Old Yardleians - Latest News

Dave Dixon - Official Funeral Arrangements

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Dave Dixon's funeral arrangements have now been confirmed.

The service will take place at the Robin Hood Crematorium chapel on Friday 17th October 2025 at 11:30am.

For those that can't get there, the event will be live-streamed, so you should be able to follow along using a computer, tablet or phone, the access details are as follows;

Website: https://watch.orbitus.com

Username: yibe6271

Password: 677030

The wake after will be at the Old Yardleians club house from about 1pm onwards.

Donations in memory of Dave can be left at the chapel and will be gifted to Ward A, Critical Care Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Selly Oak.

Here is another 1st XV photo featuring Dave, this time from 1968 where he could only have been about 25 years old. He's on the back row, third from left, a very handsome chap without the beard :o)

Dave Dixon - Rest In Peace

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

It is with great sadness that we have to inform you of the sudden passing of Dave Dixon, a longstanding, loyal and proud member of Old Yardleians RFC.

Dave passed away at around 1:30pm on Monday 29th September at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Edgbaston. He was admitted only two days earlier after fainting at home. He was 82 years old.

Dave's playing career at Old Y's started in 1966 and finished in 1994, representing the club for 28 years at all levels from 1st XV through 4ths.

He was a larger than life character, mainly known for his no-nonsense, highly committed, second row play, but he was versatile enough to play extremely well at tight-head prop or in the back row when required.

Dave was a member of the infamous 'Woolies Club' during the 80's, his fellow founding members being former Chairman Tony Meades, former Treasurer Dick Parkin and former Secretary Enoch Wallace.

To join The Woolies you had to have only three qualifications;

1) to be able to grow the 'full set' (bushy beard and moustache)

2) to drink Brew XI until it ran out

3) to take the pee out of the namby-pamby backs every time they knocked it on!

When his playing days had finished Dave spent many, many hours at the club performing essential maintenance tasks. He was a self-employed builder and plumber by trade.

Dave is survived by his beautiful wife Chris, his son (and drinking partner) Robbie and his daughter Gill.

Our thoughts are with all his friends and family at this sad time.

We'll publish the details of Dave's funeral arrangements as soon as they are known.

God bless you mate, thanks for the memories and Rest in Peace.

Here is a 1st XV photo from 1974 featuring Dave Dixon (back row, 7th from the left)

Dave Adams - Rest In Peace

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMT

To All Old Yards VP's:

It is with deepest regret and sadness we have to inform you of the sudden passing of Dave Adams, a loyal and proud member of Old Yardleians RFC.

Dave had played for most teams in the club, usually at fly half or full back.

Many of you will have played with Dave through the years, and would know his commitment to the game on the pitch, and enjoyed his company in the bar following the game, especially when his purse came out to buy the round!

He was ever present in a Fourth team, that went unbeaten for a whole season.

When Dave finished playing he took a keen interest in the junior section, attending numerous Sunday's to support and offer guidance. From his former profession as a PE Teacher he introduced many a new player both junior and senior.

Even though in recent times Dave's health deteriorated, along with the help of his family, and friends he continued to organise a number of quizzes at the club in support of both Parkinson's Society, and indeed the club itself.

Even through his battle with Parkinson's he still found the strength and desire to attend our last home match against Woodrush RFC, 28th September 2024.

Dave Adams - A true club great, Rest in Peace:

FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS:

WEDNESDAY 30TH OCTOBER 2024

ROBIN HOOD CREMATORIUM

11.30AM

RECEPTION AFTERWARDS AT

WEST WARWICKS SPORTS CLUB

78 GRANGE ROAD, SOLIHULL, B91 1DA

DONATIONS IN LIEU OF FLOWERS ARE FOR PARKINSON SOCIETY

COLLECTION ON FUNERAL OR VIA

Stephen and Philip Painter Independent Family Funeral Directors Ltd

213 Yardley Road, Acocks Green, B27 6LZ

(0121) 707-1172

Date of AGM changed to Friday 5th May 2023 at 7:00 pm.

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 00:00:00 GMT

URGENT: The date of the Annual General Meeting which was recently moved forward from the 5th May 2023 to the 14th April 2023 has now been reverted back to the original date as per the fixture card.

TO CONFIRM: The Annual General Meeting will be held on Friday the 5th May 2023 @ 7pm at the clubhouse.

If any club member wants to discuss the circumstances which led to the AGM meeting being moved forward and then moved back to its original date then they can call the Hon. Chairman Martin Cullen on 01886 880241.

This updated calling notice will be posted to the main Old Yardleians Facebook forum as well as on the official club web-site (www.oldyardsrugby.co.uk). A paper copy will be posted on the club noticeboard this week.

Any proposals for amendments to the club's constitution, which may be considered by the new committee, should be sent via email to the current secretary – Luke Harris at least a week before the meeting.

Agenda for the AGM on Friday 5th May 2023 at 7pm.

1. Agree the minutes of the previous AGM

2. Chairman’s Report

3. Treasurer’s Report

4. Playing report

5. Election/Re-election of honorary officers: President, Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer

6. Election of further general committee members

7. Consideration of candidates for other roles deemed relevant by the new committee

8. Discussions on any proposals for amendments to the club constitution to be considered by the new committee.

9. Any other business.

Luke Harris – Hon. Secretary

email: leharris58@gmail.com

Date of AGM changed to Friday 20th May 2022 at 7:00 pm.

Wed, 04 May 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Old Yardleians Rugby Football Club Limited

Calling Notice for an Annual General Meeting on 20th May 2022

It was agreed at the last committee meeting that we should hold an Annual General Meeting on Friday the 6th May 2022 @ 7pm. Unfortunately, this meeting will have to be postponed by two weeks until Friday 20th May 2022 @7pm.

The main purpose will be to elect/re-elect committee members for the 2022-2023 season.

This calling notice will be posted to the main Old Yardleians Facebook forum as well as on the official club web-site (www.oldyardsrugby.co.uk). A paper copy will be posted on the club noticeboard this week.

Any proposals for amendments to the club's constitution, which may be considered by the new committee, should be sent via email to the secretary – Luke Harris at least a week before the meeting, his email address is: leharris58@gmail.com

Agenda for the AGM on Friday 20th May 2022 at 7pm.

1. Agree minutes of the previous AGM

2. Chairman’s Report

3. Treasurer’s Report

4. Director of Rugby/Playing report

5. Election/Re-election of honorary officers: President, Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer

6. Election of further general committee members

7. Consideration of candidates for other roles deemed relevant by the new committee

8. Discussions on any proposals for amendments to the club constitution to be considered by the new committee.

9. Any other business.

Luke Harris – Hon. Secretary

email: leharris58@gmail.com

Denziel Watts - Funeral Arrangements

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Please see the funeral notice below for the details

Note that the link to the JustGiving page for Diabetes UK is as follows:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/dorothy-marlow

A tribute to Denziel Watts by his friend Dave Broadfield

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Denziel Watts

It was Andy Dunn who introduced Denziel to the club in the early 70’s. Denziel recruited John Littleford who in turn brought me and that was the start of a 48 year friendship.

Denziel had a long playing career as a tight head. He was a good scrummager but also felt he was blessed with a good pair of hands. He wasn’t averse to throwing the odd dummy and thought he possessed the pass of a welsh scrum half. He actually represented the club at scrum half on more than one occasion.

Denziel was always a straight talker and said it as he saw it. If you’d had a good game he told you so and if you’d played badly he also let you know! Towards the end of his playing career he captained a very successful 3rd/4th team. He ran it as if it was a professional team and he gave little quarter to any player who might not be blessed with his skill. I remember one particular game where our winger had a particularly poor first half. In his half time team talk Denziel told him he’d had a poor game and was being subbed off ( I’ve modified his language somewhat here!). On being reminded that we had no subs Denziel said we would play with 14 and the poor winger could watch the second half and learn. After the match Denziel bought him beer put his arm round him and said it was all part of his development.

In addition to being a long standing player Denziel had a spell as club coach. He also had a significant role in the development of the new changing rooms, resourcing materials and overseeing much of the building work.
He loved the social aspect of the game and was never happier than when sinking pints after the game. He loved the club and it was a great sadness to him that ill health stopped him visiting the club during the last decade.

Diabetes robbed him of his mobility and sadly during the Covid lockdowns Denziel had both legs amputated. He was just adjusting to life in a wheelchair when a diabetes related illness meant another spell in hospital, where he was finally taken by pneumonia.
Whether propping up the scrum, propping up the bar or listening to his rendition of “cock Robin” you will all have your memories of Denziel!

May he live long in our memory.

Rest in Peace my friend.

Dave Broadfield. 25th February 2022.

Denziel Watts - Rest in Peace

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Some club members may already have heard but Tom Power has asked me to formally relay some very sad news.

It is with great regret that we have to announce the passing of former player and club coach Denziel Watts, a much-loved member and supporter of Old Yardleians, particularly during the 1970's, 80's and 90's.

We don't have many details as yet but believe that Denziel passed away on Tuesday 22nd February after fighting a long illness.

Further details about funeral arrangements will be posted here as soon as they are available.

Calling Notice for the first post-Covid Annual General Meeting

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Old Yardleians Rugby Football Club Limited

Calling Notice for the first post-Covid Annual General Meeting

It was agreed at the last committee meeting that we should hold an Annual General Meeting on Friday the 1st October 2021 @ 7pm.

The main purpose will be to elect/re-elect committee members for the 2021-2022 season with a view to getting back to the normal schedule of end-of-season AGMs in May 2022 (Covid allowing).

Any proposals for amendments to the club's constitution, which may be considered by the new committee, should be sent via email to the acting secretary - Shannon Killarney, using the club's treasurer email address which is: treasurer@oldyardsrugby.co.uk

Agenda for the AGM on Friday 1st October 2021 at 7pm.

1. Agree minutes of the previous AGM

2. Chairman's Report

3. Treasurer's Report

4. Director of Rugby/Playing report

5. Election/Re-election of honorary officers: President, Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer

6. Election of further main committee members - be prepared to participate in the opening-up/locking-up rotas :o)

7. Consideration of candidates for other roles deemed relevant by the new committee

8. Discussions on any proposals for amendments to the club constitution to be considered by the new committee.

9. Any other business.

Shannon Killarney - Acting Secretary and Treasurer

email: treasurer@oldyardsrugby.co.uk

Farewell Tony Fagan

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 00:00:00 GMT

On a very cold January day with Covid still hitting the records, we did not expect a carnival occasion but a dignified farewell to a great friend.

The Morning began with a cortège from the Old Yards followed by the service at Holy Souls in Acocks Green. It was a shame that so many regulations had to be followed, but I guess that was the better option available. A short drive to Yardley Crematorium for the concluding part of the service followed.

There were a number of people who I felt deserved mention. These included the priest, Father Jonathan, Rick Thorn who read a Family Tribute, the soloist, Fiona with her incredible voice and the Funeral Directors, Stephen and Philip Painter who are so professional in their work.

Loreta will need support in the not too distant future and would be most welcome to pop into our Rugby Club for a drink on a Saturday afternoon. In fact, I think that I know a few ladies who would be happy to accompany you.

Dave Adams

Tony Fagan - funeral details Tuesday 19th January

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 00:00:00 GMT

As many of you already know Tony Fagan, a long standing member of Old Yardleians Rugby Club, sadly passed away on New Years Eve.

Many of you will have played rugby with Tony, who was a fine prop and one of the good guys on and off the pitch. When Tony was around the club's Guinness profits were never so high.

Tony's funeral will take place at Holy Souls Church, Acocks Green on Tuesday the 19th January at 11.30am. Due to Covid restrictions the service is restricted numbers. However a last request of Tony's was to go past Old Yardleians before the Church.

If any member or former players would like to pay their respects could they wait for the funeral cortege in the club car park at 10.45 am and form a guard of honour.

A floral tribute will be sent by the club but anyone wishing to send a donation in memory of Tony for Diabetes UK can send them c/o Stephen and Philip Painter Family Funeral Directors, 213 Yardley Road, Acocks Green, B27 6LT.

Regards

Steve Painter

Cedric Farrell - funeral details 25th January

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Cedric’s funeral will take place on Monday 25th January 2021

11.30am at Sacred Heart and Holy Souls, Acocks Green followed by

Woodlands Crematorium at 1.00pm

Due to Covid restrictions the service is restricted numbers however we would recommend anyone wishing to pay their respects do so outside church or outside the crematorium following social distancing guidelines

Phil Painter will arrange some flowers from the club

Rest in Peace Cedric

Tony Fagan - a brilliant friend, a great teammate and a true gentleman

Sat, 02 Jan 2021 00:00:00 GMT

It does seem a long time ago now but I was responsible for Tony joining the Old Yards, in order to move his game forward.

Let me explain. Many years ago I arrived in Birmingham to teach at a secondary School named Archbishop Grimshaw. It was a place that was in it’s infancy, with a young teaching staff which was very friendly and enjoyed a drink on a Friday after school. On one of these days I was introduced to a teacher of religion by the name of Carol who told me that her brother, Tony, enjoyed the game but was not happy with his current club.
You can work out the next bit for yourselves.

When you look at Tony in action he doesn’t really seem to give the impression of a prop. He looks like a prop but plays like a back, demonstrating full control when provoked and plenty of strength. You always wanted him in your team

What should you want to do on your honeymoon? It’s quite obvious really. You drink heavily and then try to sober up on the following morning. So far so good. With my beloved, a stroll through Galway and along the front ended abruptly as sitting on the wall was Tony, Loretta and Martin. Anne informed me that I was still under the influence but as we got closer it was nice to be correct.

Back to the Old Yards, a wonderful club with brilliant players and Tony fits both categories. Be patient as I have almost finished. One Saturday, I found myself in the same team as Tony and by half time he had scored two tries. Before we went out to complete the task Tony came over to me with a worried look on his face and asked me if the tradition of buying a jug of beer to celebrate a hat-trick still existed. My reply was on the vague side. Amazingly he did not trouble the scorers in the second half but made up for it for many seasons.

I hope that my description of him is accurate - but just in case - we have lost a brilliant friend and teammate, a gentleman on the pitch and in the bar. Our prayers and thoughts are on their way to Loretta, and to all of his friends and family.

Rest in Peace my friend.

By Dave Adams

Cedric Farrell - Rest in Peace

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Many of you will already know via Facebook that Cedric Farrell, one of the club's more remarkable characters, passed away three days ago. He was only in his early fifties and so we are all stunned by this bad news which is yet another blow delivered by 2020.

Cedric was never predictable, but he always had a mischievous smile on his face and he will be missed by many in the club, who have very fond memories of time spent with 'Cedders', drinking, laughing and telling comical tales of rugby exploits. He featured in the first XVs of the early 2000's and was a better player than many realised.

In an era when many club characters have been lost from the touch line and the bar, Cedric will be sorely missed.

Rest in Peace mate.

We will publish more details regarding funeral arrangements as they become known.

Pictures of Cedric

Gwen Parkins - Rest in Peace

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Some club members may already have heard but Dick Parkins has asked me to formally relay this bad news.

It is with great sorrow that we have to announce the passing of Gwen Parkins, a much-loved member and supporter of Old Yardleians, particularly during the 1970's and 80's.

Gwen was married to Dick Parkins who was the club's treasurer for five years from 1980 through 1985.

'Dick and Gwen' used to live in Balsall Common but decided to retire to a rural home in the beautiful Derbyshire countryside near Buxton - where they could properly indulge their love of animals.

Due to the distance involved they didn't travel to the club as often as they would have liked, but it was great to see them both at the club's 90th anniversary party at the Village Hotel in 2017.

In the same year they attended the 1st XV's away league game at Leek Rugby club.

Gwen had a fall back in January and suffered a broken leg. It was during her stay in hospital that she was diagnosed with a fast-acting cancer to which she finally succumbed on the 9th of June, aged just 69.

Due to the restrictions of the times, Gwen was cremated on Wednesday 24th June at a ceremony with a limited number of family and friends.

Gwen was one of the loveliest people you could hope to meet, a kind and gentle lady who loved people and had a huge devotion to her menagerie of pets.

She will be missed by all who knew her, but especially those club members who had the privilege of her company during the annual Xmas/New Year’s Eve walking holidays in Wales and Derbyshire.

Rest in Peace 'Auntie Gwen' xx

An update from the Committee

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Hoping you are all keeping safe and well. At least the weather has been kind to us whilst in lock-down.

We wanted to provide you all with an update on where we are as a club.

No one knows at the moment when rugby in the community will get back to normal.

There are some rumblings of what may happen but things continue to remain vague at this stage.

It seems that some of the restrictions regarding individual training are being lifted, but we at Old Yardleians Rugby Club have no plans to open the club house for training at the present time. This situation might change quite rapidly though.

Regardless of when we return, we do need to start thinking about the future of the club from different perspectives.

1. What do we need to do for a “normal restart” of playing in September or later?

2. What do we need to do to plan for a different type of rugby season?

3. How to we carefully manage our finances following reduced and unpredictable future income?

With these issues in mind we have secured a £10,000 grant from local government to bolster club funds during the period of lock-down. This funding has primarily safeguarded the financial position of the club, having lost significant revenue streams over the spring and summer with continuing standing costs still needing to be paid. The club has also had a partial clean-up during lock-down, undertaken by a few individual members, following distancing guidelines.

Do remember it is imperative that anyone with keys does not enter the club at present, without first contacting Bill Collins.

A few club updates for the time being:

• The Mini/Junior section have held excellent video award ceremonies for the various age categories. Well done to all those involved.

• Kevin Grant is standing down as Director of Rugby but Adam Madeley has agreed to take on the role next season.

• Mick Brennan has agreed to become club captain.

• We plan to hold the AGM as soon as social distancing rules have been relaxed sufficiently.

• The current committee will continue in their roles until we manage to hold the AGM.

When we know more about a return to rugby the committee will issue a further statement.

In the meantime we welcome any suggestions and more importantly any offers for help regarding club maintenance.

Norman Goody on behalf of the Committee - 1st June 2020

Very sad news - Kieran Thorn ( May he rest in peace )

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Over the last two to three years the club has lost a considerable number of our members as a result of poor health or sickness of various sorts which do cause sadness. However, it does not compare with the loss of a young man with a bright future ahead of him.

Kieran, son of Sue and Rick and brother of Phoebe, was a student at Leeds University and it will not be easy for his family and friends to mourn their loss. They will need time and space to grieve and we must all respect their privacy.

It would be most helpful if you could direct funeral questions via the Funeral Directors Stephen and Philip Painter on 0121 7071172.

Thank You

Dave Adams

Financial General Meeting on Tuesday 10th December 2019

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

A notice for all rugby club members:

We are going to hold a Financial General Meeting (FGM) - to present the financial report for the 2018-19 season - at 7pm on Tuesday 10th December at the clubhouse. We will be holding December's committee meeting straight afterwards, from 8pm onwards hopefully.

A tribute to Bert Black from our man overseas

Sun, 20 Oct 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Further to Mick Ison’s excellent tribute, I would like to add a few thoughts of my own.

I was club captain when Hadyn Samuel introduced the Sheldon Heath cohort to the club. They quickly established themselves and raised both the quantity, and the quality, of our playing resources.

In our 1st XV preparations for the 1968/69 season we had arranged a warm up match against Camp Hill OE. One week before the fixture we discovered that our regular props, Ivor Enoch and Mick Friend were not available so, reluctantly, we asked Bert and Jim Wattison (also a Sheldon Heath recruit), callow youths both, to play in the front row. I feared the worst but need not have worried. Bert and Jim destroyed the Camp Hill scrum, with their strength and technique.

Despite the temptation to play them in the 1st XV on the back of that display, we decided to bring them on slowly, in the newly formed Colts XV, for the remainder of that season.

Bert became a regular 1st XV player in the season 1969/70. He put in 29 appearances, out of 36 matches played, scoring 3 tries.

His first try was scored on Saturday 4th October 1969, against Erdington RFC, exactly 50 years (to the day) before his untimely death.

That season was my last as Club Captain, but I watched with interest how Bert developed into the player and Clubman, that he became.

In later years Bert was a regular at OY’s VP lunches, with his good friend Mick Bloxham, where his pride in the Club was evident.

I last met Bert at the OY’s 90th anniversary celebration last year. We met, by chance, after breakfast, and together with Mick Bloxham, Martin Cullen, and Mick Berry, enjoyed a happy hour or so, reminiscing over times past. I cherish the memory of that meeting.

I cannot make it over for the funeral, but will raise a glass to his memory, on the day.

My thoughts are with his family at this sad time.

Dave Collen

The world of rugby will never be the same.

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 00:00:00 GMT

We sadly have to bring you the news of the passing away of Bert (Keith) Black.

He has been suffering for a considerable time and even though his death was not unexpected the grief and suffering will be felt by his family and friends.

The funeral will be held at Redditch Crematorium and that will be followed by the wake which will be held at The Old Yardleians club. As more information arrives I will pass it on to you.

Our sympathy goes out to Joy and the family and I am sure that there will be many messages in the near future describing his character both on and off the rugby pitch.

Bert Black, a wonderful man,

May he rest in peace.

Updated News

The funeral service is scheduled for Redditch Crematorium on Tuesday 22nd October at 12.30 followed by a gathering at Old Yards Rugby Club which we estimate should be from about 2.30.

A little touch of anti climax

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Saturday arrived, so having weighed up the options it was a case of a short journey down to the Tilehouse Arena to watch, I had hoped, would be two early season games.

Well the First team were scheduled to play Coventry team Dunlop but they conceeded the5 points, which we have done ourselves in recent seasons, so we cannot really grumble too much. In fairness they sent over enough players and borrowed some of our Squad players to enable a game to take place. Refereed by the sprightly Dave Hanson, who kept up with play and explained his decisions. One thing he needs to consider is where to position himself when potential try scoring plays are likely to occur.

On the Hanson Family front, Callum showed his pace to run unopposed for a try but most important was Chas who does an excellent job behind the bar.

Our Development squad were expecting a visit from Wednesbury,but the Saturday morning phone call put paid to that.

If you are looking for a competitive event then you need to look no further than Old Yards Quiz Evenings. Friday evening saw a variety of teams, ten altogether, hoping to get hold of the Star of the week badges, much coveted by many but only worn by a few.

In the individual section a large tin of Cadbury Roses was won by Nigel Hough who was assisted in the consumption process by Pembo. I must thank those generous raffle sponsors, Mr D. Jenkins (Olton Building services) and Mr Colin Bosworth (Father of Daniel).

The result of the Quiz was fairly conclusive with victory going to teachers led by Mary Rochford and Alan Burgess. In second place came the team consisting of Steve and Lynda Painter, Judith and Tom Bridge and the highly knowledgable Mrs Anne Adams.

A special mention goes to newcomers on the quiz scene, Leanne and Phil, Ruth and Dave Rimmer who experienced the heights of tenth place.

Thanks to all who took part and helped raise almost two hundred and fifty pounds which will be sent to Parkinsons U.K. and the Cancer Unit at Solihull Hospital.

I think they call it cautious optimism rather than excitement.

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 00:00:00 GMT

A much better start to the season

Having tried all the wrong things, we are hopefully going to revert back to basic fundamentals. On the pitch that means win possession, attack with pace and support and keep the passing simple rather than panic

After many years of teasing our front row stars, I was very impressed to see the effort that these guys put into the pre-season fitness sessions and to be honest it has made a big difference as their mobility around the park has been good to see.

Pre season matches

Trips to Willenhall and Handsworth, for friendly or trial games were worthwhile and although both opponents were in a league, a level above us, we managed to beat them both.

Next up was a cup or vase or shield or some other kitchen item. A lovely summer afternoon at the end of the airport runway brought a good number of spectators to watch the Yards take on the Exiles, recently promoted and keen to impress. The early exchanges were more or less equal with Yards messing up 3 or 4 straightforward try opportunities. As the game progressed, the Yards gradually took control in all phases and a final result of 10 - 29 in favour of the visitors was probably a true reflection of the game. Credit must be given to the Exiles who battled to the very end. The Yards, seen by many as promotion candidates must learn to be clinical in taking scoring opportunities

First league game of the season.

The rumour is that some of our supporters are still driving around Coventry looking for the home of Coventrians, but for those who made it, a good battle was produced by both teams. The Yards took an early lead and there were many good aspects of our performance to build on. The home side had a heavy pack of forwards but their fitness was not as good as that of the Ys. The return of our line out specialist meant that we won all of our ball and most of theirs. The scrums saw the Yards on top, our backs tackled well and the final score of 13-21 against useful opponents should be the start of the season that we needed,

Do you remember some of these from days long gone. Bill Tucker, Will Hart, Robin Sadler to name just a few. We hope you enjoyed yourselves and now you know where we are, get your hairy arses to the club more often.

For the clever people out there, you are invited to a Quiz Evening on Friday 27 th September at the club. Doors open at 7.00 for a 7.30 start. The bar will be open throughout and a fish and chip supper will be provided. Your team should consist of between 2 and 6 players but if you need to then just turn up and we will find you a team to join. For more information contact me, Dave Adams.

A NEW SEASON COMING SHORTLY

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Having suffered two dreadful seasons when our only achievement was relegation, it is now time to put things right. Whatever the social popularity of the club and the income generated, the focus for this coming season must be success on the pitch.

Training

Tristram has led a series of excellent sessions featuring stamina and strength work and we are now approaching the important sessions when we have to ensure that skill and tactical elements are applied. This can not be effective unless the whole squad are involved. I am sure that this needs no explanation.

Who will we be playing against

The powers that be have sent us details of who we will meet in our league programme. I believe that we may have met some of the teams in years gone by but that none of them have been in a higher league than us at the same time. My thinking is that this will make us a target by which these teams will want to monitor their progress and take a valuable scalp. In other words they will try particularly hard when we meet them.

League Opposition

Birmingham Civil Service

Bromyard

Claverdon

Coventrians

Dunlop

Harbury

Kings Norton

Old Wheats

Pershore

Tenbury

Upton on Severn

What should we do

Along with the other old blokes on the touchline we think that Commitment, reliability and working as a team would be very useful. What do you think

Sean Kenwrick - funeral arrangements and coach transport

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The following information was received from Sean's family over the weekend;

"We will be saying goodbye to our beautiful man Sean Kenwrick on the 13th May at 2:15 pm at the Bretby Crematorium: Bretby, Burton upon Trent DE15 0QE.

All are welcome to attend and there will be a send off at The White Hart in Ashby de la Zouch afterwards.

As it's Sean, we feel that the occasion should be a colourful affair. The girls and I will be in Sean's festival shirts and Doc Martens and please feel free to come in a similar comfortable fashion.

And finally, because of Sean's love of nature we would love for there to a sea of flowers upon his arrival.

Many thanks and much love, Kim, Ella, Scarlet and Saffron."

Provided there is sufficient demand, the club committee has decided to subsidise the cost of a coach trip over to Burton, then to Ashby and back to Brum, so that Old Yardleians can attend Sean's funeral and have a drink after.

The current thinking is that we will hire a coach to leave Old Y's clubhouse at around 11:30, then go to a further two pick-up points, say Acocks Green and the Coventry Road, before proceeding on to the Bretby Crematorium to arrive at or before 13:45.

After the service, the coach will go to The White Hart in Ashby, arriving at around 16:00.

The coach could leave The White Hart somewhere between 7pm and 8pm to arrive back in Birmingham by around 9pm according to the consensus of the people on board.

Please give us some feedback, tell us if you would want to make use of the coach, and if so how many of you, where would be the best pick-up points for the majority of people (it is impractical to drive past everyone's house). Please send a text to 07866 260262 or use Facebook messenger to send a message (PM or otherwise) to the Old Yardleians Group on Facebook.

Please do it soon as we need to book the coach early.

Please note the families preference for lots of flowers, so bring your flowers on the coach and we will get there early enough to place them suitably. If you bring flowers and wear a bright shirt there will be no charge for the coach :)

Sean Kenwrick - Oct 1965 to April 2019

Sat, 20 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT

It is with immense sadness that we have to announce the passing of one of the club’s greatest players, and characters, Sean Kenwrick.

Sean died suddenly yesterday while out jogging with his daughter, he was only 53.

The club’s heartfelt condolences go out to his wife Kim, his daughters, Ella, Scarlet and Saffron, his parents, Roy and Audrey and his sister Laura.

Sean attended Yardley Grammar School and started playing for Old Yardleians when he was just 16. He played in the centre and featured in the club’s championship winning side in 1988 as well as in the North Midlands Final game against Hereford in 1990. Sean also represented us for Greater Birmingham in the Six Counties championship days. He always played with great flair and determination and was known for his outrageous side-stepping, wicked dummy passes and outstanding open field tackling.

If the term ‘free spirit’ could be applied to just one person, it would have to be to Sean.

He studied Computer Science at university and worked for several years writing telecommunications software in Hong Kong. He returned to the UK and formed his own software company. He moved to Ashby-de-la-Zouch and became an influential member of Ashby Rugby Club. While in his forties, he developed a yearning to understand more about quantum physics, electromagnetism and general relativity and gained an OU BSc Degree in Physics and Maths while in his fifties.

He would dominate the card schools at the back of the bus on any rugby tour, relieving many a tour virgin of his spending money before we even got to the destination.

Describing himself as a lapsed Pagan, he then grew an enormous grey beard. Among his many other interests, he loved hanging out at music festivals and winding people up on April Fool's Day.

One of life’s larger than life characters is gone.

RIP Sean.

NOT A LOT GOING ON AT THE MOMENT

Sat, 16 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

On the playing front there is not a lot to report but the six nations title race has been fascinating and as I write on this final weekend of the competition Italy are giving France a lot to worry about.

QUIZ TIME

This coming Friday 22nd March there will be a quiz at the club from 7.00 (bar opens) 7.30 (quiz starts).

Teams of up to 6 players or just turn up and latch on to another team.

Proceeds to our usual charities

Entry costs Eight Quid which includes a quality quiz and a very tasty Fish and Chip supper.

If you are the competitive type of person you could be up against a number of Academics such as Pembo, Martin Cullen, Jim Samuels, Pat McDaid, Steve Painter, Mary Rochford etc.

Give it a Go.

The ability is clear to see but the application is not so obvious

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

STUCK IN STUDLEY

Just in case you ever feel the urge to go down the A435 to watch a game at Alcester, give yourself about a week to get through the roadworks in dreary Studley.

Well, I got there eventually to watch our First team play Alcester in a game which we had targeted as a potential points earner.

Well, I was disappointed. In my dubious opinion we were at least equal to our hosts on a man to man basis but tactically we were at times naive and it does not really help if we use our energy vocally rather than where it should be applied. We are better than out performance suggested so lets get out there and do it.

On the home front, our Development squad, elderly chaps and young tearaways claimed another win against our visitors from Alcester.

Friday, 22nd March is the date of our next Charity Quiz. It is held at the club with doors open at 7.00 and the quiz starting at 7.30 Teams can be up to six in number and do not have to be entirely club members. The cost is eight quid which includes a very nice Fish and Chip supper.

