm, closed on Xmas Day, open on Boxing Day from 12noon, closed on the 27th, open at 6pm on the 28th and 29th, open on 30th Dec from 1.30pm and closed on 31st and 1st Jan, re-opening on the 2nd Jan at 7pm.

It is good to report that our U17 squad has progressed to the National Cup with a 34-10 win last weekend over Berkswell & Balsall last Sunday.

The next league game for the ones is at home to Bedford Athletic on 5th Jan with a 2.15 kick off. On the Sunday (6th) our twos take on Sutton Coldfield at home in the semi final of the Warwickshire Second XV Cup with a 2.15 kick off.

Finally KRFC wish you the compliments of the season

As at 18 Dec

Well we did to Dudley K what Peterborough did to us a few weeks back. We gave away a 19 point start and the K's supporters wanted to go home at that point but a Andy Whitehall try, superbly converted by Chris Brown, gave us hope that we capitalised on in the second half. It was still tough though and going into injury time we still trailed by seven points despite having all of the second half pressure. Chris B decided to sneak a wee penalty with enough time being available for that elusive unconverted try which duly arrived courtesy of Mat Davies. A happy band of players and supporters returned to the club and celebrated with the Xmas Party which saw the likes of Terry Butcher, Hulk Hogan, Phil Taylor, Gavin Henson, the Jamaican Bobsleigh squad, Sebastian Chabal, Wayne Rooney, Daley Thompson, The Stig, George Best, Pete Sampras, Bjorn Borg (and a host of other tennis players), Lennox Lewis and other jockies and golfers make an appearance. The winners for the best Fancy Dress were the superb Jamaican Bobsleigh squad.

The ones also returned to hear that our second XV also had a very close game against Dudley K, this finishing 26-26 with Lee Cassell missing a conversion on the last kick to win the game - he had ran the length of the pitch though!

On Sunday PAG's Lag's thrashed our Pirates XV 58-20 - the full story still to be revealed.

On Sat we are playing our Warwickshire Cup game against Sutton Coldfield, away, with a 2pm kick off. Sutton are top of M3Ws with eleven wins out of twelve and will be no pushover.

Our colts are also in cup action away at Old Veseyans (Streetly).

As at 14th Dec

Kenilworth have pleasure in announcing the signing of Michael Smith, a No8 from Shelford Rugby and he goes straight into the XV to play at Dudley K tomorrow. Michael is from New Zealand and has played Rugby League for Hull, Castleford and York and in 2002 played for New Zealand RL team in their tour of the UK. Also making their first XV debut tomorrow is Andrew Lawrence.  Andrew is from Bath Academy (with Dan Crandon) and signed forms in Oct 07 but has been restricted to second XV games due to injury and non availability for the ones. Also returning from long term injury is Dan Crandon. Ian Phillips drops out following his ear operation and Dom Carrick starts in the second row with Dan Careless. Nick Collett returns at prop along side Mat Davies and Andy Lawrence. The backs are the same as started against Peterborough with Aussie full back Scott Clendenning-Fenton continuing at full back.

Please note that following the successful showing of the Pirates Pantomine DVD last week copies are now available behind the bar, cost £10.

As at 12th Dec

The ones are away at Dudley K on Saturday (15th) and please note that it is a 2pm kick off.

The two’s are playing Dudley K at home (2.15) and the threes are also at home against, probably, Chipping Camden. Both these games will be played at the Cow Patch and the allocated pitches will be put on the notice board.

The colts are down to play at Dudley but please confirm this before you travel as there is some doubt about this game.

On Saturday night (15th) is the Players Xmas Party – a fancy dress extravaganza (Sporting Heroes) and on offer will be Reg’s famous Karaoke, Biffins Bridge and a selection of colts strutting their stuff. Steve ‘Dylan’ Haynes may even make an appearance. All welcome.....miss it, miss out!!

Sunday is a busy day at the club. In the morning our U17’s are playing a championship decider against Balsall & Berkswell with the winner going into the National Cup. This game will be played on the main pitch. In the afternoon PAG’s LAG’s are taking on our Pirates and this will take place at the Cow Patch.

Next week our first XV will probably be playing their Warwickshire Cup first round game at Sutton Coldfield – check it out it maybe Saturday but it may be Sunday! Subsequent dates for the cup if we proceed are 13th Jan for the 1/4r final, 24th Feb for the semi and 6th April for the final.

We have also drawn Sutton Coldfield in the semi final of the Second XV cup, this time at home on Sunday 6th Jan, 2.15 kick off. Should we be successful there then the final is on Jan 27th – venue to be decided. The other semi is between Stratford and Broadstreet.

The Colts reward for their win in the National Plate is an away tie (with whom to be confirmed) on the 22nd Dec.

Over Xmas the club will be open on Xmas Eve from 6pm, closed on Xmas Day and open again on Boxing Day when there maybe a match or two. It will then open on the 28th, 29th and 30th as normal, closed on the 31st and 1st and re-open on Wed 2nd Jan.

The Draw for the 200 club made on Friday night was: Winner (£500), Bobby Bulow, Second (£50) Bill Hancock and third (£25), Mick Wheatley. Congratulations to you all.

As at 7th Dec

SECOND XV CUP - we have been drawn at home to Sutton Coldfield to be played on Sunday 6th Jan. Other tie is Stratford v Broadstreet.

A message from Los Sibley that he would like to share with us all:

Willie

As discussed, please find below photograph of our U14s who represented their districts at the recent Warwickshire schools trial:

The photograph shows members of Kenilworth Rugby Football Club Under 14s who represented their school district sides at the Warwickshire schools trial held at King Henry VIII sports ground on Sunday 2. December. Congratulations to all of them. From left to right: Rob Gardner, George Boylin, Alex Selby (all South Warwickshire), Will Sibley (Coventry), Harry O'Brien (Rugby), Michael Jones (Coventry), Ollie Brown (Rugby), Billy Clarke, Tome Pope (both South Warwickshire), George Harman (Rugby). Eight of the players were subsequently selected for the Warwickshire Schools Development Squad. Following an excellent victory against Shipston last time out, the boys will be playing together again for Kenilworth this Sunday, 9th December against Stratford.

