Matlock Rugby Vice Presidents Newsletter: August 2017

Matlock Rugby Vice Presidents Newsletter

CHRIS LOEBERI would like to start the first Vice President Newsletter of the season ,with a picture of Laura Loeber officially commemorating a plaque at the Greenaway Workshop in Darley Dale, on Tuesday 5th September, in memory of ‘our’ Chris.

Plaque reads: "In Memory of Chris Loeber, who for over 25 years was an invaluable supporter and legal advisor to Greenaway Workshop"

I had the honour of attending the event on behalf of Matlock Rugby and was impressed with the work that Chris carried out for them for over 25 years.

Laura spoke movingly and presented framed certificates and monetary awards to 2 long serving employees of the workshop, Andrew for 30 years service and Barry with 20.

 

These being a part of the proceeds from Chris’s memorial service which was donated by the family to Greenaway Workshop. 

 

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NLD AND DERBYSHIRE CUP DOUBLE

Last Saturday, the Blue Boys travelled across to play Ashbourne, in a game that doubled up with a place in the next round of both competitions.

Not a game for the connoisseur, but Matlock Rugby triumphed 29 points to 26 with Tom Morton converting a penalty with the last kick of the game.

 

Don't forget to follow the Facebook page – Matlock Senior Rugby

 

Special mention goes to Tim Taylor on receiving his 150th cap for the club – Congratulations Tim, here's to many more! 

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ILKESTON RUFC

Next Saturday the Blue Boys will play their first league game of the new campaign away from home against our neighbours, Ilkeston RUFC with a 3pm kick off.

There will be a mixed 2nd and 3rd XV team also taking on Ilkeston away from home at 3pm.

Lets get behind the club and look forward to seeing you in Ilkeston.

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MATLOCK LADIES

Great news the Matlock Ladies 1st fixture of the season is away to our highland friends, Buxton on Sunday 10th September with a 2.30pm kick off.

 So if you have not had your fill of rugby jog up to Buxton and support the Blue Ladies!!

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Yours in Matlock Rugby and Vice Presidents,

David

P.S. Don’t forget to renew your VP membership

The Blue Boys are back in action!

31st August 2017

On Saturday, the Matlock Blue Boys will start the season off with an away game against Ashbourne RUFC, kicking off at 2.15pm.

This will be a double header cup competition NLD and Derbyshire Cup for the 1^st team.

For those who have paid their VP subscription you will see from the fixture book the league competition will start next week with the 1st XV away at Ilkeston.

So nothing to do?

Well then, head over to Ashbourne and give the Blue Boys your support in this double headed cup fixture.

Vice Presidents Newsletter- March 7th 2017

Dear Vice Presidents,

VICE PRESIDENTS LUNCH

I start this newsletter by thanking our Vice Presidents and their guests who attended our successful lunch on Saturday. I am sure you will agree that it was a most enjoyable day in the company of our NLD President, Jeff Mapp, our Coalville visitors and many sponsors. Thanks also go to Ann and Gordon Statham who travelled all the way from Haywards Heath on Saturday morning to renew their ties with the Club. In fact Gordon played alongside Dave Ramsden, who looked after them royally. Thanks go to our 'professional' auctioneer, VP Adrian Fidler, who persuaded, cajoled and bullied bidders to part with £150 which will go to the Derbyshire Air Ambulance, an organisation that will also benefit from Adrian's endeavours to celebrate his 25 years in business. Please see attached flyer for his auction at Edensor on 23rd March. Well worth supporting.

The most abiding memory I am sure we will take away from this event will be the recognition of the Honorary Life Membership awarded to Terry Boswell. As you know Terry was very emotional but pleased that he could attend. Photographs can be downloaded along with snaps (if we can call them that!!) of the day including the rugby action from the links below including Matlock Senior Rugby on Facebook. 

You will also see our under 15's squad taking a well earned break from their car washing duties,proceeds of which are going towards their rugby tour. Well done lads.

