20 April 2008
Looking to extend an impressive unbeaten run the Cougars arrived at Priestfields on Sunday to host a very strong Cranbrook side. Both teams put on a fine display in what was a highly enjoyable game for the assembled spectators.
From the kick off each set of forwards put in some early big hits as they looked to impose themselves. The scrum halves looked for quick ball at the ruck, with the Cougars Ben Wellard having an inspirational game as he directed his team’s play. Forwards Harrison Irons and Ben Lazell worked tirelessly and when the pressure was on there was always the reliable boot of Charlie Wardzynski to gain the Cougars some breathing space.
The game was end-to-end with neither side prepared to give an inch but a slice of luck gifted Cranbrook the breakthrough. Their forwards took them to within sight of the try line and a final effort sent them over. As bodies collapsed it seemed that the ball had been held up by the Cougars before being knocked on by a Cranbrook hand. Unfortunately, the referee decided to give Cranbrook the benefit of the doubt and awarded the try – a kick in the teeth for the Cougars who responded positively but were unable to register a score of their own before half time.
During the half-time interval both sides played a closely contested development match. Similar to the main event, this was a tight game with the Cougars again inspired. They all played well although worthy of particular mention were the forwards Ian Patterson, Tomisin Mosuro and Tom Brown who continually drove the Cougars on and created the best opening of the game for second row Alex Morgan who, as he ploughed through the Cranbrook defence, was held up just inches from the line.
Encouraged by the spirited performance of the development team the Cougars started the second half with renewed vigour. Captain Fergus Stewart was a continual thorn in the opposition’s side and Connor Reynolds was having a phenomenal game at wing. However, Cranbrook continued to defend resolutely and it seemed that the Cougars would not find a way forward, particularly when they lost Liam Fitzpatrick and George Simpson to injuries. One final opportunity presented itself though, as Wellard launched the ball out to his backs. This time they worked the ball to the wing where Luke Gowdy provided an inspired overlap to run in the Cougars fifty-sixth try of the season – five each.
The Cranbrook coaches claimed it was the best game that they had been involved in this season while an emotional Mark Marriott congratulated the boys on their continuing unbeaten run before telling them, “You are all heroes and I am proud and honoured to call myself Cougars Head Coach”. The final word on an incredible day went to Captain Stewart who said, “ The lads were fantastic. They showed their mettle. These Cougars want to win things. They are never beaten and they never give up”.
