With 3 Commando Brigade having just returned from Afghanistan on HERRICK 14 and having been defeated by the Medics last year, 'Royal' was up for it! For the week or so leading up to the game their squad trained hard and honed their skills, very different to those skills employed by some of their number in the heat and sand of the desert.
The medics had lost several of their senior players from the last two games, as they have now qualified. Their places were filled by 'freshers' who were about to get first hand exposure to senior rugby, which is very different to the colts and schoolboy games they would have been used to. Being spread around the Peninsula in Exeter, Truro and Plymouth, combining for training proved difficult and this showed on the night.
Following a close fought match between Devonport Services and Ivybridge under 16s, won in the dying minutes by Services, the Royal Marine Band put on a marching display that in itself was worthy of the entrance fee. The two rugby squads were then presented to Col Kassapian, President of the RM RFU, before a minutes silence in memory of those who have given their lives in the service of their country and importantly, during the most recent Herrick campaign.
Over 2000 supporters were treated to a game of rugby that was well contested until the final 20 minutes when the size and fitness of the Royal Marines took its toll. With a score of 10 - 0 at half time, the Medics' defence was tested again to the full at the beginning of the second half but tries were fast and furious in the last quarter of the game. Following last year's loss, the Royal Marines' Captain couldn't wait to get his hands on the Button Cup.
This year's match was again sponsored by Watercooled, hosted by Plymouth Albion and supported by Formedia. Please put Tuesday 6 November 2012 in your diary for the next Medics Rugby Challenge in aid of The Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund, which exists to maintain the efficiency and 'esprit de corps' of the Royal Marines and to provide benevolence support for those in need.
It is looking as though I will be able to hand over a cheque for around £15 000 to the RMCTF this year so on behalf of those unlucky enough to benefit from your support, thank you!
