The Marvels (Stafford MAR) together with the Shropshire Stags (Telford MAR) visited the Halifax Magpies for a friendly fixture this weekend. The Marvels & Stags travelled with just nine players. So, in the spirit of the game, Halifax lent some players and the game was played as thirteen a side with rolling subs.

The game started with a tremendous attack from a hard-working Halifax. The hosts soon got their reward through a try. The Marvels & Stags continued to defend valiantly with some crunching tackles. Halifax eventually managed to find a gap in the defence and flying down the wing took a second try. The early impact of the game took its toll and the match was temporarily halted for an injury to a Marvels & Stags player. When the game resumed a forward pass gave the visitors some respite. A subsequent scrum allowed the Marvels & Stags to show off their passing prowess and Reuben Sutton put on the after burners for an unstoppable try. The game continued to be very competitive with the Magpies having to respond to some good attacks. Halifax took all of their opportunities to run in another couple of tries before the referee’s whistle signalled half time.

The Marvels & Stags came roaring into the second half with the first try of the period. The passing from the visitors was causing havoc in the opposition and a flowing phase of play saw Reuben Sutton crossing for his second try of the afternoon. The Marvels & Stags had their tails up and Halifax were pushed into a rolling defence. A strong drive by Jack West prised open a gap and the ball flew out for Matt Powell to power across for a try. From the restart, Reuben Sutton came close to getting his hattrick but was bought down just short. Keeping possession, the Marvels & Stags came swarming through and James Hughes took the final pass for a try. Simon Lewis was the next to come close, but the Halifax defence were alert to ever marauding presence and just got him into touch. The hosts retook the momentum and three more tries added to the home side tally.

There was extra time added to the encounter and James Hughes took full advantage to grab another try for the mighty Marvels & Stags. Halifax struck back with their final try of the afternoon. But it was left to the beating heart of the Marvels, Simon Lewis, to power over for the final try in an exhausting match.

This game was everything mixed ability stands for no emphasis on the win but little wins for every player on the pitch. It was lovely to see an inclusive match with people coming together to enable players to play a game of rugby and safely do so. The player of the match nominated by Halifax was Simon Lewis, the player of the match nominated by the Marvels & Stags was James Hughes.

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.