Studd ‘Marks’ Bracknell’s Quins Qualification

Having made the semi-final stage by the skin of their teeth, finishing runners-up in their qualifying group in November, Bracknell knew that they would have to up their game if they were to make it through this time against some quality opposition. But ten weeks is a long time in rugby and the boys showed they were more than equal to the task with some astonishingly gritty performances and a never say die attitude.

Led by a committed and brave performance from Paul Studd, who continually made yards across the game line, the team showed just how much they have improved recently with the extra Saturday sessions having a clear benefit. With Harry Worm once again wrestling possession from the opposition the forwards soaked up huge pressure, allowing the backs the freedom to attack into space, something the speed kings fully appreciated.

The first game against Reeds saw Bracknell start apprehensively, losing to a 2nd half try following a lengthy period of pressure from the Weybridge team. Even so a disallowed try from Michael O’Donoghue almost rescued a draw at the end.

An after match ‘discussion’ from Chris Warner, where he outlined the importance of proper rucking and mauling, saw Bracknell respond in fine style in their second match against Teddington. The first of two flying tries from Michael Dykes after good forward work and quick accurate passing between the backs saw them take a 1:0 lead at half time, which they protected in the 2nd half with some bruising defensive work as Teddington committed themselves to attack. Dykes' second try, following a long pass from Michael O’Donoghue, meant he had little to do but pin his ears back and sprint 50 yards to the corner!

The third game against Beccehamians saw another hard fought contest between two well balanced teams and Bracknell once again showed their mental strength, responding after going behind early in the second half with a classic forwards try rounded off by Harry Worm twisting and reaching to ground the ball over the line.

The final and deciding fixture against Upminster became a must win game for Bracknell if they were to guarantee their passage into the finals. True to form the team came up with their best performance yet, working together to produce a brilliant victory with tries from Michael O’Donoghue and a third of the day for Michael Dykes. The second half saw more astonishing defensive play as Bracknell refused to let Upminster cross the line with Aaron Smith, Will Harding, Will Heath-Turrall, Will Field and Oliver Warner continually thwarting the opposition at the death, ably assisted by the backs with some brilliant tackling. Mackenzie Forth, Douglas McMurray, Scott Harman and Nathan James all threw their bodies on the line in the name of the team.

In his post match interview Chris Warner praised the whole team’s performance, noting the great defensive display. The Bracknell Head Coach commented, “It was fantastic to see them working together as a team and I was really pleased with their progress on set pieces, especially the throw-ins and the restarts. I would however like to stress that in the future I’ll be making the calls for any fancy plays!”

The Etihad Airways Curtain Raiser Cup Finals will be played on Saturday 26th March.