Derby U15s won their NLD 7s tournament beating Melbourne in the final. Derby's U15s 'B side' beat Nottingham in the final of the Plate. There's no tournament report but there are Photographs from the day.

On a beautiful spring day the Derby U15’s held onto their NLD crown for the third successive year, mainly due to a second half display which knocked the stuffing out of a spirited Kesteven side. The boys were at full strength apart from still being without Tom Summerscales due to his head injury and Reece Dallimore with his fractured wrist.

Playing downhill for the first half, the boys met a highly charged Kesteven side who were ‘ up for it ‘ from the off and met the Derby attacks with strong tackling and spirited defense, shading the forward battle and generally being more aggressive. Even when Rory Lynn opened the scoring after 26 minutes with a magnificent individual break from just inside the Kesteven half the floodgates failed to open and Kesteven hit back with some flowing moves across their back line which only spirited Derby defending managed to keep out. The half time whistle blew with the lads knowing that they were in a game and the coaches pondering on another poor first half from Derby in the County Final, though to be fair Kesteven did not allow us to play.

Half Time : Derby 05 - 00 Kesteven The second half got underway with the lads playing uphill and expecting a battle to hold onto their trophy. However, an early typical Callan Watson try in their left corner followed by a simply superb individual try from Ed Wesson, who collected the ball direct from the kick off and weaved his way through and around what seemed the entire Kesteven team, more or less finished Kesteven off. There followed a try by Jim Wigglesworth and then Rory Lynn with an interception and finally Sam Tresidder to finish off matters with Rory finding his kicking boots to convert the final 4 tries. The boys were simply fantastic during the first 15 minutes of the second half and showed their class though again, Kesteven showed plenty of spirit and never gave up trying with only a despairing Max Lakey tackle preventing them from scoring a try late on. As it was, probably due to fatigue, the lads gave a few needless penalties away late on giving Kesteven the chance to put some deserved points on the board with the last kick of the game. Final Score : Derby 43 - 03 Kesteven Congratulations to everyone. To a man the lads gave their all and it was fitting that they managed to show their true class in the second half given the season that they have had this year. The game was played in a fantastic spirit and made it easy for the referee to manage. Many thanks to the Legion of Supporters again for their support and encouragement throughout this game and the season gone and we look forward to seeing you all again next season.

view more photos in the e4creative U15s NLD Final photo gallery

Roll on the Sevens in 2 weeks time

Tries: R Lynn 2, C Watson, E Wesson, S Tresidder 2, J Wigglesworth

Cons: R Lynn 4

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

Market Harborough 03 - 28 Derby 'A' XV

Having lost our original fixture to the weather 3 weeks ago, Derby jumped at the opportunity to travel to Market Harborough for a friendly fixture. Having had two tough games with this side last season, Derby knew they would not have it all their own way against a team which has again made it to the final of the Leicestershire county championship.

The weather was fine and breezy and the pitch in excellent condition. Derby were without Tom Summerscales and Josh Pearson in the pack, but had the benefit of Sam Tresidder returning from an ankle injury.

The early exchanges were tense, but Derby took the lead through a Rory Lynn penalty in front of the posts, only to be pegged back by a penalty for offside. Derby looked threatening once they moved the ball and got it away from the huge Harbro' pack who were holding their own. Derby took the lead on 15 minutes after several phases of play had sucked in many Harbro' players, Jim Wigglesworth placed a crossfield kick on a plate for Callan Watson to score in the opposite corner. Derby were now beginning to control the game and looking to run and counter attack whenever they could. They were rewarded for their pressure when Aaron Finnegan crossed for a try on the right having outpaced his opposite man.

The half time score of 16-3 seemed comfortable, but Harbro' now had the breeze at their backs. However any thoughts they may have had of a comeback were soon dispelled as Rory Lynn scored a nice individual try early in the second half, beating the opposition with a devastating change of pace from 20m out. He converted his own try to make it 23-3. Credit to Harbro' though. They were determined to get back into the game. Their forwards used the rolling maul to good effect and at one point looked likely to score, but stout defence, lead by skipper Ed Wesson, kept them out. Derby were able to counter attack well when Harbro' tried to use the wind but failed to find touch and the game opened up towards the end.

Jim Wigglesworth continued his scoring exploits of last week to bag the final score of the game having moved to full back to make the final score 28-3.

This was another pleasing victory against a good solid side. Ben Palmer improves with every game at prop and did well today in probably his toughest test to date. Shane Purcell again led from the front and was well assisted by the rest of the pack. I thought Ed Wesson at No.8 was outstanding today, especially in the contact area. If there is a better player technically at this age, then I'd be surprised. Tim Marshall and Jake Barker looked at home playing at this level after stepping up from the 'Devs' which was great to see. The backs continue to impress. Josh Tizard had a solid game at 9 and Max Lakey was again impressive at full back.

Many thanks to Harbro' for hosting the game at short notice and for the welcome we received. We will undoubtedly lock horns again soon.

Match Report by John McNeilly

Derby Dev XV 25 - 24 Lutterworth

What was forecast to be a drizzly day brightened up and made for perfect playing conditions for rugby.

Derby Dev’s started well and scored their first try just 3 minutes into the game, a try which was nicely passed by Ben Hitchcock who had made a challenging run cutting through the defence & in the midst of being tackled managed to off load to the freshly returned Dan Geer who easily went over the try line and scored. The conversion missed, left Dev’s 5-0 up after 5 minutes.

Lutterworth came back strong and scored in the diagonal corner for a well deserved retort, also missing the conversion left the score at 5 a piece, the effort in defence saw Rob Terrett replaced after receiving a knock to the leg, on came Mop, into the centre to go for glory.

The Dev’s buckled down and with the help of the returning Mike Markham, set about doing a good days work, several good phases of play saw the Dev’s move steadily down the field some good hard work by Josh Pierson helped retain the ball and a final pass off the ground saw Mike Markham pass a lovely long ball to Ben, the ball somehow came loose and Mike dived on top for his returning try, a good team effort with the forwards driving through Lutterworth. 10-5

The game settled down with steady nip and tuck progress, neither side winning massive ground until a good move by the Dev’s saw Dan Geer score his second try in the right hand near corner, good work from Ben Hitchcock as he burst through the opposition again just well enough to create the space for Dan to score. The conversion was missed again leaving the half time score at 15 – 5.