Cheers

Loz

Please remember the showing of the Pirates Panto DVD on Friday night (7th) at the club.

I will firm up on games at the end of the week but our fixture list says the colts are the only team at home this weekend, v Market Bosworth. The ones do not have a game and both the two’s and three’s are away at Market Bosworth and Rugby respectively.

Please be reminded though that the Heineken Cup returns this weekend and there will be back to back TV rugby on both Sat and Sunday at the club.

It is sad that I have to report the departure of our No8 Rupert Cooper to Stourbridge. We wish him well and if you don’t make it Rupert then ‘haste ye back’.

Please remember your Xmas Raffle tickets and get them into the club ASAP for the draw on 21st Dec

As at 3rd Dec

What a shocker on Saturday with us winning 30-7 midway through the second half only to lose 36-38 to a last minute try by Peterborough. All credit to Peterborough for their fightback and some did say that we were flattered by the 30-7 scoreline but we cannot hide the fact that we did not close the game down and paid the ultimate price. The big festive crowd was silenced and there was a strange and subdued feeling in the club after the final whistle that lasted till Andy Honess got his guitar out and we, together with a very impressive colt (Tom Palmer) and Steve 'Dylan' Haynes sang the night away till Biffins Bridge came on and drowned out the neighbourhood. The day started with a very successful Xmas lunch attended by some 84 people and the infamous Blind Auction. This part of the day went well and even prompted the following response from Peterborough:

Forget the cold, forget the match, in fact, forget everything that went on outside the clubhouse of Kenilworth Rugby last Saturday afternoon. It’s what goes on inside a rugby clubhouse that decides where the heart of the club lies and at Kenilworth we found a little gem.Having been invited to a pre-match luncheon, the Peterborough forward party arrived promptly at 12 noon to be surrounded by lots of former players with lots of hugging and lots of back slapping – none of that foreign kissing on both cheeks in Kenilworth.After just a couple of minutes we were greeted by secretary Willie Whitesmith, who, in true Scots fashion offered us a drink after we’d just bought one – but it’s the thought that counts!

Apparently on the last home game before Christmas the club hosts an annual Christmas lunch and this was some experience with around 80 people attending.We were allocated to table no.1 (presumably so numbered because it was nearest to the toilets) and in a short space of time the conversation had dropped to an acceptable level of smut and innuendo. In fact, I lost count of the number of times the word ‘pervert’ was mentioned! Quite why, I can’t recall. I can only assume it’s a term of endearment in Kenilworth.It was great to see several ladies attending this prestigious event and I was fortunate to be placed between Janette (wow, what a red dress!) and Jill (a really luvverly lady).President Geof Jordan had a superb knack of producing bottles of red wine from wherever as Chairman Peter Blakeman tried desperately to keep control of the proceedings, but failed miserably.The meal was superb and plentiful – none of that nouvelle cuisine rubbish here – including party hats and balloons, but what followed was somewhat different.

I can only assume it must be some ancient middle-of-England ritual called a ‘blind auction’.As far as I could tell the game plan was to extract loads of money from the assembled masses by an auctioneer (keep to your day job!) who had a problem telling his lot 13 from his lot 30. Anyway, one member on our table bid £30 for a dog poo scooper – what was he on?

With so much excitement the time just flew by and soon it was time to venture outside into cold to watch the rugby. One last look at that red dress (wow, again!) and out into a freezing Warwickshire afternoon! Oh, and by the way, Peterborough won 38-36 having trailed 16-7 at the break and 30-7 after 48 minutes.

End of match report.

My special thanks to Geof, Jill, Willie, Peter, and Janette for their excellent company – great day out!

Look forward to seeing you all at Peterborough for the return fixture in April…………

Cheers, Phil Elmer, Peterborough Rugby

There was some good news from Saturday with our colts winning their first round National Plate Cup tie 34-7 and even better news from Sunday when our second team won their Warwickshire Second XV cup 1/4r final 34-7 against Old Laurentians.

As at 29 Nov

On Sat the ones are at home to Peterborough in the league, kick off 2.15. We have moved fast to plug the gap of Jeremy Pigous sudden departure and have signed the Old Coventrians Aussie full-back Scott Clendenning-Fenton and he will make his debut in what is looking like a full strength team. No excuse boys! It would be great to see a big and noisy crowd at the game to reward the boys who are now undefeated in five games with four wins and a draw. Please remember if you cannot make the game you can still access the programme on the web site through fixtures. You can also get a report on the web site as well as through the BBC web site, complete with piccies.

The game is preceded by our annual Xmas Lunch and those attending should arrive at the club early and ready to sit down no later than 12.30. There is a lot to get through before the 2.15 kick off. Bring plenty money for the Blind Auction.

Our colts are playing Burton at home in the National Plate, kick off 2.15.

The threes opponents Kings Norton cried off last night and the threes are in the pool for a game on Saturday. Please contact Bruce Doe as Tim is off on his travels.

After the games on Saturday some music is planned in the club. Biffins Bridge, a local rock band will be on at 9.10 and they will be preceded by our very own Andy Honess and anyone else who fancies bringing their guitar along for an informal session.

On Sunday the two’s play in the third round of the Warwickshire Second XV Cup and they take on Old Laurentians at home with a 2.15 kick off. No drinks must be taken outside during the game.

I am delighted to advise that we retained our Double Tops trophy last night by defeating Southam 24-0 with big performances from Drew Dingley and Charlie Brown. However the star man was Ross Lowthian who was one of five colts we had on the pitch at one time – including father and son Bladon. Well done lads and that is the first trophy we won last year to be retained.

As Christmas is fast approaching can I remind you of the deal we have with Amazon. For the club to get a kick back you need to go into the Amazon site through the link on the home page of the rugby club web site

If you are considering selling your house then please remember the deal we have with Brian Holt.

On Friday 7th Dec is the first showing of the Pirates Panto on DVD, commencing at 7pm. If you want to order some fish and chips to devour on the night then please contact Ian Hadwin.