Have you got the knowledge to beat the likes of Steve Painter, Tom Power or Pembo is the question.

Congratulations to Bryn and Helen on the birth of Ronan on 24th March. I guess that being a Grandparent only adds a few years to our ages.

THE MOMENTUM SEEMS TO BE WITH US

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT

For reasons that I will think up later, I did not make the journey south into rural Worcestershire but kept in touch with our man on the scene, Shannon. It appears that the Yards were two points down as we entered stoppage time, but a happy ending saw a penalty go our way and the resulting three points were cruel from an Upton On Severn viewpoint but gave us a win by 16-15

The next task for me was to get to the club to watch a fascinating third team battle against a similar club to ourselves, Sutton based Veseyans. With Peter anchoring the scrum and Marcus supreme in the line out a win looked likely and a 26-12 scoreline looked about right.

It was good to see Landscape Gardener and one time pupil of Yardley School , Toff, returning to the fold. I do not believe the story that the only reason he came along was because his caravan was half way across the Bristol Channel. Toff, ignore the rumours and enjoy your rugby.

With the six nations getting forever closer it would be easy to go with the flow and back Ireland. However, deep down I think most of us know that Wales will finish the season at the top.

Have we turned the corner

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT

People from all corners of the Rugby world are asking,this very question and as I see things we are not there yet but we are heading in the right direction.

I realise that you cannot be in two places at once and my long time gang of friends, which came together through our game and club had a celebration to make. Lord Brown(Simon) who was a straight running centre, winger or even flanker ( I think that is how you spell it) hit the Sixty mark and another member of our group, (Loreta Fagan) wife of the highly rate Prop, Tony,famous for his two tries in one game at the Eds was also at that stage in life. The semi retired sausage maker and world famous Funeral Director and one time President of the Old Yardleians, took control of the cooking. Probably the best hooker in the entire Sharmans Cross, Dave Jenkins joined us and the news about his status or nationality is that he now qualifies for Irish Citizenship on the basis of his contribution to the Irish economy as a result of his Guiness consumption. I was also there along with She who has always loved the sport

What a place Shrewsbury is. While the men discussed a range of current affairs, political, sporting etc the Ladies were let loose in the shopping centres. An error of judgement on our behalves. Although television has not reached many parts of Shropshire, I was still able to follow the London Derby match and I do believe Arsenal thrashed Chelsea, as you would expect.

On returning home I had to contact he Top Man himself to check the authenticity of our victory. Stoke Old Boys are never easy to overcome, so to beat them 33-8 was aa very good performance for our boys.A slow start to the game was followed by a much improved second half. There is a saying that there is no substitute for speed and it was speed of body and also speed of thought that made the difference. There will be another chance to judge our improvement this Saturday when we visit Upton On Severn for a league game. Your support would be appreciated.

A tribute to Reg Singer by Dave Collen

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

REG SINGER - OYRFC

1928 – 2018

Reg Singer - Club Captain 1956 through 1958

It was with great sadness, that I learned of the death of Reg Singer, a man as old as the Club itself.

Reg’s timeline with the Club makes impressive reading:

1947 – joined from school

1952 – 1954 - 2nd XV Captain

1956 – 1958 - Club Captain

1959 – Awarded the Hartley Cup, for meritorious service

1959 – 1969 – Treasurer

1969 – Founded the 100 Club, a fund raising project, which is still going.

1972 – 1974 – Chairman

1975 – Elected Honorary Life Member

But, behind the bare bones of those dates, lies a history of service and dedication to the Club.

Reg joined the OYRFC straight from school, and remained a member throughout his life. Despite his illness Reg was able, with the support of his family, to attend the OY’s 90th anniversary celebrations.

Reg’s name first appears in OYRFC records when he captained the 2nd XV in 1952. In those days, the Club was struggling, and Reg’s main activity was to try and get 15 players on the field each Saturday.

He was obviously successful, as in 1956, he was elected Club Captain, a post he held for two seasons. I have no personal memories of Reg, as a player or captain, he had retired with injury before I joined. However, I have spoken to players of that time, and they all noted, that Reg was a hard, but clean, player, and his captaincy was founded on fair play, and respect for the opposition.

In 1959 Reg commenced a 10 year spell as Treasurer. Those 10 years spanned a seismic change in the Club, and its fortunes.

In 1959 the Club’s assets were valued at £53.00, and its liabilities were valued at £103.00, in other words the Club was bankrupt.

By dint of interest free loans from members, and a sympathetic bank manager (thank you Nat West, Digbeth Branch), the Club limped on.

By comparison, in 1969, when Reg stepped down as Treasurer, the Club’s bar takings alone, exceeded £6,000.00 a year.

Reg was awarded the Hartley Cup, for meritorious service in 1959, almost certainly for his fund raising, and sweet talking the Club’s many creditors.

Reg’s commitment to the Club, was exemplified in 1964, when, together with other committee members, he took out a personal guarantee, on an RFU debenture, to fund the building of the new Clubhouse, at Whitlocks End.

The financial risk doesn’t bear thinking about - imagine telling your wife that the Club have defaulted on the loan, and you’re going to have to sell, or remortgage the house!

It’s no exaggeration to say, that without that commitment, the Club would not be here today.

And it was a close run thing, when I took over as team leader on the build, after Colin Cresswell’s job took him to Amptill, Reg and I met weekly.

It was always the same agenda – who can we pay, and who can we delay?

Reg was one of the few remaining OYs who went to Yardley Grammar School, and spent their entire playing careers at Windermere Road.

At school, Reg met Pat, whom he married in 1953, and they raised three children, who we saw much of, during the Clubhouse build. At weekends, Reg would be working on the build, with the kids playing on the building site, and generally getting in everyone’s way!

Our thoughts are with Pat, and the family, at this sad time.

I hope there will be a good turn out for Reg’s funeral, to pay appropriate tribute, to an exceptional Clubman.

Dave Collen

08.12.2018

Reg Singer's funeral

Sat, 08 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Mick Ison has passed on the following information;

Reg Singer's funeral will take place at Robin Hood Crematorium on Monday 17th December at 1.30pm.

Everyone is welcome afterwards back at Old Yardleians clubhouse.

The family's request is for no flowers, but donations in memory of Reg are welcome and will go towards the Dementia UK charity.

Donations can either be made on the day of the funeral or sent to Stephen & Philip Painter, 192 Robin Hood Lane, Hall Green, B28 0LG .

Gina's funeral arrangements

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Tom Collins has notified us that Gina's funeral service will take place at Robin Hood Crematorium on Thursday 13th December at 13:30 followed by a farewell drink after at Old Yardleians' clubhouse.

Gina Myners

Sat, 01 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

It is with great sorrow that we have to announce the passing of Gina Myners who is probably better known to you all as the better half of “Bill’n’Gina”, being the partner of club stalwart Bill Collins.

Gina hasn’t been around recently because she went back to her home in Wales two months ago to get treatment for severe back pain which then turned out to be a very aggressive form of cancer to which she finally succumbed on Wednesday morning.

Gina has been a fantastic servant to the club over the last few years; serving behind and organising the bar, helping Bill with his groundsman’s duties – she was a dab hand with the sit-on mower - and cultivating the beautiful flower beds around the patio area.

On behalf of all at Old Yardleians - God bless you Gina, thank-you for all your hard work and may you rest in peace.

The funeral arrangements will be published here as soon as they are finalised

Reg Singer

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

..just received from Mick Ison..

"It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that Reg Singer died in hospital this afternoon, surrounded by his family. Reg has been suffering with dementia for the last couple of years but was well enough to attend the clubs 90th dinner. However shortly after he had to be admitted to a special care home as his health deteriorated. Reg held a number a roles at the club including that of treasurer.
Once I have more details I will send out a general email for publication on the club website

Regards

Mick"

Coventry was cold and miserable but a win was needed and we deserved it.

Tue, 27 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

It is never easy to win in Coventry.

Having spent two seasons at one of the stylish clubs in the city, I remember the special welcome that was saved for teams making the journey from Birmingham or Solihull. I thought that over the years things might have changed but it did not feel that way to me.

A good pitch was very much to our liking but the Dunlop side looked as if they worked on their limited crash ball game but if you get the chance to look at Adam,s match report you will get a clearer picture of how we were faster and fitter than the hosts, in fact, our scrum half had the vision and speed to leave the opposition standing. The win by 36 - 14 was crucial in both league points and team spirit. I must mention our supporters, single figures in number, who made the journey. Well done fellas.

Knowledge, a good memory and a slice of luck.

This Friday offers you forwards the chance to shatter the myth that you are academically slightly behind the handsome chaps in the backs.

Yes, Friday is quiz night at the club. Doors open at 7.00 and the contest begins at 7.30.

Teams must contain a maximum of six players and the entry fee of Eight pounds includes a Fish and chip supper. The bar will be open throughout for the purchase of alcoholic or soft drinks at very reasonable prices

The quiz is open to non members and proceeds go to two charities, Cancer research and Parkinsons UK.

Give it a go. For further details contact Dave Adams.

Another Good Man and Friend Leaves us

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

BO CAMPBELL

This Friday, 16th November,is the day on which we bid farewell to another good friend and team mate.

His funeral will take place from 10.30 at Shirley Baptist Church, followed at Robin Hood Crematorium at approx 2.00. The Wake will then follow at the Edwardian Sports Club.

A smashing bloke, we now have only his memory but I feel certain that he will be remembered for a long time to come.

May he rest in peace.

A DEFINITE IMPROVEMENT

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

YARDS V EDS

With local bragging rights at stake, games against our neighbours are never easy and this most recent one fits that pattern. The alternative to sitting in front of a T.V. screen watching England throw away a lead against the All Blacks was to stand on a touchline getting cold and wet but supporting your team.

As a North Mids Cup or Vase, or Jug or bucket game the Eds were drawn at home but pitch conditions resulted in a reversal with a change in venue to the Tilehouse Arena.

Life was not easy for our young lady referee but with experience I feel that she should climb the ladder in the refereeing world.

Spectators from both clubs were disappointed by the numerous handbagging incidents which mostly took place off the ball.

The game itself was mainly dominated by the powerful yards pack with the Yards scrum winning set piece ball with ease and with the return of our Hurling GAA man, the line outs were equally comfortable.With Fitz the younger looking dangerous with his sniping runs a comfortable victory looked likely but as I suggested earlier, the Eds do not give up easilly and they began to look dangerous in attack and with their defence becoming tighter, a difficult final 15 minutes caused plenty of anxiety for the home supporters,

A final score of 14 points to 8 in favour of the yards was probably about right, but credit to the Eds for not caving in and also to our referee, ( no sexist remarks) who showed considerable fitness in terms of the amount of pitch coverage.

DIFFICULT TIMES

Sun, 21 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

On the Playing Front

Times are not easy and many clubs across the country are struggling to field as many regular sides as they were a couple of years ago. Yesterday we put out two senior sides which is not particularly wonderful but many other clubs would be very pleased with that situation.

It seems to me that Rugby is becoming a spectator sport rather than a participation one. Televised matches are a source of income at the top end while those clubs lower down the spectrum struggle to get by.

Off the Pitch

Much more important in my view is the health and welfare of our club members. Only a week or so ago we heard about the loss of Beau (Ernol) Campbell. A smashing bloke and a very good prop forward, he died while still a relatively young man.

I will put out details of his funeral by the end of the day.

Bert (Keith) Black a big man, a great club figure as a traditional style prop and captain, has been diagnosed with cancer and in his case it is terminal.

Mick Bloxham could provide you with more information.

Given the opportunity, it would be good if you were able to support the family and friends in any way you feel appropriate. If you do say your prayers, make sure that you include Bo and Bert.

Ernol (BO) Campbell

Thu, 11 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Beau (Ernol) Campbell

It saddens me to report the passing away of one time Old Yards prop forward and all round nice bloke, Beau. He was a determined yet fair player and was a pleasure to chat to on a wide range of topics.

As soon as more information comes my way, I will pass it directly on to you.

Bo Campbell, nice nature, quality player,

May he rest in peace

New defibrillator and Ray Francis mentioned in the Solihull Observer

Fri, 05 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

..see below for a copy of an article from the Solihull Observer from the 4th October 2018..

The new defibrillator - just in time for some :)

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

As some may have noticed we now have a brand spanking new defibrillator which has been installed on the outside of the clubhouse near to the kitchen.

This expensive piece of potentially lifesaving equipment was kindly donated by Enterprise Inns.

Representatives of Enterprise Inns and West Midlands Ambulance Service are coming down to the club for a photo op and would like to meet members of the committee and the senior team.

This has been scheduled to take place at the club on Tuesday 11th of September (next week) just before training starts, so arrive at about 6pm to get in on the act.

It would be great if we could get as many team members down as possible to show our appreciation and to appear in any photos!

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Hopefully see as many of you there on Tuesday.

Tristram Oliver

PS: Many thanks to Lee Purdy for the timely install.

The League season is getting closer and closer

Mon, 27 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

With our league programme only a week away, we needed a good work out and that was what our journey to Harborne provided. However, the first thing was to locate their ground as they seem to have had many homes over the years so the suggestion that you drive to every sports ground in the south of Birmingham until you find it might not be a bad idea.

On to the action. The first half saw us moving the ball wide to little effect but the home side did so with a little more sharpness and went in at the interval 12-0 to the good. Now, the second half was very different. We brought on young Peter on to the front row and the difference was almost immediate as we drove them back at a rate of knots. I suspect the Harborne tight head will remember the experience both physically and mentally. With the tactic needed slowly becoming obvious, the whole game changed. With our boys camped in their 22 and with three tries scored, the wise men on the touchline were impressed by our ability to think on their feet.

The final score of 17-19 was not ideal but if we could produce a goal kicker, not our maturing one time number tens, who these days are content to provide touchline analysis.

Next Saturday sees the start of our league programme with Old Leamingtonians visiting the Tilehouse Arena for a 3.00 kick off.

The Heatwave is over but another hot time is coming our way

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

High temperatures and concrete pitches have not made training all that attractive but we must make up for lost time if we are to put right some of the disappointing aspects we encountered last season. There are signs already that things are improving and our first warm up game produced a win against Handsworth. This was followed by a short bus journey to Porthcawl which produced a narrow win for the home team. We can only wonder what might have happened if we had not gone to unopposed scrums. Tries by Alex Hope and Adam Madeley were not quite enough with a final score of 17-12 not really doing us justice.

This coming Saturday marks the start of the real season as we begin with a cup game away to Harborne which kicks off at 3.00. The venue is Metchley Park Road which is almost next door to the Q.E. Hospital. It would be encouraging for our young team if we could get over there and show support.

Our Mini and Junior section (stars of the future) will be in action very soon so get in touch with your team coach or team manager or Debs for up to date information regarding registration, subscriptions, training and fixtures.

Our club is becoming very popular as a party or business venue which generates funds for the club. If you know of anybody who might be interested in hiring the facility then put them in touch with any of our committee who will run through the procedures.

Pat and Shannon celebrated her birthday in style with a whole weekend of activities for her friends and family. Pat, you do not look that old, but Shannon, that is a different story.

I never realised that we had so many clever people in our club but on Friday evening, 11 teams of academics came along to support our two charities. Over three hundred pounds was raised and will be sent to Cancer Research UK and Parkinsons UK .

My thanks go to Bill, Gina and,Pat for running the bar,Shannon for his last minute Paxman performance, (apart from his singing), Anne and Linda Bailey and my Dutch Badminton friends, Jan, Anna and Alex who did the scoring.

Raffle prizes were donated by Dimitrius from The Station Fish and Chip shop who yet again delivered tasty, hot Cod and Chips,the Old Yardleians committee and Miss Eleanor Adams, that well known local teacher.

IT MIGHT BE THE CLOSED SEASON FOR MANY, BUT THERE IS STILL MUCH GOING ON AT THE CLUB

Sun, 08 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Pat, Shannon and a fairly extended family group along with a number of friends selected the hottest weekend of the year to celebrate Pats Birthday which took place a while ago and that of her sister Sandra.

The ambitious celebration stretched over three days. As I arrived at the club at about midday on Friday, Pat was in her office, AKA the kitchen while Luke and Tom were planning the layout of the first team pitch to prepare for the many tents and camper vans that were due to arrive in the afternoon and early evening.

By seven, a good number of people had arrived including family, friends,and club members. The first activity of the evening was a quiz prepared by a young man by the name of Tom. With so much knowledge in one team, Myself, Tom Power, Bill Collins as well as Anne, Linda and Gina, victory seemed inevitable. However, changing answers at the last moment was our downfall. All I can say is Cyprus, Oliver Reed and 13 teams.

Saturday eventually arrived as did our guests from Greece with their dance, cuisine and enthusiasm.

Music of the highest order from a collection of talented artistes took us into the night.

A fact of life is that Teachers will meet more pupils than the other way around. So when I bumpted into the Hewlett family there was no escape. My ego dropped when they told me that they were 44 and 46 years old but recovered when they acknowledged that I had been their best ever teacher. Wonderful memories of the Archbishop Grimshaw School.

A tribute to Andy Dunn by Dave Collen

Mon, 18 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

"Hello Dave and Mick, I hope you are both well.

Could I prevail upon your good offices to circulate my tribute to Andy, and the attached photograph.

Dave via the website and Mick via the VP list.

Many thanks.

Sadly I cannot be at the funeral, but Andy, and the times we shared together, will be in my thoughts on Wednesday.

Cheers

Dave"

ANDY DUNN – A TRIBUTE

Andy joined the club in the close season of 1967, 51 years ago.

He pitched up with his friends, John Pearson and Dave Crampton, all alumni of Sharman’s Cross Boys’ School, Shirley.

Andy was built for forward play and relished it, making the No 8 spot his own for many seasons. He was remarkably free from injury, and in my 3 seasons as club captain put in 86 of a possible 105 appearances – 82%.

That is not to say that he avoided contact, far from it, he was always in the thick of the rough stuff. But he just shrugged off the knocks and got on with it.

As a player Andy read the game well and introduced a variety of lineout peels, and back row moves, to our hitherto predictable tactics. He had the ability to bond immediately with any new scrum half, and reel off the moves seamlessly.

Andy had a nose for the try line (see photo) and in my time as captain scored 11 tries, and, remarkably, 2 conversions and 6 penalty goals. He was never the first choice kicker, so I guess he just grabbed the ball and booted it over, before anyone knew what was going on!

The photograph is of Andy (ball in hand) myself (No7) and Keith Williams (scrum half) executing a text book blindside break off a scrum five. Andy scored the try, and in doing so, took the two defenders, and the Solihull News photographer, over the line with him!

Andy was 1st XV vice captain for the last two years of my captaincy, and when, in December 1969, my bricklayers’ back finally gave up the struggle, he captained the side to the end of the season. He was the obvious choice to be the next club captain, which he did with distinction, for the following 2 seasons.

In Andy’s second full season as captain, OYs won more games than they lost, a feat which had not been achieved since season 1960/61, when Bill Sheridan was captain.

Andy was possessed of a dry wit, and his quiet, understated, sense of humour, enlivened many a post match session. He was well liked and respected by all.

After his playing days were over Andy maintained his interest in the club, through various coaching and committee roles.

In recent seasons Andy could be seen, over by the hedge on the main pitch, wearing his trademark flat cap, clip board in hand, taking notes, to assist the coaching staff improve the team’s performance.

A club stalwart: Andy Dunn

Dave Collen

14.06.2018

ANDY DUNN FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS

Wed, 13 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Arrangements for the funeral of Andy are as follows.

The venue will be The Robin Hood Crematorium, Streetsbrook Road, Solihull.

The date is confirmed as Wednesday 20th June at 1.30.

Family flowers only but you may wish to make a donation to Cancer Research UK

Following the service, there will be a gathering at The Blossomfield Sports Club which is located on Widney Lane, Solihull.

ANDREW DUNN A MASSIVE LOSS TO THE CLUB

Sun, 10 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Andy Dunn

Very sad news has reached us at the club of the death of Andy, a club stalwart who over the years has been a loyal player, member and supporter of the Old Yards Rugby Club. He could be described as a Gentleman surrounded by Ruffians. On a personal basis when I first arrived at the club Andy, playing in the Back Row,made the task of an Outside Half much easier. In later years, we used to stand on the touchline, putting the world right.

On the social front, He was a member of the Blossomfield Club where he played Bowls and enjoyed Quizzes.

Our thoughts, prayers and sympathy go out to his family and friends and when I receive further details I will place them on this site.

May he rest in peace.

TEMPUS FUGIT

Thu, 07 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Looking Ahead

I was having a chat with Toff a few days ago when he suggested that he should be considered for the position of club scholar. He appreciated the contribution made by Peter over recent seasons but with his knowledge of Latin,(well done Yardley School), he could offer that little bit more than Fridge. Anyway he tells me that Tempus Fugit means Time Flies and that as he was a one time front row player he was really eagerly awaiting pre season training.

So Toff, the good news is that we are going to start the recovery from the depths, i.e. pre-season training, on Tuesday evening, 12th June at 7.00. For the following two Tuesdays the same arrangements apply. In order not to follow our professional friends, contact work will follow in good time. These first three sessions will consist of relatively light work such as Five a Side football. The thinking is that we start gently, welcome new players and possibly have have a social drink afterwards.

Who will organise the training for the coming season, and the answer is, James Samuel in tandem with Adam Madeley who has also accepted the position of First Team Captain. The long serving and highly respected Tom Power will take on the responsibility of First Team manager.

With the return of a number of key players, the approaching season is begining to look brighter. A good start to the season makes all the difference.

EXCITING TIME AHEAD

Sun, 03 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The Coming Season

looking on the RFU website half an hour ago, our fixtures for the coming season caught my eye.

Most of them are familiar in terms of venue, games against them decades ago etc. but as we know times change and we have to be prepared to face them now and not in the Dark Ages.

In no particular order, we are grouped in Midlands division 3 South with

Old Leams

Pinley

Woodrush

Shipston on stour

Alcester

Dunlop

Upton on Severn

Manor Park

Berkswell and Balsall

Stoke Old Boys

Coventry Welsh

Enjoy your summer break, work on your own fitness and show your commitment by attending pre- season training. We did not enjoy last season so let us make sure there is no repeat.

Next season's committee

Fri, 11 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

For those that didn't make it to the AGM last Friday, here is a list of the officers of the club for the 2018-19 season.

President: Mick Bloxham

Chairman: Martin Cullen

Secretary: Norman Goody

Treasurer: Shannon Killarney

General Committee: Tom Power, Bill Collins, Tristram Oliver, Pat McDaid (social calendar)

Fixture Sec: To be decided

Match Sec: To be decided

Team Captains and coaching structure: To be discussed at the first committee meeting

An update on the Men’s Dinner tomorrow, Friday 11th May

Thu, 10 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The speaker has changed again!!

We were informed on Tuesday that Lee Byrne could not attend due to a family crisis. So we have managed to secure Graham Price MBE instead. Graham also played for Wales and the Lions. All this after being let down by two of our original choices of speaker, namely Richard Hibbard (who suffered a bad back injury to be fair) and then Andy Powell (he got his dates mixed up – probably off rallying his golf cart).

We'll get there in the end.

It's back to the Indian food menu this year.

Tickets are still available at £35 each so if you have not yet bought a ticket then please contact Shannon on 07866 260262 or Pat on 07531 660400 and we will help you reserve your seat.

ANOTHER SEASON FADES INTO OBSCURITY. THERE WERE GOOD AND LESS GOOD BITS

Wed, 02 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

You cannot really look ahead without looking at where you came from, so last weekend, as I saw things, summed up the whole season for the club.

We receive a lot of support on the social front from our one time players and supporters and the 90th anniversary celebration held early in the season at the Village Hotel was a magnificent occasion and the booklet featuring the history of the club was, I hope, enjoyed by all who received a copy. Thanks to the editorial team of Shannon, Pat and that handsome bloke who's name I cannot remember.

However, the playing record of our senior sides was embarrassing and we need to look at how best to avoid a repeat in the future. This does not include the core of young players who were thrust into a situation for which they were not quite ready. Neither do we point the finger at the senior players who should be enjoying the twilight years at a gentler pace but who helped hold things together. Well done also to the committee and loyal club supporters for their contribution.

At the other end of the age scale, which I used to call 'The Stars of the future', our Mini and Junior teams continue to flourish supported by enthusiastic parents guided by Debs.

Back to Saturday, the first game featured our under 15s against local rivals Camp Hill. The skill, determination and fitness displayed by both sides was impressive and the final score of 24 -10 in favour of Yards was not a true reflection of how the game went. A special thank you to referee Dave Hanson for managing the game and players effectively.

The senior team played against Shipston on Stour in an open and entertaining game which we won by 42-20 or something close to that.

This occasion is known as President's Day. After many seasons of service the club, Steve has decided to call it a day. At many clubs the role is just about being a figurehead, but Steve thrives on having an active involvement in guiding the club. Thanks also to 'The first lady', Lynda, for keeping a watchful eye on Steve. We wish him well and hope that he enjoys his plan to widen his general knowledge base in order to gain success in the local Quiz network.

It was good to see so many of our one time members, too many to list individually with one exception, a full back from the dark ages, Keith Beardsmore. Keith now lives close to the Arctic Circle just outside Sunderland.

Enjoy the summer, if we ever get one. If any of our readers would like to contribute to this site, feel free to get in touch.

A quick update on Chris Gadd's status

Sun, 22 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

As many of you will know he was taken to Heartlands yesterday afternoon by ambulance after suffering an unfortunate ankle injury during the first half of the 1st game vs Droitwich. The x-ray revealed a broken bone in his lower leg and a dislocated ankle so he was kept in overnight with a view to operating today at around 2 pm. They will be putting some plates and screws in so I would imagine he will be kept in for another couple of nights. All things considered, he is in good spirits and I'm sure he will appreciate any goodwill messages you might want to post on Facebook, Whatsapp etc

More information will be posted when we get it..

End of Season Arrangements

Fri, 20 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Note: These dates supersede the dates published in the fixture card.

Saturday 21st April - Final League Game

This Saturday the 21st April our 1st XV play their final league game of the season. They are at home against table topping Droitwich who have only lost one league game all year (where we suspect they fielded a weakened team due to their progression to the National Intermediate Cup final at Twickenham the week before). Droitwich need a bonus point victory against us to guarantee them a first place finish in Midlands 2 West (South) ahead of second placed Malvern. The kick-off is at 3 pm and obviously the omens are not good - this will probably be another very hard day at the office for Old Yards. Please come along and support this gritty and loyal bunch of players who have stuck with the task of fulfilling our league fixtures this season to ensure that we only go down one league. For those that didn’t know, we have been under threat of being demoted from level 7 to level 10 since we had to postpone our away fixture over at Malvern back in February.

28th April - Presidents Day and ‘end-of 90th anniversary season celebration’

Steve Painter is standing down as club President at the end of the season, so please come out and support his final President’s Day. The bar will be open from 12 noon. The U15s will be playing against Camp Hill at 1 pm and we are aiming to have two senior games, for a 1st XV and a Vets XV, kicking off at 3 pm. In celebration of our 90th anniversary season a buffet lunch will be provided for all non-playing attendees, members, ex-members, VPs and sponsors. All are welcome and this is your invite. Come and join us for an end-of-season social to celebrate our 90th year, catch up with old friends and finish the playing season on a high.

Friday 4th May – Annual General Meeting

The clubhouse will be open from 6:30 pm. The AGM will start at 7:30 pm sharp. All committee roles are up for grabs for the 2018-19 season, so if you want to have your say about the future direction of Old Yardleians RFC and are ready to put something back into the club, now is your chance. The rugby club is merely a shadow of its former self without the ambition to compete and succeed at a senior level. If our only ambition going forward is to play social rugby, we will rapidly fade into oblivion.

Friday 11th May – Men’s Dinner

After being let down by two of our original choices of speaker, namely Richard Hibbard (who suffered a bad back injury to be fair) and Andy Powell (he got his dates mixed up – probably off rallying his golf cart) we have managed to secure Wales and British Lions full-back Lee Byrne as guest speaker. By popular demand we’re back on the Indian food theme this year.

Can we ask all Old Yardleians men, past and present, to rally round and buy a ticket for this year’s dinner. Tickets are £35 each. We’ve been struggling to get more than one team out all year and so there is a danger that we won’t have sufficient numbers at the dinner to cover the cost of the speaker and the food. The men’s dinner has been held every year as far back as anyone can remember and now is not the time to let one of the main traditions of this great club slip up.

If you have not yet bought a ticket then please contact Shannon on 07866 260262 or Pat on 07531 660400 and we will help you reserve your seat.

IT IS NOT AS BAD AS IT LOOKS, (IN MY OPINION)

Tue, 27 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

A fairly local match

Arriving down at the Old Sils last Saturday, the first person I bumped into was Bill Collins, and I was surprised to see him close to tears. I reassured him that although relegation was inevitable that we have, over the years, tasted more success than failure. We will regroup, have players returning from injury and recruit new players and that we would start to see better times. Bill looked a little confused and responded that he still had confidence in the club but his tears were as a result of the beer prices that our hosts demanded or expected which were somewhat higher than at Old Ys.

The game itself gives me hope in that we can win set piece possession and if the referee had awarded us an early penalty try when Sils, in desperation, infringed to deny us seven points and with it the boost we needed. So, where did we go wrong. Not going into an in depth analysis, when the Sils attacked us out wide, they moved the ball sharply and our three quarters were not up as a line, in their faces and forcing the errors. When building attacks through our back line we tended to take the ball from a static position, which makes life a little easy for the opposition to deal with. It is only my view point, but give it some thought boys.

On the brighter side

When a team struggles, which apparently we have, it becomes difficult for individual players to make an impact on games. Now we have a player who has played second row, centre and wing. He is a strong runner and ball carrier but needs to receive the ball early to enable him to use his strength. As I see it, his position is not all that important as long as w get the ball to him.Who is this player? His name is Andy Pearce. He has represented Greater Birmingham this season and is due to play in the North Midlands Final in early May on a date yet to be confirmed. Well done Andrew, as The Thomas Aquinas effect is seen again.

Some weather related nostalgia from a club historian

Wed, 14 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The following was received from Dave Collen after the recent cancellation due to snow.

"Hi Dave (Adams)/Mick (Ison),

I note from the OYRFC website that today's fixtures are off due to snow.

This prompted a delve into the archives, and I came up with the attached pic.

It is a cutting from The Solihull News, 22nd February 1969. The reporter came to cover the game, against Old Halesonians, which both teams were keen to play, but the referee pointed out that although he couldn't stop us kicking off, he could halt play immediately if he considered it dangerous. So we retired to the bar.

Pictured l-r are Dave Collen (pulling pint), Andy Dunn (quaffing pint), John Pearson*, Dave Crampton, Roger Martin*, Dave (faintly) Hall*, Eddie Hartwell (smoking with gloves on - poser!), Bob (Tanky) Tynan, and Ivor Enoch* Sadly, those starred* are no longer with us.

The referee was Ken Pattinson, North Midlands and International Panel referee. I checked him out on Google to find that he had recently died, aged 79, and his funeral was, in fact, on Tuesday of this week.