This was very much a game of 2 halves; Derby started the 2nd half strong and scored but missed the conversion again., Lutterworth came back even stronger and took the Derby lads by surprise and the effort despite the 4th try from Derby early on, (20-5) Lutterworth had their confidence up.

They scored easily with the big No.8 who broke through the half hearted tackles with ease, poor tackling by the Dev’s allowed a try under the posts which was converted to leave the score 20 – 12.

Derby tried to re-organise but couldn’t, and the Lutterworth backs with good handling again punished Derby for poor tackling, scoring a well converted try, the score now at 20-19 saw intervention with some constructive remarks from the coach; but to no avail, after 5 minutes of nip and tuck rugby Lutterworth scored again, Missing the conversion but leaving the score at 20-24

Several good runs by Lutterworth proved uneventful, but with only 3 minutes to go Derby won the ball and retained possession, getting the ball out wide to Ben Hitchcock who with great determination went over the try line, the ref (suffering from a recovering ankle) was slightly delayed on the scene and, despite claims of the ball being held up by Lutterworth and their roving supply of sideline referee’s, …. awarded the try as the ball was clearly grounded. Despite the protests the try stood and Derby missed the conversion leaving 2 minutes of play with the score at 25-24.

Derby Dev’s managed to hang on for the win, but the better rugby was probably played by Lutterworth, especially in the 2nd half, who went away bitterly disappointed.

Match Report by Tim Hudson

With not having played a match in nearly a month the Derby Under 15’s were back in action at Haslams Lane defending their two year undefeated record against Sandbach who had made the journey down from Cheshire.

Derby were without Tom Summerscales, Sam Tresidder and Max Zammit, who had suffered injuries whilst playing school rugby. Jim Wigglesworth slotted into the flyhalf role allowing Rory Lynn to move out into the centres to partner Louis Jolivet. Max Argyle joined Tom Memmory in the second row with Scott Allkins showing his versatility by playing in the back row along side James Groom and skipper Ed Wesson.

Sandbach started strongly but it wasn’t long before Derby were back in try scoring mood. The Derby forwards winning quick recycled ball and Josh Tizard supplied the backs who spun the ball out through the hands for Callan Watson to finish off in the corner. Rory Lynn judged the strong swirling wind superbly and converted from wide out. Two more tries from Lynn before half time and Derby were beginning to take control. Half Time 19 - 00 The second half started with Ryan Hudson, Tim Marshall, Dan Geer and Tom Cornfield all entering the action and Derby continued to dominate proceedings. The Derby back row applied pressure on the Sandbach no.10, their captain and key playmaker. This nullified any attacks they had and Derby began to run riot. Max Argyle smashed his way through the Sandbach defence and sprinted in under the posts from 30 meters out. The superior fitness levels of the Derby forwards began to show and they supplied Tom Cornfield with quick ball to distribute to the backs and showed just how lucky this squad is to have two fine scrum halves. Jim Wigglesworth ran in 4 tries and demonstrated to the spectators what a fine player he is. Rory Lynn also touched down for his third of the day and finished with a personal tally of 29 points for the day.

view more photos in the match photo gallery

With not having played for a few weeks due to poor weather and NLD training sessions it was very pleasing to see the team had picked up from where they had left off after impressive January performances against Oadby, Kesteven and Towcester.

Next week the A squad make the trip to Yorkshire to take on Rotherham.

Many thanks to Sandbach for making the journey down. They showed plenty of heart and never stopped trying.

Thank you once again to the loyal Derby supporters and to ‘Chief of Police’ McNeilly for his superb refereeing and Jon Tizard for running touch. Surely only a matter of time before these two gentlemen are seen officiating on televised matches.

Match Report by Gareth Cogan

Match Report on the game by Sandbach ..... We knew before the game that this would be a tough one but were not fully aware of the high level that Derby have achieved. They have a squad of circa 50 players from which they can select a strong team of similar ability. Their A team on Sunday was full of big strong lads who were very skillful and knowledgeable - gone now is the myth in our squad that big lads can't be fit or run with the ball! Derby were not short, of skill or size, in any department and were schooled into playing rugby at a level beyond their years - regularly getting into 8, 9 and 10 phases of play. They have achieved a level to which others can only aspire! We found out later that they have not been beaten for 4 years.

On the positive side, our scrummaging went well and was perhaps the only area of the game where we held our own. We did well as a team to be only 2 tries down after 20 minutes and some of our players showed guts and determination from start to finish. We played under constant pressure and unfortunately enhanced their score with some unforced errors however, from our squad of 26 players we managed to get all 21 available players onto the pitch. The game was played in a great spirit by both sides throughout and Derby were magnanimous in victory, well turned out after the game and truly a credit to youth rugby. It was no disgrace to lose to this side, even by such a margin.

Match Report courtesy Sandbach RFC

A delayed K.O. due to the heavy frost meant that the pitch was still a little hard and some early tentative tackles were probably due to that. On one occasion this allowed Ilkeston to break through and score the first try. But this lead was short-lived as Derby started to find form with strong running from Scott Allkins, Ryan Hudson and Louis Jolivet in particular. Tries started to flow fast and furious, certainly too many for me to remember the details and the scorers, but Louis scored at least two, Ryan scored a great try catching the kick-off in his own half, brushing off some would be tacklers and then showing good pace to make it all the way to the line (think he got another too), Tom Cornfield scored two, Andrew Kenyon scored his first try for the club, Max Lakey got one or two, James Barber and Rob Terrett must have got one at least. I would think it was 11 tries and 4 conversions. Apologies if I have missed you off the list of scorers and you feel offended! Please feel free to let me know and I will get the report changed!

Anyway, it is not who scored that is important, it is the fact that we were able to blend 5 or 6 from the usual 'A' squad with the majority of the 'B' squad and play together as a team. Certainly having a few stronger players in the side makes a big difference to the competitiveness of the side and I think it also makes the 'B' team players raise their game, so it works very well. A number of players played at least part of a game in an unusual position and all made a good fist of it. Well done everybody.

Match Report by Colin Cornfield

With half of the Derby Squad on County duty and Burton having the same problem with skiing trips it enabled 2 mixed ability sides to play together and produce an excellent game of rugby on what was almost a summer’s day in the leafy village of Barton-under-Needwood---once the caretaker let us in !!!!