It is planned to do the 200 club draw sometime on Saturday after the Peterborough game.

The list of non payers is reducing by the day so if you are still on it then please pay up to avoid embarrassment at the bar. Please note the club needs the subs to survive!

As at 26th Nov

Superb and brave tactical second half substitutions by coach Ian Fergusson saved the day at Luctonians and so nearly won the game after being 12-0 down early in the second half to get back to a 12 all draw with Chris Brown's conversion attempt in injury time rebounding off the bar. The team was disrupted early Sat morning by withdrawals of hooker Matt Davies and prop Rhidian Booth necessitating the very late call ups of Chris Collett, Rob Varney and Ceiran Price.

The Second XV subequently had no game.

KENILWORTH 3’s 46 HARBURY 2’s 7

Two tries for Mark Nicholas and singles for Rick Homer, Gareth Jones, Jamie McCance, Simon Jeavons, Andy Fox and Glen Edney. Three conversions by Nick Hillard.

KENILWORTH COLTS 47 RUGBY ST ANDREWS COLTS 0

Played on the main first XV pitch – report and scorers to follow.

Next week, Peterborough at home. Preceded by a XMAS Lunch and followed by a live band.

As at 20th Nov

As at 20th Nov

No game for the ones last weekend. The two's played at Old Laurentians and won 61-7 whilst the threes lost at home 27-10. The colts also lost, at home to Old Laurentians, 10-17.

The two's opponents in the next round of the Second XV cup are Old Laurentians, at home, to be played on 2nd Dec.

As at 12th Nov

Well that is now four in the trot in Midlands 1 following our 31-3 win over Dudley K in front of a big noisy crowd including the guests of our sponsor AJA Architects. It was a workmanlike performance without the beauty and spectacle of the previous week but it was won and the boys are gaining in confidence each week. We now have a week off before we travel to Luctonians for our next home game on the 24th Nov.

Our seconds also did us proud with a win in the second round of the Warwickshire Cup, away at Nuneaton Old Eds, 42-17.

The threes travelled to AEI Rugby and did the business 26-0 with Glyn Owen starring with three tries.

The one bad results of the weekend was a defeat for the colts who lost 0-35 to their Dudley K counterparts.

As at 8th Nov

On Saturday the ones are at home against Dudley K and we are looking for our fourth win on the bounce in Midlands 1. The team will be close to that which played last week at Bedford although Nick Smith is unavailable. Kick off is 2.15. We have a top class Uruguayan referee for this game, Eduardo Blengioe, and Eduardo has refereed at the highest level including Internationals and the final of the Hong Kong Sevens. He will be assisted by two Warwickshire touch judges and we wish him well.

The two’s do not play till Sunday when they take on Nuneaton Old Eds in the second round of the Warwickshire Second XV cup. The game is at Nuneaton Old Eds and has a 2.15 kick off. Eduardo’s mate from Uruguay, Gustavo Gerbasi, will referee this one.

Returning to Saturday the three’s are away at AEI Rugby and the colts are at home to Dudley K.

Some other Dates for your Diary

24th Nov – league game away at Luctonians

1st Dec – Xmas Lunch followed by rock band at club at night. Peterborough at home.

Sunday 9th Dec (possibly) – Warwickshire Cup first round v Sutton Coldfield

15th Dec – league game away at Dudley K

15th Dec – Players Xmas Party – this year’s theme is Sporting Heroes. Live band and Karaoke (open to all, not just the players!)

16th Dec – the return of PAG’s LAGs – opposition, date and venue to be confirmed

Any day now the tickets for the Xmas Raffle will be dropping through your letterbox, or, if you are a regular at the club, will be behind the bar for you. Please make every effort to sell these and there are incentives for selling tickets.

If you have any DVD’s or Videos of rugby games or other sporting events and you do not use them anymore then please bring them down to the club for showing on our big screen

As at 5th Nov

What a win the first XV had on Saturday defeating Bedford Athletic 52-10, away. The boys were superb and to be truthful the score and try count could have been much greater and we gifted them two tries early in the second half. Quite why the Bedford man drop kicked a goal late in the game after his forwards had driven up the park I do not know, neither do his forwards!. Francis Nock had his best game ever and scored two tries, as did Andy Whitehall on the back of his three the week before.

KENILWORTH 2’s 33 BEDFORD ATH 2’s 28

Kenilworth 2nds continued to improve, as they head toward the defence of the Warwickshire 2nd team cup, with an impressive 33-28 victory over a large and capable Bedford Athletic 2nds. Both forwards and backs gelled from the start of the game which was played at a high tempo with a high degree of skill and commitment, especially the Kenilworth back line, where debutant centre Matt Jacob, had a dream start offensively, scoring a brace of tries. First half tries from Alex Stanojevic, Matt Jacob, hooker Ciaran Price and scrum half Ian Chetland, with two conversions by Lee Cassell and one from Sam Lewis gave the Kens a convincing 26-7 half time lead. Had Jez Noon been able to finish a tremendous move, which included both forwards and backs, the game may have been over as a contest early in the 2nd half. As it was Bedford kept the score moving as one side, then the other scored tries. Kenilworth made a number of changes, and by the end of the game had allowed the Bedford side back into the game, but hung on for the win. Kenilworth take on Nuneaton Old Edwardians, away, next Sunday in the Warwickshire Cup.

SUTTON COLDFIELD 3’s 10 KENILWORTH 3’s 24

Tries for father and son Alan and Alex Jones, the unrelated Huw Jones and Sammy Alkhalaf. Two conversions for Huw Jones who also won the best back award. Colt Matt Cooper made his debut at No8 and was awarded man of the match. The Alan Jones try was created when he (again) failed to pass and dummied his two sons to score.

As at 29th Oct

Three very close wins for the ones, twos and colts to report. The threes did not play.

The ones won a tight match 30-28 with the winning score coming from Chris Brown with almost the last kick of the game. It was a super tight game and did not do the old ticker much good. Andy Whitehall scored three tries with Chris Brown clocking up the rest.