Dave, I hope you will be able to post this on the OY's website

Mick, If you could post this to the VPs, it will, I think, be of interest to the older generation.

Many thanks gents.

Dave Collen"

THE ERDINGTON EXPRESS

Mon, 12 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

They don't make them like this anymore.

Only the loyal or bored ventured to the Tilehouse Arena on Saturday to watch a league match between Old Yards and Southam. To be honest there was little to choose between the two sides but the visitors edged it by 28-7. The game was moved to the 2nd team pitch which was like a swamp and with rain, sleet, wind etc it was not easy for the players.There was one spectacular penalty to Yards which ended nearer to the Akamba culteral centre than the posts. However, credit to both teams for giving it a go and after some difficult experiences there is light at the end of the tunnel and it's not a train.

Who was there ?

Given a choice of televised six nations rugby or the North Mids Div 2 west / north it was interesting to see as many outside watching 'Live' action as there were. For those of an education at Alderbrook, Dave White and Pete Jonno were on a talent spotting mission and claim to have thoroughly enjoyed the game. Chicken could be heard from the far touchline, nothing unusual there. A special mention must be made of that 'Great' second row from a few seasons ago, Michael (Mick) Bloxham. Some of you might know this but not all of you. Mick is a secret trainspotter and he decided to make his home on the far side of the city in leafy Erdington which enabled him to travel on Saturdays by train to our car park otherwise known as Whitlocks End Station. A short walk and he arrives at the Arena.

Mick is a great role model for our younger players. He was proud to play for the Old Ys, and after the game was happy to chat with his opponents, play 'fun games' such as pass the parcel, join in the boat race, and have a sing song. All of this before catching the 'Erdington Express' and being such a nice guy he probably stopped at the chippy to give his wonderful missus a treat.

A great bloke and clubman.

Next game

Saturday 17th v Nuneaton o e. Lets hope the trains are on time !

No fixtures on Saturday the 3rd March due to the Beast From The East

Fri, 02 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

As you would expect, the 1st XV home game versus Nuneaton Old Eds has been re-scheduled for Saturday 17th March.

So the club will not be open this Saturday.

We are trying to get the kick off for the re-arranged game moved forward to allow everyone to watch the England vs Ireland game which kicks off KO at 2:45pm. Watch this space.

CYRIL BURTON

Wed, 14 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

CYRIL BURTON

Sadly news has reached us of the death of Cyril, a long time member of the Old Yardleians club who was made a Life Member in recognition of the work he did for us.

My memory was of a well groomed referee in a spotless white society shirt. He could be relied on to be at the club to see if he was needed and if all the allocated referees had arrived he would run touch.

I am not convinced that every decision he made was correct but he was such a nice bloke that you didn't want to upset him, so yes, of course you got it right ref !

As soon as we receive any further information I will pass it on via this site. Meanwhile we think that the funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday 20th February at 12.15 at Hall Green church which is located on the junction of Foxhollies road and School road. This will be followed by a family cremation service at Robin Hood Crematorium and afterwards the Arden Tennis Club on Sharmans Cross Road will be the venue for the wake.

Out of respect I will make this the only item to feature on the site this week.

Our sympathy goes out to his family and friends.

May he rest in peace.

QUIET ON THE DOMESTIC SCENE BUT START OF 6 NATIONS WHICH COULD BE INTERESTING

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

SENIORS

Just one game on Saturday and although we lost 10-32 against Leamington there were apparently areas of improvement in our performance.

SIX NATIONS

The elite of European teams opened their season at the weekend and for some observers, it didn't all go as expected. With my children (grown up allegedly) holding Irish citizenship they did not know which way their support should be aimed at. Naturally, you see how the games are going and decide who to support a little bit later.

As with most Fly-Halves the drop goal is saved for special occasions. Mr Sexton, with no real pressure, showed the French how to take chances when they were available. Could our Celtic cousins be serious champions ? I don't see why not.

The word was that Scotland were, at long last, ready to take on any country and then to send them home to think again. Well it seems that the message did not reach Cardiff and an injury hit Wales cruised it. Possible champions? Discuss it with your friends, watch the game on Saturday and you should then know the answer.

England against Italy, the story is the same every year as their 'tough pack' runs out of steam in the second half. England as champions? According to the experts they are odds on to do it but if I was you, don't put too much cash on it until Saturday is over.

THE OTHER GAME

I thought Everton were a bit lucky because in reality they should have lost by ten. It might be a little less easy this weekend and I would settle for a win by two goals against the 'diving' cockerels.

WALKING AWAY FOR THE LAST TIME

Thu, 25 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Richard and Eve after a life time of Old Yardleians Rugby have decided to emigrate to the Land of Rugby and Song. I suppose if they are definitely moving then , at least, they are going to the right place.

To me, They seemed like part of the club furniture, a bit like Blox, Bert or Steve Painter. He was happy talking rugby and supping a beer. Eve seemed like a Mother Figure, cheerful, popular and a very good cook.

My reporter from the Channel Islands passed a few words to me about the life and times of Walking Stick. If Dave's memory is correct, he tells us that Richard and Himself met as they started at Yardley Grammar School in 1953. They both had little interest in academic study, much preferring Rugby. Along with Terry Hartwell, they continued to play the great game on leaving school and the rest is history.

This coming Friday, the club is inviting you to enjoy a drink a bite to eat and as much social intercourse as you can manage. I think it will be a good evening.

OUT ON THE PITCH

As I enjoy the wet and cold weather, I drove down to the Tilehouse Arena and saw some good rugby from our 2nds and 3rds. I think the visiting sides were as follows.

Old Yards 2nds v Aldridge 1sts , A 7 -0 win for Old Yards and Old Yards 3rds defeated Dixonians 1sts 24-0. Things are looking up.

CHARITY QUIZ

Friday Evening saw a very well supported quiz evening at the club. 14 teams took part and the winners were my Badminton team, Saint Alpheges. Congratulations. Our two Charities shared the proceeds which were over £400. It was good to see Jim Samuel for his first quiz and I would like to thank Bill and Gina and Shannon and Pat for opening the club and running the bar, Rick and Sue Thorne for helping me to deliver the quiz and last but not least, Anne, Ellie and Nick for their help.

Richard and Eve Walker - little bit of a send off party this Friday 26th January at 7 pm

Sun, 21 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Hi all Richard and Eve Walker are leaving us soon for that far flung foreign land called Wales.
Old Yardleians know how much they have contributed to the club over the decades, particularly when Richard was chairman for four years in the late nineties. We all know how much the club has meant to them too.
So please join us for a few farewell drinks and eats on this Friday 26th January at 7.00 pm to enjoy a nostalgic farewell.
All are welcome just let us know so we have food numbers and we look forward to seeing some familiar faces.

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR THE OLD YARDLEIANS ?

Thu, 04 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Where do we begin ?

This is a good question. I guess that the obvious answer is to look at our First team performances and, so far, that is not a pretty picture. Just before Christmas I decided to show my support for the club by watching the first team take on Berkswell and Balsall in a league match. It was not a great day weather wise but what the heck there wasn't much on television so to the Tilehouse Arena I went. Contrary to the reports that had been circulating, we played well and might have sneaked a win with a little more nous having been ahead with only a few minutes remaining but it was not to be.

On those days when the 'Older' or 'more experienced' players are available, the team performances seem to be better so keep it going. Your 40th birthday is not a cut off date and ask any of our old timers and they will tell you that if you stop playing, even for a short while, it's hard to start again.

I was very impressed by Adam Madeleys rallying call on our Facebook and if you could all equal that level of encouragement, I believe it would help to boost the team. Of similar thinking, another helpful idea would be to see our supporters shift themselves from the bar to the touchline so that they could give positive verbal encouragement to our players.

Having popped into the Sharmans for a quiet drink, I was lucky enough to bump into 'Pickle' or Tom Meade as he was once known as. He expressed his delight at playing in our first team and considered it to be a real honour. He still hasn't learnt how to buy a beer yet but give it time.

Our very own Donald Trump, club president Steve Painter.

A year after having a hip replacement, Steve had the other one replaced recently. Take it easy Steve and don't think too much about what is left to replace next year.

It was good to see

all the way from Weymouth or maybe Portland, that one time front row, Ian Wallace, calling into the club. Good to see you Ian.

Charity Quiz

Friday 19th January is the date, 7.00 onwards is the time, fish and chips are provided and are included in the entry cost of £8 and contrary to rumours you don't have to be a genious to take part. Teams can contain up to six players or just turn up and latch on to any others in a similar situation. Proceeds go to two charities, Parkinson's U.K. and Cancer Research

Gina and Bill dazzle in the December gloom.

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

A relatively quiet weekend saw Daylight Robbery at the Emirates but more on that later.

For a change I headed for the Tilehouse Arena to watch our 'New' First team squad in action against the old Sils.

Having been disappointed by recent happenings and some dreadful results, I was not sure what to expect from our youthfully reconstructed team. There is still much to be done but on the positive side our scrummaging and lineout went very well and gave us plenty of possession. However, 'Rome was not built in a day' and with half of our squad on sabaticals I guess it would be unfair to expect too much too soon. The feeling around the club suggested that the future might well be healthy.

ERDINGTON RFC

It seems to me that many of our local clubs are losing a considerable proportion of their senior playing numbers so it should be fascinating to see how Erdington progress in their first season back in action. Larry, one-time keen spectator at the Yards, is part of their committee and a chat with Dave and Jonno on Saturday suggests that a pleasing start has been made. 'Watch this space'

VICE PRESIDENTS

A very big 'Thank you' to Gina for putting on a delightful buffet and to Bill, Shannon and Mick for their help in making it a succesful occasion.

Six of our finest look to recruit new talent in uncharted territories

Thu, 30 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Why were six of our experienced men on the early train to town ?

With a long day ahead of them, six of our finest club members were spotted by Ellie, on the 12.25 train from Solihull to the Jewellery Quarter. Their mission was to introduce the locals to the game of Rugby Football. With no games on at the Tilehouse Arena , it did seem a positive idea at the time.
Go forward seven hours and the recruitment drive had slowed a little but one barman, a glass collector and a taxi driver, started to make the journey worthwhile. The word coincidence comes into play at this stage. Lizzie, friend of Ellie, had her 30th Birthday party in a respectable pub in the Jewellery Quarter. Having been invited we set off from Solihull Station in a three carriage train, which might have been comfortable for around 100 passengers. But no complaints, as another 300 passengers boarded the train.
At around 8 P.M. we got to the pub where the party was and 'She who misses very little' pointed out a group of 6 fine men taking a well earned rest and some fluids, as fine athletes would do.
Our one time hooker was starting to tire but managed to stay on his seat. Josh wisely ordered a taxi and vanished into the night with his Father in law. One time club coach, Rick was sending some vital information to someone about something but couldn't remember what it was. The Bard of Olton was starting to feel hungry so warning messages were sent to all Balti restaurants. That just leaves the one time prop who once scored two tries in a game against the Eds. This is the man who looks the same after two pints or ten pints. Mustn't forget our President who it was suggested might use his S.A.S training to negotiate his way home through Tudor Grange Park.
This Saturday is a Vice Presidents gathering. You might hear more from our super six, but also enjoy Gina's excellant food, have a drink, and watch some fascinating rugby.

SPOILT FOR CHOICE

Tue, 14 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Not an easy decision to make.

The choices facing me included, internationals in the club, maybe a pub, at home, or anywhere else for that matter. I could have gone to Nuneaton to see how our First team are progressing but, I decided to watch our Thirds play at home against local friends and Rivals, Camp Hill. A choice had to be made quickly as She who enjoys parting with cash as if it was contagious, was hovering with intent. However, some good news, She is on jury service for the next six weeks which might make it possible to get hold of the Remote Control.

Back at the Tilehouse Arena, our opponents were out rehearsing their moves whilst at the same time our boys were arriving at the club, having the last smoke or whatever else they had to do.

Unlike most occasions when we play Camps, there was very little handbaging to report. The Yards were dominant in the scrum, and a little heavier, but we won a lot of ball against the head. Lineouts were about even and we were slightly better at the breakdown.

The yards had most of the posession and territory, but didn't turn it into points. Credit to Camps, when they saw a chance their reactions were good and they scored first with a quickly taken tap penalty. A simple conversion was missed. An experienced core was needed and Phil, Ben and Dave were the answer as they have the ability to bring the best out of our less experienced teammates.

To cut a long story short, we went on to gain a win that was just about deserved. On a positive note, we had a new plaayer on the wing by the name of Sam, recognisable by his artistic flair. A powerful and direct runner, I feel that he will be a genuine asset to the club. Maybe a little more time spent on his handling skills and I look forward to seeing him score a pile of tries.

I have just remembered, the score was a win for theYs 14-12.

Thank you to the young Lady from Bridgnorth who refereed the game. I am not entirely certain that throwing her into local derby matches is the best idea but I guess that if she hopes to shoot to the higher levels then She must take what is considered a cross section of games.

If my sources are correct then for the first time in a long while, we fielded a Girls team on Sunday. I am waiting for a bit more detail on how the game went but it is good to see.

On a sad note, the news arrived at the club of the death of Rosanna Hudson. On behalf of the club, our deepest sympathy goes out to Colin, Ben, Abbie and Becky.

May She rest in peace.

THE UPS AND DOWNS OF A RUGBY CLUB

Sat, 28 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

I am a little confused as to the reasons for it but, along with my team of match day critics, who turn up to watch and offer advice whatever the weather it is clear that things are not as they should be. We have plenty of money in the bank, our social events are very well supported and our 'Stars of the future' are thriving and if you don't believe me come along to the club on a aSunday Morning and admire the work done by all of those involved.

So what is happening with our First team ? My touchline observers have a range of theories, most of which are unprintable. Excuses are not what we want, but you blokes at the prime of your rugby playing careers certainly know what is going wrong and it would be good if you could start to turn things around.

Just for a change, I popped over to Kings Norton to watch and support our Thirds in action against the only K.N. side to have a game that day. A team that contained a mix of young and old, fat and thin, played with a good deal of spirit. The referee, a K.N. club volunteer, did his best but a penalty count that was a little uneven did not really help. Injuries to Sam and Jack made things more difficult but it was worth the journey to see what goes on in our lower sides.

Bonfire Night celebration this coming Saturday. Unlike other clubs in the area, entry will be free but if you intend to drive, I strongly suggest that you park away from the club and walk the last bit of the way.

A MAGNIFICENT CELEBRATION

Sat, 30 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

SUPERB, BRILLIANT, AMAZING,

Call it what you want, the dinner and dance held at the Village Hotel was the best club event in living memory and that was the view of all those players and supporters, past and present who joined us to celebrate 90 years of rugby at our club, The Old Yardleians.

The venue was ideal, the food was good and the compere/DJ/entertainer was excellent. The 150 guests received a booklet that provided a fascinating look into how the club has evolved.

It was great to see old friends and on a personal level Charlie Jenkins, Dave Collen, , Jacko (or was it Steve Mancell) , Phil Swales, a tableful of Smiths and many others of similar vintage.

A massive thank you to all of those who contributed in the organisation of the night particularly Pat, Shannon and that nice man who put together the stories.

The only way is ?

Fri, 22 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

We started the league season in such a manner that things can only improve. Droitwich are a good team but surely not by that margin. This Saturday we get the opportunity to do something about it. Not an easy challenge as Earlsdon are a fairly strong outfit. Kick Off 3.00

The 2nds/3rds plus anyone who turned up with kit convincingly beat Spartans 3rds. It's a long tunnel but hopefully there will be light shining through sooner rather than later.

THE STARS OF THE FUTURE

If you are anywhere near Tidbury Green on Sunday Morning, expect traffic congestion as we have close to a million young rugby stars in action, mostly at our club. Come and watch but give parking a thought.

The 90th Anniversary Dinner Dance.

This Saturday, at the Village Hotel, over 100 guests will gather for a meal, possibly a Babycham or two maybe a dance and definitley a lot of stories about the 'Good Old Days'. Latest news is that Peter has booked the last remaining place. A bit of advice, get there early if you want any food as our star prop will be hovering.

What do you do when you are too old to play rugby?

Simple, you join the Old Yards strollers. This week the group consisted of Myself, Steve Price, Shannon, Robin Sadler and ex Head of Religion at Tommies, Paul Toal. A local stroll culminating in a warm down in the Sharmans Cross.

A brief return to childhood featured the chance to go on the zip wire. With myself at a fit 13 stone, Robin at 17 stone and Shannon at 18 stone, the question was, would the wire survive? answers to follow later.

GOODBYE TO AN OLD FRIEND AND HELLO TO A NEW SEASON

Sun, 03 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Cyril's Funeral

If you had been at Olton Friary on Friday and seen the size of the congregation you would very quickly understand the level of friendship and respect in which Cyril was held. Those of you not familiar with the Church of Rome and who expected a thirty minute service will have been enlightened. Also, Father Dominic was in good form and enjoyed the large turn out. I believe he was given the title 'Duracell' which I am not sure I understood. I will ask around on that one.

Not surprisingly, it was back to the club for refreshments and social interaction. There is something about funerals that seems to attract one time club members from far and wide and it was good to bump into Earnol (Bo) Campbell, Dave Broadfield, Denzil, Terry from Ashby and many others including a good number of our friends from Shirley Park.

Charity Quiz Night

Friday 8th of September is the date of our next Old Yards Quiz. An entry fee of £8 also covers the cost of a very nice Fish and Chip supper. You can come along as part of a team (max 6) or come alone and join a team. The club opens at 7.00, the quiz should start at 7.30 and the food interval around 9.00. Its good fun and front row players can come along (assuming they can read this message) and see if they can offer an answer or two.

Our First Team

Having been a Rugby Club for almost 90 years, it is about time they gave us an early performance to offer hope for the coming season. Saturday afternoon was delightful in terms of weather, beer at £2 a pint and a large crowd. The playing surface was excellent ,(thanks Bill and his lawnmower team) and we welcomed Woodrush, our opponents in this North Midlands Shield, plate or vase or jug or whatever game. . Not wishing to tempt fate, we played some very good rugby. Strong in the scrum, impressive at the breakdown and with some slick handling we were not behind at any stage of the match.

The Final score was a win to Old Yards by about 27 - 10.

Next Saturday we open our league programme with a visit to Droitwich.Kick Off 3.00.

Cyril Hayward by Dave Collen

Fri, 04 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Further to Mick's excellent tribute to Cyril, Dave Collen adds the following thoughts and memories of his own own.

Cyril was raised in modest circumstances, in a tunnel back house in Roma Road, Tyseley. Roma road was walking distance from Yardley Grammar School, which he attended, and Cyril's house backed on to the railway sheds at Tyseley, now the site of the rail museum. Tunnel back houses had no bathrooms, in those days, but Cyril told, with great glee, how his father installed a bath in one of the upstairs rooms, and knocked a hole in the outside wall, for the bath waste to discharge on to the outhouse roof. Ingenuity - 10, Building Regulation compliance - nil !

After school Cyril did an engineering apprenticeship with Lucas industries, and progressed to a position in the Research department. He and I became work colleagues at Hall Green Technical College, where he lectured in engineering studies and I in building studies. Cyril progressed in further education, eventually being appointed as vice principal at East Birmingham College.

During his time at Hall Green Tech, Cyril was responsible for the production of 'In Touch', OY's regular newsletter (no e-mail in those days). On one occasion Cyril's head of Department discovered his secretary typing and binding the newsletters, things got worse when he discovered that the costs of production and postage, had been billed to his departmental budget. Cyril, with his disarming style, talked his way out of it, blaming a break down in communication, insisting he intended to pay the costs, all along !

Cyril's playing career with OYs was remarkable in that it spanned three decades of 1st XV rugby. A feat which few attained, and which will probably never be repeated. Cyril joined OYs in the 1950s, played throughout the 1960s and played his last 1st XV game on 29th April 1970.

Cyril played mostly full back or scrum half. At full back he was sound under the high ball and kicked well off both feet, and as noted earlier kicked a lot of goals. At scrum half he was nippy and alert, always with an eye for a break off the scrum. Remarkably, as I can testify from my time as Club Captain, he rarely trained. He was small and wiry with a surprising turn of speed (over 20 yards) but never shirked the dirty chores, wherever he played.

On 7th December 1968, against Old Moseleians, he scored all OY's points in an 8-0 victory, with a try (then 3 points), conversion and penalty goal. In the last quarter we tried everything to tee him up for a drop goal, to complete the set, but sadly couldn't manage it.

Cyril's work on various committees and his part in the development of colts rugby, culminated when he was elected Club Chairman. His time in office was notable for his attention to detail, and support for all committee work. Speaking at one club dinner Cyril referred to the late club president W A Jenkins, only to be reminded, by the said WAJ, that he was very much alive, sitting next to him, and was in fact the former club president!

As stated earlier Cyril was highly regarded amongst the wider rugby community and used those contacts to good effect, during his time as fixture secretary. There were no leagues in those days, and OY's fixture list had taken a hammering during the last seasons at Windermere Road. Cyril was able to call in a few favours and restore many of the plum fixtures to the list.

Cyril was a rough diamond, never short of an opinion, but passionate about Old Yardleians, a club he served with dedication and distinction. My thoughts are with Pat and family, at this sad time.

What is happening at your club?

Thu, 03 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

As you will probably have seen and heard, Cyril Hayward another of our club servants, has sadly passed away. It seems to me that we are losing many good people and Cyril does fall into that category.

The Old Yardleians send their condolences to his friends and family and as soon as I receive any more information regarding funeral arrangements then I will pass them on to you.

May he rest in peace.

I previously mentioned our new coaching panel and I met them and had a chat about their aspirations for the playing side of the club. Clive is the senior coach and working with him is Tony Skehan, a playing colleague of mine too long ago to remember. Actually, he was a decent hooker. Last season he was our technical and match analysis expert or you could say, 'the bloke standing in freezing cold weather filming our first team games' which were then used to focus areas for improvement.

The third member of our coaching team is Dave Hawkins, a former student of Alderbrook School. I actually remember Dave from his appearances for the school as he was in the same underachieving teams as my son, Bryn. But they enjoyed it, especially when Mr Morris, one time Old Yards player, needed the pack of forwards to bump start the mini- bus. Dave will be mainly looking after our Development squad and,hopefully pushing them towards first team appearances.

The Stars of the future, i.e. our Mini and Junior, teams are already preparing for the new season. The rate of improvement has been staggering and we all hope it will continue. New players are invited to come along and could well be pleasantly surprised by what they see.

On the social front, you are all invited to join us at the club on Saturday when we will be almost giving drinks away at ridiculous prices and a BBQ will be in operation to soak up the alcohol.

There will be a charity quiz evening at the club on Friday the 8th September from 7.15. It is not University Challenge, even front row players might know some of the answers so come along, grab some friends and make a team of between 3 and 6 players. Further details from Dave Adams.

WELCOME TO OUR NEW COACHING TEAM

Sun, 16 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The Old Yards committee have appointed a new team of three coaches led by Clive Chapman. Having seen pictures of Clive, I suspect that his playing career was mainly spent in the front row. He is supported by Tony Skehan and by David Hawkins.

As a player Clive has performed at Kynoch, Kings Norton, Solihull and with the Army. His coaching career has developed through working with club teams, Junior sides and representative squads.

Having asked Clive about his philosophy regarding player development he pointed out that for coaching to be effective it had to be fun but it needed also to be relevant to the needs of the individual player and the team. He also made it very clear that the players were responsible for their part in maintaining their individual fitness attending training,and making themselves available for selection on a regular basis. I believe that the club must be pro-active in supporting the coaching team.

Clive has asked me to let you know that if there are any areas of concern regarding his role that you would like to discuss with him that he would be very willing to do so.

We are also very fortunate to have Tony Skehan supporting Clive and David Hawkins who will look after the Developing players and will fill the role of player / coach for the second team.

Clive, Tony and Dave, we wish you an enjoyable and successful season.

90th Anniversary commemorative programme – calling potential advertisers

Sun, 30 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

As many of you will know, the 2017/18 season marks the 90th anniversary of Old Yardleians Rugby Club's formation back in 1927.

As part of the club's anniversary celebrations next season, we aim to produce a special programme to commemorate the event.

It is our intention to re-use much of the content from the 75th anniversary programme that was produced in 2002 thanks to the sterling efforts of Moss Goode, Kiwi Thompson, Colin Humphries (God rest their souls) and also Tanky Tynan (still alive and kicking we hasten to add) who sorted the printing.

The 75th anniversary programme was a high quality A5 sized booklet with 56 pages of content – not including the cover pages. Most of the cost of production of that booklet was covered by selling about ten full pages worth of advertising space.

Some members may already have seen this, but you can get an idea of what the 75th programme looked like as it was reproduced in full on the Old Yardleians website back in 2006, here is a link (use the Prev and Next buttons to navigate):

75th Anniversary Programme

We hope that the 90th anniversary programme will have an extra ten pages of content (so 66 pages in all) which will be dedicated to documenting the significant developments that have occurred in the 15 years since then. Dave Adams is doing a great job pulling together contributions for the new content pages covering our recent history.

If we can sell ten to twelve full pages worth of advertising in the new programme, then we should again be able to cover the costs of production of 500 copies of the booklet.

So we are appealing to our existing sponsors, and other businesses associated with the club to consider purchasing advertising space.

Indicative prices are;

Inside front and back covers - £150 for a full page glossy advert.
Standard content pages - £125 for a full page colour advert, £100 for a full page black and white advert, £50 for a half page black and white advert, £25 for a quarter page black and white advert.

If you are interested in placing an advert then please send an email to: shannon.t.killarney@blueyonder.co.uk and we can start to discuss your requirements, we can help with any graphics requirements you have and grab suitable images from your web-site if necessary.

If all goes well then the dedicated committee members serving during the 2027/28 season will have a very useful resource with which to construct the 100th anniversary celebratory programme - Serva Fidem :o)

WHAT IF WE PLAYED LIKE THIS EVERY WEEK

Mon, 24 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

OLD YARDS 72, SHREWSBURY 20

The situation was clear and our destiny was in our own hands. Win and stay up, lose and drop down. The weather was perfect, there was a good crowd, the warm up was comprehensive, surely nothing could go wrong.

From the start our scrum was under pressure and our opponents had a couple of very quick backs who broke through our defence with worrying ease. Not for the first time this season, we conceded the first 15-20 minutes. But then it all seemed to click. Line out ball was ours, the scrums settled down and tackles were generally effective. To the delight of the crowd on the home side of the ground, our powerful winger, much criticised Andy Pearce took a pass and with no room for manouvre and carried three defenders with him to score the try we wanted to see.

There was more to come. Regular try scorers, Stephan the hooker, Captain Brennan and Liam, made sure that we got a bonus point. Chinnie looked pleased, Sid looked bewildered, Jack who has been a real star since returning got a harsh yellow, according to Kim and Dean Scandrett got the beer.

Arsenal thrashed Man City and Gabriel beat the Blues single handed. It's amazing what good teachers can do.

Not much of the season remaining so enjoy the various social events being offered, come to the AGM, It is your club so support it.

Let's make next season a success if only to keep us old blokes happy.

Cheers,

Dave.

Men’s Annual Dinner - Friday 12th May - tickets now available - £35 each

Fri, 14 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The Men’s Annual Dinner is on Friday 12^th May gathering at 6:30 pm, the meal starts at 7:30 pm sharp.

The guest speaker this year is Geordan Murphy of Leicester Tigers, Ireland and British Lions fame.

After three years of Indian cuisine we are reverting this year to a more traditional dinner menu;

Pate to start
Lamb shank for the main
followed by cheese and biscuits and coffee

To reserve your place, see me (Shannon) or Steve Price or Tom Power at any of the following times;

Easter Saturday - 15th April at the club, we're watching Leicester Tigers vs Newcastle between 2 pm and 6 pm
Tuesday 18^th April – at club training night from 7 pm thru 9 pm
Thursday 20^th April – at club training night from 7 pm thru 9 pm
Saturday 22^nd April – at the final home league game vs Shrewsbury from 12 noon onward
Sunday 23rd April - between 11am and 12 noon at the Minis and Juniors
Tuesday 24th April - club training night from 7 pm thru 9 pm
Saturday 29th April at the club between 1 pm and 9 pm
Friday 5th May at the AGM (between 7 pm and 9 pm)
Saturday 6th May - President's Day between 12 noon and 9 pm
If you can't make any of the above times, please ring Shannon on 07866 260262 and we will find a way to get you your ticket

You can pay by cash or cheque or you can use your credit/debit card to make payment via the club's card machine.

Looking forward to the stampede for tickets :)

IT ALL GOES DOWN TO THE WIRE

Mon, 10 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Our Destiny is in our own hands

Saturday provided an entertaining match against Walsall played in sunshine and with a decent number of spectators. A home win would have been usefull but it was not to be. It seemed that from the start of the game we probably gave our visitors a little too much respect. We were put under a lot of pressure for the first 15 minutes or so and it looked like an embarrassing afternoon was coming our way. Instead of sitting back and watching what our visitors could do it might have been a lot more effective to have got stuck into them rather than allowing them to dictate the pattern of the game.

The fact that we played some very good rugby in patches shows what might happen if we could sustain it for the whole match.

For those of you who watch 'The Chase', we are heading for a 'one match showdown'. The Mathematics could not be simpler. April 22nd our final league game of the season at home against bottom of the table Shrewsbury. If we win we stay up but if we lose we drop. That should be all the motivation we need.

Sunday Morning

I made the long trip to Streetsbrook road to watch our under 15's against Old Halesonians. Some very skillful, fast and open rugby was provided and I hope that a good number of them will make the transition into senior rugby.

Mark Baldwin Says

Next Saturday, which is Easter weekend, will be without any games. But looking further ahead to Saturday 6th May which is a very special day when all our club players and followers come together to celebrate another season in the life of The Old Yardleians.

TWO MORE GAMES, TWO MORE WINS?

Wed, 05 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

A Good Game and a good result.

Saturday saw a trip across to Coleshill area for a crucial match in the battle against the drop with both sides needing wins. A good sized crowd were entertained with both teams wanting to play attacking rugby. The Y's were the stronger team in gaining possession at the set piece but the Salts looked dangerous on the counter attack. Coach Sporcic from the same part of the world as Tom Jones, had the home team well organised defensively, but the all round ability of the visitors made an away win look the most likely outcome and the final score of 24-17 to the Y's seemed about right.

At the bottom of the league, Stafford have now slipped below the Salts and the Yards but with two games remaining, any number of combinations are possible. Next up for Y's is a difficult game against Walsall, this Saturday at Tilehouse Lane with a 3.00 kick off. Having put together a good run of performances, it should be an interesting game.

Club news

Our best wishes go to Bobbo, a club stalwart who suffered a broken leg while decorating last Saturday. Amazing when you consider that he has a wife and a couple of young rugby players to call upon.

While watching our boys take on Salts, The Eds second string were playing Salts equivalent side in a somewhat one sided game. Local Mathematician, Jan Ogan decided to watch our game and he not only enjoyed the quality on show but he would be willing to provide an analysis.

