Rhubarb Issue 2

r h u b a r b

St Edward’s Martyrs

m ar t y r s

St Edward’s Martyrs at the Emirates Dubai 7s International Open Tournament Following their victory at the Abingdon 7s, the next leg of the Martyrs Crusade was the annual Dubai 7s Tournament in the International Open Competition held from 1–3 December 2011. They were drawn in a group with Aqua Marine Services and ‘The Black Stallions’, a touring Nigerian team. Losing their first game 12-35, they regrouped and tamed the Stallions by 22-14, qualifying for the cup competition knockouts. In the Quarter Final their next opponents were Pyrenees 7, a formidable French outfit (and champions in 2010) who ended their journey with a resounding 0-33 demolition. Special mention goes to the versatile Harry Sutton (C, 2000–2005) and the indomitable Martyrs: Alex Robinson, Ali Fry, Alicia Berkin, Andrew Baggs, Ben Abdoo, Charlie Blanchard, Charlie Jolly, David Leadbitter, George Creed, Jasper Joyce, Jonny Tetsell, Nick Arkell, Peter Pitt-Brown, Peter Swainson, Richard Green, Richard Moffat, Sarah Baggs, Simon Pearson- Burton. Unfortunately the Radley Galleons, our traditional opponents on Martyrs Day, were unable to raise a side this year. However, with the promise of a hearty curry lunch and a few cold beers, we managed to convince a few members of the ‘Old Dragons’ Hockey Club to turn up and therefore, rather than retire to the new ‘Martyrs Pavilion’ to join the St. Vincent’s Society for the afternoon (!), we proceeded to have a very enjoyable 60 minute 10-a-side game between a quasi ‘OD’ team and a Martyrs team. The sides were remarkably well matched during the first half, but the ‘OD’ team took the few chances that fell their way and reached half-time with a deserved 2-0 lead. It was hoped that the arrival of Peter Swainson, who’s desperate attempts to make the game on time were scuppered by engineering works on the Southampton–Oxford line, at half-time would herald a change in the Martyrs’ fortunes. However, this faith was rather misplaced, as he proceeded to send his first pass straight Martyrs Day September 2011

MINT ®

D Martyrs Team at the Dubai Rugby 7's International Tournament

The Hollywood 7s Won the Men’s International Social Event Day One; Hollywood 7s vs Expat Old Boys 47–0 and vs British Airways Pilots 47–0. On Day Two; Hollywood 7s vs HLG Larrikins 12–14, PwC vs Hollywood Sevens 5–26. Day three; Pontacq Seven vs Hollywood Sevens 0–19 and HLG Larrikins vs Hollywood Sevens 17–21.

Grant Robertson (H, 1996-2001) for their peerless performances in every game, and a huge thanks to sponsors MINT Partners for their generosity and support. Watch all the games and join them as they enter more tournaments in 2012. Their crusade continues... http://www. facebook.com/photo.php?v=2545193022503 &set=vb.1034082625&type=2&theater

to an OD forward! The second half followed much the same pattern as the first, with plenty of endeavour from both sides, but few really memorable passing moves. Ultimately, it was the ‘OD’ forwards of Charlie Blanchard and Jonny Tetsell, ably supported by George Creed from midfield, who made the difference. Attacking the Martyrs’ defence with great skill and at real pace, they showed far more composure in front of goal and proceeded to score a further four unanswered goals. The Martyrs valiantly plugged away all game, but were far less clinical in front of the ‘OD’ goal. The final score was a somewhat flattering 6-0 to the OD’s. My thanks for everyone who played,

especially Alicia Berkin and Sarah Baggs–hopefully paving the way for more female OSE to play Martyrs Hockey in the future… –the OD’s who ensured we were able to play a really decent game of hockey, the umpires and, as always, the School for being so welcoming to us all. Peter Swainson (F, 1995–2000) F Peter Swainson attempts to come to the rescue of the Martyrs…! C (L to R): Al Fry, Charlie Jolly, Jonny Tetsell, Jasper Joyce and David Wald (an OD, not an OSE).

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