Callan Watson opened the scoring with a try down the left followed by 2 self-converted tries by skipper-for-the-day Louis ‘Muscles’ Jolivet eager to impress against his old team and some of his schoolmates. The introduction of Sam Tresidder at No 8 provided him with the opportunity to add to his season’s tally though the highlight of the half if not the game was Lewis Wright supporting his fellow forwards in a move towards the Burton line with Lewis finally picking up some loose ball and bursting over for a try-his first ever for Derby---congratulations Lewis and well deserved.

Half Time: Burton Cougars 00 - 29 Derby

Credit to the Cougars at the start of the second half—they worked their way down the Derby Right and burst through for a try in the corner which was unsuccessfully converted. This reflected their never-say-die attitude throughout the game and it was only the steely resolve of the Derby lads that prevented them from coming back more into the game with Sam Tresidder scoring again in reply. The try of the game then followed from the Cougars with a crossfield kick from right to left from a free kick which caught our defence on the hop though which was beautifully finished off by the Cougars and was converted. After this the lads seemed to up their game and 2 tries followed down the Derby left with Aaron Finnegan running in both, one from an excellent box kick by JT. The Derby try of the game then followed from Callan Watson who started the move when catching a clearance on the Burton 22 in midfield. He stormed through, laid off the ball to Sam Tresidder who made ground before passing back to the on-coming Callan who burst through the middle of the Burton defence and dived over to place the ball over the line. Fantastic!!.

Final Score: Burton Cougars 12 - 49 Derby

Both teams can be extremely proud of their displays and contributing to such a good match which was extremely well refereed by Dick Titley of Burton and which was played in the best possible spirit. Although if looking at the scorecard one could be forgiven for thinking that the Derby A lads dominated things, I thought that the Devs were fantastic and emphasized how good a squad of players we now have. Whenever I see Andrew Kenyon play or train it is fantastic to see how much he has come on in just over half a season as a new-to-rugby player whilst Lewis Wright crowned a great performance with his try. Nick at scrum-half performed well whilst Max ‘Sandal’ Everton orchestrated much of the game from fly-half. Well done to all.

As usual many thanks to our ‘Legion of Supporters’ and to Mr T for his touchline efforts.

Tries: C Watson 2, L Jolivet 2, S Tresidder 2, L Wright, A Finnegan

Cons: L Jolivet 2

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

Derby made the easy journey to a very welcoming Towcester club for what promised to be an exciting game. Both teams were at almost full strength with Derby missing only Max ZM who was away on County running duty for Derbyshire winning his race and narrowly missing out in the long jump. Conditions were chilly and blusterly with a swirling wind blowing diagonally across the pitch whilst the ground underfoot was ‘sticky‘.

The lads got off to a confident start though the game seemed to played for the first 10 minutes on one touchline with a series of line-outs hampered by the wind. It needed a touch of magic and Rory Lynn duly obliged with a run from just inside the Towcester half throwing sidesteps and more dummies than a riot in a crèche to score in the Left corner from he duly missed the kick. Aaron Finnegan then duly obliged with 2 tries and finally Ben Hitchcock scored an individual try under the posts, injuring himself in the process and having to be replaced. Rory made the conversion and we went into half time leading 22 points to nil.

Max Lakey and James ‘The Chin‘ Groom came on at half time and some rotations continued in the second half. Despite this the lads carried on where theu left off with Louis continuing his scoring theme of late with an early try. Credit to Towcester who battled back and scored a deserved try and for a while it looked like they might come back into the game. However Louis scored again which more or less killed the game off followed by a storming try from Sam Tresidder who burst through tackle after tackle from which Rory converted and then Shane Purcell finished off an outstanding personal performance with a typical ‘ Predator’ try driving over the line.

The lads were generally magnificent today against a side who had recently destroyed Moseley 52 points to nil. It would be unfair to name individuals as this was a real team effort. The game was played in a marvelous hard spirit and both teams were a credit to both clubs.

Many thanks to Towcester for their marvelous hospitality and we look forward to crossing swords again next season. Congratulations to the referee who we all thought had a marvelous game and to Mr Tizard for his line running duties. As ever the final thanks must go to our Legion of Supporters who made the trip and for their vociferous support. Thank you.

Tries: R Lynn, A Finnegan 2, B Hitchcock, L Jolivet 2, S Tresidder, S Purcell

Cons: R Lynn 2

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

Photographs from the game can be viewed here as well as on the Towcester RFC website in the Mini & Junior Photo Library section

On a glorious sunny day this seasons NLD Cup Finalists battled it out in what promised to be a torrid affair but which turned into a one sided game with Derby’s back rampant.

Both teams were missing a couple of players with for us Bigfoot injured the previous day playing for school and Predator Purcell injured in the warm up when his head split open on connecting with Groomy’s chin necessitating a trip to A&E for a spot of glueing !---the loud and clear message is don’t mess with Groomy’s chin !!

The lads got off to a good start with Try Machine Watson scoring early. The Boot missed the conversion and Kesteven stormed back with a try and conversion when the defence parted and amazingly we were behind in a game for the first time this season !.
This only seemed to galvanise the lads and Sam Tresidder stormed over for 2 tries and Ed Wesson another with the Boot landing one conversion to leave the half time score at 22 points to 7 in Derby’s favour.

Changes were made at half time with Max ZM continuing his comeback from injury coming onto one wing with ASBO Hitchcock on the other, MaxLakey at scrum half and Tim Marshall and Ryan Hudson both in the second row. Far from causing any disruption the boys continued to flow with 5 more tries coming in the shape of the ever improving Louis ‘Muscle‘ Jolivet who bagged a couple, Aaron Finnegan and ASBO with one each and The Try Machine with an amazing individual burst through the Kesteven defence surpassing the one we conceded by the Oadby Wiggs centre recently.

Credit to Kesteven who never gave up but the boys won very comfortably in the end.

Many thanks to Colin for his excellent refereeing and our Legion of Supporters who turned out in large numbers to swell a big crowd.

Well done lads. Towcester away next week.

Tries: C Watson 2, S Tresidder 2, E Wesson, L Jolivet 2, A Finnegan, B Hitchcock
Cons: R Lynn 2, B Hitchcock

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

Derby Devs arrived at Matlock to find the pitch in surprisingly good condition given the heavy rain. Matlock were keen to play and, once the game started, it was easy to see why as they have improved since last season and were quicker to the breakdown and running much more dangerously in the backs.