That will be enough for now and I hope to see a big turn out on Saturday.

Information about the 90th Anniversary Dinner and Dance

Sun, 02 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

We can now confirm that the 90th Anniversary Dinner and Dance event has been booked for Saturday 23rd September 2017.

The Venue is: The Village Inn Hotel, The Green Business Park, Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull, B90 4JG. Phone: 0121 796 9670
Start time is around 6.30pm for a 7pm till midnight blast.
We have hired a private function room with an adjoining private bar area.
We will have an MC – DJ who will provide the music and entertainment.
The cost of £40 per person will include a three course dinner followed by cheese and biscuits and coffee/teas – it is a set meal and the fixed menu is yet to be decided but there will be a vegetarian option so you may wish to let us know if this is a requirement in due course.
We are aiming to provide three bottles of wine per table included in the price, probably a red, a white and a prosecco.Extra wine can be purchased from the bar at your own cost. The bar costs are quite reasonable for a hotel around £4.00 (ish) per pint, but additional bottles of wine will be around the £18 mark.
We are looking at an attendance of 120+ people, seated at large circular dining tables with 10/12 people per table – if attendees want to sit in particular groups please make this known to us when you buy your tickets.
The event is just under six months away, however you may wish to take advantage of a reduced hotel room cost by booking rooms early.
Currently the average price for a room on Saturday evenings is approx £99 plus breakfast – with use of our promo code (see below) you can get a standard double or twin room for £81.60 including breakfast or £66.60 without.
It will be much easier if you book your own rooms, be aware that the above prices are on a non-refundable basis, so you may wish to make your own choices.
The hotel has a fabulous gym and swimming pool area which you can make use of. A large free car park is also available.
To book a room online:

Go to: https://booking.village-hotels.co.uk/book/search/
Enter the location: Solihull
Enter the date: Saturday 23rd September 2017
Enter the promo code: PRO10A – i.e P, R, O (short for PROMO), one, zero, A

We are happy to collect ticket monies now if you wish to pay early, if not we will need payment by early August.
To reserve one or more places at the dinner dance you need to proceed as follows;

Tell me (Pat McDaid, Shannon's wife) how many tickets you want at £40 per ticket by phoning me on 07531 660400 or by sending me an email to pat.mcdaid at blueyonder.co.uk to inform me which of the following payments methods you are going to use;
a) By posting a cheque for the total ticket amount made out to 'Old Yardleians RFC Tour Fund' (we want to keep the payments separate from the club's main current account to aid traceability). The address to send the cheques to is 112 Fabian Crescent, Shirley, Solihull, B90 2AD
or
b) By using your internet banking facility to make a BACS transfer to Sort Code: 53-61-41, Account Number: 29256275, Account Name: Old Yardleians RFC Tour Fund, please enter your surname as the reference

Looking forward to the event and many thanks,

Kind regards
Pat

pat.mcdaid@blueyonder.co.uk - 07531 660400

A VERY SATISFYING WEEKEND ALL ROUND

Thu, 30 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

First XV

As good a place to start as any. Having felt the embarrassment of defeat with little effort made to do anything about it, was a fairly regular happening earlier in the season. Well, Saturday made us all feel a bit of pride in our club. Earlier in the season we were well beaten at Newcastle and with both sides not very far from the wrong end of the table, the result of this meeting was crucial in the battle to avoid the drop.

There were some interesting happenings and the referee was very keen to lay down the law about body piercing. but was not so keen on some other areas of the game.

The final score of 40-17 in our favour was nice to see and I will single out two players. Firstly, skipper Mick Brennan who is one of a rare breed at the Yards, a second row player with good handling skills and a Gazelle like pace around the field which led to the scoring of tries. One of our younger players, Andy Pearce, was criticised by many of our followers and by some of his team mates. However, recent performances have shown him to be a powerful finisher from the wing and his determined running impressed the large home crowd.

Second XV

I am still waiting for a report but the rumours coming out of Ledbury suggest an awesome display of rugby. Credit to Chris and Jim for turning things round and a win by 43 - 7 justifies the celebrations.

Vandals

We were ready and waiting but our opposition were not.

Off the field

The funeral of former Chairman, Tony Meades, on Thursday, saw many of his contemporaries gather to celebrate his life. It was good to see so many old faces at the gathering.

Friday night saw a Charity Quiz at the club. Tex and Maggie were strongly tipped to win but the Power Team clinched it in the end.

Saturday, before the First Team game, saw an amazing feast put on by Pat, Debs and their helpers, as a Thank you for the many volunteers who support the club in many ways.

Another tribute to Tony Meades - from Ian (Enoch) Wallace

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Hi everyone,

Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend Tony's funeral due to work commitments.
I would appreciate it if you would pass on my sincere apologies and condolences to Don, Lorna and the family.

I recall the first time I met Tony. I was one of Andy Libberton's recruits and he drove me to training on a wet Tuesday night in October 1977. Any reservations I had quickly vanished when Tony bought me a pint and informed me that I would be playing on Sunday in the Colt's.

I remember with great fondness the hours we spent together drinking and talking, putting everything in the world to right. I soon learnt that the Royal Family were chinless wonders, footballers lager drinkers, Tories were fascists, backs were only there as an excuse for more scrums and the wingers job was to get the ball out the hedge.

Under his guidance I learnt to always drink with your opposite number, even if you had spent the entire afternoon punching and kicking each other. Tony was Chairman when the Club had absolutely nothing but a huge overdraft. But with a good team around him and wise words the Club survived and what we have today is a testimony to the work that he and those around him did all those years ago.

Unfortunately, as the year's passed we saw less of Tony at the Club. But although our friendship remained we drifted apart. I can look back now at those times with great fondness and recall a committee meeting in January when both Tony and I turned up in identical Christmas cardigans. I was soon referred to as Cloney Meades.

I was in Solihull late last year when I visited Tony and spent a very enjoyable couple of hours. Although his body was giving him grief his mind and wit was as sharp as ever.

I can say without a shred of doubt that the person I am today was a direct result of that period of friendship and for that I thank you Tony. I shall celebrate your life with a pint and conclude with one final thanks. God bless you Tony.

Enoch

OLD YARDS SOCIAL EVENTS

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

ACTIVITIES THAT MIGHT INTEREST YOU

This coming Friday, we are holding a Quiz Evening at the club. Proceeds from the evening will go to two charities, Parkinson's UK and Cancer Research. Details include cost £8 per player which includes a tasty Fish and Chip supper, teams of up to six players which can be your pre- planned team or come along and join up with others to make a team. The club will be open from 7.00 and the quiz will start at 7.30. Club members may bring guests and it would help if you intend to come along if you could let either Dave Adams or Rick Thorne know.

On Saturday, prior to a very important league match against Newcastle, our committee is inviting Volunteers,(check if you fall into that category), to enjoy a buffet lunch and to engage in social intercourse before watching a winning performance from our First Team.

As you probably know, Our club is approaching it's 90th Birthday, (making it even older than Sid). In September, we are holding a posh dinner dance at the Village Hotel. Although it might seem a long way off, make sure that you don't miss out. Register your interest now with Pat McDaid.

In addition we would like to produce something that will act as a more permanent reminder and that is where we would like your help. Shannon, Pat or myself would appreciate it if you could contact us with your experiences and memories as part of the club. This might include your introduction to the club, the teams you enjoyed playing against, your special, funny or sad memories and anything else you might think of, which if it goes to plan, would become part of our club history.

Tony Meades - Funeral Details

Thu, 09 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Tony's funeral service will take place at 12 noon on Thursday 23rd March at Robin Hood crematorium.

The wake after will be at Old Yardleians clubhouse from about 1 pm.

Please note that the service is 'family flowers only' and any donations will go towards the Marie Curie Charity.

The family have asked us to give them an estimate of the number of club members who will attend the wake, in order to cater accordingly.

Can all club members past and present, who intend going to the wake, please send me a text to that effect and I will collate and pass the estimate on.

Regards, Shannon (07866 260262)

THE MAN WHO SHAPED MY LIFE

Wed, 08 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Tony Meades

Meeting Tony Meades, although I didn't realise it at the time, had a massive impact on my life.

Let me try to explain.

A long time ago, I came from South Wales to begin my career as a school teacher. I knew little about Birmingham, nobody other than a handful of colleagues and after a few weeks I decided to find a rugby club, the only logical move in a strange place.

Before mobile phones and the internet there was Yellow Pages within which there was a section on sports clubs. So one Friday night I went through the entries one at a time but with no success. I almost gave up until at last an answer. A gruff voice welcomed my interest and gave me instructions to be at The New Inns, Acocks Green, tomorrow at 1.00 with kit.

I arrived, along with 50 or so blokes in maroon sweaters and I was pointed towards a big man wearing a duffle coat, all the rage apparently. He looked me up and down and informed me that I was a centre. and that I would play in the fourths. Five minutes later, a change of plan. Tony, who was also third team captain, gave me the news that I had been promoted into his team, but that whatever a chap by the name of Phil might say, I was to ignore him. Pearls of wisdom from Tony.

We won our game and Tony, being a good mentor, suggested that we usually discussed the match over a pint or two of Brew or Mild. The rest is a little blurred but I do remember my introduction to dominoes and also something called snuff. What a pleasure.

Apart from a couple of years at 'Camp Freemantle' much of my life has been centered upon the Old Yardleians Rugby Football Club, where many new friendships and a range of new experiences have come my way.

As I mentioned in the title, along with Yellow Pages, Tony Meades played a significant part in the shaping of my life.

Thank You Tony,

May you rest in peace.

Tony Meades

Tue, 07 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

It is with great sadness that we have to inform you that Tony passed away yesterday.

He was a wonderful servant to our club, particularly in the 70's and 80's, having taken on various roles including 4th team captain, colts manager and club chairman.

Tony was an inspirational mentor to many of the youngsters that passed through our colts and 4th XVs, he was one of those larger-than-life characters who will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Our thoughts and sympathy go out to all his family, but particulalry his children, Don and Lorna.

May he rest in peace.

Funeral arrangements will be published here as soon as we know them.

They think it's all over.....

Sun, 05 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

With Kidderminster 3rds crying off, Saturday saw the Club's elderly gentlemen entertaining the plucky youngsters from Old Edwardians 2nds, the fixture having hastily been switched from the Streetsbrook marshlands to the Tilehouse tundra. Now as is the modern fascination of getting changed an hour before kick off and running endless drills and attacking patterns our near neighbours entertained the slowly assembling match day crowd, the Vandals included. The Vandals as always watch with some interest having seen it time & time again, before beginning their warm up...the walk to the top pitch. As is their want the Vandals started in their customary less than enthusiastic manner and were five points down within a minute of the kick off following some very slick handling by the young opposition, cue much guffaws & sniggering by the youngsters, thinking an afternoon of fun & games was on the cards. Captain Slow on the touchline totally unphased having seen it all before. Then as always the opposition can't resist changing their game plan and try to lock horns with the much older but heavyweight Vandal massive and pay the price conceding three tries in short order from hooker & skipper Mark Baldwin, flanker Phil Painter and No.8 Gary Robinson, Bobo's try being improved by fly half Max Gimson to give the Vandals a comfortable 17-5 lead. A fourth try from Jason Goodwin playing flanker (as a late Xmas present from Slow) giving the Vandals a halftime lead of 22-5. In the second half it was Eds who again came out the blocks the quickest scoring two tries one converted to bring them within a try at 22-17, but the ship was steadied with with Phil Painter now at eight bludgeoning his way over for his second try of the afternoon and the game was put to bed when scrum half Guy Smith fought his way over from short range. Final score 32-17.

Do we worry about a touch of Arctic weather ?

Wed, 01 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The effects of cold weather

Recent weather conditions and televised Rugby matches might have reduced, slightly, the number of spectators brave enough to endure the cold. However, Old Yardleians are made of strong stuff and there has been a noticeable upturn in our results recently.

Last weekend saw our senior sides up against Evesham. Our Seconds won 21-14 and our Vandals won by 17-10.

Our Future stars had their fixture schedule hit by school holidays and I suspect that both teams were guilty on that front.

This Weekend

Our first team have the opportunity to ease the relegation pressure as they face Kidderminster in a league match at Tilehouse Lane. We performed shockingly when we played them away earlier in the season but recent games have seen a real improvement and I am confident that Chinny will have our boys well prepared for what is a game that we need to win.

Minis and Juniors

Our younger players have a wide range of opposition on sunday and we ask them to contact the appropriate managers to confirm availability.

Weekend matches

With plenty of time for arrangements to change the current situation is as follows.

Under 6/7, 8, 9, are at Keresley RFC on the outskirts of Coventry where they will play a triangular fixture with Trinity Guild making up the third side involved. Please arrive by 10.00.

Under 10 v TBA

Under 11 v Veseyans

Under 12 v Old Laurentians

Under 13 v Evesham

Under 14 v Claverdon

Under 15 v Old Leamingtonians

For details of venues and times please contact your team managers.

Other things

Dave and Rick are holding a charity quiz evening at the club on friday 24th March from 7.00 until we finish. Teams of up to 6 players, Fish and Chip suppers are included in the cost of £8 per person. The bar will be open and you can bring non members if you wish. Please let Dave Adams know if you plan to join us with an estimate of numbers in your team.

Further on in the year, as you have just read, I hope, will be a posh bash to celebrate 90 years of our club's existence.

Old Yardleians RFC – 90th Anniversary Celebrations

Mon, 27 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Next season, 2017/2018, will be the clubs 90th season and we are formulating a programme of events to celebrate accordingly. The committee are open to suggestions about the types of events we should organise, so if you have a suggestion please voice it to any committee member and we will add it into the melting pot for consideration.

One idea that was mooted at the last committee meeting was to revive the old tradition of holding a Dinner and Dance evening at a local hotel, probably on a Saturday evening in September 2017. This is a chance for the ladies to get their glad rags on and for us blokes to squeeze into suits that don’t quite fit anymore. In order to establish likely costs we have made preliminary enquiries at The Village Hotel Shirley, who currently have a large function room available on Saturday September 23rd. Nothing is booked yet, but we can have a formal three course meal with wine, followed by cheese and biscuits and coffee, along with a large dance floor and an entertaining DJ/compere for an estimated price of £40 per person, with reasonable room rates available for those who want to travel up and stop over.

In order to establish whether it is worthwhile trying to book such an event we need to gauge support and establish likely attendance numbers. Can I ask everyone who might be interested in coming to such an event to make it known to myself. Please use email, Facebook, or text message to respond..

Best Regards,
Shannon
Contact details as follows;
Shannon Killarney: Shannon.t.killarney@blueyonder.co.uk or 07866 260262

WEEKEND FIXTURES

Thu, 23 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Weekend fixtures

Seniors v Evesham For more details please contact your team Manager / Captain

Minis / Juniors

Under 9 v Upton on Severn (Home)

Under 11 v Upton on Severn (Home)

Under 12 v Upton on Severn (Home)

Under 13 v Upton on Severn (Away)

Upton contacted us on Thursday with the news that in the other age groups they were short of players mainly due to school holidays tempting parents to arrange other activities, warmer venues etc.

All those not in matches are expected to train at the club.

Tony Meades back in hospital

Wed, 22 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Friends of former club chairman Tony Meades might like to know that he has been recently admitted to Warwick hospital after having a bit of a turn at home.

After some initial concerns about his condition, Dick and Gwen Parkin and Pembo have reported that he is now able to receive visitors and is in good form.

Should anyone fancy paying Tony a visit then they should co-ordinate visiting via Dick and Gwen – their phone number is 01298 77038, this is to ensure that he doesn't get too many visitors at the same time, and to enable his children, Don and Lorna to have a bit of a break.

Tony is in Room 9 in the Avon Ward at Warwick Hospital, visiting is from 12 noon until 7pm Monday to Friday except on Thursdays when it is from 1:30pm until 7pm.

SO CLOSE BUT SO FAR

Mon, 20 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

FIRST TEAM

A league match down the road at Camp Hill against our old rivals resulted in us getting absolutely nothing for our efforts. After a poor start to the season we now have a new coach, some new players and we are actually playing for our shirts. Even our opponents acknowledged the fact that we were very unfortunate to come away with nothing. However, self-belief is gradually creeping in to our performances and all aspects of our game are improving. The only thing missing seems to be the taking of chances when we are in try scoring territory and that, to me, is all about confidence.

In terms of hospitality, Our club president, Steve Painter and myself enjoyed a lunch of shepherds pie followed by apple pie along with our hosts and its good to see leading referee Jim talking us through the interpretation of the Laws at the higher level of the game.

Before I forget, the final score of 25-20 does not directly help our cause but the manner in which we played will hopefully kick start our season. One bonus point was our reward and, who knows, it might be very handy come April.

Seconds and Vandals

Both teams had difficult opponents and did very well to secure victories.

Seconds v Droitwich won 10-7

Vandals v Bromsgrove Vets won 15-12

Minis and Juniors

Our future stars took the A45 over to Earlsdon and played very well. It appears that we shouldn't give you all the scores but I will say thaat we won more than we lost.

This Sunday our teams are playing against Upton On Severn. For more information contact your team managers.

HYPOTHERMIA OR FROSTBITE

Sun, 12 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Three Games to enjoy

My Saturday viewing began at midday. The Gunners at home against Hull. A shocking game with Arsenal well on top in terms of possession and attempts on goal. Two goals from Sanchez was sufficient to bring victory, but many chances went begging.

As the final whistle sounded it was straight in the car and arrival at the Yards was well timed as the game kicked off. The feast of flowing rugby, just like the Emirates, did not really happen. Our opponents, Veseyans, were a mid table team and would provide us with a chance to judge our recent improvement. In similar style to the Gunners, we had much of the territory, the Yards dominated scrum and line out but Veseyans did well to slow down our possession and defended with determination. Some of the catching from high balls was exceptional with skipper, Mick Brennan and our back three doing particularly well.Considering the Arctic conditions, I felt that we did enough to deserve a win and a final score of 17-8 was just about right. If either team had a Farrell or Halfpenny the scoreline might have been different, but coach Chinny looked fairly satisfied and as they say, 'a win is a win'. Our next match is down at Shirley Park where we can assess our improvement when we take on Camp Hill.

Still thawing out, the next treat was to watch the game in Cardiff. If Dan Biggar had the pace of Elliot Daly, the result might well have been different.

Minis and Juniors

Too cold, not for the kids but for the parents, Debs gave them a week off but next weekend its a convoy to Earlsdon for our under 7-12. The 13-15 will be confirmed as soon as possible.

Too Close For Comfort

Tue, 07 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

First Team

As I was not able to make the journey to Tamworth to watch our boys in action, I asked a number of our followers for their thoughts on the game, First mistake. In future call them earlier before the Staffordshire ales take effect. The background thinking was that we lost the home game against them earlier in the season by a very narrow margain so we could judge our progress by comparing the two performances.

So, I glanced at the Tamworth website and the home side writer considered the outcome to be 'too close for comfort' and that massive credit must go to the Old Yards who were the better team for much of the match. Very good to read such positive comments but I would much prefer League points to pleasantries.

We have taken steps in the right direction but what we need in our remaining games is support and encouragement from the touchline, blood, sweat and tears at training and maximum points from our boys on the pitch.

Stars of the future

The Sunday morning mob are growing in numbers and performance levels. Keresley, Salts, Exiles, to name a few have discovered this at first hand.

In addition an old time follower and admirer of our club, Mr Richard Beckett,a highly respected official in the Cheshire and Lancashire area visited us on Sunday to collect ideas which could be used in his part of the world. He was very impressed by the game between our under 13s and Exiles. The quality and style of refereeing was of the highest order with the man with the whistle (Bobo) getting the balance between advantage and explanation spot on. In technical aspects, he felt that the rucking skills had been well coached and applied. He would like to pass on his thanks tto all involved.

Six Nations

The bookies say England but the heart feels that flair and home advantage might be significant. Let's wait and see.

THE CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR LULL ARE NOW BEHIND US

Mon, 23 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Back to reality on the Rugby front.

Division 2 west /north does not offer a breathing space for any of its teams and although there have been signs of improvement in many areas of our game, league points are what we need to secure our league status. Coach Chinny was positive about our display at Stafford with much of the possession and territory going our way, but we lost 0-12.

This weekend saw our First Team play host to league leaders, Stourbridge. The final score of 10-30 was not really a true reflection of our performance but the reality is clear and when our visitors managed to gain some possession they either scored or were stopped short by good tackling. On the other hand, when we attacked, it seemed that try scoring was beyond us.

Our next fixture is this Saturday at Tamworth, not an easy game but if our improvement is maintained then I believe that we might be turning the corner. The sooner that happens the better our chances are of climbing the table.

Our other teams

That finely tuned athlete, Luke, mentioned briefly in passing that he scored three tries as our Development Team defeated a much improved Aldridge First team 36-26. That is probably more points than he scored in the previous night's quiz. Well done Luke.

A much changed Third team visited Bournville and I suspect that the lack of information means that we came second.

With freezing weather causing confusion as to whether it was safe to play or not and touch rugby or full contact mayhem reigned. Lets hope that Debbie can organise a 'Sun Dance' for the coming Sunday.

Charity Quiz

A friendly but competitive quiz evening helped raise over £400 for our two charities, Parkinsons' U.K. and Cancer research. In joint first place were two teams from the Saint Alpheges Badminton club. Yes, I am a member but that did not affect the marking.Tom and Sid's team were going well until Graham Davies arrived to join them. The loudest team was a close thing between Luke's mob and the Monkspath nutters. Thanks to all who supported the event and to those who ran the bar, cleaned the club, sold the raffle tickets and delivered the Fish and Chips.

Vice Presidents

Thanks to Mick and Pat and all those who helped make the occasion such a success as many of our stars from the dark ages gathered for a smashing lunch, a drink or two and half believable tales. Robin Sadler's attempted drop goal was about as close to clearing the bar as Fridge turning up on time.

A MUCH NEEDED RESULT

Sun, 11 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

FIRST TEAM SUCCESS

Not only did we get the win and the league points that keep us afloat, we gave ourselves the self-belief that has been missing throughout the season.

On a miserable afternoon both cold and wet, the conditions for handling were far from ideal. The Old Salts, driven on by coach Nick Sporcic had most of the pressure but a combination of missed opportunities by the visitors and determined defence kept the half time score down to 3-0 to Salts, and that came from a penalty that sneeked inside the posts.

Whatever Coach Chinny said at half time seemed to do the trick. The Yards displayed fitness and accurate tactical kicking to pin the Salts back into their own territory. Three second half tries by the home side along with a clean sheet in defence took us to a win by 19-3. The scoreline was possibly a bit flattering but I guess we can live with that.

It was good to see some old friends of the club, including Steve Mancell, John Edge and Dean Scandrett. Keep in touch lads.

Stars of the future.

I made the short journey on my bike to watch our under 14s in action against Evesham. I will not tell you the actual score but we now have a very large and impressive squad with good coaching.

Watch this space !!!!

Tue, 06 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Stars of the future

Another awesome performance from our youngsters who travelled to Coventry and displayed a high level of skill and fitness which the Keresley teams could not match.

This Sunday sees our teams travel to Upton on Severn. Set off early, fill up with fuel and head west. The journey should take 30 minutes or so and kick off time is 11.00.

Fixtures for this coming Sunday, 11th December.

Under 7s No Game No Training

Under 8s,9s,10s,11s All away v Upton on Severn

Under 12s v Droitwich at Edwardians

Under 13s v Upton on Severn at Home

Under 14s v Evesham at Home.

All Sunday matches kick off at 11,00

Second Team

I almost forgot. I popped up to the club on Saturday to have a look at our potential first teamers. It was better than expected as Eds were brushed aside with deadly finishing from Luke and a slightly faster Jack Seifas.

BBC Reclaim Sports Collection Cage

Sat, 26 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

This has been posted on the various Facebook forums a number of times but for the lucky few who don't do Facebook..

Hi Folks. A REMINDER NOTICE. The club has taken delivery of a BBC Reclaim Sports collection cage which is situated near the entrance porch. If you have any sports kit that is in *good condition* that you would be able to donate then please bring it along before the 30th of November as the BBC will be making arrangements to collect the cages back in again soon.
Many Thanks, Shannon (Chairman).

See the following link: Get Inspired

ROME WASN'T BUILT IN A DAY

Tue, 08 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

SENIOR TEAMS

In a conversation with Peter a few days ago he informed me that the title phrase actually dates back to the days of Queen Elizabeth the First. He then related it to our present day situation, particularly in the First team.

He expressed the opinion that our new coach, Steve Chinn, had a real challenge to face and that he shouldn't be judged too quickly. I will ask Steve if he would be willing to offer his thoughts on his new position within the club and all being well then I will put them on to this site fairly soon.

Last weekend saw a mixed bag of results for our senior teams.

The First Team travelled to Kidderminster and were well beaten 51-14 .My reporter at the game, Steve Price, was not impressed so decided to spent much of the match with a coffee with maybe a small tot of Brandy. Steve agreed with Peter's view that the new coach needed time but that a win or two would be useful.

The Seconds entertained Kidderminster seconds/development team and gained an impressive victory mainly due to the mobility around the pitch from our pack of forwards.

Our Thirds/Vandals also played at home and in a game that ebbed and flowed, (Toff's words) we narrowly lost out to Aldridge seconds 12-17

STARS OF THE FUTURE

On a cold but bright Sunday morning, I got on my bike and rode the short distance to Shirley Park where a three way arrangement involving ourselves, Camp Hill and the Eds meant that there were young rugby players, loads of parents and team coaches all over the place. I really suggest that you come along to a few games as the enthusiasm and level of skill on display would impress you. No gloating is allowed but we did play very well.

Our under 13s played Pinley who were determined but lacked the clinical try scoring skills of our boys.

This coming Sunday, our Mini/Juniors have the following fixtures,

Under 6/7,8,9 all away at Old Salts

Under 10,11 at home to Old Salts

Under 12 at home to Old Salts.

Under 13 v Camp Hill at the Edwardians

Under 14 training at the Edwardians.

SOME YOU WIN, SOME YOU DON'T

Wed, 02 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Stars of the future

All our Sunday morning teams have been playing some very good rugby so far this season and credit must go to the coaches as well as the youngsters. Quite rightly they are very pleased with themselves and that is very natural. However, it is difficult to judge how good a team is until it meets an even better one. Our Under 14 are a good example of what I am trying to say. One week they win by 50 plus points and then they come down to earth with a bump.

When you are on the receiving end, the important thing must be to grasp the reasons as to why it happened and how to ensure that it is not repeated. Lesson over (spot the teacher).

FIRST TEAM

Over the years, Old Yards have enjoyed playing in the so called Local Derbies. Eds, Camp Hill, Woodrush, Kings Norton etc. have been games with a little more interest than others and I guess local bragging rights are part of the process. Last Saturday we welcomed Camp Hill for a game that turned out to be disappointing for the home club.

The final score of 26-3 to the visitors might have been a little flattering, but on the day we got what we deserved. Nothing.

The camps kept it simple, short forward drives, excellent defence and taking the points when the opportunity was there. Not rocket science but it did the trick.

How about our boys. Flashes of quality were there for all to see but the main difference, as I see it, was that Camps looked like a team that was selected regularly, knew what the individual and the team would be doing and played with confidence.

Whereas, we looked like a team that had never met before, expected to finish second and did so.

Changes

I would like to thank Richard Bragg for the effort he has put into the club and wish him all the best in his future coaching career.

Also we welcome Steve Chinn to the club that he once played for. Steve's actual role will be published shortly.

Good to see

At the game on Saturday, one time second team captain and smooth guy Phil Swales paid a visit to the club and it would be good to see him again.

LUCKY TO HAVE MISSED IT.

Tue, 18 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Thank heavens for Brendan Fahy

For those of you under the age of 50 or even more, this might not make much sense but here goes. A long time ago, Brendan joined our club and would attempt to play anywhere in the backs with equal mediocrity wherever selected to play. Now we had a crash ball centre known to many of you and his name was Simon Brown. On the only day that Simon was unavailable, Brendan stepped in to replace him. Simon is still upset by the fact that the team photograph appeared in the local newspaper. Brendan still has the blown up version on his living room wall and when Simon and myself travelled down to Colchester for his 60th party, the photo was there for all to see.

On the positive side, being in Essex was apparently better than being in Shropshire watching our first team lose to Cleobury from a lower league in a cup match. Thanks Brendan.

Well done to our 2nds for an impressive performance and victory at Worcester.

Stars of the future

After the highly successful club festivals, we now begin the nitty gritty business. This Sunday sees us play Sutton- based Veseyans. Our under 7,8,9,10,11,12 will be playing at the Old Yards and the under 13,14s will play at the Edwardians. Kick off time 11.00.

Comedy Night - Saturday 22nd October 2016

Wed, 12 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Old Yards are holding another comedy night on Saturday 22nd October, three great comedians plus the compère – we need your support for this event please see the poster below. Tickets £10 each

Please see Pat or Shannon for tickets or just email pat.mcdaid@blueyonder.co.uk

Is there really more to rugby than just winning ?

Sun, 09 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Mini and Junior Stars of the future.

For the second Sunday morning running, we hosted a festival of Mini and Junior rugby from under 7 through to under 14. Teams came from local clubs and from more distant outposts.With games on all over the three club pitches it was difficult to know what was happening in terms of scores and I suspect that the majority of players, parents and and managers were not that concerned.

It was a bright sunny morning, the girls on Hot Dog duty were on top form. It would be good to see a few more of our players helping out on a Sunday and we do believe that you would enjoy the experience.

A special mention goes out to our 'Clubaholich' Debbie for her drive and enthusiasm without which I doubt if these things would ever happen.

The First team

The pre-match clubhouse feeling was that damage limitation would be our best approach as we had a number of key players missing. As things turned out the 'Doom and Gloom' group got it wrong. I realise that we eventually lost the game by a single point but it could have gone either way. For the first 15 minutes we did not touch the ball and the only score was a Tamworth penalty. However, as the game progressed, we came into it strongly. Quality line out possession and a powerful scrum provided plenty of ball and powerful surges by Liam and Ian caused the opposition a lot of problems. With the lead changing from side to side the excitement grew and just as we thought we had done enough to snatch victory, Tamworth scored with virtually the last play of the game.

Thanks go to the referee and we don't hold it against him for coming from the Shirley Park area. He made a few mistakes but then so did we.

Back to my original question, 'is there more to the game than just winning?' It probably depends on your personal viewpoint, but I think it is a great game which is even greater when you win.

The Thirds.

Having lost by a single point three weeks ago against the first team of Dixonians, our boys went away to put things right. As they say, 'mission accomplished' as we beat them by 50 points to 7. Just think how much more you could enjoy your rugby if you trained and made yourselves available for selection on a regular basis.

Comedy Night

At the club Saturday 22nd October.

Support your club and have a good evening. Tickets from Shannon or Pat.

A TRULY MEMORABLE DAY

Mon, 19 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Even She who is not the greatest fan of the game or the social interaction that goes with it had to admit that she almost enjoyed herself along with the coven that contains, Loretta, Lynda, Sue and a few Sally's here and there.