MATLOCK 1ST XV  5 COALVILLE 1ST XV 27

The above scoreline certainly took the gloss off the day but all credit to Coalville who showed strength in their commitment. Colin's photographs and Tony's match report can be downloaded from: 

http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/matlock/photos/matlock-5-v-coalville-27-724274.html

http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/matlock/teams/9812/match-centre/1-2158827

Next Saturday the Blue Boys travel to Kesteven with a 3pm kick off. Please find a location map below:

http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/kestevenrfc/contact/

MATLOCK 2ND XV  &  MATLOCK 3RD XV

Our resident scribe, Chris Loeber, sent his excellent report for the 2s and 3s as follows:

"PAVIORS 2nd  32   MATLOCK 2nd 32
64 points - shared equally. What a game!
The second's rarely get anything other than a good beating when they venture across the border to Nottinghamshire and on Saturday travelling to face a side who play in a higher section of the Pennant with a much changed team the prospects didn't look good.
However, it is a measure of the ever growing playing strength of the Club that the seconds were bitterly disappointed to only come away with a draw. Fielding 3 17 year olds Matlock were 20 - 17 down at the interval, leading 32 - 22 with 10 minutes to play and had to settle for a draw.
Could Matlock have seen the game out  - well with experience perhaps they could. The test for the team is to win the next time they find themselves in the same situation.
Our strength in depth is improving  - the second teamers must now start to put pressure on the firsts.

This week the eggs went to winger Rich Cook - back on leave from the RAF he found himself on the wing and flew (!) in for a couple of tries.
BELPER 2nd/3rd 5  MATLOCK  3rd 34
Bruce's boys recorded an excellent win down the valley at Belper. With a squad of 22 ( several of whom were told that there was nothing to this rugby lark ) Matlock ran away with the game in the second half - surely we can't have been the fitter team!
PLEASE NOTE - This week the second's take a rest and the thirds face Tupton at Cromford. It's rumoured that this will be another fun Friday under the lights. We'll make sure a message is circulated during the week.
Chris."

DON’T FORGET TO BOOK FOR OUR 90TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
Yours in Matlock Rugby

David

Matlock Rugby News from David Hood (20th Feb 2017)

Well would you believe it! There was another Matlock Blue Boys game on Saturday and what a game!

Coach Chris Loeber sent the following late news item to the VP Editor for circulation:

"The second’s entertained National League side Sheffield Tigers second string and produced a sensational performance.

Matlock 2^nd 37  Sheffield Tigers 2^nd 15

Our opponents from National League side Sheffield Tigers warmed up like internationals – had we bitten off more than we could chew?

The answer was an emphatic “No”. Aggressive at the breakdown and clinical in possession Matlock produced a stunning first half performance. Sheffield simply could not live with Matlock’s pace, accuracy and support. They were stunned and blown away.

In previous weeks Matlock’s backs had provided the cutting edge but this week it was a total 15 man performance with backs and forwards interpassing and totally bamboozling their illustrious opponents. It was 25 – 0 at half time. It doesn’t matter who scored – the entire 20 man squad was magnificent.

Inevitably Sheffield came back into the game in the second period but Matlock were never threatened and ran out comfortable 37 – 15 winners.

Phil Braund was voted man of the match but, in reality , it could have been any one of the Matlock players.

The challenge for the seconds is to keep this excellent form going. This will be tested this Friday evening when a strong Belper development team visit the Meadows for a 7.30 kick off. Rugby and a pint  - could you think of a better way of spending your evening.

Matlock 2^nd’s ; James Waterhouse, Mark Thornley ( Harry Hunt) , Harry Boyd, Mike Gunter ( Adam Gallagher), Marcus Bolam; Chris Buckley, Chris Perry (capt); Conor Laughnane ( Dave Ball) , Harry Stephenson, Daz Smith ( Tom Neville ) ; James Painter ( Adam Twyford) Matt Fenton, Ollie Beesley, Phil Braund, Rory Cookman.

Chris"

Yours in Matlock Rugby

David

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ASHBOURNE 1ST XV 12  MATLOCK BLUE BOYS    12  

Only one senior fixture this week to report on with the Blue Boys coming away from their nearest neighbours with a strong second half performance to earn a draw.