The first period (3 x 20 mins were played) was fairly evenly contested with Matlock just shading it but James Barbour scored a fine individual try for Derby. Matlock continued to be more aggressive at the breakdown, ensuring they won more ball and ran with determination and guile in the backs.

Derby suffered a couple of injuries but were not playing well in any area of the game. Nobody played badly, unfortunately Matlock were just a bit better. They scored four more tries split between backs and forwards and deserved their win.

One consolation – too much food was cooked so everybody got extra sausage and chips!!

Match Report by Colin Cornfield

A real grotty day saw the Dev’s arrive at the Home of Leicester Lions, it had rained all Friday and the pitch had been played on recently creating two very distinct colours, one of which was almost green.

The initial kick off from the Lions trickled over the 10 meter line as the ball died in the mud and didn’t bounce, what followed was 28 minutes of nip and tuck, neither side being able to break down the other.

2 minutes from half time, with the Lions camped in the Derby 22, looking certain to score a well pressurised try, suddenly the ball popped forward, Tom Cornfield seizing the opportunity passed the ball to Sam Tresidder who skipped passed two lions players, Sam was pressed hard by a chasing Lions defender, but Sam held on and ran the full length of the pitch to score a runaway try.

A marvellous effort considering the conditions, Sam converted his own try giving the Dev’s a 0-7 lead at half time.

More of the same in the 2nd half for the first 5 minutes when the Lions broke through the Derby defence with only one player to beat, Derby were lucky when the attacking Lions player somehow managed to pop the very slippery ball forward to the loud shouts from his own side of “Two hands!”.

Derby regained their composure and good communication from all the team early in the 2nd half saw the Dev’s on a penalty well inside the Lions 22, a pass to Ryan Hudson saw him drive over for only his second try in 4 seasons (steady on lad) and emerge covered from head to toe in mud, well done.

The conversion with a very muddy ball and from the touch line was well struck but was never going to make in the conditions. Derby in the lead 0-12

The 2nd try was cancelled out 5 minutes later with a good move from the Lions who were camped in the Derby 22, despite some valiant defending by Derby the Lions drove over for a well deserved try, which was converted leaving the score at 7-12

Some brow beating effort in the middle of the park saw the Lions come away with the ball 7 minutes from time again, looking certain to score an equalising try a crunching tackle by “Psycho” felled the attacking player, both players in a heap as Alex struggled to get his breath due to being caught in the unmentionables.

Derby held onto the game plan and saw another dramatic diving try from Sam Tresidder, again in the bottom left hand corner, no conversion, 7-17 to Derby by this time both teams were beaten by the conditions and the last 3 minutes in very heavy conditions saw “Corney” kick the ball into touch to finish the game.

All in all a great performance considering the conditions, well done to both the Lions & Derby who played with great effort and spirit. In difficult circumstances there were memorable efforts by all the team and Ed Weston coming back from injury really bolstered the team.

Match Report by Tim Hudson

Derby 'A' XV 27 - 07 Oadby Wiggs 'A' XV

A hard overnight frost caused the game to be delayed until the sun’s rays had done their job after which both teams produced an excellent game of rugby. Derby were again missing Ed Wesson due to injury and Sam Tresidder to holiday along with Scott Allkins though Jim ‘Wiggy’ Wigglesworth made his return from injury at full back after Max Lakey  developed a rib injury in the warm up and ASBO Hitchcock forgot and stayed in bed until roused from his pit arriving just in time to warm the bench !. 

Chief of Police McNeilly beautifully summed up the first half when he pointed out that Oadby had most of the game and the chances but that we had taken our few chances as the had arisen and had the points on the board. Rory Lynn opened the scoring and then Louis Jolivet , who was magnificent all game, followed this with 2 storming tries one of which was converted by the Boot to make the score  17 nil to Derby at Half time. 

It looked like the lads had heeded our words after allowing Hereford back into the previous game though it took a ‘ dubious’ try from Reaper from a lineout to extend the score. However, this event galvanized the Oadby Lads and their magnificent Number 13 in particular who showed that some of his earlier runs were a taste of things to come with an amazing try as he weaved his way through the Derby defence leaving about 6 defenders on their backsides to score a try under the posts which he duly converted to make the score 22 to 7 to Derby. The panic button then seemed to ring in the Derby defence for about 5 minutes whenever he picked up the ball and it seemed a second Wiggs try would be only a matter of time. However, Josh T began to work some of his box-kicking magic with the result that one such kink caused mayhem in the Wiggs defence allowing Bigfoot to pick up a loose ball and go over for the deciding, unconverted try. 

Tries: R Lynn, L Jolivet 2, T Memmory, T Summerscales

Cons: R Lynn 

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

Derby Dev XV 05 - 07 Oadby Wiggs Dev XV

The Derby  U15 Devs then played a 30 minute game against the Oadby Wiggs Devs with both teams reinforced to ensure adequate numbers.

Sam Stafford had a storming game along with Sam Thompson whilst Andrew Kenyon made some good runs and excellent tackles on the right wing showing how far he has come in such a short space of time. 

Oadby deservedly however won by a conversion with the final score being: Derby U15 Devs 05 - 07 Oadby Wiggs Devs.

Many thanks to our Legion of Supporters today and to Glynn for reff’ing both games and as ever Mr Tizard for his line running.

Also thanks to Oadby and their coaches and supporters for contributing to such an excellent day’s rugby. 

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

A momentous battle between 2 excellent teams probably best describes this fog shrouded game to kick off the Xmas festivities. Both teams were missing some key players but this didn’t detract from a feast of rugby served up by both teams in front of a large crowd producing a game described as the ‘’ best match on the first team pitch by any team for at least 2 years’’. 

Callan Watson’s try converted by ‘Lynn the Boot’ was the only difference between the 2 sides in the first half with much of the game being played in the middle of the park as the forwards battled it out for supremacy. Aaron Finnegan made some fantastic tackles to keep the their left winger at bay whilst Shane Purcell thrived in a game that was made for him. 