An equally tense and last minute win for mthe two's away at Dunstablians winning 32-29 with a last minute try f rom Lee Cassell.

Same for the colts who ended up playing Woodrush and won that 20-19.

Next Sat the ones are at Bedford.

As at 25 Oct

The two’s are away at Dunstablians and the three’s are away at Aston Old Eds, both 3pm kick offs.

The colts have a home game against Woodrush (who reckon they are pretty good) and this is a 3pm kick off at the Cow Patch. The colts were so unlucky last week and gave mighty Worcester one he** of a fright.

On Wednesday (24th) our Cougars won their two games in the 20/20 league defeating Harbury and a very strong Stratford.

Next Saturday (3rd Nov) the ones are away at Bedford Athletic, 2.15 kick off.

On Sunday the 4th Nov there is a Halloween Party at the club, kicking off at 12noon and going on throughout the afternoon. Details of this are up in the club.

In the second XV cup we have been drawn away at Nuneaton Old Eds, to be played on Sunday 11th Nov, 2.15.

It is likely that we will be playing our first round Senior Warwickshire Cup game with Sutton Coldfield on Sunday 18th Nov, away, 2.15 and to be confirmed. If we win this we will be at home to either Silhillians or Old Laurentians on 13 Jan 08.

Please remember and pay your subs. It is now at stage when you might be collared in the club and refused a beer.

Please note that the club has struck a deal with Brian Holt, Estate Agents. Details are enclosed but, basically, if you sell or rent your house through Brian Holt then you will receive a 5% discount on their fees and, in addition, the club will receive 5%. You must make it clear at the time of instruction though that you wish to participate in the scheme. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS AVAILABLE TO ANYONE AND NOT JUST CLUB MEMBERS SO IF YOU KNOW OF ANYONE WHO MAY BE SELLING THEIR PROPERTY THEN PLEASE ADVISE THEM OF THE BRIAN HOLT/KRFC DEAL AND THE BENEFITS TO THEMSELVES AND THE CLUB – BUT THEY MUST MENTION THE DEAL!.

Please also remember that the club has a similar deal with Amazon and a %ge of any sale comes to the club, but only if you enter the Amazon site through the link on the KRFC web site (www.kenilworthrugby.co.uk)

The last Pirates Dinner was a great success and if you wish to view the super photos of the night taken by Nigel Parry then please go into the following link http://www.theimagefile.com/?Action=_VC&id=113879&ppwd=pirates30&pstat=

ADVANCE WARNING – a very good rock band will be playing at the club on the night of Sat 1st Dec, the day we are at home to Peterborough and the day of the Xmas Lunch.

There is even more ADVANCE WARNING of the PLAYERS XMAS PARTY which this year will be on the 15th Dec with a theme of Sporting Heroes. This is open to everyone, not just the players and on the night there will be a Karaoke and a Rock band.

You will soon receive five books of RAFFLE TICKETS to sell for the KRFC Xmas Draw. If you sell all five books then you will get a wee surprise! – watch this space.

Dave Smith has been on from New Zealand. His local club, Riwaka RFC, are looking to augment their playing staff for next season and will find accommodation and work for anyone who fancies playing with them next season. Ideally they are looking at 18-21 yr olds from the end of March. If you fancy this then please let me know and I will pass your name to Dave.

And finally stalwart club member Dave Blackburn has opened a new and high class Fish & Chip shop at the corner of Station Rd and Priory Rd. The guys who have tried it have said it is good so give it a go.

As at 22nd Oct

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In the second XV cup we have been drawn away at Nuneaton Old Eds, to be played on Sunday 11th Nov, 2.15. http://www.theimagefile.com/?Action=_VC&id=113879&ppwd=pirates30&pstat=

It is great to report a win, at last, 32-28 at Scunthorpe, for the first XV but we very nearly blew it in the dying mnutes but held on. In all honesty we should have been out of sight with our backs dominating the game but Scunthorpe's wily old forwards playing the game they are good at.

There was a superb debut for fly half Chris Brown, on loan from Nuneaton, who orchestrated the win with a contribution of 22 points, including two tries. Could have been 27 as one pen and one con struck the woodwork. There was also a debut for prop Ciaran Price and a debut first team score for John Raby.

BANBURY 2’s 7 KENILWORTH 2’s 57

The seconds traveled to Banbury on Saturday for this re-arranged fixture with a side containing two players making their Kenilworth debut. Kenilworth started very brightly with players being shuffled around due to late withdrawals and gelled very quickly playing some good possession rugby, they soon opened up a big lead with forwards and backs combining well. This trend continued for a half time score of 40-0. The second half started in the same fashion with the K`s forwards dominating all set pieces and releasing the quick Kenilworth backs. Banbury then started to make seven changes in all, and with the fresh legs started to pressure the Kenilworth side and in the final thirty minutes, the K`s tired, and finally conceded to some Banbury pressure for their only score of the game. Kenilworth points came from Andrew Fox 3 tries, Jez Noon 2, Charlie Brown 1, Ian Chetland 1, Ben Rand 1, Sam Lewis 1 try and 6 conversions.

KENILWORTH 3’s 60 LEAMINGTON 3’s 12

Kenilworth, in the guise of the Pirates in their second ‘anniversary’ game, won with 14 men and centre Russ White making his debut in the back row.

Two tries for Mark Nicholas and Mark Thomas and singles for Chris Sibley, Tony Philpot, Gary Stephens, Mark Bennett, Will O’Meara and Russ White. Five conversions by Chris Sibley.