Both 'Scoop Hooton' and 'Paparazzi' Baker submitted their reports and photos below:

http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/matlock/teams/9812/match-centre/1-2158819

http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/matlock/photos/ashbourne-12-v-matlock-12-721825.html

Next Saturday the Blue Boys play Spalding in a rearranged game at Cromford with a 2.15pm kick off. 

A combined 2nd and 3rd team will play our friends from down the A6 Belper on Friday evening at Cromford Meadows kicking off at 7.30pm. So come along to both games and support the Blue Boys.

VICE PRESIDENTS LUNCH – 4TH MARCH

I would ask those who have not booked or indeed paid for the above event to do so as quickly as possible. There are a few places left for this extravaganza.

Please contact Ian McCluskey to avoid disappointment. His contact details can be obtained from the attached booking form.

Don’t forget those quality donations for our wonderful raffle and auction!!!

90TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION DINNER OF MATLOCK RUGBY CLUB

Bookings are going well for this fabulous event which will be held at The County Hall, Matlock on Saturday 1st July at 7pm. The evening entertainment will consist of:

Champagne and Canapé Reception

Sumptuous Dinner

Live Band

Celebrity Rugby Guest (tba)

All at £50 per head and our beautiful ladies are made very welcome. Tables of 10 are available.

Dress code will be black tie or lounge suits (dress to impress)

If that is not impressive let me tell you that Jepo and his lovely wife will be flying over from Italy to attend this quality event.

Yours in Matlock Rugby

David

The latest Matlock Rugby News- February 2017

OVERVIEW

MATLOCK 1ST XV NEWS

You may or may not know that the Matlock 1st XV game against Spalding was called off yesterday as a result of an accident to one of the cars bringing the Spalding players over to Cromford. Dave Toone has spoken to Spalding this morning and its just minor injuries, couple of broken fingers he thinks but relayed the club's best wishes.

MATLOCK 2ND XV  51  ASHBOURNE 3RD XV 5

Matlock Blue Boys had the Meadows to themselves and coach Chris Loeber and his team submitted the attached report including a few words on the thirds:

'Paparazzi' Colin Baker, undertook to take as many photographs of this game under terrible wintry conditions, so hopefully the following link will give you an idea of what the players and Col had to endure!!!!

http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/matlock/photos/matlock-2nd-xv-40-odd-v-ashbourne-2nd-xv-5-720784.html

VICE PRESIDENTS LUNCH

I would appeal to those Vice Presidents who have not booked and paid for the lunch on 4th March to do so as quickly as possible. Please contact Ian McCluskey. See attached.

Those who are attending can you ensure you bring down the usual 'high quality' items for the Les type raffle and auction!! Look out those unwanted Christmas presents including after shave and alcohol! Thank you.

90TH CELEBRATIONS – 1ST JULY 

As you know from previous communications we are also taking bookings and payments for the above event. Please reserve through David Hood in the absence of 'Les the Oz lover'.

FIXTURES – 18TH FEBRUARY

The 1st and 3rd XV squads will travel the 'long distance' to Ashbourne with a 2.15 kick off whilst the 2nd XV host Mansfield at Cromford also with a 2.15pm kick off. 

Ashbourne RUFC location: http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/ashbourne/contact/

Please support the Blue Boys.

Yours in Matlock Rugby

David Hood

Matlock Vice Presidents

Chris Loeber Report

It was winter down at the Meadows. However, snow on the surrounding hills and cold hands didn’t stop Matlock and Ashbourne providing excellent entertainment in advance of the England game.

With the first team game having been postponed at short notice the seconds were heartened to see so many first teamers down to support them. With first team coach Mike Brookes also on the touchline there was added incentive to impress.

And impress they did. Ashbourne are always proud and committed. It seemed that Matlock would have it all their own way but, after 15 minutes of dominance the score was 5 all! But on the back of a dominant scrum we started to produce some stunning rugby. 17 year old Sam Doiley made his senior debut on the wing. His first 2 touches brought him 2 tries – there’s nothing to this senior rugby lark is there!