As 50th Parties go I thought it was an excellent occasion and, on behalf of everybody who attended I would like to thank all of those who helped prepare it with special mention to Shannon and Pat.

For a few hours I felt quite young again with so many past players, friends from Camp Hill and the Eds. I will not attempt to name all our guests in case I miss anyone out but thanks to all of you who joined us for the day.

Sometimes, on a Sunday morning as we venture back to the club again, John Lonie and myself, talk about how the game has evolved and we often come to the conclusion that it is becoming just a game rather than a club, in other words arrive, play go home. In addition, we are not fond of the players who flit around from club to club. We think that pride in the club is slowly vanishing. However, it was good to see so many of our younger players staying for a drink or maybe two and chatting with the 'stars of the past'.Perhaps we got it wrong. but we could all feel the unity on Saturday.

First Team

To start with, Stafford have never been an easy team win against and it was no different this time. They were well organised and clearly motivated. However, with a large crowd expecting something special it was never going to be spectacular but a win, in our first home league game, was essential. The game was played at a frenetic pace but neither team could claim to be dominant. Goal kicking was below par from both teams but the game remained close throughout the match and a dramatic finale saw Stafford score a try wide out to leave them two points behind with a conversion opportunity that would have given them a draw. Depending on your loyalty, the kicker narrowly missed and the final whistle gave the Yards a two point victory which in my opinion was just about merited.

Richard's Thoughts

Our new coach was pleased with the growing confidence which we all know takes time especially when a number of new players break into the team but the boys are starting to read each other's play. He is a little concerned that we are not turning territorial advantage into points, which was very evident on Saturday when we had camped in the opposition 22 but failed to score. A special mention must be made as our information suggested that Stafford had a strong scrum. Time for the Fridge. Aged between 48 and 50, Peter offered his services and the problem was solved. Not only that, it meant that the post-match buffet was cleared up with little delay.

OTHER RESULTS

The seconds came second at Kenillworth.

The Vandals lost by one point 25-26 against Dixonians First Team.

Fixtures this Saturday, at the moment,

First Team v Malvern 3.00 Home RFU Intermediate cup

Second Team v Handsworth home 3.00

Vandals (TBA)

Minis and Juniors

Contact your team managers for up to date news.

Six Nations Tickets 2017

Sun, 18 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Six Nations International Tickets

The application form is attached for the games against Scotland and France.

You need to note the following...

All applicants must be FULL members of Old Yardleians.
FULL members = Fully paid playing members, Vice Presidents, Life Members, Ten Year Members and Honorary Members.
If you are none of these you must pay your £50 annual subscription to the club before I can accept your application.
Applications must be returned to myself including payment by Saturday 1st October 2016.
This is early due to the RFU bringing their date forward.
On the bottom of the form are the Old Yardleians RFC International Ticket Allocation Terms and Conditions.
If you want tickets for England vs. Italy please contact me direct by 1st October 2016
Demand is high and tickets few so availability is limited

All applications must include payment and a completed application form

Mark Baldwin

International Ticket Officer

Celebrating 50 Years at Tilehouse Lane

Sat, 17 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

We are holding a '50 Years at Tilehouse Lane' party on Saturday 17th September and are trying to get the word out to as many ex-members and friends as possible. The First XV are playing their first home league game of the season and the Vets will be playing Old Dixonians. Please click here for further details about the day and a list of members we are trying to contact as well as confirmed attendees.

A DAY OUT IN SHROPSHIRE

Sun, 11 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

FIRST TEAM

With a full team load of players supporting Purdy on his European excursion that eventually leads to wedded bliss, there were gaps in our preferred line up as they took on Shrewsbury. It is probably fair to say that all teams have availability problems at times and a squad of back up players that can step up at short notice is vital. No excuses, my reporter in Salop (that's what the locals call it) Tom Power, thought that we played well enough in parts to have collected more than bonus points but the penalty count against us eventually cost us the game. We could point our fingers at the referee but our own lack of discipline is probably the main factor.

New coach, Richard, was pleased with many parts of our performance and as we outscored the home team in terms of tries by 4 to 3, there is hope for us. A special mention for our league debut player, Reece, who according to our coach scored an excellent try. There are areas in our game which need some attention but I think we will keep that for our the training pitch rather than share them with future opponents.

Fixtures this weekend

Saturday (17 Sept) 3.00 kick offs

First Team v Stafford at Home League

Second Team Awaiting Pool opponents (watch this space)

Vandals v Dixonians at Home

Sunday 18 Sept (arrive 10.30 for 11.00 start)

Under 8 and under 9 both make the short journey to Woodrush

The rest of our teams will be training at Old Yards

A Special Day in the history of our club

50 years ago this weekend, we played our first game at our current ground. In all honesty I cannot think of a better setting than our Tilehouse Lane home.

We are inviting players, officials and followers of the club from over those years to join us in celebration. News has reached us that the driving force behind the original idea, Dave Collen, will be joining us from his Channel Island retreat, to celebrate the occasion. We are also attempting to contact the former Scrum half, Nick Booth (Blair).

It should be a memorable day so get there early and enjoy the company.

PROMISING START BUT PLENTY OF WORK TO BE DONE

Wed, 07 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

FIRST TEAM

Playing at home against a useful Bournville team, the pre- match showers made the pitch slippery and handling suffered at times. However, with our league programme due to commence this Saturday at Shrewsbury, it was a very useful work out. Handling, particularly passing, was very disappointing especially with our centres looking so dangerous when given clean and early ball. In addition, if our forwards were able to arrive at the breakdown just a little quicker then I think there is much to look forward to in the coming season.

A special welcome to the very knowlegable Nat and Andy, and I wish them and their more than useful son (a match winning potential outside half in my opinion) an enjoyable time at the Old Yards. Yet another product of Tommies, Reece managed to collide with Andy Pearce our winger, who had to leave the game with possible concussion. The final score was a 10-10 draw. Two tries per team and no kicker came close to adding conversions.

VANDALS

Our up and coming Vandals made the short trip to Southport, a very strong northern club, in order to take on their 'Shipwreckers'. Early reports from up North tell us that we had a win by 26-12. I am confident that a detailed report will be arriving soon.

Micros, Minis and Juniors

Sunday was the first registration day for our 'stars of the future' and the number of youngsters present suggest that we will be a force to be reckoned with this season.

Social News

Next Saturday, 17th September, is the day when we as a club celebrate 50 years at the magnificent Tilehouse Lane ground. Don't miss out on Spam Sandwiches, Angel Delight and beer at 1966 prices. As a bonus, you will hopefully get the chance to exchange tales with our 'Channel Island' reporter, Dave Collen, who was there from the start.

Fixtures

This Saturday, 10th September,

First team v Shrewsbury League, Away, 3.00 kick off

Second team v Alcester Home, 3.00 kick off

Vandals Are still returning from the Arctic Circle, so at this stage nothing arranged.

M,M and J Training

EVEN CLOSER

Mon, 29 Aug 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Next Saturday (3rd September)

A change of plan. We were due to travel toCleobury Mortimer for a North Mids Shield game but it appears that our opponents are not quite ready for the match to take place. It seems a little vague but we will try to keep you informed.

Last Saturday

As soon as our Bow and Arrow session finished I called in at the Edwardians to see our first team squad were prepared for the coming season in Midlands Division Two. The hosts are a league below us and although they were fired up and determined to put on a display for their supporters, the gulf between the divisions was clear enough to see and the Yards were in almost complete control, scoring at will.

MINIS AND JUNIORS

Welcome back. This Sunday and the following Sunday are 'Registration' days when you sign up for the season. There will also be training so make it an early night on Saturday so that you can impress your team coaches.We invite new players and parents to come along to see for themselves what goes on at our club.

CHARITY ARCHERY

It was good to see so many of our followers taking part in a Charity 'Shoot' last Saturday. Our friends from 'Solihull Archers' provided the tuition, Dave Adams (Me), collected the cash and Station Fish and Chip Shop yet again delivered a lot of very tasty meals. Top shooters, in my opinion were Stan Silverman, Bryn Adams, Chris Martin and 'She who thought she was Maid Marion', did show some improvement and I think that given time, anything is possible. A big thank you to Pat for running the bar.

CHARITY WALK

If any of you are willing to join us at Packwood House on Sunday Morning we are taking part in a 5 to 6 mile walk in scenic Warwickshire finishing with a drink or two at 'The Navigation' in Lapworth. More information is available from Dave Adams.

IT'S ALMOST THAT TIME AGAIN

Fri, 19 Aug 2016 00:00:00 GMT

THE NEW SEASON IS UPON US

The club looks great both inside and outside as well as the pitches with credit to those who have given up a lot of their time. Well done and thanks.

New coach Richard Bragg has been working with a lot of enthusiasm and our backs look particularly sharp and our forwards will be very strong as they always have been.Mark has been busy searching for talent, (players) and tells me that things are looking promising.

THE FIRST TEAM

Captain this season will be Micky Brennan,one of the best second rows that I have seen at this level. He is one of a rare breed in that position as he not only does the basics but he can run,pass,tackle and do all the things that Blox, Granty and Big Al can only dream about.

THE SECOND (DEVELOPMENT) TEAM.

Under the leadership of Dave Langley and Ian Walker, two players who would walk into most first teams, we are looking for greater consistency, and expect the side to contain a blend of experience along with promising youngsters who have the potential to break into the first team.

THE VANDALS/VETS

What do we expect? the same again please.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARIES

August 27th First team v Eds in a friendly at home 3.00 kick off.

September 3rd First team v Cleobury Mortimer away 3.00 kick off North Mids Shield.

THE SMOOTHEST PROP EVER SEEN.

Many years ago when I first arrived in this part of the world, I was taken under the wing, along with any other naive newcomers, of an amazing and articulate player by the name of Hilton Smith. The 'place to be seen on a Saturday night was the Robin Hood and that is where the man excelled. White shoes, tight red trousers, white shirt unbuttoned to the waist, gold ingot and the patter that even Sid could not offer.

So what is the link?

Hilton moved into rural Shropshire where he became the 'role model' of every male in a place by the name of Cleobury,(pronounced Clidbury) Mortimer. On Saturday 3rd September we have been drawn in the cup to play that very club. Give yourself plenty of time to get there, red trousers not needed, Satnav essential and you never know, some of that smoothness might rub off on you.

MORE NEWS

There is much going on at our club, but that's enough for now. Watch this space.

Mr Wenger still knows best. It might not always seem that way but have faith.

NEW SEASON means NEW CHALLENGES

Fri, 29 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMT

It seems only yesterday when we overcame Droitwich and lifted yet another trophy but August is soon to be upon us so what lies ahead for us? Our First XV has a lot of potential both in the pack and in the back division. However, it does not always seem to click as a team. I might be wrong but as I see things regular training together and availability for all games makes a vast difference on the pitch. Next on my list would be the importance of keeping our discipline and not conceding so many penalties. Welcome to new coach, Richard Bragg, and it is up to our players to make sure that they respond to his appointment. We have an interesting programme of fixtures to start the coming season. In the Midlands competition, a home tie against Malvern usually means our forwards gaining superiority and the backs completing the job. In the North Mids Shield a trip out to rural Shropshire to face Cleobury Mortimor gives us the chance to meet up with one time Old Yards Prop, Hilton Smith, and the farming family Allen, especially Freddie who makes a living in the business of sticking his hand up places where we more urban dwellers would not go! Not easy games but I would be disappointed if we did not win them both. I must mention the Charity archery event that took place at the club last Saturday. Thank you to the Solihull Archers for their expertise and a mention for the top shooter of the day, former Matron Judith Bridge, as she did buy the beer. Most improved award goes to Bruno, a man of many talents.

WHAT HAS CHANGED OVER 50 YEARS ?

Fri, 08 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMT

50 Years at Tilehouse Lane

Some of our more senior members claim that they can remember the opening of our club in its semi-rural location 50 years ago. Dave Collen, Tex, Blox, Sid were at their prime, Geoff Hurst was a national hero and summers were always sunny.

Should we celebrate ?

Most definitely yes.

How ?

The Wise Men of the Club have deliberated and the programme will look like this.

The date of the main celebration will be Saturday 17 September which is also our first home league game of the season. Will our new coach start with a victory or will Stafford spoil the party?

Past players, Club Members, followers will be joined by Rugby dignitaries (if we can find any),with lunch provided. Beer will be at 1966 prices and the evening celebration will feature a sixties fancy dress and contemporary music. If you are all really good Shannon will arrange a buffet which could include Spam or Corned Beef sandwiches and hopefully Angel Delight.

Pre-season training

I was very impressed to see so many of our players training on Tuesday and with a lot of enthusiasm. Watching from the advisory zone were Fridge, Arkell, Big Mark, Shannon as well as myself and we all agreed that new coach Richard can be pleased.

WELCOME TO OUR NEW CLUB COACH

Tue, 05 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMT

RICHARD BRAGG

I am very pleased to introduce to all of our members, players and followers, the Club's new coach Richard Bragg. Born and raised locally he is in line for a hectic time as he is a family man, is getting married soon to Stephanie and, it could be argued that he is also getting seriously attached to the Old Yardleians.

Richard has gained a lot of experience as a player in the Midlands and London areas and, even more importantly, with the Old Yards Vandals. Furthermore, he has been involved with coaching at a range of age groups as well as Ladies Rugby where he met his beloved. (enough to bring tears to your eyes).

When asked why he was so interested in coming to our club, he mentioned the warm welcome he received, the facilities on offer and the Mini and Junior set up

His ambitions for the coming season include the development of strength in depth with competition for places in all positions.In addition, he wants all players to enjoy their rugby and that is much easier if the team are winning.

Richard McCrainor

I would like to thank Richard for all his work at the club over a number of seasons. He arrived when the club was in a very low state both off the field and in performance. He provided stability and the confidence of the team grew. The team played a vastly more effective style of rugby and with it success quickly arrived. Richard, thanks from myself and everybody at the Old Yards.

THE FUNERAL OF GEORGE GRANT

Tue, 21 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Following last week's news of the death of George, details of the funeral arrangements have been sent to me.

The service is scheduled for 12.30 on Tuesday 28th June at the Robin Hood Crematorium Chapel followed by burial.

The family have asked for any donations to go to the Brain Tumour Charity. These can be made via Steve or Phil Painter at the service.

SAD NEWS OF THE DEATH OF GEORGE GRANT

Wed, 15 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMT

GEORGE GRANT

There are times when we struggle to find the right words to use and this is one of them.

When the devastating news arrived of George having passed away, I am certain that there were many others who were very much stunned.

The Players, Officials and Followers of Old Yardleians Rugby Football Club are united in sending their deepest sympathy to his family and friends.

May He rest in peace.

Work weekend - Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th June

Mon, 06 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The committee is organising a work weekend on the above dates to give the clubhouse and surrounds their annual spruce up. Please try and spare a few hours of your time on either the Saturday or Sunday to give something back to your club.
Below is a list of jobs that need doing.
If you would like to tackle any job in particular then please let me know by emailing me or texting me to discuss. Email: shannon.t.killarney at blueyonder.co.uk or text: 07866 260262.

Old Yardleians Work Weekend 18th-19th June 2017 – Snag List

· Install additional downpipe on changing room gutter

· Leaking taps in player’s toilets

· Strim the drive and surrounds

· Re-pointing tile edges on the main roof – both gable ends

· Replace cover on outside power socket (on the brick barbeque)

· Anti-mildew paint on shower ceilings

· Paint the changing room floors and corridor floors – red floor paint

· Service the tractor (Dan Green you’ve been promising this for months!)

· End wall – investigate cause of damp under external render

· Wipe down the gutters and facias

· Replace the membrane over the gravel covered drainage channels with a porous membrane

· Investigate and fix the cause of the leak in the First XV away dressing room

· Strim overgrown vegetation behind the clubhouse

· Repairs to back wall of clubhouse

· Permanent/secure siting of the diesel powered floodlights (anchorage and anti-theft fixings)

· Jet wash decking area and re-seal (Ronseal or equivalent)

· Weatherproof (Ronseal) the ‘rum-shack’ (covered barbeque area)

· Wash down changing room walls and doors

· Anything else that looks like it needs fixing

Old Yardleians seek new coaching team

Sat, 04 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Old Yardleians are seeking to appoint a new coaching team for the next stage in the club’s plans to challenge for promotion from Midlands Two West (North).
The club would welcome inquiries and/or applications from both player/coaches (forwards and backs) and Head Coaches.
The committee are open minded as to the selection of the coaching team and may recruit from any of the roles and/or a combination of all three as a team working together.
Old Yardleians are based in Solihull, are financially secure and will offer the coaching staff the best level of support and remuneration at level 7 to match the clubs ambitions.
Coaches will be responsible for both team and individual player development plans and will be provided with a national league level of off-field support to assist success.
For further enquiries, or to send your CV, please contact Mark Higgins on 07526158431 or email markahiggins@outlook.com

Club policy regarding the use of Social Media

Sat, 21 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

To all club members and friends, please note that the RFU requires that we publish a Social Media Policy which advises the membership about the do's and don'ts of using Social Media such as our web site, Twitter and Facebook.

Here is a link to our official policy, please take a moment to read and digest.

In summary, please use your common sense when commenting on club matters in official club forums.

Cheers,

Shannon.

CHAMPIONS

Sun, 08 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

NORTH MIDS SHIELD / VASE

Congratulations to our First Team and to their coaching staff.

Always in the lead but still very tight, the final score 27 - 22 to the Yards.

A special mention to Andrew Pearce, Tommies Graduate, for his two tries.

Droitwich, thank you for a game in which you never gave up and best wishes for next season.

WE REACH THE CLIMAX ON SUNDAY

Wed, 04 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Another season closes in on us this coming weekend. The Senior pundits who moan and groan from the touchline are of the opinion that our First Team vary from Brilliant to dreadful with the occasional performance in between. Well, this weekend is our only chance of Silverware,(reminds me of a football team)and I believe that if we can play as we did against Kidderminster and again at Woodrush then we will win a trophy for the club cabinet.The competition is known as the north mids shield/plate and not as Fridge labels it the North Mids Teapot. The semi-final at Woodrush was fairly predictable with the home side starting strongly, taking a scrum against the head and putting the pressure on in the loose. Three early scores from a drop goal and 2 pens gave the home fans a few moments to savour but it was not to last as Yards dominated the set pieces and our backs and flankers started to cut through the opposition with relative ease. Superior fitness eventually told and a final score of 9-37 tells it's own story.I will not single out individuals as I thought the whole of our team worked hard and showed character. For the woodrush team open side flanker, Taylor and full-back Duce (product of Tommies)stood out. Now it is all down to the final. Next Sunday at Dudley K.with a 1.30 kick off.Our opponents on the day, Droitwich, have not had a great season so logic suggests that they will want to go out with a win. PRESIDENT' DAY Club President and man of many hats, Steve Painter would like to invite you to the club on Saturday where there will be plenty to watch, do, eat,drink and talk about. At 1.00 our under 13s will be playing against local friends and rivals, Camp Hill. At 3.00 our Vandals (Veterans) will play against a President's Invitation side. Coming up soon will be the club dinner and the A.G.M. but more about that later.

SUPPORT OUR BOYS TODAY

Sat, 30 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The season is almost over and for either Woodrush or Old Yards it will be over by later this afternoon.

We are putting out a strong squad for this semi-final plate/shield game and for the winners there will be a nice trip over to Dudley for next weekend's final which we believe will be against Droitwich.

Forget your televisions, forget shopping and if your wife, girlfriend desires your company then bring her to the game and let her enjoy the treat of rugby, a drink or two in a nice rural setting and if it creates a lasting impression then they might come along again.

How do you find the Woodrush ground ?

The address is Icknield Street, (B38 0E1)

Look out for The Peacock public house and it's almost opposite you.

THE KICK OFF TIME IS 2.30

Bloxham, note it is not 3.00.

SEE YOU ALL THERE.

Are you looking for work with a difference?

Tue, 26 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMT

One of our players has passed on to me news of a job with a difference. Events Company, Gallowglass Events are looking for fit, hard workers to set up Live events, Sports, concerts etc . You will help to transport, build,and dismantle stages, scenery, flooring and seats.

Most of the work is in the Birmingham area and you will be expected to work unsocial hours. Pay will possibly reach £15 per hour.

For more details, have a look at the website of gallowglass.crewzone.

MORE UPS THAN DOWNS BUT STILL ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT.

Mon, 18 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMT

First Team

With the Vice-Presidents, Volunteers and Sponsors adding to the size of the crowd, a treat of Midlands division 2 standard rugby was expected as Old Salts were the visitors for this end of season match. The Salts have been near the top of the league table for most of the season and, to be honest, they deserved their win by 31-11. In simple language, when Yards got into try scoring positions, the feeling was that we would not trouble the scoreboard, but when The Salts worked their way into similar situations they were more likely to score.

Having said that, there have been many areas of the game in which we have shown much improvement on an individual and team basis, which gives us something to build on for next season.

A final league position of just below half-way might not sound all that wonderful but we seem to be at a level that matches our performances. If we do not manage to better that at the end of next season then it really would be disappointing.

The Vandals

We welcomed Tamworth to play our Vandals and even loaned them some of our players. A high scoring match ended with a considerable winning margin in our favour. I felt that I needed an appointment at Specsavers when I thought I saw Andy Killarney powering over for a try but apparently it did happen. Well done Andy, we knew there was potential and now it has been fulfilled.

Our Future Stars perform at Camp Hill Festival.

On Sunday we made the short trip to local friends and rivals Camp Hill. Apparently the correct (politically?) way of doing things is to keep quiet about victories in order not to upset the losers.

So I shall whisper it, We were highly successful, but go into our club Facebook for more details.

WHAT GOES ON AT THE CLUB IN THE SUMMER

In years gone by, at the end of the last home match of the season, somebody would lock the door which would not be opened again until the start of the next season. However, it is now recognised that the Clubhouse itself is a real asset which can bring in much needed revenue to support the all year round financial demands.

As far as I can remember, The Old Yards has been the venue for Archery, Model Plane Flying, Aussie Rules Football and many other fascinating events. Furthermore, the Clubhouse itself has beeen hired out for Wedding Receptions,Christening Parties, Funeral Receptions, Retirement parties,Birthdays, Local Schools Proms (or Leaving Parties), Engagement Parties and Company Functions.

So what am I getting to ?

Very recently, She who likes to party reached a 'Big Birthday'and also decided to retire from her position of running the NHS almost single handed. Off She trotted to the shops to strip the rails of all their dresses, shoes and other items which I will leave to your imagination.

We booked the club (at a slight discount for club members) , arranged a Hog Roast, which was located in Pricey's Burger Kitchen, found a Band of talented musicians (Ellie found them), by the name of 'Hit the Floor' and the bar was staffed brilliantly. If you would like to get in touch with the Band or the Hog Roast supplier, contact me for details as I strongly recommend them.

The club has a good sized car park, taxis are happy to operate in the area and if the weather is suitable it can be very pleasant to sit out on the patio and have a quiet chat.

BOOKING THE CLUB

Do you know anyone who might wish to hire the club for an event? If you do, get in touch with Pat McDaid or anyone on the committee, or even me (Dave Adams)

NOT LONG TO GO

Thu, 14 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Stuff you need to know

This Saturday, 15th April, at the club our First XV will be playing their final home league of the season. Our opponents will be Old Salts. We narrowly lost the corresponding match early in the season so it should be an interesting game.

Also, from 1.00 there will be a gathering of vice presidents, Volunteers and Sponsors which I have been told includes a free bar and the usual high quality buffet. It gives you the chance to put the world to right.

An event not to be missed will be the AGM of the club at the club on Friday 6th May.

On the following Friday 13th May, will be the Annual Club dinner. Quality food and a quality speaker, Doddie Weir all for £35 per ticket which you can buy from Debs or Gary.

More from Debs. The Mini and Junior teams end of season presentation will take place on Sunday 24th April at the club from 11.00 till about 3.00.

I could write a bit more but I won't.

A SEASON OF UPS AND DOWNS

Mon, 04 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Earlier in the season we produced an embarrassing performance at Kidderminster, losing by 5-50. No excuses, we were poor. As I see things, when we are at full strength we play some very good rugby. However, the commitment to making regular availability seems to be lacking. This week we welcomed a Kidderminster team who have been in very good form recently and I think that they expected to win in style. Even with the news that half of their team were injured, shopping or whatever, they came in confident mood but got a real shock from a side much lower down the league table. I enjoyed reading the Kiddy match report so I won't duplicate it. Briefly, we scored a team try from a driving maul and an early penalty which gave us a basis to perform on and with Jake back to his best in terms of tactical and line kicking, we were making good ground whenever our opponents made mistakes. Our Line out was dominant,we were strong in open play and showed good speed in the backs. All in all we played some of our best rugby of the season and with the sun shining it made for a very pleasant afternoon. Our referee, who came all the way from Watford, was better than most that we have seen and I would like to thank him and Colin Major, his adviser, and all our guests from Kidderminster. To make the day, The Gunners also won. I think I have forgotten something, Old Yards 30 points, Kidderminster 10 points.

THE STARS OF THE FUTURE

Unusually, the sun was shining on sunday morning as our young stars entertained Bournville. It appears that the game's ruling body do not want to see too much publicity for winners or losers so the culture and traditions of our great game are about to vanish. Perhaps I have got it wrong. anyway there were a lot of games with all shapes and sizes giving it their best, as were excited parents.It really is good to see the game thriving at this level. Well done all of you, coaches, chefs etc etc.

NEXT SUNDAY

If the sun shines (highly unlikely), why not take a short drive to Studley on the A435 to support our youngsters where they take on Alcester. Kick off 11.00. You might even enjoy it.

Quiz Evening

Thanks to all of you that took part and in particular, Rick and Sue Thorne for their marking skills, Bill, Geena and Kevin for their bar skills. Congratulations to Andy Clifford and his team for winning and a special thanks to the Station Fish Bar for their punctual service and for their very nice fish and chips.

THINGS ARE STARTING TO LOOK BETTER

Tue, 08 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Even when She/We (guess which) decide on a weekend on the Quantocks involving walking up and down hills and through mud and anything animals might leave behind, I attempt to stay in touch with how our teams are doing. For a very pleasant change the news this week was much better than in recent times. The only disappointment was that the Gooners failed to see off their opposition.

Senior Teams

After a run of disappointing results our First XV came good when it was needed. Handsworth are always a side that should be respected whatever their league position might suggest. However, my reporter at the game was pleased with what was produced and informs me that tries were scored by Rob Connolly, Micky Brennan, Liam Dunne and young Jack Fitz who doesn't appear to have inherited his father's speed or lack of it. Looking across at the scoreboard, he thinks the score was 33-7 in our favour.

The Vandals continue to impress and played a team that we knew little about called Gnossall. Our Man at the match was happy to report a Vandals win by 29-14 and his report on the game is available for you to read.

Junior Teams

Over recent seasons, Kings Norton have developed a reputation as one of the leading Mini and Junior clubs around these parts. Well it looks like we have caught them up with all our parents, coaches and players returning from Hopwood after an outstanding morning of rugby.

Even more pleasing was the news from 'Aussie' John Gaffey that our under 13s defeated Moseley. That can't be bad can it ?

This coming weekend sees our 'Stars of the future' on tour in Shropshire, where they have a game against Shrewsbury. Enjoy the weekend all of you and the following Sunday we welcome Keresley to our club.

Quiz Night

Diary date for any Quizzers. We are holding a Charity Quiz at the club on Friday 25th March from 7.15. Teams of up to a maximum of six players, cost per person will be £3 or £6 if you would like to indulge in a quality interval feast of Fish and Chips. Bill Collins will be opening the bar and you may bring friends to join your team or just turn up and join in with another team. If you want more information contact Dave Adams.

Belligerence!

Sun, 06 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Unlike the season's previous encounter, with Kings Norton 2nds unable to draw on their firsts for support they declined the short trip to Tilehouse Lane, leaving our Master of Fixtures to pluck out the Club's first ever fixture against Gnosall 1sts from Staffordshire. Gnosall (silent G obviously), ply their trade in Staffordshire Merit 2, and currently sit five points clear having won 11 of their 15 games, so another tough assignment on the cards for the Elderly Gentlemen of the Club. As expected a very youthful Gnosall took to the field early doors to run the countless drills so popular amongst the young these days. The Vandals arriving on site in their usual "staggered" manner moreorless in time for kick off. Gnosall with twenty odd years on virtually our entire side with the exception of our two young wingers started with vim & vigour and took the lead with a well struck penalty. As usual the Vandals treating the first ten minutes as a warm up continued to absorb pressure, before working their way up field for a Gnosall lineout inside their 22, great pressure from the evergreen Nick Levey charging down the clearance kick, saw both him and second row Dave Rimmer chasing down the loose ball with the slighty longer Rimmer touching down to take the lead 5-3. However Gnosall continued to play the percentage game, and indiscretions by the home side saw two more well struck penalties sail over to give them a 9-5 lead at half time. Shortly after half time a well worked move saw Gnosall increase their lead further with an unconverted try out wide, and the Vandals were looking down the barrel again at 14-5 down. But as our regular readers know we seldom lie down and with our pack beginning to exert more & more control over the youngsters with a series of powerful driving mauls and punishing scrums. Rimmer now playing at No.8 added to his tally for the day with push over try converted by fly half Max Gimson, to bring the Vandals within a score at 14-12. With the young Gnosall pack increasingly unable to cope with the experienced (read heavier) Vandals eight who began to turn the screw at every scrum two further close range scores from No.8 Rimmer taking his tally for the game to four, and prop Richard Bragg saw the home side safely home, with Gimson adding a conversion the final score was 29-14.

WHAT A PLEASANT SURPRISE.

Tue, 01 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

On a day when the affluent members of the club opted for Twickenham or HQ as it is sometimes called, the rest of us made our way down to Tilehouse Lane to see how much damage limitation we could provide in two fairly difficult matches.

That well known local Master of Mathematics and one-time Edwardian centre, Mr Ogan, was impressed by the fact that we were able to produce both second and third/Vets teams. In his words," this is what rugby should be about." I am not entirely sure what he meant but it sounded good at the time.

Town sides

Whether it is correct or not, many rugby folk consider that town sides are usually stronger than the Old Boys type of clubs and with the Seconds playing Walsall 2nds and the Vandals/Thirds playing Kenilworth Pirates/Thirds, there was a feeling that we might not win. But as my article indicates we were about to receive "A pleasant surprise".

The Walsall teams are usually determined and that was how they played but a vastly improved Yards put together a very impressive performance to win by 28-8

The Vandals, dead and buried with a 17 point deficit came back strongly to win by 38-36.

Two excellent wins and credit not only to the players but also to the team management for producing teams on the day.

Weekend Fixtures

Saturday 5th March

First XV v Handsworth Home League

Second XV v Halesonians Away Merit table

Thirds /Vandals v Kings Norton 2nds Home

Please note that 'spring is in the air' March is with us and senior games kick off at 3.00.