NATIONAL COLTS CUP, round 2

WORCESTER 17 KENILWORTH 10

Kenilworth travelled to Sixfields for a stern test against Worcester in the second round of the National Colt’s cup. Because of their academy status the home side contained a number of players with experience of national rugby. As holders of the East Midlands Colts cup and semi finalists in the National competition last year this was also a big game for the home side. The game started well for Kenilworth and the visitors discipline resulted in a frustrated Worcester side giving away early penalties for killing the ball. The first kickable penalty, on five minutes, was coolly slotted by stand off Tom Palmer to give Kenilworth first blood. A ding dong battle then ensued with the visiting pack taking control. Worcester being pushed back in the scrummage and rucked off the ball. The limited ball won by Worcester was quickly moved wide to their powerful and pacey wingers. Full back Rhys Griffiths had to be at his best with two huge tackles to stop what looked like certain tries. At the other end the Kenilworth had been stopped short of the line on a number of occasions. Driving mauls from forward pick ups, led by Ross Lothian and Ollie Burman, proving a real handful. As the game progressed Worcester started to disrupt the line out and began taking balls against the throw. It was from a steal on a Kenilworth line out that the home side scored. The back line threw two huge, long passes to allow the wing to score in the corner. The conversion was unsuccessful. Worse was to follow as Worcester scored a second unconverted try. Both the full back and flanker created extra men in the line to allow the wing to cross in the corner. The second half began with Kenilworth, continuing with an unbelievable work rate, pressing the Worcester side back towards their own line. Wave after wave of Kenilworth attacks being stopped just short of the line. Eventually the pressure told and No 8 Matt Cooper barged over close to the posts. Tom Palmer added the conversation to tie the scores at 10-10 with less than 10 minutes remaining. Then disaster struck. Kenilworth committed too many players to a ruck and when the ball was moved wide had no cover. The Worcester wing beat two tired tacklers to score under the posts. The simple conversion was also added. Unbelievably the visitors found another burst of energy and again laid siege to the home try line. But for some white line fever the game could have been squared. However, it was not meant to be and the game ended with a brave young Ken’s side out on their feet having suffered their first defeat of the season.

Next weekend the ones are at home to Dunstablians in the league, kick off 3pm. This is preceded by the first Former Players Lunch of the season.

As at 19th Oct

On Sat the ones are away at Scunthorpe and the kick off has been changed to 2.15, apparently to allow us to get back for Strictly Come Dancing at 8pm on the telly. The game will see the debut of fly half Chris Brown, on loan from Nuneaton. Chris played against us for Broadstreet in the Warwickshire Cup Final last season. Directions to the ground are in the club and I suggest you allow 2.5hrs in a car.

The two’s are away at Banbury and the three’s, in the guise of the Pirates, are at home to Leamington 3’s, both 3pm kick offs. The Pirates are having a meal (curry) and a few beers after the game then they will settle down to watch Strictly Come Dancing at 8pm. If you fancy joining in on this then speak to Los Sibley who is organising the curries.

The colts have their second round National Cup game at Worcester with a 3pm kick off and if you are not going to Scunthorpe then why do you not go to Worcester to see our young colts – they are good and in with a big chance of reaching the third round.

Next Wednesday (24th) our Cougars are playing Stratford in the 20/20 league, at Stratford, 8pm.

Next Saturday (27th) the ones are at home against Dunstablians in the league. Before this is the first Former Players Lunch of the Season and you should have had your invite by now but may have not due to the postal strike. If you fancy going then contact Peter Boyle on 07801 914833.

On Sunday the 4th Nov there is a Halloween Party at the club, kicking off at 12noon and going on throughout the afternoon. Details of this are up in the club.

Please remember and pay your subs, it is getting to that stage when you might be collared in the club.

Please note that the club has struck a deal with Brian Holt, Estate Agents. Basically, if you sell or rent your house through Brian Holt then you will receive a 5% discount on their fees and, in addition, the club will receive 5%. You must make it clear at the time of instruction though that you wish to participate in the scheme.

Please also remember that the club has a similar deal with Amazon and a %ge of any sale comes to the club, but only if you enter the Amazon site through the link on the KRFC web site

ADVANCE WARNING – a very good rock and roll band will be playing at the club on the night of Sat 1st Dec, the day we are at home to Peterborough and the day of the Xmas Lunch.

As at 15th Oct

I go away for a couple of weeks and come back to mayhem - the ones losing heavily against Newport at home followed by our forced pull out of the cup game at Beverley due to a shortage of front row men due to injuries, non availabilities and work committments. Apologies to Beverley and we wish them well in the cup and league.

And now a  message from Gazza:

I am chasing everyone up for attendance at the players meeting on thursday night, it is NOT first team squad only! The meeting will cover various subjects, including: league performances, & training attendance, to name two. It will be an open forum, in fact the whole purpose will be for players, coaches and those that care where the club goes to express where they think faults are and how we can improve and correct things.We aren't far away from having a strong midlands one side, but we all know that the league table doesn't lie, and that this is ultimately how a clubs health is rated. So if everyone can make the effort to attend and have a positive impact on things then that is another step in the right direction. If you can't make the session then please feel free to email me any points that you would like raised, and if they are of use to the session (i.e. won't make me look like a c#ck, I can take care of that thanks) then I will raise them on your behalf. In fact if you can't make it please can you let me know, and if there is anyone not on this distribution list can you forward on the email to them and ask them to send Willie Whitesmith their current email address.

Thanks

Gareth Renowden

This weekend we are away at Scunthorpe in the league with a 2.15 kick off.

As at 12th Oct

IMPORTANT NEWS

TOMORROW'S GAME AT BEVERLEY HAS BEEN CALLED OFF. THERE ARE NO OTHER SENIOR/COLT GAMES ON AT THE CLUB THIS SAT.

There will be a Players Meeting to discuss the current situation on Thursday 18th October at 7pm. If you care about the club and are a serious first and second XV player who wishes to see the club continue its success of the past few years then I ask that you make every effort to attend. We are going to have an open session to discuss where the club is going and how each and everyone of us can help us get there. If you are not currently in the first or second XV’s and/or do not now play but think you can contribute something then please come along.

As at 1st October

Oh so close and what might have been. The general concensus on Saturday night (as we watched the Mighty Scots progress in the World Cup) was that we deserved to win and were the better team but, alas, we still await our first points of the season. The good news is though we moved off the bottom of the league, Dudley K dropping to the basement on points difference. We were looking good and leading with a Luke Brown try but we were somewhat disrupted with No8 Rupert Cooper suffering a serious injury and we had to re-shuffle with Luke moving to No8. The game see sawed and following a Jez Noon try in the second half it went into injury time at 23 a piece only for a penalty to be awarded in front of the posts and a 26-23 defeat.

