Spartans put on quite a show in their friendly against, League above, Hampstead 2s in lieu of their league game against West London 2s being cancelled by the opposition. Narrowly missing out on a win, 27-31 to Hampstead.
The match started off strong and sticking with the game plan and putting some great periods of play together we saw Ivo and Stefan both going over putting the 2s 12-5 up at half time, the start of the second half saw much of the same with both teams really going at it and some big carries and tackles from either side.
A great offload from Ian ended in, Physio, Chris (Tex) going over to put us 17-5 up, with 30mins still to play it felt like the win was definitely attainable. But, after a few small mistakes leading to length of the pitch runs from Hampstead the game was now tied 17-17. Thankfully a penalty in front of post allowed Will to put the 2s back on top 20-17. now into the final 20mins we really needed to stick to the game plan and see the game out. Unfortunately, fullback, Conor gets a try line clearance charged down and Hampstead go 20-24 up. After a quick regroup the team was ready to empty the tank and leave it all out there. After another great passage of play Stefan went over for his 2nd of the day. 27-24 Ts
Final 10 minutes and it was very much looking on, but as is the way one more mistake let them through and we were unable to chase him down. 27-31. Closing out the game the Spartans gave it everything they had put some great passages of play together but were unfortunately unable to capitalise and FT 27-31 Hampstead.
A really great team performance despite the result, with a lot of positives to take away. as was echoed through the team Hampstead’s tries only came from mistakes, and ours came from playing good rugby. We look forward to seeing them in their league next season. Special mentions to Dan and Chris for there 80mins of pure grit and carries in the front row, Tom for his first game for the club and crashing it up more times than I could count, really made an impact on their defence. Lastly to Nubby who travelled all the way up from Poole just to come and represent with an outstanding performance out of position. And thanks to the ref Sibby without who none of us would have been able to get a run out
MOTM: Stefan Petrovic
DOTD: Conor Gissane
Tries: Stefan (2), Ivo, Chris (Tex)
Conversions: Will (2)
Penaties: Will
