Ian Braithwaite International Man of mystery !!!!!

Once again Anselmian Mavericks supplied and entertaining and exciting game of rugby for any spectators who found themselves washed up on the touchlines of the cement like third team pitch.
Over the last few weeks we have gone from famine to feast in relation to pitch conditions, boggy mud bath to concrete patio, never the less both teams provided what was to be an excellent and entertaining game of free flowing attacking rugby.
Firstly congratulations to Hoylake for their victory, well deserved and well fought for. I think we all agreed that we managed to save the best game until last. After Hoylake's early season difficulties with playing numbers it was great to see such a strong team take to the field.
A big mention this week must go to The Maverick Colts who were making their debuts in the senior rugby fold. Once again it was evident that we have a talented group of players emerging into the senior ranks which bodes well for the future.Both teams managed six tries a piece with Hoylake edging it on the basis of an additional conversion.
Individual mentions a plenty go firstly to Ian Braithwaite fr achieving his annual try, even if he did leave it until rather late. The Mavericks strong and dominant scrummage once again put pressure on the Hoylake eight and a series of pick and go rucks close to the Hoylake line enabled a combination of Chris and Ian to go over from close range, the third official (Captain Tim) decided that Ian had got the final touch.
Once again the try machine that is Willow was given a few millimeters of space in the middle of the field to work with and he subsequently broke free to score in the corner after some determined defensive work from Hoylake but as we know once Willow gets a sniff of the try line there is usually no stopping him.
Onto our colts making an appearance, special mention goes to Harry Southern who started at full back, moved to scrum half and who also managed to bag himself an excellent try. There was a welcome to Dom Neville who came on at 10 in place of Dan Jenner during play, here is where the author starts feeling his age as I, as well as a few others on the pitch, remember playing with Doms father, Tony Neville not too long ago, nice to see the ability is in the genes, great game by Dom, some good decisions and when required ran the back line with maturity and skill.
Matt Caffrey and Alex Williams also showed what an exceptional talent they will become with some ferocious tackling, excellent carries and strength and commitment in the contact area. I for one am looking forward to next season and the impact these players will have on the club as a whole. Well played lads !

On a general note.......

As a captain this season it has been an absolute pleasure and an honour to play alongside the best group of individuals and players it has been my privilege to call friends. We have had some great results this year down solely to the team efforts of following the principles of Maverick rugby. Tackle Hard, secure possession and run hard.It has been one of the easiest tasks to operate as a skipper especially with the support of the legend that is Captain G Spot (Definitely better than me)and Nev for doing all the graft during the week.
There are too many individuals to give you all a mention but The Mavericks only run as a collective and not as a result of any single contributor, so thanks to everyone for your efforts this season.
Roll on next season and for all the tourists........ I think you know what's coming !!!!!

Tim