Kenilworth 2nds played host to local rivals Broadstreet 2nd XV and in a great game lost by a much smaller margin than the 48-28 score would suggest. The Kenilworth team displayed a thorough mix of youth and experience and fielded no less than 4 colts players who all played superbly in a very physical game. Kenilworth started brightly and surprised the visitors with a furious pace of play from the first kick off. Broadstreet absorbed the pressure well, assisted by a few mistakes by Kenilworth at crucial moments, and worked themselves back into the game. Against the run of play, the visitors were the first to score with some powerful running from their backline, which they followed up with a very similar score a few minutes later. Kenilworth rallied and responded immediately with a try between the posts for Sam Lewis. The game was now alive with both sides grappling for possession and territory. Further scores came from both teams, but Broadstreet managed to keep their noses in front. When Kenilworth scored the first try of the second half Broadstreet were concerned, and with several penalties and yellow cards for the visitor’s frequent indiscipline Kenilworth looked to captialise. Unfortunately Kenilworth couldn’t quite find enough quality possession to claw themselves a lead with the well organised Broadstreet side making the most of the K’s mistakes. The final score was 28-48 to Broadstreet with Kenilworth points from Sam Lewis (1 try and 4 conversions), Ian Bowden (try), Paddy Flavelle (try), and man of the match Ross Lowthian (try).

No other games were played but on Sunday our U17's defeated Stratford U17's 22-0 with tries for Jukes, Gibson, Jones and Phillips and one conversion by Adam Hadwin.

Next weekend the ones are at home to Newport, 3pm kick off. This game is preceded by a lunch for which there are spaces available.

Should be a busy day at the club with England playing their quarter final at 2pm and the All Blacks and France at night. At around 9.30 we are also having a visit from a Male Voice Choir so this should be a good singsong.

As at 28th Sept

Likely team for Saturday v Broadstreet is:

N Collett, Davies, Hunter, Phillips, Careless, Smith, Nock, Cooper, Renowden, Roberts, L Brown, Hersey, Noon, Clements, Cassell: subs C Collett, Raby, Whitehall.

As at 24th Sept

Another defeat to report for the ones at Longton but it was a game that perhaps we should have won with Longton riding their luck to come out 16-10 winners. The boys did look quite good in the colts strips though!

HARBURY 1’s 23 KENILWORTH 2’s 8

A first defeat for a below strength K’s second XV. Ian Chetland scored a try and Andy Fox scored a penalty.

KENILWORTH 3’s (Pirates) 50 REDDITCH VETS 10

This was the first game in Kenilworth Pirate’s 30th Anniversary season with the team doing well coming off the back of a Dinner on the Friday night. Try scorers were Rod Jones, Mark Nicholas, Glyn Owen, Tony Philpott, Chris Sibley (2), Keith Wise and Andy Povey. Sibley was successful with five conversions.

KENILWORTH 4’s 42 HARBURY 2’s 12

Scorers to follow.

KENILWORTH COLTS 37 BURTON COLTS 12

Scorers to follow.

As at 21st Sept

On Saturday the ones are away at Longton, 3pm kick off. Please note that that Longton have now moved and can be found in Trentham Lakes, Stoke, near Stoke City’s football ground. You can find a map and directions at http://www.longtonrugby.co.uk/start.htm and click on LOCATION on the LHS.

The ones sustained a number of injuries last Saturday and the team is much changed again and is; N Collett, R Varney, C Collett, I Phillips, D Careless, N Smith, F Nock, R Cooper, G Renowden, P Roberts, E Brown, J Hersey, J Noon, L Brown, L Cassell: subs J Raby, K Price, D Carrick.

The second XV have taken on a pool fixture away at Harbury ones and the third XV are at home against Redditch Vets. We also have a fourth XV out and they are also traveling to Harbury to take on their second XV.

The colts had a superb win last weekend in their National Cup first round tie (57-0 v Tamworth) and their reward for that is an away tie at Worcester. They are at home on Saturday with a 3pm kick off against Burton Colts.

Our U17 lads are also at home but on Sunday with an 11am kick off on the main pitch.

The pitch arrangements for Saturday are: the third XV on the main pitch and the colts at the Cow Patch.

On Wed night our 20//20 squad had their first game in the South Warwickshire 20/20 competition and duly defeated a team from Old Leamingtonians. Last week they played in a demonstration Warwickshire 20/20 event which was meant to comprise ourselves, Broadstreet, Nuneaton and Rugby Lions however Broadstreet and Nuneaton did not turn up and we played Rugby Lions, defeating them 3-0 with Elliott Brown having an outstanding game at stand off.

Friday night is the Pirates Dinner at the club and the start of the 30th Anniversary celebrations. This is being held in the back room and for those not attending the dinner please note that France v Ireland will be on in the front bar.

In the Warwickshire Cup we have been drawn away to Sutton Coldfield in the first round, to be played on the first available date up to the end of the year. If we win that one, we are at home to either Silhillians or Old Laurentians. The two’s have received a bye in the first round of the Second XV cup and the second round will be held on Sunday 11th Nov.

We are still receiving complaints from residents close to the Cow Patch and I ask you again to please consider parking at the club and walking down to the Cow Patch.

We have also re-jigged the programme and have room for more adverts. If you know of any company who would like to advertise in our fine programme then please contact the club.

Kenilworth |Cricket Club are holding an Antiques Valuation Day on Sunday 30th Sept at their Warwick Rd ground. The cost is £2.50 per item to be valued and it is on from noon to 4pm. All funds raised go to the re-buidling programme.

As at 17th Sept

Another defeat to report in our first home game back in Midlands 1, this time 12-40 to a well drilled South Leicester team. The team was disrupted just before the kick off when new signing Mat Davies called off followed by Andy Whitehall and Ed Hunter in the warm up. Further injuries to James Burnside, Dan Crandon and Dave Clements during the game did not help. Our scorers were Luke Brown and Lee Cassell.