All the backs excelled and with Conor Laughnane leading a forward surge to the line the game was won by half time. Matlock didn’t ease off and scored a number of team tries in the second half. Phil Braund crossed for a hat trick the best of which being when he was on hand to finish off a move that went through 10 pairs of hands.

Ashbourne stuck to their task but the result was convincing. In fact the only uncertainty was the score – was it 10 tries or just 9? On Sunday Chris Buckley was moved to comment that although his kicking was “ a bit off” it was much better than that Scottish guy who missed from in front of the posts!

Matlock – Tom Stokes, Harry Stephenson, Conor Laughnane, Dave Ball, Matt Fenton, Phil Braund, Stef Jackson, Rory Cookman, Chris Perry ( capt) Chris Buckley, Sam Doiley, Marcus Bolam, Mike Gunter, Mark Thornley, James Waterhouse. Replacements: Elliott Boam, Luke Howard, Curtis Bolam, James Harrod.

So the seconds maintain their position at the top of their Pennant League and are in League action again this Saturday when they entertain Mansfield 2’s.

Bakewell 2^nd 5  Matlock 3^rd 7

Sadly this game was abandoned just into the second half following a serious knee injury to a Bakewell player – we wish him a speedy recovery.

The latest Matlock Rugby Club news

Our 2nd and 3rd team development coach, Chris Loeber has submitted his report for last Saturday at Southwell. Better late than never! Thanks again to Chris.

"Southwell 2^nd 27  Matlock 2^nd 26

Somewhat belatedly a brief report from the mudbath that was Southwell’s second team pitch!

The second team’s unbeaten league record came to an end when they were beaten by the narrowest of margins. With a number of unavailabilities the seconds were strengthened by a number of Bruce’s third teamers and also by Will Hargreaves who came from Cardiff for the game.

The first 10 minutes when the pitch was reasonably dry showed Matlock at their mobile best, but only 7 points to the good. As the pitch got stickier the heavier Southwell pack came into their own. When they scored midway through the half things looked difficult for Matlock. However 2 converted tries on the stroke of half time gave Matlock something to defend as they turned to face the slope and mud.

And they nearly made it, with Newark’s winning try coming in the final 10 minutes.

It could have been different with Mark Thornley having a try disallowed and Bruce Johnson just being unable to ground the ball.

So just 2 losing bonus points for the blueboys.

This week the seconds take a deserved rest  - the thirds are looking for a pool fixture."

Yours in Matlock Rugby Vice Presidents

David

January 30th- Update

LIFE MEMBER

This week's Newsletter starts with the fabulous news that our well known Vice President, Terry Boswell, has been awarded Life Membership of Matlock Rugby Club in recognition of all his years of service to the club. A well deserved accolade.

Terry turns up to every home and away match to follow his 'dream team' and is a member of Matlock Cricket Club a sport which falls into second place after the rugby. Some of you will know that Terry was an important pack member in the 'Golden Days' of the club. I am sure you will wish to join me in congratulating Terry.

BLUE BOYS WIN WELL AT SOUTHWELL

What a performance from the Blue Boys 1st XV at Southwell backed up by an equally impressive performance from the 2nd XV who ran Southwell very close. 

Southwell 1st XV 5 Matlock 1st XV 31

Southwell 2nd XV 27  Matlock 2nd XV 26

Unfortunately with call offs from the 2nd XV our 3rd XV squad were called upon leaving numbers low with the 3rd squad hence their game against Derby was postponed. This fixture in the Derbyshire Cup will be rearranged. 

Both 'scoop' Tony and 'paparazzi' Colin have submitted their contributions to the web site as follows:

http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/matlock/teams/9812/match-centre/1-2158810

http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/matlock/photos/southwell-5-v-matlock-1stxv-31-718007.html

FIXTURES FOR SATURDAY 4TH FEBRUARY

The 1st XV take on their 'friendly neighbours' in a local derby in the NLD Cup on Saturday with a 2.15pm kick off. We need as many Vice Presidents in attendance to help the Blue Boys overcome our 'friends'!!!!!!