Fridge, your games kick off at Midday.

Sunday 6th March

Under 7,8,10,11,12 all play at Kings Norton.

Under 13 V Moseley at Home.

TRENCH FOOT ?

Thu, 18 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Richard recalls the Great War

On many Saturday afternoons, Richard Walker will slip back in time and tell us what life was like in the days of Dave Collen, Tex and others from that era. Apparently, in the First World War, which was about that time in History, the soldiers dug deep trenches to provide shelter and protection from the enemy attacks. These trenches tended to fill up with mud, water and other fluid waste materials, which led to all kinds of foot and leg infections.

So where is this leading us ?

Well on most Saturdays, those spectators who assemble on the 'scoreboard' side of the pitch are in danger of experiencing similar conditions, but loyalty to our club means that a fairly large group of supporters will gather there in the hope of seeing the Old Yardleians produce entertaining and stylish rugby with the occasional victory included for good measure. Sadly, in recent weeks, there has been very little to talk about in terms of rugby so I guess that is why conversation moves on to other topics.

Response from our Channel Island correspondent - Dave Collen..

Hi Dave,
Yes, it was just like the Great War, when we were toiling 51 years ago at Whitlocks End.

A few images attached to prove the point...

George Jephcott (RIP) Dudley Parry (middle) and Colin Stone (front) working in the trench for the back wall. The excavation for the bath area can also be seen.

The hut we lived in during the summer of 1965, with l-r George Jephcott (RIP) Richard Walker (banjo) Kiwi Thompson (RIP) and Mick Louch

The inside of the hut - squalor or what?

The recently departed Ivor Enoch excavating the cesspool.

I will feed more images in over time
Cheers
Dave Collen.

First XV

Last Saturday we welcomed Veseyans to the Tilehouse Lane home of the Old Ys. Looking at the season so far for both sides, it was a game that either team might consider winnable. On the day, it was very cold so it was understandable that frozen hands might make handling difficult. But it would be the same for both sides. To be honest, we never really looked like we wanted to or expected to win. The visitors deserved their win by 23-5.

Let's hope that we can put last week behind us and as we make that long journey down to Camp Hill, it would be very pleasant if we could produce the result that we know is achievable.

On our previous meeting earlier in the season, the Camps were smarter than us. They intimidated us and instead of keeping calm and focused, we lost our composure, gave away numerous penalties and filled the sin bin. We hope that we have learnt from the experience and if we get a positive result, then a bit of discomfort for the fans will be overlooked.

This Weekend's Fixtures

Saturday 20th Feb

Firsts xv v Camp Hill League 2.15 Away

Second XV v Handsworth 2s 2.15 Home

Sunday 21st Feb

Under 7,8,9,10,11,12 all at Home v Upton on Severn 11.00

Under 13 v Harbury Away 10.45

IS WATCHING RUGBY BETTER THAN PLAYING?

Thu, 11 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Is watching rugby better than playing?

We will probably all have different ideas about this one but a few thoughts have crossed my mind. The World Cup, the European Championship, the six nations, televised club matches give us a lot of very good viewing. On the other hand many junior clubs are struggling to put out the same number of teams on a Saturday afternoon than was previously the case. Is it a coincidence or not? Feel free to send in your thoughts on this and we will see what the consensus is.

Looking Ahead

This coming Saturday 13th Feb,

First Team v Veseyans Home 2.15 League

Seconds v Silhilians Away 2.15 Friendly

This Sunday 14th Feb

Under 9/10 v Woodrush home 11.00

Under 11/12 v Woodrush home 11.00

Sunday 21 Feb 21st

Under 7 v Upton v Atherstone Home

Under 8 v Upton v Atherstone Home

Under 9 v Upton v Atherstone Home

Under 10 v Uptton v Atherstone Home

Under 11 v Upton Home

Under 12 v Upton Home

Under 13 v Willenhall Away

ALL OUR TEAMS DO WELL (EXCEPT THE FIRSTS)

Tue, 02 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Saturday Afternoon, not much else to do so where else but the Club. I arrived just as teams were warming up. Not such a large crowd but understandable really as the weather had not been too special. With new Manager, Dave Simpson, running the show and the pack dominating possession, the youthful Bournville back line had few opportunities to shine. Ivor a long-serving Bournville man was particularly impressed by that mobile prop, Peter Butler. The final score was 22-10 in favour of the Yards and Dave Simpson in his post match analysis felt that his new clipboard had played a significant part in the win as did the speed and power shown by his pack of forwards.

The First Team travelled to Stourbridge for a league game. Although we defeated them at home earlier in the season, our generosity was far too great and a final score of 22-50 tells its own story. My Chief Reporter, John Lonie, has a theory concerning our First team displays. It seems, so John thinks, that we produce low scoring, tightly contested matches which we lose by the odd point or two or we go for the Barbarian style of game in which we score freely but our opponents score even more freely. When asked for a possible solution, John suggested that he would offer his experience to our coaching team and that psychology had a part to play.

SENT TO COVENTRY

Wed, 27 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT

I shall explain the title headline shortly.

Last weekends news

Although I was also sent to Coventry, my man at the Old Yards,that successful business man, Second Row Rock, club treasurer and so on, John Lonie, reported back with the opinion that losing home games by just one or two points was a bad habit to get into. He suggested that conditions did not help either Stafford or ourselves but that either team might have sneaked a win. As it was, we came second by 9-10. Enough said.

Down the road at Eds their seconds beat our Vandals (3rds) 25-8 but we won the prize for fielding the most props in one team. Five in total.

The Mini and Junior sides continue to flourish. Playing at home against Coventry based Earlsdon, our youngsters played some excellent rugby and I was very impressed by our under 13s who show skill and speed.

Fixtures this weekend.

As things stand at the moment, it looks like Saturday should feature,

First XV v Stourbridge away 2.15 League.

Second XV v Malvern home 2.15 Merit League

Vandals XV v Spartans home 2.15

Fixture Changes

Second XV v Bournville 2.15 Home

Vandals XV No game yet

On Sunday, at 11.00,

Under 7 and 8 home v Alcester

Under 9, 10,11,12 training

Under 13 in a 3 way contest at Veseyans and also including Telford.

Under 12 v Old Sils Home

Sent to Coventry

Apparently, many years ago, Coventry were one of the best teams in the country, so Robin Sadler has mentioned once or twice. Due to financial and business happenings that is no longer the case,but in a fascinating move, Wasps, originally from London, purchased the Riccoh Arena but still make it available for Coventry City Football Club. To shorten the story, thanks to a friend who got hold of complementary tickets, we went to watch the Wasps play Leinster in a European Cup game. Whatever the result the Irish visitors would not be able to qualify further but they still gave it a go.

Anyway, within seconds of arriving at the stadium I bumped into a group of former Old Yards players who were given free transfers and then ended up at the Edwardians. Tinker, Flembo,Baby Jacks, Mathematical Genius Ogan and a couple of familiar faces who until recently might have been seen somewhere else.

Moving on at speed,we went into the Casino bar where more Old Yards stars from the Shelley Farm were spotted. Fergie, Bob, Wil Hart, Rick Thorne taking a steady pace with their refreshments.

As we moved across to the food zone, who did we bump into,but Shannon, Tom, Houghy, Pricey, and possibly the greatest centre of all time, Steve Sidwell.

Closing in fast, the only Lady in sight, Loretta with her old man Tony Fagan, the Prop who scored two tries in a game at the Eds a few seasons back.

I would not be surprised if the Old Yards was empty.

Don Deneny,

One time Irish Centre and Fly Half, Don Deneny is now based in the West Midlands where he is on the look out for potential International class players.Good Luck in your search Don.

GETTING WARMER AND WETTER (IDEAL CONDITIONS FOR RUGBY)

Thu, 21 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT

WEEKEND FIXTURES

As things stand, confirmed games this weekend are as follows,

Saturday 23rd

First XV v Stafford home 2.15 League

Vandals/Vets/Thirds. v Edwardian Seconds 2.15 Away

Sunday 24

Under 7,8,9,10,11,12 v Earlsdon 11.00 Home

Under 13 v Earlsdon 11.00 Home

Drew's Overseas Fan Club

Mon, 18 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Recently received from our Channel Islands correspondent;

A belated Happy New Year to you all.

A recent post on OYRFC website, mentioned Andy Dunn.

Like all of us, he is now fat, bald and (probably) grumpy. I have attached a photo of Andy in his prime, which newer members might find a useful comparison, with how he is now.

Andy Dunn.

I don't wish this to sound like one of my tributes to the fallen, it is in fact a tribute to someone still actively engaged with the club, after 49 years, and deserving of our admiration.

Andy joined the club pre season 1967, together with John Pearson and Dave Crampton. It was obvious in pre season training that he was a special player.
Andy's first game for the 1st XV was 16th September 1967, versus Trinity Guild.
The photo was taken on 5th October 1968, at Whitlock's End, v Kynoch, and we won 14-6. The move was a training ground move, when we won a scrum against the head (remember those days?) and attacked the blind side. To the left of Andy is me, playing open-side wing forward (7), to the right is scrum half Keith Williams (9). Andy scored from the move and I remember it well, because Andy took the Solihull News photographer over the line with him.

Other scorers that day were John Pearson (try-inevitably), Big Al Harrison (try), and Dave Crampton (1 pen, 1 conversion).

1968/9 was my second season as Club captain, and Andy was vice captain. He was my vice captain again in 1969/70, which was my third and final year. In fact I suffered a relapse of bricklayer's back, mid season, and Andy captained the side for the rest of the season.

In 1970/71 he was rightly elected Club Captain.

A man who typifies all that is good about OYRFC.
Cheers! Dave Collen

LATE FIXTURE CHANGES

Sat, 16 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT

UP TO DATE FIXTURE NEWS

SATURDAY

First team match at Shrewsbury postponed due to parts of the pitch frozen.

Sunday

All games still on.

Also new fixture for under 13s v Lichfield. (To be played at Edwardians)

BY SPECIAL REQUEST OF ANDREW DUNN

Tue, 12 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Drew likes a good read

Andy (Drew) likes to keep up to date with what has been going on at the club, especially as he has missed a few games recently. Well, to be honest, not that much has happened. The Christmas to New Year period has become a rest period for Junior Rugby and once you get to a certain age the mud and rain tend to make the television set more appealing than an afternoon at Tilehouse Lane. Anyway, have a read and let me know if there is anything that could be included.

Senior Teams

Last Saturday saw our First XV take on Wolverhampton, a side above us in the league. Conditions were not ideal but both teams gave it a go and there was very little between the teams. Both sides scored a penalty and both sides scored a try. It seems a bit unfair that a try in the corner and a try under the posts do not count for the same number of points unless you have George Ford in your line up. As you can guess the end result was a 10-8 victory to Wolverhampton, but no complaints as it could have gone our way but it didn't.

On the adjoining pitch there was a very good performance from our Vandals who defeated a very useful Bridgnorth Marauders by 31-10. The mobility shown by Peter (aka Fridge) was particularly impressive.

Stars of the future

With snorkels and flippers probably more useful than conventional attire, our Minis/Juniors made the short trip to Streetsbrook Road to show our friends at the Eds how well we can play in any conditions. The visiting Yardleians swept to victory across the board. Well done to players and coaches.

Fixtures this weekend

Saturday

First XV v Shrewsbury (League) away

Dev/2nd XV v Evesham home

Vandals XV v Evesham away

Sunday

Under 7 Training

Under 8 v Exiles v Aston (3 way) home

Under 9 v Aston Home

Under 10 v Exiles Home

Under 11 v Aston Home

Under 12 v Exiles Home

Under 13 ( awaiting confirmation)

A very important visitor

As I strolled around the touchline, I noticed somebody who I hadn't seen at our club previously but he had a tie on so he must have been fairly important. He introduced himself as Stuart Potter and that he was a member of the RFU Council. I am not too sure what that means but I hope he enjoyed the experience.

BACK TO OUR BELOVED GAME

Tue, 05 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT

We hope you had a good time over the holiday period.

While you have all been relaxing, the club's fixture Secs, Mark for the Seniors and myself, Dave for the Minis and Juniors have been attempting to arrange your forthcoming matches.

So, here we go.

Saturday 9th January, (Kick Offs at 2.15)

First XV v Wolverhampton (Home) League

Second XV v Worcester (Away) Merit Table

Vandals/Vets v Bridgnorth (Home)

Sunday 10 th January (Kick Offs at 11.00

Under 8,9,10,11 all v Edwardians (Away)

Under 7, 12, 13 all training.

Please keep your team Managers/Coaches informed about your availability. These people work hard so give them as much help as you can.

Good game and you can see why they are top of the league.

Wed, 23 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Plenty of tries

It was not the best of conditions as we played host to the league leaders, Moseley Oak.

Our opponents were well drilled and clinical in their finishing and although we often got into try scoring range the scoreboard suggested that we were not as efficient as our visitors.

A final score of 29-59 means either scintillating attacking play or suspect defence. Draw your own conclusions but at least we picked up a bonus point.

The Good Old Days.

Many moons ago, before leagues were invented, a Boxing Day friendly was the order of the day. Kick offs were always later than advertised and handling errors were frequent.

My fondest memory was a Boxing Day game, back in the 1980's. The venue is now a 'Park and Ride' railway station which goes by the name of 'Whitlocks End'. Well, it used to be the location of Yardley and District RFC . The changing facilities and Bar were fairly basic but the game commenced.

Returning to the changing room after a comfortable win,we noticed a river flowing out from under the door. Once inside there were shoes, socks and many other bits and pieces floating around. Even more of a concern was that the Bar was under a foot of water. All of this because somebody forgot to turn the tap off when the bath was full. Apparently the flowing liquid was on a par with the Brew. What do you think Rob?

NOTHING MUCH TO GET EXCITED ABOUT.

Tue, 15 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

NOT OUR BEST PERFORMANCE

The first team seem to have hit the mid-table apathy zone in which some people think that we have accumulated enough points to feel safe but then lack the ambition to aim as high as we can. A heavy defeat at Kidderminster was not the ideal preparation for our final home league match of the year, kick off at 2.15 for our Erdington member, against Moseley Oak, unbeaten league leaders but we do not always perform in the way that many people predict.

For those of us who did not really want to travel as far as Kiddy there was an entertaining match at the Club featuring Bromsgrove Crusaders and the Old Yards 'Pre-Christmas Fifteen.' The result was 13-17 to Bromsgrove who snatched victory very late in the game. The highlight of the game was an individual try from the son of former Club President, Tony Fitz. Team manager, Dave Simpson, looked very anxious as kick-off time got nearer, but true to form Peter arrived to ease the pressure.

On Sunday, She who prefers comfort when watching games, along with a group of friends, made our way to the Ricoh Stadium in Coventry to watch a 'European Cup' tie between Wasps and Bath. There were contrasting styles on show with Wasps attempting to batter their way to the try line whereas the Visitors preferred to use the speed of their backs. It was not a classic but as the 80 minute time was up with Wasps 5 points ahead, justice was done as England stars, as Watson, with a try in the corner brought the scores level, leaving George Ford with a simple conversion from the touchline to win the game. For those of you who have not been to a game at the Ricoh, check your Sunday schedules and give it a go.

Ivor Enoch

His funeral arrangements are on the website but for those of you who did not really know him, Ivor and his contemporaries were responsible for the building of our club and if it had not been for their vision and graft then I don't think that this club would exist. If you didn't really know Ivor, say a little prayer in his memory tomorrow (Wednesday) as a sign of gratitude.

Ivor Enock - Funeral arrangements

Sat, 05 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Ivor's funeral details are:

Date: Wednesday 16th December

12:45 Service at the Church in Hampton in Arden
Followed by cremation at Yardley Crematorium at 14:00
Followed by a wake at OYRFC from 15:00 hrs

Ivor Enock - a tribute by Dave Collen

Mon, 30 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

I was greatly saddened to hear of Ivor’s untimely death. We were contemporaries during, perhaps, the most difficult period in the history of Old Yardleians RFC.

As a player, Ivor was a rock solid, loose head prop, unbending and immoveable. In all our games together, over many seasons, OYs rarely lost a scrum against the head. He was ‘old school’ in sorting out the technicalities of scrummaging – and relished the prospect of a bit of ‘afters’ with the opposition tight head. He was also ‘old school’ in enjoying a drink, with the opposition, after the game. Indeed, his expertise in drinking games was legendary; he was invariably the last one standing.

As a clubman Ivor was heavily involved in the move to Whitlock’s End, and the building of the new clubhouse in 1965/66. Ivor worked for John Laing Ltd as a quantity surveyor, which gave him the opportunity to procure building materials, needed for the project. In addition to which, he was often to be seen, with sleeves rolled up, helping out with the build.

Later, Ivor worked on construction projects in the Middle East, and memorably, on completion of one lucrative project, sent his pal Bill Davis, a cheque for a large sum, with the simple instruction – “coming home, buy me a Morgan”
More recently he worked on Heathrow Terminal Five, where he contracted the illness which severely affected the rest of his life. He dealt with this, with characteristic stoicism, and unfailing good humour. The severity of his illness can be gauged by the fact that at one stage, in his recovery, he received the last rites, of the Roman Catholic Church. He told the story in his own inimical way – “I was lying there with tubes in every orifice, when I heard some muttering. I opened one eye to see this bloke, wearing a cloak, carrying a big book, bloody hell, I thought, it’s worse than I thought!” Ivor was in fact an Anglican; the last rites were arranged by his dear friend Mac, who later became his wife. Ivor was proud of the fact that he avoided matrimony for most of his life, describing himself as “never raced or rallied”.

Ivor was a passionate supporter of England Rugby, and even when his mobility was severely impaired, completed his ambition to attend every one of England’s Six Nations matches, home and away, in a single season.

I am proud to have known Ivor, shared his company, played Rugby with him, and in later years, reminisced about times past. My thoughts are with Mac, at this sad time.

Dave Collen

Thanks, Dave.

The vast majority of Rugby Clubs have a mixture of characters and these players and club members pass on their skills,both on the pitch and in the bar,to the next generation. That is, in a nutshell, how great clubs like ours evolve. It is also highly likely that the clubs without such personalities fade into oblivion. Therefore, we have a lot to thank Ivor for and whenever you recover from hangovers that occur as a result of drinking games or snorting snuff , you can thank Ivor and his generation of 'Old Yardleians.

It is interesting to note that the R.C. Priest was so quick off the mark.

Ivor, from the Old Yards and from myself, Rest In Peace.

Comedy Night - 7:30pm Saturday 28th November 2015

Sat, 28 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Old Yards are holding another comedy night on Saturday 28th November, three great comedians plus compère – we need your support for this event please see the poster below. tickets £10 each

Please see Pat or Shannon for tickets or just email pat.mcdaid@blueyonder.co.uk

Ivor Enock RIP

Sat, 28 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Sad news relayed via Mick Ison:

"It is with great sadness that I have to pass on the news that Ivor died earlier today (Friday 27th). It appears that he was at a hospice having some regular treatment and whilst he was there he fell down and hit his head. Unfortunately this is all we know at this time, but I have been assured that as soon as the funeral arrangements have been made I will be informed so that the details can be circulated.

Ivor was a huge character in the early days at Tilehouse Lane and took a keen interest in the colts, particularly when I was captain. He was also a key figure in the social scene at that time, along with Billy Davies and Faintly Hall.

He will be sorely missed by many people."

I'VE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE IT

Tue, 17 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

First Team v Camp Hill

League positions meant little as local bragging rights were of greater significance as we welcomed Camp Hill to our humble abode. Shocking weather welcomed a very big crowd who were not expected to part with their cash to watch what was to follow.

Camps approached the game in a low key manner but the Yards, having rarely met their neighbours in recent years, were getting rather excited. Our wise old chairman, Bobo, advised his team not to let the occasion take over. It was a shame that his experience and calm advise were lost along the way.

The pre-match buffet, with many players from the 'Good old days' in attendance, was enjoyed by all those present. There were no domestic beer disputes and I will mention some of our Old Timers shortly.

The game itself was a major disappointment. It seemed to me that the visiting players and supporters were winding up the home team who should have responded as the Chairman suggested rather by knocking the stuffing out of them. With a man fewer for large spells of the match, the Yards defended well but giving away far too many penalties, with ten extra metres, or twenty, or even thirty did not help. However, we fell for it, and must learn from the occasion. The visitors did not really make any real use of the numerical advantage which was probably a good thing.

Stars from the past.

Apologies for anybody I have overlooked, but it was good to exchange stories from the past with a good many former players. This includes three Wallace boys,Jan Ullah and Tom Kavanagh, the Bard himself, Robin Sadler, Lord Brown of Lowsonford, the very smooth Fergie, one time Birmingham/Solihull prop, Will Hart, Rick Thorn, Bob Anderson,Hooker extraordinaire, Dave Jenkins, the King of wallpapers, Tony Fagan,and loads more who I will mention in the next epic report.

A special mention for a young Lady, Heather Tierney, from the famous sporting academy, better known as 'Tommies'. Having watched the match Heather is considering re-opening a link which would enable her students to integrate with the club. 'Watch this space.'

Stars of the future

It seems that the RFU feel that clubs should not place any great value on winning or losing but I still think that 'Political Correctness' is sometimes over-rated. Anyway, our young stars had another excellent weekend on their visits to Kings Norton, Veseyans and Exiles. This coming Sunday sees them all on the A45 to Coventry where they take on Earlsdon.

Big Dave's Men

As an alternative to our first team, there was a contrast in styles as our development Squad met a team of Students from Birmingham University. Muscle and experience were key factors as Dave Langley led the boys to an impressive victory. Thanks to the Referee, Mr David Hansen, who could probably be seen from Outer Space with that very smart orange shirt.

More visitors from the past.

It was great to welcome back to the club people from all over the place and who, in their time displayed a wide range of talents, some of them involving rugby. Pembo, who managed to get sent off after one minute of a game, the supplier of post-match pies, Martin Cullen, Tanky, Deano, Dinner Time, The Bread Man, Dave Broadfield, Graham Davis. The Eds Brigade, Tinker,Jacks the Younger, Craig Fleming, who looks fitter now than ever. A massive thank you to Mick Ison for organising the day..

OUR COMMITTEE

Often criticized, rarely praised, if you can make time, have a chat with them, maybe share a point of view and if you think that they deserve it, thank them for their efforts.

Club President, Mr Steven Painter, welcomed our guests with his usual eloquence and panache.

Tom Whitton

Mon, 02 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Phil Painter has advised that referee Tom Whitton has passed away. Tom was a regular ref at the club and used to call in on the way back from refereeing elsewhere. He never asked for expenses preferring to be paid in beer. His son Graeme played briefly for the colts and asked if we would let members know. Toms funeral is on Friday 6th November 10.30 Robin Hood Crematorium afterwards back at the Red Lion Shirley.

YET ANOTHER GAME OF TWO HALVES

Tue, 27 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMT

So far this season the playing conditions have been kind to us allowing our boys the chance to express themselves. However, that changed on Saturday and we had to show if we had the skills needed to play on a slippery pitch and with a greasy ball.

Our opponents, Stourbridge Lions, a mid table team like ourselves, made the better start kicking well when needed and using their impressive three quarters whenever they could. They built a half-time lead of 13-0. There appeared to be an undercurrent of niggle and frustration which resulted in some visits to the 'bin', but sometimes that can clear the air and lead to a better game.

As half time arrived so did the Erdington Express, with a grumpy, one time second row, complaining about scheduled kick off times. Mick, from our next game, kick offs are all 2.15 until further notice. On behalf of the club, sorry mate, and you can claim your free pint from Chiltern Railways whenever it suits you.

Anyway, the second half was much better with the Ys controlling scrum and line out, looking much sharper in all aspects of the game and going on to score three unanswered converted tries to win by 21-13.

Wouldn't it be nice if we could perform at our very best in our November fixtures.

Our tiny stars of the future.

The Under 7s visited Woodrush to play their first real match of the season, and for most of the team, their first match ever. The final result was a draw and, amazingly, every player in the team scored at least one try. Well done coaches and players. This Sunday, fill up with petrol, pack a picnic and enjoy the Worcestershire countryside, and, hopefully, show the Upton folk just how good the Old Yards are.

News Just Received

It appears that our First team are rather limited according to the report on our game against Stourbridge. Not only that, it also seems that we were only playing against half of their regular team. Call me old fashioned but I was of the opinion that if you scored more points than the team in opposition then that made you the better team. It is only a game, win, draw or lose and best wishes to Stourbridge for the rest of the season.

The only game in town.

Sun, 18 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMT

With seemingly endless numbers of players watching this world cup thing or out shopping with the WAGs it was left to the Vandals to provide the entertainment at Tilehouse Lane against a very youthful Old Edwardian 2nds. With surplus players aplenty on the bench and Eds using theirs to good effect they reached half time 17-13 to the good and has to be said were probably just about worth the lead, with some of the crowd seeing enough & heading back to watch the Wales game. However, the Vandals, a side that never knows when to lie down, rallied in the second half playing some good old skool jumper rugby that Eds had no answer to and ran way with it winning 41-27 with a brace from No.8 Dave "Shumper" Langley, lock Phil Painter, scrum half Gary Williams and prop Dave Vickers with fly half Max Gimson adding two conversions and four penalties.

STARS OF THE FUTURE LOOK IMPRESSIVE

Thu, 15 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to our First team

After early season narrow defeats at the hands of Old Salts and Wolverhampton came a very promising win against Shrewsbury. In recent seasons our away record has not been all that good especially in comparison with home form. This made last weekends win at Stafford by 27-19 all the more pleasing. Let's hope that this can be a boost to the team's confidence as some very significant fixtures approach.

The Sunday Morning Stars of the Future

With early season friendly games and training in preparation, our youngsters looked good in games against local rivals, Eds, Camps and Sils.

This Sunday our regular programme begins with the following games confirmed.

Under 8, 9 and 11 all go to Aston Old Eds, (Sunnybank Avenue, Perry Common, (B44 0HP)

Under 10 and 12 play at home v Birmingham Exiles

Under 13 v Earlsdon away (Mitchell Aveenue, Canley, Coventry CV4 8DY)

Good Luck .

World Cup

Me, I am off to Twickers. South Africa or Wales ? The Brain says one thing and the Heart says the other. Who knows?

LUKE, ROB and IAN WELL DONE.

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

With our Mini and Juniors being short of coaches, the three First team players, Luke Clem ,Rob B. and Ian Walker offered their services and the youngsters were grateful. Thanks lads and maybe a few more of our senior players could give it a go.

First Team

Playing their first home league match of the season we recorded a much needed win by 36-15 against Shrewsbury.

Our opposition were fired up and tore into us from the start but determined defence held firm. Our opponents had a very difficult time in the scrum and the pressure began to tell as the Yards scored freely and with accurate goal kicking we were soon out of reach. In fairness to the Salop team they didn't give up and kept us on our toes right up to the final whistle.

The World Cup

We all have our own views on it so I won't go on about it. I still think New Zealand will be there at the death.

SWING LOW or BREAD OF HEAVEN ?

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The Weekend of world cup battles.

Halfpenny and Ford will both be missing from their respective sides. The outcome will soon be resolved, but with the Aussies looking good, who knows what might happen.

Last Saturday

Spoilt by choice, a trip to Wolverhampton to watch our firsts or visit to rural Hopwood to watch a 'mix' of willing players mainly third teamers. After a lot of soul searching over to Kings Norton it was.

I suspect that K.N. only had the one game and that was mainly their Firsts and Seconds. A game is a game and although they built up quite a lead by half-time, our fitness meant that we won the second half. The only difference was that they scored a lot more than us over the course of the game.

Meanwhile, my reporter over in Wolverhampton, Steve Price, was quite pleased by our performance with many positive aspects of our game, but the slightly younger opponents took hold the game in the second half to win by 27-13.

A visitor from the Channel Islands

No, not Bergerac, nor Matt Le Tisier, but one of the great players to have played for the Old Yards, quite a few years ago, his name, Dave Collen. He was Club Captain, (look on the clubhouse wall), Possibly, so he tells me, the best prop to have played for us, although I am sure Rob will struggle to agree with that. He also was one of the great builders of the day being responsible for the erection of the clubhouse and somebody suggested that he might have helped build Saint Paul's Cathedral, but we await confirmation of that.

Dave, only joking because without blokes like you, the present day players would be changing in their cars (like Sunday footballers) and drinking outside Aldis.

This Saturday

We have our first home game of the season, a game that we really do need to win. Our viisitors are Shrewsbury with kick off at 3.00.

A VAST IMPROVEMENT

Tue, 15 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

First XV regain some confidence

Along with a good travelling crowd, we made the journey over to Water Orton for our first league game (Midlands 2 West / North) against Old Salts, the team that came second in this league last season and also the team that turned us over in the North Mids Shield very recently.

The weather and the pitch were ideal for playing running rugby and a very good game took place.

Our set piece scrummage was impressive with the front row making life awkward for the Salts which was quite a surprise as at a rough guess we conceded two stones per player. We also edged the line outs

One time second row,and more recently a rugby analyst, John Lonie, who in his own words pointed out that we were able to perform with five back row forwards due to the power shown by the front row. This resulted in a far better display of tackling than we have seen for a long time.

Although we lost the game 9 - 5 we did score the only try of the game and to be truthful we should have scored more but for suspect handling by our backs. Jake at stand off had a good performance all round except for two attempts at goal, a penalty and a drop goal from right in front of the posts. As a number 10 myself in the olden days (ask Lonie), no matter how well you might play, if you miss the target with your kicking and it costs your team the game, you become a sort of social leper for the rest of the week, such is life.

The Salts played well but the game was there for us to win. The fitness of our team was much better than we used to see. A big well done to our coaches and fitness specialist.

This coming Saturday sees us on the road again against a Wolverhampton side which won at Camp Hill last Saturday. It would be good for morale if we could put in a strong performance.

ITS SEPTEMBER. ITS THE RUGBY SEASON.

Thu, 10 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Too many of our players, throughout the senior section of the club, are still in summer mode.

Do the club a favour, make yourself available and communicate.

I don't think we are in such a state as some clubs who are struggling to put out even one side but I think we can do a bit more to get the club up and running to the level we know we can achieve.

Last Saturday

Just one home game with the Vandals playing at home against the Dixonians. It was quite entertaining with our pack dominating the set pieces but failing to make full use of possession with several players being forced to play out of position in the back line. In a highly entertaining game, a try from Peter Butler (aka Fridge) from long range (about 10 yards) was the highlight of the game which thanks to three penalities and an all important conversion from fly half Barry Gunningham we squeaked through if not on tries but points winning 16-15.

It was good to see Alister Parkes playing for us and when you return to university in Coventry remember there are trains and buses and I think I overheard your dad say that he would pay !

Also it was good to see Dixies playing because they were very close to extinction not long ago.

Fixtures this Saturday

Now that the wedding season is over, we should be stronger than we have been so let's see what we can do.

First XV v Old Salts Away League .

Second XV v Worcester Wanderers home merit league

Vandals XV v Pershore 2nds away

Stars of the future

Training at the club..