Our second XV took on Burton 2's and won 62-0. The precedent was set early with a midfield break from Steve Worton to send wing John Raby clear to touch down in the corner. Within minutes of the restart Worton’s centre partner Jez Noon demonstrated his own evasive running, linking with Alex Stanojevic to score Kenilworth’s second try. Sam Lewis converted. The Kenilworth forwards continued to pile on the pressure and forced a penalty just outside the Burton 22, but Lewis uncharacteristically missed the points and the rest of the game saw the home side keep the ball in hand. Further tries in the first half came quickly through some great passing play, Charlie Buckle scoring from a pass from Dom Carrick, and minutes later returning the favour for Carrick to score. Burton struggled to establish any consistent possession against a co-ordinated Kens defence and the final score of the first half came through a determined break at the half-way line from prop Cieran Price. Great support and quick hands from forwards and backs put Stanovic through for his second try. The half time score was 33-0 to Kenilworth. The second half started as the first ended, but this time the forwards gaining a share of the spoils with captain Charles Brown thundering through several flailing tackles to score between the posts. Burton rallied themselves and enjoyed a brief period of possession in the Kenilworth 22, but just couldn’t find enough to cross the line themselves. Kenilworth began to make some changes with Matt Jenkins adding energy replacing Bruce Roberts in the pack. Shortly afterwards another Stanojevic break set up Raby for his second try of the afternoon. Jake Povey, Simon Bladon and Andy Fox replaced Tom Nicholson, Ben Rand and Sam Lewis and the fresh legs were the final nail in the coffin for a tired Burton side. With his first touch Fox was sent clear on the left with only Burton’s fullback to beat. A deft chip (and fortunate bounce) allowed Fox his try in the corner. Kenilworth were now scoring at will and Raby sealed his hat-trick with a storming solo run from the half way line. Burton were unlucky to miss out on a consolation try after an interception and kick and chase saw the Kenilworth defence scramble to their own five metre line to somehow prevent the score. The final try came from another Brown break which was completed by Buckle. The referee thought enough was enough and blew the final whistle after 60 minutes, with a total of ten tries for Kenilworth, five conversions for Lewis and one for Buckle.

KENILWORTH 3’s 52 SHOTTERY 10

Three tries for Tom Kennedy and singles for Chris Riley, Paddy Flavelle, Glyn Owen, Steve Green and Andy Povey. Glyn Owen one con.

NATIONAL COLTS CUP, Round 1

KENILWORTH 57 TAMWORTH 0

A superb display by K’s colts with No 8 Mat Cooper outstanding – individual try scorers were Christian Gill x2, Rhys Griffiths x2, Matt Cooper x2, Andy Bladon x1, and Ross Lowthian x1, with the sure boot of Tom Palmer converting 7 Tries and 1 penalty.

Kenilworth Colts are at home again on Saturday (22nd September) vs Burton.

Next week ones are away at Longton – note Longton have a new ground!

As at 14th Sept

The ones have their first home league game tomorrow against South Leicester, kick off 3pm. The team will include yet another new signing, Mat Davies, a hooker from Rugby Lions. Full team (as at Thursday night) is: Collett, Davies, Hunter, Crandon, Phillips, Burnside, Nock, Cooper: Renowden, Roberts, E Brown, Taylor, Hersey, Clements, Whitehall: subs Careless, Varney and L Brown.

The twos are at home to Burton 2s and the threes are away at Shottery.

On Sunday our Colts are at home to Tamworth in the first round of the National Colts Cup. This game is on the main pitch, kick off 2pm.

The World Cup continues with South Africa and England tonight at 8pm and the big game tomorrow is Wales v Australia, kick off 2pm – you can catch the first half before the real big game! Prior to this the All Blacks are in action against Portugal and Ireland are in action at night (8pm). A real biggie to look forward to is France v Ireland on Friday 21st Sept, kick off 8pm.

It is still not to late to volunteer to do a bar stint or run the line. The club survives on volunteers so please consider doing your bit.

The Warwickshire Cup has been drawn and we are away to Sutton Coldfield in the first round (to be played on first available date and no later than 30th Dec) and, if successful there, at home to Silhillians or Old Laurentians on Sunday 13th Jan. I have no news yet of the other games.

As at 12th Sept

KRFC are delighted to announce the signing of the Rugby Lions hooker, Mat Davies and it is planned he will make his debut on Saturday v South Leicester.

As at 10th Sept

LOUGHBOROUGH STUDENTS 37 KENILWORTH 24

A loss to report on our return to Midlands 1 against a strong Loughborough Students outfit boasting one or two England U21 players and a lot of very fit young persons! There were KRFC debuts for winger Dave Clements, scrum half Ian Chetland, second row Dan Careless and the complete back row of Dan Crandon, Francis Nock and Rupert Cooper. There were debut tries for Francis Nock, Dave Clements and Ian Chetland plus another from Pete Roberts.

BROMSGROVE CRUSADERS 0 KENILWORTH 43

Kenilworth 2nd XV opened their new season with a solid win away from home 43 – 0, against an enthusiastic Bromsgrove Crusaders side. The K’s got off to the perfect start when the Bromsgrove forwards were penalised at the breakdown near the half-way line. Sam Lewis found a good touch inside the home side’s 22 and from the resulting line out Steve Worton scored his first try for the club on his debut with a good line through the Bromsgrove defence. Lewis added the simple conversion. Several minutes later, Kenilworth pushed themselves into a similar position and some quick handling from the backs brought Lee Cassells into the line from full-back who skipped through the covering tackles to score.

Bromsgrove rallied themselves and drove forwards from the restart with close forward work from their big pack, earning themselves a penalty. The resulting kick was missed and further chances were then few and far between for the home side. The Kenilworth pack worked hard and earned themselves a try after disrupting the Bromsgrove scrum near the home side’s line, driving forwards for Chris Collett to score. Kenilworth stuck to their formula of a quick, open game and were rewarded with further scores from Drew Dingley, Adam Trean, and two for John Raby (another debutant for the K’s), with a total of four conversions from Lewis. Bromsgrove did not give up and continued to drive hard through the forwards but overall could not keep pace with a young Kenilworth side on a great afternoon for running rugby.