VICE PRESIDENTS LUNCH

Please ensure you get your bookings and payments to Ian McCluskey. I am reattaching the booking form for the lunch which will be held on Saturday 4th March. Our opponents that day will be Coalville RUFC.

Can I ask that you return your booking form and payment to Ian, I repeat Ian, as soon as possible as he will be co-ordinating payment, seating and catering. Please help by making payment with your booking. For those who wish to book tables please note that it will be 8/10 per table. We have approximately 40 booked to date so please confirm asap.

MATLOCK RUGBY 90TH CELEBRATION DINNER

Don’t forget to put Saturday 1st July (County Hall, Matlock) in your diary. Tickets are available at a cost of £50 which covers a champagne and canapés reception, sumptuous dinner, live band and a celebrity rugby guest to be announced. As tickets will be at a premium we are holding back at least half for the Blue Boys playing and coaching staff so the earlier you can register the better. Thank you.

Yours in Matlock Rugby

David Hood

Vice Presidents Office

Matlock Rugby News- January 16th

Please find below the latest Matlock Rugby news, provided regularly by Matlock Rugby Vice President David. 

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THE 2NDS AND 3RDS TAKE PRIDE OF PLACE THIS WEEK

Our Paparazzi took the long journey to Chesterfield to take action shots of the Matlock 2nd XV's victory over our neighbours Chesterfield Panthers by a score line of 35 points to 19. Pictures can also be seen on the Matlock Senior Rugby Facebook page including a fabulous photo of Tupton and Matlock 3rds.

http://www.pitchero.com/clubs/matlock/photos/chesterfield-2nd-xv-19-v-matlock-2nd-xv-35-715669.html

Our resident scribe Chris Loeber sent me the under noted reports for both the 2s and 3s who travelled a long way to Tupton and a great day was had by all including our foreign export Paul Emerson. 

"Yes, 2 good wins although the 2’s was a funny game – good photos from Colin (paparazzi) though.

Chesterfield 2^nd 19 Matlock 2^nd 35

5 tries, 5 conversions, 5 yellow cards – a funny game!

The seconds maintained their position at the top of their Pennant league in a match which started with much promise but which deteriorated to near farce when the referee decided that nearly every penalty offence deserved a yellow card. A depleted Matlock pack found themselves spending the final minutes of the game desperately defending their own line.

The lack of a first team fixture gave Tom Cruttenden the opportunity the get some good pitch time and Marcus and Curtis Bolam both made a welcome return to the second team fold.

As with many games this season the forwards laid sound foundations and the backs showed they had the pace and power to score from anywhere on the pitch. Tries came from Mike Gunter (2), Chris Buckley, Harry Hunt and perhaps the best of the lot from Marcus Bolam. Chris Buckley converted them all.

The most impressive try wasn’t allowed! A sweeping move from near our line, running back a Chesterfield kick which resulted in Harry Hunt scoring beneath the posts was brought back for a somewhat surprising forward pass.

Tupton 2^nd 7   Matlock 3^rd   57

A stunning result for the 3^rd’s against a strengthened Tupton team.

Captain Bruce Johnson had assembled an outfit blessed with experience and pace (some had experience and some had pace, but none had both!)

As with all games with Tupton the match was played in tremendous spirit with both victors and vanquished enjoying a crisp winter’s afternoon in the true spirit of rugby.

This week the seconds are looking for a pool fixture – hopefully at home whilst the thirds entertain Chesterfield 3rds in a Pennant League game (kick off 2.15)"

Once again, many thanks Chris for your hard work with the future of the club!!

  

FIXTURES FOR 21ST JANUARY

Matlock 1st XV are back in action down at Cromford against Notts Casuals whilst the 3rd XV play Chesterfield also at home. Both games kick off at 2.15pm. At the time of going to press the 2nd XV may have the chance of playing the Derbyshire 2^Nd team Cup game against Ilkeston, we await news.