A NEW SEASON ARRIVES WITH GOLDEN OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE GAME OF RUGBY

Fri, 04 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

TEMPUS FUGIT

These words greeted me as I bumped into Peter and Robbie recently. They pointed out the close proximity of the World Cup and, on a local basis, the opportunity to play against old friends in the northern half of division two west section.

BUT FIRST - This Saturday from 1.00 at the Club the season kicks off with the Moss Goode Annual 15 a side tournament, now approaching it's 35th appearance.

I was very pleased to receive an e-mail from my reporter in the Channel Islands, former club captain and Chairman, Dave Collen. I found it very interesting and I suspect that you will as well.

Hi Dave, you rightly point out, with your posting re the Moss Goode 15 a side, that a club's history defines the club.

Fifty years ago (yes 50) a group of us started on the first of many Old Yards self build projects.

As a challenge, this one couldn't have been bigger - we built the Clubhouse.

We had to give up our lease on the Windermere Road, Moseley, ground, because a covenant prevented us having a licensed bar. This restriction resulted in the loss of fixtures, because a few pints after the game, was an essential element in rugby culture, at that time. A cup of tea was not quite the same.

Horne Estates (Dennis and Jack Horne - both Old Yardleians) agreed to lease us the Whitlocks End ground, which, at that time, was zoned agricultural.

So in early 1965 we moved onto a green field, full of hope and trepidation, and with a £5,000 debenture from the RFU, as the sum total of funds.

We had a sprinkling of builders, surveyors etc, but in the main the workforce were an unskilled but willing mix, from banking, insurance, telecoms, sales, engineering, academic and other assorted backgrounds. Sadly they are not all with us today.

I have a set of photographs, of the build, two of which are attached, and would be pleased if you could post this note on the Club website, and (Mark please) distribute to the VPs.

Image one

left-right: George Jephcott (RIP), Barry Walker, Jim Steele (RIP), Mick Miller, Mick Berry and Mick Louch - the horses are grazing on what is now the car park.

Image two

left-right: George Jephcott (RIP) Richard Walker, Colin (Kiwi) Thompson (RIP), Mick Louch

The shed, and the tent behind it, were our accommodation, when, during a two week blitz to speed up the build, we lived on the site.

Many thanks,

Dave Collen

Club Captain 1967 - 1970

Chairman 1970-71

Minis and Juniors

With the approaching, World Cup hopefully stimulating interest in the younger age levels, and maybe even others, our Sunday mornings will take a slightly different format for a few weeks. More precise details will be made available shortly but we anticipate an expansion in our playing numbers for the coming season and also hope that the adult numbers will increase.

Quiz Evening
A big thank you to all who came along to our charity Quiz. A very impressive sum of money was sent to our two charities. It was good to see many of our former players displaying their knowledge. The winning team which included former Tommies teacher and coach, Haydn Rees just about sneeked it by two points. A special thanks to Rick Thorne and John Power, Question master and marker, Bill Collins for being an all round good bloke and to Anne and the First Lady for feeding the many. Again, the fish and chips from the Station Fish Bar were excellent.

50 YEARS OF RUGBY AT TILEHOUSE LANE

Thu, 03 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

OUR JERSEY REPORTER HAS A LONG MEMORY

Hi Gents. As you know, this Saturday marks 50 years exactly, since the first game was played at Whitlocks End.

I have attached an image of the Clubhouse, taken on that day.

As you can see, the changing room block is nearly complete, with the lounge, bar and kitchen, yet to be started.

The photo was taken about one hour before kick off, and some of the players are still working on the roof. I would be pleased if you could circulate this message, together with the image, and hopefully those present at Saturday's game will raise a glass to celebrate the anniversary.

Many thanks, regards to all at OYRFC

Dave Collen

CHANGEABLE, A BIT LIKE THE WEATHER.

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMT

First XV

The season began with a difficult match against our rivals from Water Orton,Old Salts, who, by chance, are also in our league and who we play shortly.

Dave Hanson, my knowledgeable friend, made some valid observations from the touchline. His concern was that our defending skills and tactical alertness were not as they should be. We were hit by the Salts power and determination in the early stages and their basic but effective game plan of committing our players to the breakdown and then using good handling to put their runners into the gaps was effective.

Dave also noted that whenever the visitors got into attacking areas, they looked quite likely to score but when we got into those situations a try looked unlikely. The secret now is to work out why that should be the case.

I did not bring my abacus but Fridge tells me the final score was 12 - 30 to the deserved winners. Well done to their coach, Nick Sporcic,'The Voice of Pontypridd.'

What's next?

It appears that our defeat takes us out of the N.Mids Shield and into the N. Mids Plate. That means that we have a 'plate' match next Saturday which will be at home to Pershore kick off 3.00

Join us for a charity walk this coming Sunday.

Could you manage a 5 mile walk through Warwickshire countryside starting from Packwood House at 10.00 a.m. and hopefully finishing there too followed by a drink in The Navigation at Lapworth. The charity organising the walk is Parkinson's U.K. and if you find their website, then look under 'warwickshirewalks',it is cheaper to register your entry before Sunday than on the actual day itself. You do not have to belong to our club to take part, the more the better, as a cure would be very good news.

A SHORT BUT WORTHWHILE OUTING TO WOODRUSH

Mon, 24 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Yards overcome Woodrush by 7 tries to 2

We felt very honoured to have been invited by Woodrush to take part in their annual pre-season Memorial Day. It is similar to our presidents day but it takes part at the start of the season rather than the end. A large home crowd assembled on a rare sunny afternoon to watch a game that would be far from easy. The hosts are playing in a league one division lower than the Yards and they have always been difficult opponents.

However, we were not there to act as fodder. We were there to help prepare for the coming season for which we want to be ready from day one. Still missing some key players it was clear from the start that we were up for it. Although the set scrums were a mess we dominated the line out, were well on top in winning loose ball and whenever the home team tried to run the ball they were cut down with a much better sharpness than previously seen. The most impressive part of our game though was the speed and handling displayed by our backs. Superbly orchestrated by Jake who brought his outside colleagues into play with a range of moves that the opposition had no answer to. A final try count of 7 to 2 is a fairly accurate indication of how the game went. The important thing now is to ensure that we remain as effective for the approaching games.

As Bill Collins, in his post-match summary emphasised, 'one swallow does not make a summer'. Pricey woke up when he heard those words but when Bill continued with 'many hands make light work' we thought it was time to move on

It was good to bump into a few familiar faces at Woodrush, One time Tommies rugby and football student, Kristian Duce, the home side full back caught well under pressure but got little support from team mates when trying to run it back. Another Tommies celebrity, Jon Anderson, was at the match but is not certain which club he hopes to play for this coming season. One more to mention is former Yards player Marvin Wallace, brother of Enoch and Ainsley. He was not there as a player, but as a watchful parent.

OUR MAN FROM ERDINGTON WAS FAIRLY SATISFIED WITH THE FIFTEEN A SIDE.

Mon, 17 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Mick Bloxham replaces Stuart Barnes?

As a one time winner of the Club's fifteen a side pre season tournament, I could think of no better person to ask about the benefits of the event than Big Mick.

We agreed that the results were only part of the exercise and that the preparation for the coming weeks would be high on the agenda when we come to analyse the performances.

It is no longer enough to have a decent first team. It is much more important to have a first team squad, so it was really quite helpful for our second row to get wed as close to the new season as possible thus enabling more of our boys to show their ability.

Looking at our own performance, there were a good number of positives in all phases of the game. Fitness is almost good enough, sharpness of thought could do with some attention but with a real surge over the coming weeks we think that a good start could be achieved.

The competition (shield) was won by the Vipers 'A' team who defeated the Yards in the final. A good day for the visitors as their 'B' team won the plate by defeating Ashby.

A very big 'Thank You' to the referees from the North Mids Society, to all those who worked hard to make the day a success and to our very own Mark Baldwin for the smooth operation that we come to expect from him.

Filofaxes ready

With the world cup getting ever closer, (Tempus Fugit), it could be difficult to prioritise your rugby viewing. But here goes,

The First Team start with a difficult cup game at home to Old Salts on August 29th, followed by league games v Old Salts on September 12th (away), v Wolverhampton on September 19th (away) and v Shrewsbury on September 26th (home).

This coming Saturday we have been invited to travel all the way to Woodrush to take on our old friends. We will take a large squad (in number rather than weight) with players from all of our sides featuring. Come and have a look, you might even enjoy it.

I will publish the fixtures for our other teams as the season gets closer.

Thanks to Mick Bloxham for his analytical skills.

HOW HISTORY WAS MADE

Tue, 28 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The Moss Goode 15-a-side Tournament

On August 15th, the 35th annual pre-season tournament takes place at Tilehouse Lane. A number of invited teams take part in what has become probably the best preparation for the coming season with players hoping to impress their coaches, and coaches trying to impress their committees etc.

The origins of this event go back to 1980 when a young prop by the name of Bert thought it might be a good idea. 35 years on I guess he was probably correct.

The first tournament, as I am sure that you already know, was won by the Yards in a pulsating final with a 3-0 thrashing of the then very strong Dixonians, thanks to a penalty by the teenage centre Dave Adams. Now here comes the interesting bit. How many of the winning team do you remember? Tony Pemberton, Tex Wales, Hilton Smith, Mick Bloxham,Al Harrison, Chris Watts, Bill Burrows, Steve Price, Jan Ullah,Tom Power, Tom Guise, Dave Adams, John Littleford, Roy Pugsley and Brian Wood.

Not quite the 'Invincibles' but not bad. Come along this time and watch a bit of rugby, recall the good old days and enjoy a drink or two.

Old Yards Charity Quiz Evening

Come along and enjoy a quiz evening at the club on Wednesday 5th August, bar open from 7.00 with the quiz from 7.30

Bring a team or just come along and join up with others. The highlight of the evening could be the fish and chip supper cooked and delivered to our door by the Station Fish Bar. The favourites at the moment are Aussie John's world wide collection, but rumours of Robin Sadler bringing a team might just change that.

Memory Lane

I was invited last weekend to the wedding in Essex, of Brendan Fahy's son Eamonn to Jessica. Brendan had a few tales to tell about his days as a mercurial winger and I suspect quite a few of you remember him well. On his final game he made the error of telling the team that it was his farewell match. He was never a bloke to worry too much about clothes so when he was guided off the bus out in the countryside, a pair of shoes and a dustbin liner were probably sufficient. What a great bloke.

THE SUMMER FAYRE, ANOTHER SUCCESS STORY

Sat, 11 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Jo Hayes and her team do the business

A big 'Thank You' to Jo and her many helpers, young and old, boys and girls for making our summer fayre so successful. No matter how well preparations have been, those responsible for the smooth running of the event still have panic attacks, sleepless nights and all the other worries.

The weather was perfect, the stalls were ready, the quality of the food might even cause Glynn P. to worry. Will Pricey get any Michelin stars is the gossip of the club. The liquid refreshment sales were also very impressive. There was something for everyone to enjoy and I was lucky enough to have a quick chat with the Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Mrs Glenis Slater, She was very impressed by our club and the effort that has gone into making it much more than just a rugby club with a bar. She was informed as to how the Old Yardleians had become a 'multi-sports' club with many functions for the local and wider community. What we did not realise was just how much work the Mayor has to do. she informed us that she was attending a cycling club event at 7.30 tomorrow (Sunday) morning. Our club President wondered whether he should bring his racing bike, mountain bike or his chopper, but he then made the excuse that his tyres were flat and that he would give it a miss.

A massive 'Thank You' from the club goes out to Jo and her team of helpers, too many, to mention individually. It goes without saying that this will become an annual event so get thinking Jo !

The Vandals scoop Borough award..

Thu, 09 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

This evening the Clubs Vets the Vandals were named Sport Solihull Team of the Year 2015 following their third consecutive merit league title. The award and substantial cheque was awarded by Solihull Mayoress Glenis Slator to last season's skipper Sean "Squealer" Byrne.

PRE-SEASON PERSPIRATION

Mon, 06 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

AN IMPRESSIVE START

It was good to see so many of our players at training on Saturday. The weather gods sent us a hot afternoon so it was pleasing that so many of our seniors turned up. Richard and our new fitness and conditioning coach, Dave, worked our boys hard and although one or two might have put on an ounce or so over the summer break, I suspect that things will be different by the time the Club's 15 a side takes place on 15th August..Looking on from a safe distance, Mark, Chicken and myself agreed that an impressive season was well within our capabilities and Robbie offered an insight into the world of the Taxi business and the seasonal fluctuations. Thanks Rob, I feel enlightened.

Summer Fayre

Yet again our Mini/Juniors are showing us what can be done with determination, enthusiasm and pure graft. A whole range of fun and games will be on offer this Saturday at the club from 12.00 to 3.00 . It would be good if the rest of the club supported this ambitious event, either by helping or by turning up to part with some of your cash. More details are available from Jo or Debbie.

Quiz Evening

As we have a reputation as being clever people down at the Old Yards, now comes the opportunity to prove it. The date of this event is Wednesday 5th August. The start time will be 7.00, and due to popular demand, (i.e. Fridge) Fish and Chips will be available. Teams can be up to six in number and is open to friends, players, V.P.s, parents of Minis/juniors. You don't have to be a genious and even forwards might have a chance. More details from me, Dave.

AS IT IS SUCH A NICE DAY, TRAINING WILL START FROM TONIGHT

Tue, 30 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMT

PRE SEASON TRAINING

Yes, this evening at the club prompt start at 7.00.

We have acquired a new face to our coaching panel in the shape of Dave Cripps who until recently has worked at Leicester Tigers in their strength and conditioning team. He will carry out similar tasks at the Old Yards. In my own opinion, and probably the opinions of many of our followers, the disappointing season we have just gone through was mainly a result of lower levels of fitness than most of our opponents.

North Midlands Shield

We start with a home tie against Old Salts on 29th August.

The Salts are a very good side and we will have to be well prepared for this game.

THERE'S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT THE OLD YARDS

Mon, 29 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMT

It might not be the rugby season at the moment but the Tilehouse Lane club does not rest as there is much going on.

Friday evening saw the annual dads and lads camping night. There was a rumour that the lads had to keep an eye on the dads rather than the other way round. However, we all know that our club treasurer can hold his ale but the old saying goes, 'there's no smoke without fire'

Natwest Bank are very generous sponsors of rugby and the idea is that if clubs can show a plan to enhance their club facilities then Natwest will foot the bill or most of it up to a certain limit. With an impressive number of our players showing up to help, the experienced Steve Price allocating the tasks, the club President living up tp his name, had more paint on his face and shirt than on the wall. A much needed improvement saw the area between the top gates and the kitchen wall fenced off so that visitors don't need to see the bottle bank, skips full of trash etc. The carrot being dangled for those who came along was in the form of refreshments and I believe the lads had a good day.

Australian Rules Football.

We played host to the Aussie Rules teams of Birmingham and their opponents from just up the road, Huddersfield. Having watched them for a good twenty minutes I must confess a lack of understanding of these 'Rules'. I asked the young lady who seemed to be keeping the score what was going on. She replied that she was from Swansea but she thought that Huddersfield would win.

Archery

Most of us feel good when we give to a charity and if we get something back for our money then it's even better. With help from our local archery club, The Solihull Archers, who generously provided the equipment and tuition at a greatly reduced rate, it was my hope to attract an optimum number of volunteer archers of twenty. However, the response was a staggering sixty which meant three sessions rather than one. For an hour of tuition and a mini competition followed by a feast of fish and chips and a social drink in the club afterwards, the consensus was that a tenner was very good value. A special mention for the management of Shirley Station Chip Shop, for the quality of the food and that they were delivered to the door still piping hot. Brilliant. If any of you would like to have a go at archery, get in touch with me, Dave Adams, and we will see what we can do. An observation, there was one portion of food too many so I saw Peter (Fridge) and asked him to go out onto the patio and to share them out. I suspect you can guess the outcome. I would like to thank all of the people who helped make the project successful. The charity, 'Parkinsons' U.K. will be receiving a cheque this week.

SHANNON AND PAT ON VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY

Wed, 17 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMT

A change is as good as a rest, so somebody once said.

Two of our very finest club representatives, Shannon and Pat made a brave decision to take a time-out from their careers and to have a look at what the rest of the world had to offer.

Last seen in Bruges (Belgium), you can follow their progress, or lack of it, by referring to;

https://tooksixmonthsoff.wordpress.com

Don't stay away too long as I am not convinced that the Old Ys would survive.

OLD YARDLEIANS RUGBY CLUB INVITE YOU TO THEIR SUMMER FAYRE

Wed, 17 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMT

You are warmly invited to our club, located on Tilehouse Lane (B90 1PW), on Saturday 11th July from 12 noon through to mid afternoon or maybe even later.There is plenty of car parking space and entrance to the club is free.

Our very attractive clubhouse and fields which cater for a variety of sports apart from rugby are well worth a visit and might satisfy your curiosity. On this occasion we welcome the General Public as well as rugby followers.

For the younger members of the public we are providing a range of fun activities, and the Bar will be open for the purchase of soft and alcoholic drinks. Food will also be on sale and a BBQ will be a difficult temptation to avoid.

The Club runs rugby teams for youngsters aged from 6 to 13 and there are senior teams for the 16 to 60 age group. If any of you would like to consider joining the playing or social sides of the club, you should be able to discuss details with club officials who will be available on the day.

You can contact us for further information by e-mail on oyrfc@aol.com

You can also leave a message for a club official on 07825009485

We very much look forward to seeing you on 11th July and, hopefully, on many other future occasions.

Help needed

Sat, 13 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMT

All, Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th of June is this years Natwest Rugbyforce weekend. This is a community backed project, to get people to volunteer at their rugby clubs on small projects, and to improve their facilities. We have again been successful in attaining a sum of money to help with the projects. What we now need is people to help with them, we have 3 projects, these being, the repainting of the Clubhouse exterior walls, repainting of the interior walls and fencing & a general tidy up of the bottle bank area. We are not asking people to commit to every hour of Saturday and Sunday but to commit to a small 3 hour stint. Saturday 10-1pm and then 2-5pm and the same for Sunday if required. The club will provide lunch and BBQ on the weekend with happy hours at 5-7pm to thank the volunteers. This year is a big opportunity to showcase our club to the local community with the upcoming Summer Fayre in July and the World Cup in September so please help out if you can. Gary Robinson - Chairman.

WHAT'S BEEN GOING ON AT THE OLD YARDS ?

Wed, 10 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Contrary to the thoughts of some of our members, the club does not hibernate from May to September. In fact, more goes on than most of us realise.

Natwest working parties

That supporter of Rugby Football, Natwest, sponsor clubs who have shown some initiative in developing and improving the facilities at their own clubs. So whatever your talents, or lack of talents, we would very much like to see you at the club.

We have four sessions for you to choose from.

Saturday 27 June from 10 to 1. or from 2 to 5

Sunday 28 June from 10 to 1 or from 2 to 5.

In return for your graft, the club are willing to reward you with very cheap beer and succulent burgers etc from Cafe Pricey. (that being Steve's name not the cost of the food). Further details from Andy Killarney on 07910030958.

Charity Events

As a club we are usually very good at supporting worthwhile charities. Last Saturday saw the club host an evening of musical and social extravaganza with the end result being a very generous sum raised which will go to the Nepalese Disaster fund. Thanks to all who contributed in any way.

The Midlands Air Ambulance is run on a charitable basis and is of great value to players of Rugby whatever their size, shape or age. Matt Harrison is going to take part on a bike ride from Birmingham to Oxford and would really appreciate any sponsorship. If you would like to contribute, contact Matt or Andy Killarney at the club.

You probably realise that if you risk taking the journey through the trees onto the top pitch, that you might come across some people with bows and arrows. We hire out our facilities to Solihull Archers who are a recognised club. They have supported charity sessions arranged by me, Dave Adams, and which have been attended by members and friends of our club. Not only are they good fun, but they also come with a succulent Fish and Chip feast.If you fancy having a go at archery contact either myself or use the link on the website to contact the Archery club directly. Again, thanks to all who took part and thanks to the Station Fish and Chip Shop for bringing our supper to the club. The star shooters on the day were probably Mr President , Steve Painter and out of the females, I hate to say it but Ellie Adams performed impressively.

Broadfield bakes better bread.

Next time you come down to the club, you will understand.

Diary Dates

Tomorrow, Debs invites you to the AGM of our Mini and Junior section. If you are thinking about coaching or maybe you have children who are interested in joining our club then come along.

Wednesday 5th August sees the next Charity Quiz at the club from 7.00 till about 10.00. Due to popular demand I am seriously thinking about making Fish and Chip suppers available.

And Finally

I thought you Villa fans got away lightly with just the four goals, but there is always another year !

LIVE MUSIC AT THE OLD YARDS

Mon, 01 Jun 2015 00:00:00 GMT

ANDY KILLARNEY AND THE COMMITTEE OF THE OLD Y'S INVITE YOU TO

An evening of Live Music

This Saturday from 7.00

£10 per person

This includes a mouth-watering burger from top chef Steve Price

Proceeds go to the Nepal Disaster Fund.

Do your bit for those in great need and have a good night out for yourselves

The Northern Tribes....

Sun, 24 May 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The Midlands leagues structure for the 2015/16 season has been finalised and once again Old Yardleians join the Northern tribes as we have been level-transferred from Midlands Two West (South) to Midlands Two West (North). Midlands Two West (North): Camp Hill, Handsworth, Harborne, Kidderminster Carolians, Moseley Oak, Old Saltleians, Old Yardleians, Shrewsbury, Stafford, Stourbridge Lions, Veseyans, Wolverhampton. The obvious mouth watering derby leaps off the page!

Three Stars on the shirt, Webb Ellis still gleaming.....

Sun, 10 May 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The Club's elderly gentlemen, the Vandals received confirmation of their third merit title in succession when they were crowned champions of Worcester & Hereford Merit League 2, having taken the W&H Merit 3 & GB Merit titles in previous seasons. An extremely hard fought campaign this season in a league containing invariably younger (and lighter) opponents and including second XV's from Pershore, Ross-on-Wye and the Malvern Development side, who the Vandals pipped by a point for the title. Our thoughts now turn towards the Summer & retirement! Serva Fidem

ONE MORE TO GO

Tue, 28 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMT

LAST SUNDAY

All kinds of things going on, Presentations and speeches as our 'stars of the future' celebrated the end of a superb season. Also there were games such as Dads v Lads etc.

Well done everyone and thanks for my framed certificate from Bob Reeves, a very important man at the RFU and thanks for the bottle. She who enjoys a swig of Prosecco has already cast her eyes on that one.

THIS COMING SATURDAY

The final action of the season as it is our President's Day. The first Lady has already purchased a new hat for the occasion. We are pleased to confirm that our local rivals and friends from Woodrush will be our opposition in a flowing and exciting game of rugby and a relaxing afternoon of liquid refreshments,a bite to eat and some social intercourse will of course be the order of the day.

AND ALMOST FINALLY

Friday 8th May, Club Annual Dinner

Friday 15 th May Club AGM.

THE END IS IN SIGHT.

Wed, 22 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Senior Rugby

The season is drawing to a gentle conclusion and we can reflect on a number of positive areas and, to be honest, a few disappointments. But you can do that when you feel the urge.

Last Saturday featured two home games, one against a team from Oundle RFC who were on a weekend tour. As one would expect they enjoyed a drink or two. The other game was a charity match organised by Max Grimson against an invitation team.

This coming Saturday we currently have just one home match and that will be against a Bournville XV, kick off 3.P.M.

A.G.M.

This is your club so come and decide how it should operate and who should be steering the vessel.

AND FINALLY,

Thanks to all of my readers, even those who are a little offensive at times. At least I know you are reading it but as they say, "all good things come to an end"

A few sleepless nights now worrying about the possibility of Villa beating us at Wembley .

Kevin Grant keeps reminding me of the day when Blues beat us at the home of English Football and that hurt at the time.

A BRILLIANT FESTIVAL. SUPER DEBS STRIKES AGAIN.

Wed, 22 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Sunday saw the biggest rugby event that the Old Yardleians has ever put on with an estimated 400 plus players as well as parents, brothers and sisters, grannies, friends, coaches and rugby followers.

Six age groups from under 7 through to under 12, with eight teams in each age group provided us with a challenge and the stress levels went through the roof but we did it and that is mainly down to Debs and her team of helpers.

Teams taking part included local rivals, new opponents,and clubs that we have developed a friendship with over recent seasons. Camps,Eds, Salts, Earlsdon, Stourbridge, Upton On Severn, Keresley and anyone else who I might have forgotten, joined us for a day to remember. The enthusiasm of the players and spectators was impressive, the quality of the rugby was excellent which is a credit to the coaches of the clubs.

A massive thank-you goes out to everyone involved, too many to mention individually, but jobs covered included car-parking, BBQ, bar, kitchen, pitch marking, glass collecting and washing, administration, and also making contact with the visiting clubs.

But at the centre of it all was one super star, Debbie Robinson, without whom this festival would not have happened. There were moments of doubt but the message she received of "Don't panic" must have worked as the day was a huge success. New friends were made and the club made a few quid in the refreshment sales. Although it was not particularly important, it was nice to see the Old Yards win three of the finals.

I would like to thank the medical support teams, especially the Air Ambulance to whom we are sending a donation. Good news is that the injuries were not serious.

Next Sunday is our Presentation Day at the club from 12.30 ish to 2.30 ish.

You might want to thank Debs and the team coaches, either as a team or individually. Give it some thought but don't take too long over it.

AGM

Mon, 20 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMT

It's that time again, the Club AGM is being held at the Club Friday 15th May 7pm for a prompt 7.30 start.

IT WAS CLEAR TO SEE WHO NEEDED THE WIN

Mon, 13 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMT

First XV v Leamington

A pleasant afternoon in Leamington with the usual loyal supporters and all we wanted was to see some Barbarian Rugby, running the ball from deep and supporting our runners. What did we get, was it Marcus Hope, Bob Hope or no bloody hope.?

The home team needed the win to avoid the drop and we needed nothing. We fully deserved what we got. Tackling needs attention in both technique and where abouts in terms of the gain line. Passing needs to be sympathetic and earlier on most occasions.

In the time it took Barstool to cross the pitch with his flag we were two tries behind. An impressive drop goal from Ian, son of Walking Stick was all we could manage, Two tries from our more athletic blokes restored some pride but as I suggested I think Leamington wanted and needed the victory just a little bit more than the Yards.

Our other sides

My agents reported that our 2nds realised the cricket season was upon us and conceeded enough points to lose a test match against Old Halesonians.

Our Vandals played Dixonians who I thought had vanished. We won with not too much effort

What are you doing this Sunday ?

Simple question, the answer is you are coming to the club to see what you can do in order to contribute to our Minis festival of rugby. Watch a bit of the rugby and help with some of the many jobs that need to be done to ensure that the day is a success.

ALMOST THERE, THE FAT LADY IS WARMING UP

Thu, 09 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMT

First Team News

At the start of the season, way back to last September, our teams were high in confidence having achieved so much over the last couple of seasons. I recall many of our players and supporters expressing the view that we would be happy enough to finish our Midlands League Two West (South) adventure in the middle regions of the table. If we were to be honest about it, then I think that most of us would be happy just to survive and that has been achieved.

We have taken a few batterings and need to learn how to close a game down when we have built up a lead. Hopefully we will have the ability to look back at the season and to decide how we can learn from our experiences and develop into a stronger team as a result .

This Saturday sees us travel over to Leamington for our final league game of the season. Our opponents have not had an easy season but a recent win against their local rivals, Old Leams has taken the pressure off them although they do need to finish the season with a win so we should be able to enjoy an interesting contest on Saturday.

For those of us who intend to travel to the match, the location can be found on the Kenilworth Road, (CV32 6RG)

Other Fixtures (subject to alteration)

Development XV v Old Halesonians 3rds Home 3.00 kick off Friendly

Vandals XV v Dixonians ? away at Rowheath (B30 11HH)

Date for your Diary

Thu, 09 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The Annual Club Dinner is being held on Friday 8th May 2015, cost £25.00, tickets available from your hard working Committee from the weekend. Food will be the plentiful & Indian buffet as in previous years.

YOUR CLUB NEEDS YOU.

Fri, 03 Apr 2015 00:00:00 GMT

SUNDAY 19th APRIL

We are hosting probably the biggest event in our history.

Eight clubs, at six age groups means around 450 young players with loads of parents in many cars with almighty thirsts and much hunger.

As somebody once suggested, 'Don't ask what your rugby club can do for you but ask what you can do for your rugby club'.

We would like you to get in touch with Debbie and volunteer your services for an hour or so.

Don't delay, do it today ! (poetry comes free).

THIS REALLY WAS A GAME OF TWO HALVES

Tue, 31 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMT

First XV

The final result of 15-15 removed any mathematical risk of relegation but what an unusual game. A pre-match gathering of sponsors and volunteers boosted the size of the crowd but whether they come again should be interesting to see.

With a stiff breeze behind us a decent half time lead would have been helpful. The Yards controlled the set piece aspects of the game and Rob Dixon had only just arrived from the bar (free?) with a blouse he chose to model for the day when the score-board needed to come into play. Two tries, one a typical Andrew Pearce finish and the other, an inevitable penalty try helped us arrive at the interval with a 15-0 advantage. Would this be a big enough lead? most onlookers thought it would be.

I think its called 'deja vu' but it happened. With two Droitwich players red-carded the inevitable happened. Sleep set in and the visitors had no thought of taking it easy. They left it late but got the draw seconds before the final whistle.

Development XV

Travelling over to Aston, our second string men did not have the team abacus with them. Twelve men maybe but a result of 41-0 to the Yards seemed fine to me but my spokesman thought it a little lacking in challenge. Don't worry Jack, the batterings will come one day.

Vandals XV

Playing at home against Ross seconds, it looked like an end to end game and our pack were making Ross work hard for any possession but when they got some ball they had some impressive runners. a final score of 34-27 to Yards was a fairly true reflection. Thanks to North Mids referee, Jim Looney, the usual sound job done.

Fixtures

As Easter arrives this coming weekend, we only have one game on Saturday and that is a friendly at home and that is against Old Sils. We intend to put out a mix of 2nd and 3rd team players. Kick Off will be 3.00.

Minis

Last weekend saw our 'stars of the future' show Bournville how much progress our Minis have made since our previous meeting. Easter weekend means no matches and the following week, April 12th sees the under 8s visit Kings Norton. The rest of our sides will be training in order to reach their peak on the following Sunday 19th April which is the event of the year, the Old Yardleians end of season Festival.

Debs Fest of Thrilling Mini Rugby

Not to be missed. Sunday 19th April sees our biggest project so far. We are running competitions at six age groups from under7 to under 12. Clubs taking part are, Old Yards, Stourbridge, Upton-on-Severn, Camp Hill, Edwardians, Keresley, Earlsdon and Old Salts..

