The Stafford Mixed Ability Rugby team, the Marvels joined forces with the Shropshire Stags to take on a travelling Worcester MAR side at Blackberry Lane. The Marvels & Stags were bolstered by a number of players from their respective clubs who had turned out to lend a hand. Thanks must go to all players who made this game possible.

Worcester started the game the strongest and the home side had to contend with a lively start to the game. Despite some excellent defensive work, it wasn’t long before the visitors took their first try of the afternoon. A second try soon followed and it looked like being a long afternoon for the Blackberry Lane side. However, the Marvels & Stags dug deep and showed their heart, starting to secure some good possession. The game became a stalemate around the halfway line as the teams fought to find an advantage. It took an experienced boot to break the deadlock. Spotting the opportunity, Brad Clements hacked the ball through and chased up catching Worcester by surprise. A supporting Colton McLaughlin picked up to cross for the try, converted by Zak Pressland. Feeding off the momentum the home side were throwing the ball around all over the pitch and it was the visitors pressed into defence. Some fine handling stretched the opposition and a flying Simon MacDonald was a blur down the wing to tie the scores. With no respite in the play, Worcester started to look dangerous again but some dogged defending eventually turned the ball over. With possession secured, Gaz Phillips burst through dragging several defenders along with him to give the Marvels & Stags the lead. The visitors were relentless and superb rugby broke down the defence to produce two more tries for Worcester creating a narrow lead. With the clock ticking down it all appeared to be over for the afternoon. But some hard work from Stags Dan & Zak prised opened the smallest of opportunities. Brad Clements was on hand to stretch his legs and make some hard yards. It was left to captain Simon Lewis to sprint away for a try and then spiral the conversion to tie an enjoyable game.

Both teams are always looking for new players to strengthen their squads especially need experienced players of any age who can pass on their knowledge. The game facilitates anybody of any level and can be contact or none contact dependant on the individual. So, if you fancy a run out then contact Stafford Rugby club and they will point you in the right direction.