MATLOCK RUGBY VICE PRESIDENTS LUNCH

Please remember that our next Vice Presidents Lunch will be on Saturday 4th March at the Club House. Our opponents that day will be Coalville RUFC. Early bookings are being taken but an official notice will be going out in the next couple of weeks. We would ask you to book and pay in advance which will allow us to plan and cater for such a big club event.

MATLOCK TOWN FOOTBALL SPORTSMANS DINNER

Our Vice President Tom Wright who is the Chairman of Matlock Town Football Club has asked me to circulate the attached. If anyone is interested in attending please contact Tom directly.

LASTLY PLEASE NOTE THE 1ST JULY IN YOUR DIARY FOR THE 90TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS AT COUNTY HALL

If you want more details, please contact me at the VP Office on 07951 268678. There is no point contacting Les as the lazy bugger is lying somewhere in Western Australia comforting a kangaroo and getting very hot to boiling!!!

Yours in Matlock Rugby

David

Matlock Rugby Vice Presidents

Matlock Rugby- December Newsletter

This week's Newsletter will start with Matlock 2nd and 3rd XVs who continue to make this wonderful club of ours proud

Its always nice to get these reports from one of 'England's leading journalists' and a 'diplomat' to boot!! Early this morning I received 'Scoop' Loeber's action report and I mean action! How often have we heard and indeed experienced such disgusting behaviour at Ashfield. The Matlock Blue Boys continue to rise above it and continue to play and behave in accordance with the laws of rugby union. Well done the Blue Boys!

Here’s a brief roundup of the way the 2^nd’s and 3^rd’s spent their Saturday afternoons:

Ashfield 2^nd 5   Matlock 2^nd  55

When Tupton 1^st’s cried off it seemed a good idea to take a pool fixture away at Ashfield. Unfortunately it proved to be a bad decision as, both on the pitch and on the touchline Ashfield ‘s view of what is acceptable behaviour differed from ours.

A description of Ashfield’s conduct on the pitch would, I’m afraid, make the blood boil, so I’ll limit myself to the comment that we will not be taking “friendly fixtures “ against Ashfield in the foreseeable future.

Being charitable we could take the view that such conduct was the only way they could try to counter our attacking 15 man style. We’re definitely improving and some of our tries were quite stunning. Wingers Morgan Miles and Mark Thornley were outstanding with young Mark’s two tries earning him the coveted MOTM award. But in the words of that great Anglophile Eddie Jones “there’s a lot of improvement to come”.

Off the pitch the referee has said that his match report will include reference to the constant abuse both he and our players were subjected to by some of the Ashfield  spectators . All in all not a pleasant afternoon.

Tupton 2nds 26   Matlock 3rds 22

So Tupton gained revenge for their defeat at the Meadows the previous week. Captain Bruce was adamant that had they played for just 5 more minutes “we would have had them”

Players of the weekend were undoubtedly Jonny Bunting and Paul Lane. When told that the seconds had 19 players and the thirds only 14 they were more than happy to go with the thirds – club men through and through. Or did they use their vast experience to conclude that the Tupton experience was likely to be a whole lot more fun?!

This coming Saturday ( 10^th December) the seconds take a rest but the thirds entertain Ashbourne in a league encounter , kick off 2.15.

Matlock 1st XV vs Market Bosworth

After a weekend off from league action the 1st XV squad have ben training hard in preparation for the next league match at Cromford on Saturday against our friends down the road, Market Bosworth. Lets get behind the Blue Boys and encourage them to take another leap up the league. It was interesting to see that the league leaders, Melbourne, drew 14-14 with Loughborough who we defeated at Loughborough 29-8 over a week ago!

Lets have a good turnout of Vice Presidents, friends and family to show our support for Matlock Rugby 1st and 3rd XV.

Thank you

David

P.S. congratulations go to England for recording their 13th consecutive victory, said through gritted teeth but in the spirit of rugby union!!

(Newsletter courtesy of David Hood- Matlock Rugby )