Half Time: Derby  07 - 00 Hereford 

The second half began with Derby stepping up the pressure and it wasn’t long before the hours of practice put in by Josh Tizard paid dividends as a box kick allowed Ben Hitchcock to run onto the ball and burst over for an unconverted try. Soon afterwards Ben was in the thick of the action again as he turned a deaf ear to the ‘advice’ from the touchline and delayed his pass perfectly to the oncoming train aka Shane Purcell who stormed over from 15 yards out into the left corner to make the score 17 nil with the try again unconverted.  At this point it looked all over but credit to Hereford who stormed back into the game almost immediately with a try fantastically converted followed by a second try after a mix up in the Derby defence as the pressure began to mount. The unconverted try left the scores 17 points to 12 in Derby’s favour and the anxiety levels rising. However, credit to our lads who hit back with possibly the try of the season so far with a flowing move in-field from the left touchline which allowed Louis Jolivet  to burst over near the posts to kill off the game though Hereford were still going at it ‘hammer & tong’ right up to the final whistle.  Final Score: Derby 22 - 12 Hereford

Derby v Hereford Photograph Gallery

Congratulations to everyone concerned and many thanks to Colin for his excellent refereeing and John Tizard for his line running. Well done to both teams for the quality of rugby served up in such difficult conditions and a big thankyou to Hereford & their supporters for making such a journey at this time of year; we look forward to returning th compliment next season. Apologies to everyone at Hereford U15’s who made the trip from all of us connected with Derby U15’s for the appalling and embarrassing lack of catering hospitality provided by our club. We hope it didn’t detract from such an enjoyable day. 

Tries: C Watson, B Hitchcock, S Purcell, L Jolivet 

Cons: R Lynn 

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

Sleaford 00 - 45 Derby 'A' XV

The semi final of the NLD Cup had paired us with Sleaford, a much improved side over the last couple of years. The draw had been really kind to us with the 'neutral' venue of Sleaford chosen for both semi finals with a midday kick off. The weather forecast was poor to say the least, but not for the first time, the forecasters got it wrong, and the game was played out in sunshine and a stiff breeze. 

Injuries had again plagued us during the week, depriving us of both Reece Dallimore and Jim Wigglesworth. Max Zammit-Maempel is still out with his broken wrist and with 'Bigfoot' courageously getting off his sick bed to play, the team had to be re-shuffled with 'Mr Utility' Josh Pearson guesting on the wing. 

Derby kicked off and soon were into their stride. Several phases of play with some good rucked ball and quality service to the backs from Josh Tizard, saw Louis Jolivet score after only a couple of minutes. The conversion was missed, but the nerves were settled. Minutes later, with Sleaford close to the Derby 22, pressure defence saw Sam Tresidder intercept a Sleaford back move to sprint away and score under the posts. 'The Boot' added the extras and the score was up to 12-0. 

Sleaford forwards were competitive at the contact area, but Derby scrummaging was outstanding. Shane Purcell took a good number against the head, and it was from one of these 10m from the Sleaford line that the ball was spun wide for Callan Watson to score on the left. Again, 'The Boot' added the extras from wide out on the left.  

'Bigfoot' then had to leave the field, but at 19-0 we were feeling comfortable and were snuffing out any Sleaford threats. Tim Marshall replaced 'Bigfoot' in the boiler room and the scrums remained tight. The final score of the first half came just before half time. Rory Lynn received the ball on halfway. Seeing the full back was not at home, he chipped over the top, gathered his kick and ran in under the posts to score, converting the try to leave the half time score 26-0. 

The start of the second half saw a sickening head on collision and injury to Sleaford player Adi Aguinaldo. He collided with Sam Tresidder in mid field in a freak accident. Sam had to be replaced with a cut to the head by Aaron Finnegan. I'm just relieved that Adi will make a full recovery from his injuries and all at Derby wish him well and hope to see this talented lad back on the field soon. When things like this happen, it puts the result into insignificance.   

The game was moved to another pitch whilst medical attention was being given. The second half proved to be the Callan Watson show, helped by the fact that Sleaford kicked the ball to us allowing the counter attacks to come from deep. This side love nothing more than to run at opponents. Sleaford did get close to the line on a couple of occasions, but when this happens, the defence steps up, lead today by skipper Ed Wesson who made some big hits when it really mattered. 

Callan scored a second half hat-trick with some strong running and excellent support play. The pick of the tries had to be the last. A 22 drop out by Rory Lynn was tapped back by Callan Watson in true Globetrotter style to the ever supporting Shane Purcell. He set off up the left wing to halfway and just before being tackled passed back inside with soft hands to Callan who had made the ground to support and score under the posts to the applause of the watching 'legion' and sportingly the Sleaford supporters too. Final score - Derby 45  Sleaford 0 

Well done to Sleaford for sticking at the task. They never gave in. Well done to the lads in reaching another final. It will take a good side to wrestle the trophy from us. Kesteven will be next to try after their 15-10 win over Melbourne. The date for your diaries - Sunday 27th April 2008.

Match Report by John McNeilly

Nottingham 22 - 05 Derby 'Dev' XV

Derby Development squad played well in patches but were too inconsistent against a much improved Nottingham side who were deserved winners on the day.  Derby started badly with a rash decision to run out of the dead ball area after a missed Nottingham kick at goal resulted in a tackle and turnover (the first of many) 5 metres out. With the Derby players still moving towards the breakdown, Nottingham quickly moved the ball wide for a simple score.

Minutes later the ‘in your face’ defending the coaches had asked for was nowhere to be seen as lacklustre defence let Nottingham in again. 12 – 0 down with a mountain to climb.

Midway through the first half Derby started to play a better game with well supported forward drives and earned a well deserved try through Ryan Hudson. The sides now looked evenly matched but Derby were not looking after the ball, spilling too many passes and losing the ball in contact too often.

Just before the interval Nottingham scored a third try with a series of drives for the line finally yielding a try. Just what Derby did not need having got back into the game.

In the 2nd half neither side was able to impose themselves on the game. Nottingham scored a try by their speedy winger chasing a cross kick and just touching the ball down before it bounced out. For Derby, Tom Cornfield made some nice probing runs and the forwards worked hard with Sam Stafford particularly hungry to run with the ball, but we lacked a ‘cutting edge’, whereas Nottingham had a few players capable of breaking the gain line.