KENILWORTH 3's 46 RUGBY ST ANDREWS 15

Tries for Glyn Owen, Marc Thomas, Tom Kennedy, Simon Jeavons, Paddy Flavelle and Will O'Meara (2).

One drop goal for Glyn Owen and four conversions by Chey Dingley.

Next Sat ones at home to South Leicester, 3pm kick off.

As at 7th Sept

Team for Saturday is currently

Collett (N), Burnside, Brown (C), Phillips, Careless, Crandon, Nock, Cooper: Whitehall, Brown (L), Hersey, Roberts, Clements, Wood, Chetland: subs are Carrick, Noon, Taylor

Do you remember fly-half Emile Wessels who played for Kenilworth a few years back, well he is in the Namibia World Cup squad.

As at 6th Sept

On Sat is the start of the league season in Midlands 1 and we are away at Loughborough Students. Directions to the ground are at the club or you can get from the LS web site (www.lufbra.net/rugby). The squad that has been given to me contains seven of the new faces we have at the club this season. Come along and give the boys support and see them in their brand new advertising billboard, sorry, strip and start of life in Midlands 1. If you race back to Kenilworth after the game you will only miss two of the USA tries against England!

Please note our plea for someone to run the line on this and future Saturdays. Contact me if you are interested.

The second XV are away at Bromsgrove whilst the third XV are at home to Rugby St Andrews.

The World Cup kicks off tomorrow night and please be reminded of the fine facilities available at the club to watch most of the games. This also goes for the Cricket 20-20 World Cup which kicks off next week and is only on Sky TV.

On Sunday 16th Sept the Colts XV are at home to Tamworth in the first round of the National Cup and if they win that one they will be away at Worcester. It will be a 2pm kick off on the main pitch.

On Saturday 15th the ones are at home to South Leicester, 3pm kick off. Here we will be showing off our new programme with a new star on the front cover. I will not spoil your fun by revealing who he is but he is a very good darts player (no it is not me), drives a truck and has an equally nice looking brother.

Please be reminded that subs are now due. This season they have been set at Playing @ £65, full time Student at £20, VP @ £60, Social @ £35 and Spouse @ £15.

We have received a lot of complaints from residents in Heyville Croft and surrounding roads close to the Cow Patch. They do not like us parking in their streets at the best of times and, more so, when we park across their drives and they cannot get their cars in and out. Can I ask all of the users of the Cow Patch to be a wee bit more considerate and park responsibly or, even better, park at the club and walk up to the Cow Patch. On your return you may even be tempted into the bar for a beer or two. The bar is now open every Thursday night at 8pm for refreshments after training. It is also open on a Wednesday and on Mondays when a Darts match is on.

As at 3rd Sept

Kenilworth completed their pre season build up with an up and down display at the Stratford Tournament on Saturday 1st Sept, losing to Stratford and Old Patesians before finally clicking into gear with a comprehensive and exciting win over Banbury.

The following new signings are announced for the season:

Dan Careless a tall 26 yr old second row/back row forward signed from Old Leamingtonians. Dan is an ex International swimmer and has come to rugby late in his life.

Jeremy Pigou, a 23 yr old full back from Wellington, New Zealand.

Ciaran Price, a 21 yr old hooker/loose head prop from Ruislip and Brunel University but originally from Leamington

Ben Rand, a 29yr old hooker from Sheffield Medicals and Sheffield Tigers but originally a Kenilworth Colt.

John Raby, a 23yr old winger signed from Leamington.

Rupert Cooper, a 19 yr old back row forward signed from Bishops Stortford. Rupert is a former (2006) Rugby World Player of the Month and in 2004 attended a New Zealand International Rugby Course with his school and where he caught the attention of All Black Legends Murray Mexted and Frank Bunce.

Bruce Roberts, a 24 yr old 2nd row/back row forward signed from Malton & Norton and a student colleague of second row Ian Phillips.

Francis Nock, a 23 yr old back row forward signed from Leicester Lions where he was their ‘player of the season’ two years ago.

Dave Clements, a 22 yr old winger from Rugby Lions, Dave was the Lions top scorer when they won Midlands 1 division a few years back.

Ian Chetland, a 33 yr old scrum half signed from Silhillians.

Sam Wood, the 19yr old stand off who has returned to the club from his spell in Australia.

Alex Taylor, 27yr old centre, who has returned to the club after a spell at Esher.

Colts Andy Winter and Ross Lothian have also signed senior forms for the club.

Kenilworth open their Midlands 1 league campaign on Sat 8th Sept with an away fixture at newly promoted Loughborough Students who now have in their midst ex Kenilworth back row forward Phil Jones. The seconds are away at Bromsgrove whilst the third XV are at home to Rugby St Andrews.

Kenilworth have also invested in a new projector/big screen and a flat screen TV and most of the up and coming World Cup fixtures will be shown at the club.

STOP PRESS

Our colts have been drawn at home to Tamworth in the first round of the National Colts Cup, to be played on Sunday 16th Sept on the main pitch, kick off 2pm.

As at 29th August

On Saturday 1^st September the first and second XV squad has their final pre season game with a tournament at Stratford involving the local club, Banbury, ourselves and Old Patesians a team from Cheltenham who were in National League 3 south for the past six seasons but have now dropped into SW1. The tournament kicks off at 1pm and is to be played on a round robin basis, 15 a side, 15 minutes each way.

On Sunday it is the Minis and Juniors Registration day and this is followed by a ‘Party in the Park’. There is to be a tombola stall at this event and if you have any of that unwanted liqueur that you liked on holiday but hated on return then please bring it down together with any other cans or bottles you would like to donate.

Martin Johnson has written a book “The Original Rules of Rugby” and this is available as from 1^st Sept from AMAZON, priced £5.99. Please note that if you go into the AMAZON web site through the links on the Kenilworth Rugby web site (www.kenilworthrugby.co.uk) then the club will receive commission