The Marvels (Stafford MAR) together with the Shropshire Stags (Telford MAR) visited Worcester Mixed Ability for a friendly fixture this weekend. The teams played three twenty minutes periods with Worcester building a sizeable lead to win the fixture. So, in the spirit of MAR the teams swapped players around for the final twenty minutes session which was played purely for fun.

From the very start Worcester played a strong attacking game forcing Stafford to defend heavily and having to put in some strong tackles. The Marvels & Stags battled hard defending solidly but Worcester eventually managed to break through for a try. The first twenty minute session saw the hosts scoring a few more tries but having to work hard to get through some strong visiting defence.

The Marvels & Stags did not lose their commitment in the second and third sessions. Worcester adapted the pace of the game, slowing their attack down enough to make the game more competitive. Although Worcester found their way across the try line on a number of occasions, the visiting XV didn’t let them have it all their own way. The Marvels and Stags regrouped, delivering crunching tackles and some excellent running rugby which brought them closer to the opposition line and an eventual try.

The teams then swapped players around for the final session of the afternoon. Team mate faced off against team mate and smiling faces filled the field. In a twenty-minute period both sides crossed the line numerous times as a fitting end to an afternoon of rugby. Worcester played with great sportsmanship and respect, it was a pleasure to watch the game.

Tries for the Marvels & Stags came from Zac Pressland, Rueben Sutton, Brad Clements and James Hughes. Special mentions go to Simon Lewis for nearly scoring three tries which took heavy Worcester defending to stop and Dan Parton who didn’t stop playing all afternoon.

Worcester chose the Marvels, Rueben Sutton for ‘Player of the match’ and the Marvels chose Zac Pressland for their ‘Player of the match’ both put in a great shift and played well all of the 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.