So for the second year running Derby Development side fell at the semi-final stage of the shield competition but, in truth, they do very well to compete with first teams from other NLD clubs. Well done to all 19 players who took part. At least they had some nice grub and then were able to watch the all-conquering A-team show how it should be done! Glad to hear the Sleaford player involved in the horrible collision in that game seems to be OK.

Match Report by Colin Cornfield

The boys produced a tremendous performance to warm up for next week’s NLD  Semi clash with Sleaford inspite of the missing Ed Wesson, Destroyer Dallimore, Wiggy Wigglesworth and the long-term injured Max ZM and Barnstorming Borondy. 

In much better playing conditions to those experienced last week ( not difficult to surpass there ! ) the boys got off to a blistering start with Blackeye( now AKA  ‘ Asbo ‘ Hitchcock) running onto a crossfield kick from the Boot Lynn to burst through the ‘Boro defence within the first 5 minutes to cross the line with JP following on with a try soon after. From then on the lads produced some blistering rugby including a try from the move of the season starting with Bigfoot storming down the left flank before setting up secure ball which sped across the Derby attack line with some amazing handling esp from the Boot Lynn before ending up in the hands of Max Lakey who crossed the line to loud applause from all watching. Sam T stormed over after winning one against the head in the scrum and at half time the boys went in leading by 47 points to nil with the non-try scoring moment of the half being Predator Purcell receiving a boot in the eye from Reaper during an episode of scrappy play. 

Credit to ‘Boro who came out fighting at the start of the second half only for Oggy Argyle to drive through and over for a try. Jake Barker, who was drafted in from the Devs at short notice scored a hugely deserved try to complement his excellent support play after which 3 more tries followed as the game became ever more one sided despite several team switches with even Tizzy Tizard going on at Number 8 to accommodate a pack reshuffle when Reaper had to go off with his flu symptoms and Bigfoot the same with a huge egg-swelling on his forehead. 

All in all this was an excellent team run out and helped the lads bond a little more after a few disjointed weeks. 

Many thanks to Mr Tizard for his running of the line, to our Legion of Supporters as ever, to Loughborough for their hospitality and fighting spirit and to the referee for an excellent performance. Well done everyone. 

Tries: B Hitchcock 2, J Pearson, R Lynn, S Tresidder 3, M Lakey, A Finnegan, M Argyle, J Barker, S Purcell

Cons: R Lynn 8 

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

Global warming is supposed to be with us. Well, it appears to have missed the region around Moseley RFC as evidenced by the freezing wet day we encountered, which was more akin to the Russian Steppes, along with changing conditions which Stalin might have used for his more hardened prisoners in solitary confinement. 

The game finally got underway with a howling gale and driving rain behind the lads and Lakey & Aaron AWOL, lost somewhere in deepest Brum. After some early midfield skirmishes Wiggy Wigglesworth made a dash up the left wing, kicked through and dived on the ball over the line to make the first score with ‘The Boot Lynn’ missing the conversion. Sam T followed by bursting through and then  Predator Purcell came up last from the bottom of a maul having gone over to score. The Boot converted the 3^rd try with one of his right touchline specials and we went into half-time leading 19 nil without Moseley being in our 22 and inspite of blue-handed backs and a whinging ‘’Blackeye’’.

We expected Moseley to come at us and kick deep to use the wind but instead found ourselves controlling the game and played some more controlled rugby forging 2 excellently worked tries for ‘Frenchy’ Jolivet and then Aaron who had appeared along with Lakey just before half-time with both having to endure a touchline strip which would have tested any Brass Monkey. Lakey even managed to stamp his authority on the referee with an amazing piece of rule advice concerning the merits of a 22 metre drop as opposed to a 5 metre scrum---Milligan would have been very proud ! The Boot missed the 2 kicks and the game finished with a 29 to nil victory to Derby. 

Moseley found the conditions tough going but all credit to their number 7 who looked a quality player. 

Many thanks to Moseley for the game and we look forward to hosting them in Derby in more clement conditions. Multiple praises to our Legion of Supporters for enduring the trip and conditions and as always for their support. I managed to finally thaw out at about 8pm; the memory will linger long ! 

Tries: J Wigglesworth, S Tresidder, S Purcell, L Jolivet, A Finnegan

Cons: R Lynn 2 

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

The last of our pool games in the NLD cup saw an all Derbyshire affair as Chesterfield rolled into town. Already pretty much assured of our progress through to the semi finals, a much changed Derby side took to the field with only 5 first choice players playing in position. Scott Allkins moved from prop to play at scrum half due to injury and the resting of players and many of the 'Dev' squad had the opportunity to impress. 

It didn't take long for the scoreboard to start ticking. Aaron Finnegan went over in the right corner after only a minute. Max Lakey, impressive recently at full back for both club and county, together with Sam Tresidder also crossed in the first six minutes and it looked like the floodgates were going to open. Sam also converted his try for a 17-0 scoreline.  

Chesterfield never gave in and battled well up front, causing a few concerns in the scrum. A period of patchy play followed until Aaron went over again in the right corner to make the half time score 22-0. 

A few changes at half time saw Scotty back in the front row with Max Lakey going to 9. The half time team talk revolved around hitting gaps and keeping the ball alive to try and tire the much larger Chesterfield side. For the first 15 minutes of the second half we simply didn't click. Knock on's and unforced errors littered the game from both sides. Then a flourish of scores in the last quarter of the game saw tries for centre Louis Jolivet (2), another for Aaron Finnegan and Max Lakey and a well deserved try for the tireless Josh Pearson after a good break from Tom Marshall and good support play, rounded off the game. Louis converted a couple and the last act was for Scott to kick a conversion - just to show he can do it all !!! Final score 53-0.

Well done to Chesterfield for never giving up. From our point of view it gave some of the squad a run in this competition and we still didn't concede a point which was very pleasing.  

Many thanks to our referee from USA, Alex Rocca. I thought he had an excellent game with clear directions and consistency. Hope you enjoyed the game too. 

A much tougher prospect in store next week as we travel to Moseley for the first fixture between the two sides. Hopefully all the rested players will be back, chomping at the bit, for what promises to be our first real test of the season after Lexus.

