Thebans Suffer Defeat in Kirkcaldy
The Caledonian Thebans suffered defeat against the skilled Kirkcaldy Zingari’s in a gripping end to end game.
On a night which saw most supporters huddled under their umbrellas, the Thebans travelled to Kirkcaldy for a thrilling late night game. The floodlights shone like diamonds in the sky on a dazzling display of rugby that saw some dominant (that’s right dominant!) attacking play and some courageous defence.
The first half started edgy, with both sides attacking; the Theban’s through some strong forward play and the Zingari’s fighting back with some fierce midfield runs. It took 10 minutes before the first breakthrough came, a series of Zingari attacks sucked in the Thebans defenders and then quick ball out wide saw them crash over in the corner.
From then on the hosts asserted their dominance, displaying all their expertise and skill. A further three tries came in the first half through some brutal forward runs that had the Thebans defence numb and stretched to its limits. Nevertheless, there was some positive Thebans play; strong tackling from Nick Smith, Michael Elliott and Neil Fox (Who’s that chick?) kept the scoreline under control and some positive attacking play by the likes of Blair Smith, Johnathan Cockayne & Robert Forrester kept the Zingari’s wary.
In the second half the Zingari’s remained ruthlessly clinical in attack with no let up in their assault. The Thebans again displayed some admirable defensive work, both Safi Safdar and Paul Gardiner pulled out try saving tackles. The Thebans held their own and were able to briefly turn the tide, mounting their own attacks resulting in a well worked try. The ever vivacious Robert Forrester made a scintillating run in midfield, supported by Nick Smith, who, after taking it through two further defenders, was able to set Johnathan Cockayne up in the corner.
The Thebans never called SOS and fought to the death, in a performance that had many positives despite the scoreline and the overwhelming experience of the opposition. Two new Thebans were blooded; Safi Safdar and Joseph Taylor both had gutsy performances and played with ferocity and passion. Safi Safdar secured man of the match for his positive attacking and superb defensive effort, take a bow. Pon de replay.
Tries: Cockayne (1)