Tadley 0 v Maidenhead 3rds 17
Saturday 19th April 2008

Maidenhead third XV finished the season joint top of the Berks, Bucks and Oxon South 1 table after seeing off a determined Tadley side, 17-0, in a scrappy and sometimes frantic game on Saturday.

Despite dominating for long periods in the first half, Maidenhead only found themselves 7-0 up at the break after a strong run from Lester 'the Man' Martin produced a try which was converted by Rob Wilkins. The forwards took a while to get into the game and all too often the ball was recycled without any direction, thought or pattern to the play. Maids were not helped by the fact that Tadley were doing their best to slow the ball down at every contact, often illegally. Maids were also unlucky to have two tries disallowed; one after a clever kick ahead and chase by Tim 'Van Diesel' Robinson, who fell on the ball in goal, but was deemed to have his feet out of the back of the in-goal area, and Lester 'the Man' Martin ran a long way only to be deemed to have trodden in touch just before the goal line.

After the half time break Maids continued their dominance, but it was not until the last twenty minutes of the game that any pattern was introduced into their play, as the Maids forwards began to control their tiring counterparts. Steve 'perm a tan' Bourne was rewarded with a forwards try as the pack rumbled over the line following a line out. Once again Rob Wilkins converted to give Maids a 14-0 lead. Wilkins continued his good form, slotting a penalty late in the game, to allow Maids to finish the league at the top.

Special mention to Johnny Wanklyn and Dan Robinson for great line out work!

The defence, which has been excellent all season, produced another shut out and never really looked to be threatened.

Congratulations go also to Wallingford who have had a good season. However, the biggest 'Well done!' must go to all the Maidenhead Thirds team, their supporters, and all who have made this a memorable and successful season. In the words of our skipper, 'Hands up the winners!'

Penn Motor Company Man of the Match: Tim 'Van Diesel' Robinson

The Thirds and Fourths will be training (playing touch and other fun activities) through out the summer at the club, all are welcome to come and join in!

Written by Dave 'Teach' Williams