Match Report by John McNeilly

Autumn finally arrived with the clocks going back and the resulting gale and downpour. Despite the conditions, however,  a mixed U15’s put a game Mansfield side to the sword with a fine running game particularly in the first half with the wind and rain to their backs going ahead after only 30 seconds when Sam Tresidder went over for the first try. Tries rapidly followed with the pick probably being the sixth scored by Blackeye Hitchcock following a great run by Try Machine Watson, playing at full-back, who ran onto a kick into the Derby half before bursting through and laying off a perfect pass for Ben to finish. Rory Lynn collected 5 conversions and the lads went in 50 nil up at half-time. 

Mansfield gamely wished to play on and to their credit had a much better second half despite Wiggy scoring just after the break when he followed a ball into the Mansfield try-zone and put it down just before the dead-ball line. Sam scored the only other try of the half though Mansfield went close only to be held up on the line before the referee blew early to end the game. 

The lads did well in trying conditions with the boys moving up from the Dev squad not looking out of place with Sam Stafford, Jake Farquaharson & Tim Marshall being excellent. Kyle from the U14’s stepped up at the last minute and also had a storming game in the back row. 

Many thanks to Glynn for his excellent refereeing and our Legion of Supporters for their turnout in such foul weather. 

Well done lads. 

Tries: S Tresidder 2, B Hitchcock 2, C Watson, E Wesson, S Purcell, R Lynn, J Wigglesworth 2

Cons: R Lynn 5 

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

West Bridgford 00 - 56 Derby 'A' XV

Due to injuries and holiday commitments the U15’s  turned up with a new centre pairing of Louis & Ed Wesson, Dan from the Devs making his ‘A’ Team debut on the wing and two under 14’s in the shapes of Harry Rudkin and Luke Frixou drafted in to give us a compliment of 16. 

On a beautiful English Sunday morning the game kicked off in perfect conditions. Bigfoot lost the toss but West Bridgford (WB) elected to kick so straight away we were up and at ‘em ! The game took a little while to settle but soon Derby won the first scrum against the head with a big drive setting the tempo for the rest of the game. From the scrum Blackeye Ben Hitchcock sprinted over the try line in the right corner and Rory Lynn began his morning of superb goal kicking with a conversion from the touchline. A second from Blackeye soon followed and then Louis Jolivet stormed after we won the ball from WB’s line out. The Predator, Shane Purcell, then bashed his way over the line and Rory again converted from the touchline. All this occurred in the first two-thirds of the half after which the game died a bit and WB came back into things often aided by some sloppiness and inaccuracies in the Derby midfield. 

Half-time: Derby 28 - 00 West Bridgford 

The lads were soon back into their stride at the start of the second half with Max ‘ Oggie’ Argylle, the Predator and Blackeye all helping themselves to tries which Rory duly converted. A much deserved try from Harry Rudkin at number 8 capped a superb display for him and he can only have benefited from playing with our lads today. The pressure was on Rory to make it 8 out of 8 which he duly did with a bit of a ‘flapper’ which seemed to swerve over the crossbar at the last second to round off a truly remarkable display of kicking from off the ground at all angles and out of hand. 

Full-time: Derby 56 - 00 West Bridgford 

Overall it was a very satisfactory display considering the quality of absentees due to holidays and injuries though is testimony to the lads who stood in that in the end they weren’t really missed. The forwards were imperious in the scrums driving WB off their own put ins at will. However, we need to work on driving off the opposition in the rucks & mauls as this was a bit scrappy. The backs were a bit disjointed but that was to be expected in light of the debutants and neither Dan nor Luke put a foot wrong all game. 

Well done to WB for their efforts and for never giving up and in particular to their skull-capped second rower/ number 8 who chased and dived into tackles to the end. Many thanks also for your hospitality and excellent bacon butties. 

Also well done to the match referee for his excellent control of the game and general display of refereeing. 

Well done lads. 

Tries: B Hitchcock 3, L Jolivet, S Purcell 2, M Argylle, H Rudkin

Cons: R Lynn 8 

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

Buxton 10 - 57 Derby Dev XV

After a beautiful drive through the crisp autumnal scenery to Buxton the U15s Development side played a great game of rugby to eventually run out convincing winners, although the contest was closer than the score would suggest until the final quarter. Playing down a slight slope Derby started strongly and camped in the Buxton 22 but squandered an early 2 man overlap. Moments later Max Lakey produced a strong run to score in the corner. Derby continued the pressure and a good drive from Tim Marshall made great ground but Buxton defended well. Buxton’s bigger forwards were picking and driving to good effect and pushed upfield. They scored a deserved try through Kyle Mellor and Derby knew they were in a game at 5 -5. 

Derby went on the attack again and won a scrum near the Buxton line. Captain Tom Cornfield dummied and spun over the line for a try which Jim Wigglesworth followed with a fine conversion, 12 -5. Derby now realised they needed to play the game wider and the ball spun to the right for Alex Faulkner to outpace his opposite man and score out wide, another fine Wigglesworth conversion making the score 19 – 5, which turned out to be the half time score. 

After being reminded that it was important not to concede an early try, Derby responded in the bets possible way with a score a couple of minutes into the 2^nd half. The first of many mazy trademark runs by Jim Wigglesworth, resulted in his beating 3 defenders before passing to Jake Barker to score, another conversion making the score 26 – 5. However, Buxton were not finished and more close driving by their forwards resulted in a try to Simmion Meek, 26 - 10.  This turned out to be Buxton’s last serious threat of the game as Derby took over for the final 20 minutes, with Jim Wigglesworth at the centre of many of the plays and seeming to have a magnetic attraction to each Buxton kick off. First he intercepted a loose pass made good ground before feeding James Barbour to score, 31- 10. More simple handling got the ball wide on the left wing for another James Barbour try, this one converted, 38 – 10. Overlaps were coming fast and furious as Buxton tired and debutant U14 Tom Hicks benefited this time taking a pass on the 22 and sprinting in, converted by Wigglesworth, 45 – 10. 

Not to be outdone the Derby forwards were now dominating the Buxton pack and drove a maul 12 metres over the line only to have the ball ‘held up’ by brave defence. No matter, the next attack went wide again, this time the ‘huffing and puffing’ Josh Harries-Wood taking the final pass to score, 50 - 10. Fittingly the last try was scored by Jim Wigglesworth, jinking and stepping past a number of players before sprinting away from the half way line to score under the posts and convert to make the score 57 – 10. 

