Mavericks 73 - Oxton Parkonians 7

The Mavericks welcomed Parkonians to Rivacre Park this week with the impetus of a strong win against Oldershaw the previous week still ringing in their ears. Parkonians are positioned above the Mavs in the league and have enjoyed some success during the season. This promised to be an exciting and eventful game .
With all three teams in action this week The Gaffer reflected on a successful week in the selection pool, with Neil Brookes, Andy Barker, Andy Thompson, Andy Smith and Chris McIvor all unavailable it should have been a difficult task to select a team, however maximum availability from all the teams created a situation where a very strong team put to the field. Kel Friday, Matt Brookes and Martyn Brown brought some serious attacking power and with The Mavs enjoying recent success confidence was high.
Kick arrived and with almost the first touch of the game and strong inside break and a firm hand off and Matt Brookes was over the line for the first of his three tries of the afternoon. The reminding forty minutes of the first half followed a similar theme. With the Mavericks scoring tries at a fairly relentless pace. The team played the simple rule of simple rugby. Strength and destructive running from the forwards setting a platform to release the backs who converted possession into points. First half scorers were split evenly between forwards and backs with Kel Friday enjoying success and a try on debut for the very promising Joe van Elker. Matt Brookes and Martyn Brown securing the rest.
In the second half the rich seam of points continued with Eddie Brown, Mike Weatherstone adding to their annual Tally and Matt Brookes completing the Hatrick.
An unusual development during the second half, not normally seen in a Parkonians v Anselmians game that being a little bit of ‘niggle’ with Parkonians accusing us of fielding a second team against them ( despite our seconds playing in Manchester ) and some rather tasty verbals taking place. Thankfully all resolved over the usual pint and food in the bar afterwards. Parkonians scores a consolation try halfway through the second half which only seemed to annoy the Maverick 15 and spur them on to greater deeds.
The final score of 73- 7 seemed a fitting result following the domination of the Mavs squad, but saying that a fair, competitive and at times combative game was enjoyed by all.
This weeks man of the match was clear and well deserved by Matt Brookes as a result of his tries and excellent performance throughout the entire 80 mins . Players of note include the excellent Joe Van Elker and Martyn Brown with the mountainous Kel Friday all playing dominant roles on the park.
In a week where other things take priority it is great to see the family spirit within The Mavs coming to fruition.
Well done boys on another strong win and we look forward to Helsby with the greatly anticipated Browny starting at 10 for us.

Semel a Mavericus Semper a Mavericus

The Gaffer