How can you help? The teams all have their coaches and referees but can you think of other possible tasks that need keen helpers? Car parking, food and drinks organisation, collecting glasses, litter removal, etc. etc. Don't wait, get in touch with Debbie and volunteer your services

NOT ENOUGH COCK HORSES FOR TRIP TO BANBURY CROSS

Wed, 25 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMT

First XV

In a game that we needed a full strength squad, there were too many absentees with the end result a defeat by 60-7 looking just a little bit embarrassing. It must be said that our opponents, Banbury, played very well indeed and took their opportunities impressively. Having to include players from either end of the rugby suitable age spectrum was the order of the day. Coach Richard McCrainor was full of praise for the spirit shown with young Jack and less young Dave and Barstool doing their best. The game this coming Saturday at home against Droitwich is one that we need to win. This is not stated for the survival of the team in the Midlands Two but as the opportunity to show what the team can really do if their minds are focussed.

Senior Fixtures

First XV v Droitwich at home 3.00 League match.

Development XV v Aston Old Eds away 3.00 Friendly.

Vandals XV v Ross on Wye 2nds at home 3.00 Merit Table

The Future Stars

Our youngsters took a pleasant trip across Warwickshire to play at Harbury. Games between us are always exciting and close affairs. When I asked Debbie if we had won, drawn or lost, she replied 'Yes'. That's cleared that up. This Sunday we welcome Bournville to our club. Previous experience tells us that they are a well organised outfit and that we should see another cracking game.

And Finally

Is it true? will Bobbo and John really put their hands in their pockets, Are ten shilling notes still legal tender? All will be revealed very soon.

JOHN McNALLY

Thu, 19 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMT

It is with great sadness that news has reached us of the death of John McNally at the age of seventy.

He was very popular with local rugby folk with his sense of humour and his refereeing going hand in hand. He had the gift of being able to defuse a situation with a smile and a few short words.

He was Headteacher at Saint Bernadette's Roman Catholic Junior School for many years and was always ready to share a story or two if you bumped into him at the Spotted Dog.

The Old Yardleians offer our deepest sympathy to his family and friends.

May he rest in peace.

SIX NATIONS LOOKS INTERESTING

Tue, 17 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Seniors

As it was a 'free'Saturday i.e. no league games, the deal on offer to our first team squad was train for an hour and enjoy reduced price beer, or take it easy so that bumps and bruises can recover in time for your visit to see the fine lady on her horse.

Our Developing team faced Tamworth 2nds, fairly frequent opponents and with Celtic Powerhouse, Dave Langley, leading from the front, we won by 38 - 14. It was good to see that inspirational youngster, Dave Hanson,coming off the bench in the second half and Phil, son of the President, Painter, scoring two tries from the second row. It was suggested that Steve didn't reach that high a number in his 40 years as a player.

The Vandals, often referred to as the Goldbourne club, were too fit for their opponents from Wyre Piddle, Pershore 2nds. The pace and support play shown by Roger and Peter helped take the Yards more experienced players to a win by 46 - 20

Fixtures for the weekend

First XV v Banbury away 3.00 Bodicote Park OX15 4AF

Dev/2s XV v Worcester away 3.00 Sixways WR3 8ZE Merit table.

Vandals Watch this space.

Sunday

All our Future Stars away v Harbury kick off 11.00.

And Finally

We welcomed two visiting rugby dignitaries to the club last Saturday on fact-finding missions. Mr Lyndon Pritchard (Caerphilly District RFU) and Mr R.J.D. Beckett (South Lancs and Cheshire RFU). They would like to thank Old Yardleians for their hospitality and Pat and Steve for providing an insight into how our club has become so successful.

One more weekend of Home Internationals. The tension is almost unbearable. What an epic encounter we saw as Wales defeated Ireland with both sides showing commitment beyond belief.

King Tiger

Tue, 17 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Harris buys the beer! The Club's Elderly gentlemen entertained Pershore 2nds on Saturday in their latest W&H Merit League 2 clash. Having made the journey down to Wyre Piddle earlier on in the season and salvaging a 19 all draw a tough old afternoon was on the cards, especially as up until recently Pershore were thought to be top of Merit 2 or close to it. As usual our much younger opponents took to the field early as befitting their youthful demeanour running through copious amounts of lineout drills and backs moves whilst the Vandals assembled in the relative warmth of the changing room at their usual leisurely pace and drifting on to the park with a few minutes before kick off. This week's official was Aston's Old Eds Jaghir Singh, obviously not getting the usual amount of home games these days over at Perry Common ;o) Despite some early Pershore pressure it was the silky running skills of Max Gimson that opened the scoring, and whilst Ralph's conversion attempt failed to trouble the uprights it was followed soon after by our second try of the afternoon scored by Roger Lazenby. Again the conversion failed to bisect the uprights which spurred Pershore on and following pressure inside our twenty two, referee Singh decided they were worthy of a penalty which they duly converted cutting our lead to 10-3. Now in terms of military hardware most sides turn up with the equivalent of a Sherman, mobile but lightly armoured whereas we rack up with a 71 ton King Tiger awfully slow but impossible to stop and this was clearly demonstrated when Luke Harris went over for his eighth try of the season thanks to a rolling maul from our 150 stone pack to increase our lead to 15-3, but again the conversion went begging. Pershore struck next with a well worked but unconverted try to bring them to within a try at 15-8. But the Vandals lead was increased again following another close range driving maul with tank commander Harris continuing his rich if short range vein of form to bludgeon his way over for his second try of the afternoon 20-8, conversion missed. Pershore obviously not here to make up the numbers again struck back shortly afterwards with a converted try of their own to bring the score back to within a try at 20-15. But not for long as soon afterwards youngster Ben Honey went over, and with Ralph finally managing to slot the extras the Vandals lead had increased to 27-15. This was improved further when in an almost carbon copy of the first two Harris went over for his third of the day, converted again by Ralph 34-15. The Vandals now fully in their stride increased their lead again through one of their handful of under 40's when winger Andy Pearce went over for an unconverted score followed soon after by Honey's second of the afternoon, converted by Ralph to put the Vandals out of sight at 46-15. But the final try of the afternoon went to the visitors, who played with great determination throughout. Special mention must go to Dave Vickers who propped for eighty minutes for the visitors and keeping the scrums contested. Final score 46-20, and young Master Harris went off to buy his jug!

Second Team win at Ludlow

Tue, 10 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMT

An excellent result for Old Yardleians Second XV on Saturday. A victory by a score of 28-12 does not really reflect how superior Old Yards were in most aspects of the game.

One of the biggest packs seen this year confronted our team and one or two throats must have been swallowing hard before the kick off. However it soon became apparent that our individual skills and combined team-work were far too much for the Ludlow team to cope with.

Four excellent tries were scored, all converted by fly-half Ian Walker. The pick of them coming from a pick up at the base of a scrum followed by sure inter passing between Tom Thacker and Matt Lillywhite saw a movement of some 70 metres before Tom touched the ball down wide of the right hand post.

Had we not tried to out-muscle their monstrous forwards other scores were certainly there for the taking. However, considering we had not played for a number of weeks this was an encouraging and well deserved win.

Well done the Second Team

MUCH BETTER

Sun, 08 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMT

First XV

After a run of pretty dismal performances which looked like threatening our league two status, just as the weather showed an improvement (Rob will be in his Rab C Nesbitt string vest if it gets any milder) so did our first team boys.

Opponents, Pinley, who are in the top half of the table, are a gritty team who don't know when to give up and with a vocal following gathered on the 'swamp side' of the pitch the scene was set for an interesting afternoon's rugby.

From the first whistle, the Yards took the game to their opponents and produced their best performance for a number of weeks. The pack were on top in the scrum and in the line out Mick Brennan was head and shoulders above the other jumpers. Ben Honey had an excellent game in the loose and a maturing Steve Granger was back to his best form, even keeping a calm head when others were not. Tommo, who for reasons not understood by many of us, often used to linger like a winger (poetry ! ) but not any more. He was at his best rampaging on the burst gaining valuable yards. Please Anthony leave your Shane Williams days behind.

As my regular readers will know, I always stick up for number 10s even when they are not at their best. However, Jake was in supreme form when kicking for goal or for position and even our touchline forward traditionalists had to acknowledge his form.

We did deserve our victory as we kept our discipline, even when provoked, but the speedy backs in the Pinley team always looked dangerous and I suspect our Head Coach, Richard, was relieved to hear the final whistle.

Referee, George Selwood, had a very good game, but if the RFU could issue eyes that fit into the back of referees heads, the easier their job would become.

Final score was 23-17 to Yards. Well Done Boys.

Other Results

Development xv v Ludlow won 28 - 12

Vandals v Eds 2nds won 44 - 5

Fixtures

First XV Nothing yet. Watch this space.

Development xv v Tamworth 2nds Home 3.00

Vandals v Pershore 2nds Home 3.00 (Merit Table).

And Finally (at present)

As it was on BBC the majority of you were able to watch a quality game of football on Monday evening. It was refreshing to see a referee with the bottle to sort out the home team

for diving. One thing I almost forgot, the score, Manchester United one goal, Arsenal two goals. Que sera sera, whatever will be etc. a day out in North London for Mr Wenger and the lads.

A GAME OF TWO HALVES

Wed, 04 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Earlier in the season our first team defeated Spartans with not too much difficulty. With current form looking not too special the return game somewhere near the Belfrey would not be quite so easy. Turning round at half time trailing by 10-17 it was still possible that we could claw our way back into the game. However, the hosts scored 31 points after the interval compared to our modest total of zero. Final score 10 - 48.

Back at Tilehouse Lane, I decided to watch our Development team (seconds) take on Ledbury. However, it seems that transport in the rural areas was not functioning as they failed to turn up.

The Vandals, for whom the only predictable thing is their unpredictability, had a day out at Stourbridge and won 45 - 10. (match report is available).

Weekend Fixtures

Please note that Saturday Kick Offs are now 3.00 as we are in the month of March.

First XV v Pinley at Home League

Dev XV v Ludlow 2nds away (SY8 1EE)

Vandals v Edwardian 2nds at Home

Our Future Stars are on tour in Shropshire. Let's hope the weather improves.

Social

Last Friday's Charity Quiz was an epic encounter. The winning team was from my Badminton club (its good to see that they can do something with success) so well done to Nic, Val, Sue, Janet, Veronica and Ian.

The massive bottle of Sparkly, generously donated by Colin and Caroline Bosworth, was won by our under 12 coach, Aussie John in the 'sudden death' competition.

A Saturday afternoon drive...

Tue, 03 Mar 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The Club's elderly gentlemen made the journey over to Stourton on Saturday to play Stourbridge Lions "Grasshoppers" in a game officiated by our second "under age" referee on only his sixth assignment. The opening exchanges were a free for all to say the least with the referee unfamiliar with several key aspects of the game notably knock ons, and displaying a willingness to listen to both sides offering their "advice" on all other aspects of the law. Despite a bright start by the home side the old guard soon got into their stride and were well in front by half time. In a game where tackling by both sides had seemingly become an optional extra, the game was effectively dominated by the 150 stone Vandal pack who shunted the home side around at will. Even when down to seven men after the tallest player on the park Phil Gouldbourn was harshly carded for a high tackle one of the shortest players the Vandals pack continued to dominate the tight. A total of seven tries were scored by Egg Male, Rick Lowe, Max Gimson, Nick Palmer, Roger Lazenby and a classy brace from Barry Gunningham with evergreen Ralph Rollins adding five conversions in the 45-10 victory.

But......elsewhere...

Thu, 26 Feb 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The Vandals beat Southam Vets 7-5 in a game where we played against our own scrum half Phil "the General" Evans who was pimping for one of his numerous former clubs in this 50th birthday affair. The Vandals' points coming from that try machine Luke "the Hammer" Harris, with a conversion from the evergreen Dave "Ralph" Rollins. Merit league action this Saturday away at Stourbridge Lions "3rds".

NOT MUCH TO REPORT

Wed, 25 Feb 2015 00:00:00 GMT

As she who considers herself a travel agent decided to arrange a mystery weekend away, I tend to reply on my team of able reporters to keep me in touch with the action. The RFU results website is prompt but does not always bring good news. Anyway to keep it simple our First XV travelled to lowly Old Leamingtonians and lost 24-20.

Our Future Stars

Yet again, a very impressive sunday morning. The Under 7,8,9,10 and 12 travelled over to Hopwood and came away with some excellent results against one of the stronger mini/junior clubs, Kings Norton.

The Under 11s who have had a superb season so far, decided to test their progress against one of the top teams in the Midlands, the Old Sils. The outcome being that if you don't play the strongest clubs then you never really know how good you are.

Fixtures

This saturday, kick off 2.15

First XV v Spartans away Coppice Lane, (B782BS) League match

Dev/2nds v Ledbury home, Merit League

Vandals v Stourbridge Lions (DY7 6QZ) away merit league.

Only Clever People To Read This

This Friday Charity Quiz Evening at the club 7.00.

£2 per player, Max 6 per team

Come and see, you won't be publicly humiliated, you might even surprise yourself.

Monday walking group

This group of retired, knackered blokes, driven out of the house in order to meet similar people, are back in action. If you wish to join us, we walk for about one and a half hours with a compulsory drink at the end. This week we met at Tanworth-in-Arden, the rural home of Chris Watts..Other brave souls included one time rugby players such as Don Deneny (Trinity Guild), Paul Toal (Ballymena), Tom Bridge (Liverpool). If you would like to join us for future walks then get in touch.

NOT A VERY BUSY WEEK FOR THE SENIORS BUT OUR FUTURE STARS PROVIDE SOME CHEER

Wed, 11 Feb 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Seniors

Pitches that were previously rutted and then frozen over made the decisions to call off our games fairly obvious with our only senior game being an understrength Vandals who went over to Spartans and were well beaten 26-0. Our Future Stars

If you have yet to watch our young players on a sunday morning, you should give yourself the opportunity to do so.

The most recent games saw a short journey down the road to Edwardians, a club who always provide a stern challenge. This weekend was no different in terms of their determination to knocck us off our perch. The Eds had some sturdy players who tended to take route one. However, we no longer lie down and die. Our rucking and passing games have developed considerably and the five age groups who took on the Eds achieved wins.

Our under 11s were tempted to see if the gap between the bigger clubs and ourselves had narrowed as they headed south to Worcester to take on the home club and Stourbridge in a three-way encounter. Well, the gap might have narrowed a little but there is still much work to be done..In fairness, if you never try then you never find out.

Supporters

Sunday was bitterly cold but it would take more than a ground frost tot keep John Lonie away from his rugby. However, he did look a wee bit pale. Perhaps there was a virus going round !

Fixtures

First XV v Old Laurentians League 2.15 at Home

Vandals XV v Tamworth Vets Friendly 2.15 away

At present, that is all the games available.

Future Stars Training For All at the Club.

The wider world.

Congrats to France, England and to most likely Six Nations Winners, Ireland. Impressive winners.

THE FUNERAL OF JOHN PEARSON

Mon, 02 Feb 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The funeral of former Old Yardleians winger, John Pearson will take place at Hampton-in-Arden Church on Friday 6th February at 3.00 p.m.

I did not ever play in the same side as John but in a team photo that I recently saw, there were three of our current supporters playing in the team. Andrew Dunne (leading bowls player), Tanky Tynan and a very slim Dave Dixon were in that team dated 5th October 1968. The result that day was a victory for the Yards against Kynoch by a staggering score of 14-6.

IT'S MUCH TOO COLD (EXCEPT AT THE EMIRATES)

Mon, 02 Feb 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Is it really cold or is it me getting old? probably both. Well done to those of you brave enough to play or just to support on a Saturday or a Sunday. Any way, this week it's a short review of events.

Saturday

To ensure that we hold on to our Division 2 status, there are certain games that should be wins for us and Saturday at Old Covs fell into that category. A slow start proved that little bit too much and we lost narrowly by 11-13.

The Development /2nds travelled to Evesham to return home on the end of a serious beating.

The Vandals, with a home game defeated their 3rds 27-19. There is a report on this site.

Sunday

Our future stars made the journey over to Water Orton and turned on the class yet again with wins for all our teams. It might be a good thing for some of you senior players to come along and watch the kids skill and determination

Fixtures

First XV have a league match at home against leaders Old Laurentians, kick off 2.15.

Dev/Seconds are now at home v Harborne 2nds

Vandals are away to Spartans, over by the Belfrey.

Sunday all our teams are down the road against Edwardians except for our under 11s who travel to Worcester who are part of a 3-way arrangement along with Stourbridge.

And Finally

What did you guys expect? no plan B if plan A don't work, no plan A anyway, no pace across the back line, your one player who might have worried us is kept on the bench for 75 minutes. We left our best player out and still got 5 quality goals.It does not look promising for your survival.

Vandals make hard work of it.

Sun, 01 Feb 2015 00:00:00 GMT

On Saturday the Club's Old Guard with a few young faces took on Evesham 3rds in their W&H Merit League 2 clash at Tilehouse lane. With the "Australians" giving the front pitches a thorough going over last week it was the long trek to the tundra of the top pitch (which usually passes as our warm up). With the usual laconic arrival of Fridge a slightly hung over Barstool stepped up to the plate to prop. The Evesham side very much like the Vandals with a blend of youth in the backs and "experience" up front came out fighting pinning the Vandals down in our 22 for the opening exchanges before Sam Gouldbourn made one of his now devastating trade breaks right up the middle from ours to their 22 before being finally halted, with the cavalry arriving in short order the move was rounded off by Marcus Hope to open the day's scoring. Without any regular goal kicker we were unable to improve on the score. There then followed an intense period of pressure by Evesham for what seemed like twenty minutes that was met with our customary balls to the wall belligerent defence, in particular our hung over midfield of Barrel & Ace. (Note: ex Solihull RFC players reunion Friday night) Then it has to be said totally against the run of play another searing break by Sam Gouldbourn following a turnover saw him sprint 60 odd metres to score to increase our lead to 10-0, again the conversion went begging. This seemed to deflate the boys from the Vale as shortly after, despite also being hung over, Lee Coates did what only he can do ghosting through thin air tackles to score our third and yes unconverted try of the afternoon, the score remaining 15-0 until the half time break. The few changes at half time took a while to bed in and the opposition took full advantage to open their scoring with an unconverted try. The game entered a short period of stalemate before Barry Gunningham (one of the few three-quarters not hung over) sold one of his effortless dummies to cross the whitewash to restore our fifteen point advantage, as another conversion went begging. This only seemed to spur Evesham on and their second half gear change saw them score two well worked tries, both of which were converted, bringing them to within a point of us at 20-19 with six squeaky bum minutes to go. A very long six minutes, but with ref, Shannon, wearing my watch who am I to argue. But with time running out Evesham tried to run it out of their 22 and a high pass was intercepted by Jason Goodwin at full stretch, who strolled over to put the game to bed. Amazingly we finally managed a conversion when Coatesy managed to bisect the uprights with the last kick of the game. Final score 27-19.

JOHN (PANCHO) PEARSON - A TRIBUTE

Tue, 27 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

I had the pleasure and great privilege to be OY's Club Captain, when John appeared on the scene.
Ivor Enoch described John as a nifty left winger. With great respect to Ivor, he never saw him play, by the time Ivor had untangled himself from the black hole aka the front row, John had already scored.
John joined the Club at Christmas 1967, having been encouraged by Andy Dunn and Dave Crampton, fellow alumni from Sharmans Cross High School. He played his first game in the 1st XV on 27th January 1968 - 47 years ago today.
John was big, for a winger, fast and elusive with a poachers nose for the try line. In a pre season friendly against Camp Hill OE, John scored a brace of tries, on each occasion leaving Camp's full back Ron Walker (Cambridge Blue, Coventry, North Midlands) stranded. Ron sought me out after the game and said simply "he's good - you've got to feed him"
Well, feed him we did. In two and a half seasons John scored 28 tries, out of a team total of 121, including one hat trick and four braces., ie he scored one try in approx. every 4 tries scored by the team. Seasoned watchers, like Reg Singer, likened him to Bill Crinean, also an OY winger, who scored a hat trick on his county championship debut.
We had a set piece move we called 'Pancho' where John would cut in off his blindside wing, between the half backs, put the full back on his backside with a shimmy and sidestep, and stroll over. Thirty years later, at Twickenham, I saw England repeat the move with John Sleighthome, as winger - OY's setting the pace again !
John was known, with great affection, as Pancho, because of his shock of thick black hair, and his Elvis like sideburns.
My records only extend to 1970, when Andy Dunn took over the captaincy, but no doubt John's try scoring exploits continued. Moseley (who were then the Man U of English Rugby) approached him, of course, but John preferred the camaraderie of OY's. I firmly believe that if John had gone to Moseley, he would have played for England.
Off the field, John was a committed club man, and served on many committees. When we extended the changing accommodation in 1969,(another OYs self build project) John, despite being a soft handed quantity surveyor, did sterling work as a brickie's labourer.

Like everyone, I was saddened to hear of John's untimely death, and extend my condolences to his family. I hope OYRFC will be represented at John's funeral.

Dave Collen
Club Captain 1967 - 1970

A DIFFERENT GAME FROM THE USUAL.

Mon, 26 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Aussie Rules hit Tidbury Green

Something different was on display at the club on Saturday as we hosted a tournament of great importance in the Australian Rules calender. Teams taking part included the Universities of Oxford, Cambridge, Birmingham, and from Ireland came Cork and an all-Ireland invitation team. I suspect that there was another team involved. We think the winners were the Birmingham based side but that could be incorrect.

Senior Rugby

Saturday was a free date and as we have no backlog of fixtures it was an opportunity for our first teamers to rest and to allow any injuries to have a spell of extra recovery time. So with opponents crying off arranged friendlies, we turned out a mix of Devs and Vandals and played Bournville 3rds. We won comfortably but would like to thank our visitors as well as referee, Phil Monaghan.

Our stars on Sunday.

Yet another smoothly arranged fixture saw our 'Future Stars' take on Coventry based Earlsdon in six age groups.It looked to me as if we won more games than we lost but our team managers will be sending in their reports for you all to study. A big thank you to Earlsdon RFC and to the overflow parking organiser at Whitlocks End.

Forthcoming fixtures.

Saturday

First XV v Old Coventrians away (CV4 9DE) League 2.15

Dev XV v Evesham 2nds away (WR11 4JX) Merit table 2.15

Vandals XV v Evesham 3rds home merit table 2.15

Sunday (future Stars)

We are awaiting confirmation of which age groups Old Salts can put out. I will pass on details asap but it should be an away game.

Sad News

News has reached the club via Ivor Enock of the death of one-time Old Yardleians player, John Pearson. Our sympathy goes out to his family and friends and 'May He rest in peace'.

MEDIOCRITY (and that is being kind.)

Tue, 20 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

I almost took the bike over the road to Asda Park to watch our Seconds/Dev.team in action against Camp Hill. A couple of weeks ago I watched our Vandals win at Camps without really breaking sweat, but apparently it was much the same in reverse as our boys were well beaten.

The Vandals made the trek over to Sunnybank avenue to play Aston. I don't know if it was sunny where you were but I was frozen where I was. The final score was 39-35 in our favour.

So, off I go with essentials like gloves, hat and about 6 sweaters to watch our Firsts. How Rob Dixon can stand on the touchline in a short-sleeved shirt is beyond me but let's see how a game between two mid-table teams progresses. In fairness to our visitors from Warwickshire they had a decent sized following, but they were as subdued as we were as there was not all that much to get excited about.

Without going into detail, the Nuns were keen to spin the ball wide whenever possible. Perhaps they had done some research. The scrums were dominated by the Yards, line out roughly equal and the breakdown was mostly controlled by the youthful opposition.

A pattern was emerging, the Nuns were running at our defence which mostly held firm. Considering their opportunities, they lacked the vision needed to penetrate the defensive wall. However, although the home team had less possession in key positions, they did look more likely to score when the chances came along. On a cold day with a slippery pitch, perhaps we expected too much from the teams. I guess the Yards would be happy enough with a win as if you win when you don't play all that well, the coaches will feel quite pleased. Oh yes, we did win 24-13.

Both teams are mid table at the moment and I feel certain that is where they will both finish. Is that good enough? well it depends which angle you are coming from.

Thanks to our visitors from Nuneaton and thank you to our referee from Bristol way. He was a bit overawed at times but being a youngish lad he should develop into a capable referee.

Sunday Morning

Our future stars played host to local opponents from Woodrush. My reporter at the game informed me that we won all but one of our games, so jolly good, keep up the good work.

Fixtures this weekend coming

Seniors, I am waiting for confirmation.

Future Stars, all at home v Earlsdon kick off 11.00

And Finally,

Not long ago they were demanding the sack for Mr Wenger.

However, Manchester City 0, Gunners 2.

Where are the boo boys now?

A LUCKY ESCAPE

Thu, 15 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

First XV

When 'She who makes impulsive decisions' decided that we would spend the weekend in rural North Shropshire, I must confess that it did not have major appeal. However, when I got the result and report of our boys over in Newbold, her suggestion suddenly seemed a very good idea.

A scoreline that Warwickshire Bears would have been happy with, was disappointing to say the least.

The best way to get it out of the system is to get back on the pitch this Saturday and show us all what you are really capable of. Enough said for now.

Development XV

My reporter informs me that the game against Old Halesonians was abandoned at half-time due to an injury to one of their players. We wish him a full and speedy recovery. The score at that stage was 0-7.

Vandals XV

Better news for our teams was the victory over the Old Halesonians by 33-7. Nice One !

The Sunday Morning Show

Our young stars got their passports ready for that long trip to play Camp Hill. A variety of reports have been circulated but I think I am correct in saying that all the games were well contested and that the only Camps team to actually beat us was at under11.

Fixtures this weekend

Subject to weather conditions, willing opponents and none of our players going shopping with their wives, the situation is as follows

First XV Home v Nuneaton Old Eds 2.15 League

Devs XV Away v Camp Hill 2.15 Friendly

Vandals XV Away v Aston Old Eds 2.15 Friendly.

Under 7,9,11 all at home v Woodrush

under 8, 10,12 training but possibility of a game.

Quiz Evening

Charity Quiz Evening at the club on friday 27th Feb.

Usual style, £2.00, maximum of 6 players per team. Start 7.00

OUT WITH THE OLD IN WITH THE NEW.

Thu, 08 Jan 2015 00:00:00 GMT

As I sit here looking out at the rain, feeling really lethargic (the first prop to tell me what that word means wins a special prize), I look back at the news items on this website and I guess that they have different significance to each one of us. We have lost some good friends but before I get too deeply into that area, it's probably a good idea to move on and to look ahead.

Senior Teams

Our First XV have recovered a little after some disappointing performances. The win against Malvern boosted morale and this week's 55-5 victory over a previously unbeaten Handsworth was most impressive. The highlight of the game was when young second row Phil Painter broke from his own 22, fed our other and even younger second row Mick Brennan who shrugged off all challenges to score. Club Physio and one time second row, Kevin Grant, was amazed and commented that in his day that second rows were not expected to pass, catch or run with the ball. What would big Al Harrison have said we can only guess!

On the next pitch, the Vandals, faced a Bournville 3rds. It looked as if we were a little more streetwise as we edged to a narrow 17-5 win.

The Sunday Morning Gang

Ad we woke up to frost, ice and fog, there was divided opinion as to whether the the weather and pitch conditions would be safe enough for our young stars to play their matches against Birmingham/Solihull (Bees). It was left to the managers of each team to make the decision. Some games went ahead and some stopped half way through and some didn't start. More accurate details will be published soon.

Fixtures

First XV v Newbold League 2.15 away (CV21 1EZ)

Development XV v Old Halesonians 3rds away (DY9 9JP) 2.15 Merit Table

Vandals XV v Old Halesonians 4ths home 2.15 Merit.

SUNDAY

All teams at Camp Hill 11.00 kick off

New Year Resolutions

what I would like to see for the future is a greater desire to play. Only cry off when you have a genuine reason. You know deep down inside that once you are on the pitch that you enjoy your game and the post match social intercourse. So, get off your backsides and tell your captain that you are available. This applies to all our players, Seniors and Minis.

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

Mon, 22 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Well played, a well deserved win !

My reporter at the First XV league match against Malvern at the scenic Tilehouse Lane, complex described how our boys put in a much better performance than in some of our recent games.With a serious injury list and with one of our key players out in Sierra Leone in the fight against ebola, we were expecting a difficult afternoon.

With the return of the play-anywhere Walker and with the elusive running of Jack Seifas on debut, the home club were always looking the likely winners even though we had lost twice at Malvern already this season. The power of the pack was too much for our opponents to handle, with Phil (peter pan) Painter in impressive form, so his Dad told me.

The final score was 27-10 in favour of the Yards.

We would like to thank referee Mr John Kelly of the North Mids Society and our visitors from Worcestershire for another exciting game.

Down at Asda Park

Just a short bike ride from home and I arrived at the home of long term local rivals, Camp Hill. With local bragging rights to be played for there is no such thing as a friendly when the two sides meet.However,to ensure parity of numbers, we were happy to help balance the teams. The Camps made valiant attempts to run the ball wide to find the gaps but the conditions were not ideal for that style of play and the Yards' more controlled game gradually proved to be successful with a slightly flattering winning margin of 47-7.

This coming weekend

No games, so relax and enjoy the break.

Wishing all of our readers a happy and peaceful Christmas.

IT MIGHT BE WINTER BUT OUR MINIS ARE RED HOT

Tue, 16 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Senior teams

Not a great weekend as our First xv travelled to Droitwich where we might have expected some success but we came away empty handed, losing 15-27.

In a battle of the top two sides in their merit table, our Development team were defeated by Bridgnorth by a score of 17-24.

Mini Rugby

The progress continues as on Sunday, with a lot of clubs opting for Christmas events etc. we had four games, all successful. The Under 7,8,10, sides travelled over to Aston, who are new to these age groups. Not surprising, we proved to be too strong for the hosts but must remember that we all had to start somewhere. Good luck to Aston and keep going and you will soon see progress.

The Under 11s went to play Old Halesonians and remembering how strong they were in previous seasons, our boys were determined to prove how they have developed as a team. This was achieved with style. Well done coaches and players.

Fixtures this coming weekend.

First XV v Malvern home 2.15 League.

Development XV v Old Salts away 2.15 friendly

Vandals XV v Camp Hill away 2.15 friendly

Jerry Bayliss

Funeral arrangements.

This coming Friday 19th December, at Saint Margaret's Church, Olton at 11.00 a.m.

followed by Robin Hood crematoria at 12.00.

Refreshments will be available at the Eds afterwards.

SAD NEWS FROM THE EDWARDIANS

Fri, 12 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMT

JERRY BAYLISS

We receieved the sad news from Dave (Tinker) Townsend yesterday that Jerry passed away after a battle against Cancer.

Whenever you think about our local friends and rivals, The Eds, whether it was on the field of play or in the bar after the game, Jerry would have been one of those who immediately came to mind. A second row in the traditional style, he was a player that you would rather have in your team than have him playing against you. He was a great man both in stature and as a loyal servant to his club and he was widely respected in rugby circles. Dave will send us further details in due course.

The Old Yards send our deepest sympathy to Jerry's family and friends.

May he rest in peace.