So for the 2^nd year running the development team make the semi-finals of the plate competition. An excellent all round performance and by far the best goal kicking display of the season with Jim Wigglesworth kicking 6 from 9. The tries were all scored by backs, but it was the hard work of the forwards in winning all the possession that made it easy for them. Sam Stafford and James Groom were particularly noticeable, but all forwards played their part in this match.

Match Report by Colin Cornfield

The Devs produced a sterling performance against a much bigger side to record a comfortable win. The 2 sides had played towards the end of last season in  a Plate game and despite winning then there was a massive improvement in our Devs performance this time. 

Psycho Faulkner with a barnstorming wing run and Mophead finishing off a move by coming up into the line both helped themselves to tries to make the half-time score  10 nil to Derby. 

The expected second half comeback from Deepings never materialized and the boys continued as per the first half by running in 3 tries with one from a fantastic run by James Barber cutting in from the wing, a second from a cheeky piece of opportunism by Scott ‘ Kaja-go-goo ‘ Allkins at scrum half ( watch out Tizzy ! ) and a well deserved try from Sam Thompson who  retaliated to the punch he received in the first half in the most perfect way by storming through from the back of a scrum. Mophead converted two to leave a final score of 29 points to 5 to Derby with Deepings having managed one try towards the end. 

Credit must be given to the boys for a tremendous display and for not retaliating against punches; I think the final score says enough though a look of disdain and a rude ! comment from Lewis towards his assailant having had his head pushed into the soil perhaps might sum things up better ?!. 

Scott Allkins produced a tremendous display at stand-in-scrum half showing how to pass of either hand and making some telling runs. The forwards as a group held their own in the scrums though could have done with a few more inches in the line-out. I also thought our newcomer to rugby, Andrew Kenyon ,was also outstanding with some fearless tackles and a couple of mazy runs and bodes well for the future. 

Well done lads, a tremendous win !

Tries: A Faulkner, Tom Marshall, J Barber, S Allkins, S Thompson 

Cons: Tom Mashall 2 

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

Derby U15s began their defence of the NLD  Cup with a resounding win at Matlock despite missing Predator Purcell, Max –ZM AND Barnstorming Borondy through injury and having a half-fit Bigfoot. 

However, it was Matlock who made all the early moves and would have been ahead but for a missed penalty which rebounded off the posts and into safe hands to be cleared. This seemed to fire up Sam Tackle Machine Tresidder who then proceeded to storm through for a try which was quickly followed by 5 more before half-time, the pick of these being Tom Mophead Marshall’s effort in the left corner to finish off an excellent move, Tom’s support play being a main feature of this game. 

Half-time---36    Nil 

The second half was played out a bit more sedately with the game suffering from several stoppages due to injury. Sam ran in 2 more tries with Scott Allkins finishing off a fantastic flowing run of passes which he had had a big hand in half-way through the move emphasizing some of the ball and running skills that our forwards possess. 

Full-time--- 55   Nil 

Despite the scoreline Matlock played a massive part in this game particularly their forwards who were more dominant and powerful in the scrum overall. For us Louis Jolivet had a massive first half with some dynamic running whilst Sam lead from the front with a dominating display 

Many thanks to our Legion of Supporters for making the trip, to John Tizard for his line running and to Matlock for their hospitality, particularly the ladies for their fine bacon sarnies and fodder ! 

Tries: S Tresidder 3, L Jolivet, C Watson, Tom Marshall, R Lynn, S Allkins 

Cons: R Lynn 5

Match Report by Adrian Summerscales

Group Matches: 

1.  Derby 36 - 00 Nottingham

Tries: B Hitchcock 3, S Purcell, C Watson,

Cons: R Lynn 3 

After a bright start Nottingham soon wilted against the pace and power of Derby for whom ‘Black-eye’ Ben Hitchcock made an impressive debut with 3 tries. 

2.  Derby 12 - 00 Hinckley

Tries: R Lynn, S Purcell

Cons: R Lynn 

The lads quickly established a  12 nil lead but then suffered the loss of Try Machine Watson to a nasty neck injury resulting in the game being held up whilst the ‘ necessary ‘ medical attention took place and off to A&E he went. After this the lads’ zip had gone out of the game and it fizzled out into a 12 nil finish. 

3.  Derby 05 - 00 Norwich

Try: B Hitchcock 

The big one and sweet revenge for defeat in last season’s final at Old Albanians.

Again it was a close encounter with Black-eye’s try being the difference though overall I thought we shaded things in the end and kept Norwich at bay. The only downside was a dislocated kneecap for Barnstorming Borondy who will now be out for a month or so. 

Semi-Final 

Derby 34 - 00 Stourbridge

Tries: B Hitchcock , M Zammit-Maempel 3, T Memmory, S Purcell

Cons: R Lynn    2

Stourbridge were swamped by the lads with Max ZM helping himself to 3 tries capping a tremendous day playing at centre with Predator Purcell now in his new hooking role. The boys were in irresistible form with even the second row of Bigfoot and Reaper fashioning their own try with Bigfoot making a 20 yard break before slipping a pass to the supporting Reaper who stormed over from 30 yards out –2 proud dads ! and the biggest smile on Gareth’s face  yet seen ! 

……and so the final   Norwich again ! 

Lexus U15 Final 

Derby 10 - 07 Norwich

Tries: R Lynn, S Tresidder 

As per usual this was a tremendous tussle between these so-evenly matched sides but there was no-way the boys were going to let Norwich win even when Norwich staged a fightback towards the end of the second half. Rory Lynn scored an amazing double-dummy try running in from just inside the Norwich half to make it 5 nil at half time. Sam Tresidder then stormed over early in the second half which only seemed to stir up the Norwich boys even more so that theycame flying back at us and managed a converted try in the left corner. Nails were down to the quick on both touchlines but the lads held firm to record a deserved victory. Both teams were a credit to their clubs and the mutual respect is fantastic to see---long may it continue.  Reece Dallimore stepped up to collect the trophy to round off a fantastic day.  Thanks to everyone for their help and support on the day especially the Legion of Supporters and the Cake ladies who helped to raise a not-inconsiderable sum for the Mini & Junior coffers. Also well done to those boys who stepped in to help out Walsall U15’s and played their hearts out for the shirt.

Lexus U15s Photograph Gallery

A fantastic day. 

Lexus Rugby Festival Report by Adrian Summerscales

View the Lexus 2007 U15s Photograph Gallery for photos of the U15s in action.