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March to Twickenham
Senior XV and Army 'A' Match Reports - Season 2009-2010


Army XV (22) v Royal Navy XV (24) - 1 May 10
Army XV v RAF XV - Match cancelled
Army XV (24) v Durbanville-Belleville RFC (0) - South Africa - 13 Apr 10
Army XV (39) v Hamilton RFC (23) - South Africa - 8 Apr 10
South Africa Training Camp and Inter-Services Squad - 29 Mar 10
Army XV (28) v Saracens Storm (33) - 24 Mar 10
Army XV (15) v Worcester Warriors (15) - 10 Mar 10
Army XV (41) v Oxford University (19) - 23 Feb 10
Army XV (10) v Northampton Saints (33) - 10 Feb 10
Army XV (20) v Cambridge University (7) - 27 Jan 10
Andy Price names his 2010 Army Senior Squad - 18 Dec 09
Army Senior Squad 2010 - 18 Dec 09
Army 'A' (39) v British Army (Germany) (9) - 16 Dec 09
Army Rugby Union

Inter-Services Championship 2010
Army XV (22) v Royal Navy XV (24)
Twickenham - 1 May 10

Royal Navy Rugby Union

May-Day, May Day, May Day - Red Mist turns to fog
Navy defeats the Army 24 pts -22 at Twickenham

Reporter/Photographer: Roger Thompson

The Army was 22pts-9 ahead at the start of the fourth quarter and dominating play when, with the help of the Gods, it conspired to lose a match that should as a contest have been dead and buried well before half time.

The history of the British Army is a litany of glorious 'cock-ups' such as Gallipoli 1915 and to that can now be added Twickenham 2010.

The Army has no one to blame but themselves. It was not just the 'sin-binning' of two forwards for acts of gross stupidity in the shadow of their own posts but the string of penalties presented to Navy skipper Dave Pascoe who, as anyone who has ever watched Army v Navy knows, can slot them from the changing room.

Jack Prasad scored the opening try
Jack Prasad scored the opening try with Ben Hughes in close support

Rewinding to before the last twelve minutes of the match, the Army started in boisterous mood and achieved forward domination inside twenty minutes, but and a very big but, the Navy were well drilled and certainly 'up' for this one. At no time did they lose contact on the scoreboard and, forced to defend, the tackles came in quickly with a degree of venom not seen in the past decade.

With the Reds in control up-front, Fiji international fly half Jack Prasad started to feel the turf under his feet. A couple of quick rehearsals and third time he was off with a dummy that saw him clear to the posts. Full back Ceri Cummings added a second try when he launched himself at the line through would be tacklers, and then added a conversion and a penalty for a half time lead of 15pts-3.

Apo Satala at his dynamic best - Apo was also 'Man of the Match'
Apo Satala 'Man of the Match' at his dynamic best

There must have been smiles in the changing room. The Red's pack was clearly on top and the backs were starting to sing. Twice Gus Qasevakatini was pulled back by the whistle, latterly when he had run 70 m for a certain try. Prasad, with the assurance that he had the measure of the Navy close defence, started to lead his backs through the gaps. Naka Nacamavuto ran a superb line to take Prasad's sweet pass to the five point line for Cummings to convert and establish a 22pts-9 lead

Man of the Match Army flanker Apo Satala, at his ebullient best, took on the Navy defence at short and long range and, with Blues' bodies littering his wake, created opportunities which should have scuppered the Navy. The Army attacked and came close and attacked again but a resolute Navy defence held in the absolute belief that the tide might turn-which it did.

The sin binning of Chris Budgen on 68 minutes was bad enough but skipper Mark Lee had to leave the field for the front row to be rebalanced and the three points that followed hurt even more. Down to fourteen men was a time for clear heads and single mindedness but Dave Bates' fresh legs served only to walk him back to the tunnel to watch Navy replacement hooker Ben Priddy being driven over the line against six Red shirts. Army 22pts-Navy 19.

With less than two minutes remaining the Navy engines and gear boxes were screaming. The 'now or never' feeling welled into the brains of anyone in a Blues' shirt-on the pitch and in the stands. Gaz Evans, playing at prop, in a position where he may have been one grunt short of a full-heave, crashed to the line. Referee Dean Richards called for the dreaded TV replay, whilst delirious Navy supporters wailed 'Navy, Navy'-not a sight or sound heard at Twickenham in recent years. The TMO awarded the try. Army 22 pts-Navy 24. Endex.

Ceri Cummings scores the third try
Ceri Cummings scores the third try

Fifteen men in Red shirts had established a winning position in the first half of an exciting game. Fifteen men took the field in the second half but left two brains in the tunnel and were unable to finish off a match that could always be tight to the wire. To misquote 'Question of Sport' no one will ever explain 'What Happened Next'.

Don't begrudge the Navy their first win in nine years. Andy Price's Army team were well prepared, played very well for 70 minutes and outscored the Navy three tries to two. Izzie and the girls in the ARU office were dusting off the silver cloth but an accumulation of unforced errors had allowed the Navy to stay in touch --even before Budgen and Bates were sent to warm the naughty bench.

It was the Navy, under the leadership of skipper Dave Pascoe, that showed the sort of character we would expect from the men in Red shirts and that, in itself, was an example of how a game is never lost until it is won.

Officials: Referee: Dean Richards, Assistant Referees: Andy Watson and Mike Priestley, 4th Official: Roy Maybank, 5th Official: Dave Squires, TMO: Geoff Warren, MOPR: Paul Bridgman.

Spectators: 56,185 - a record.

Read what the Royal Navy have to say about the match at www.navyrugbyunion.co.uk

Read more about Gallipoli 1915

See the Army Navy Match Day picture gallery.

Posted: 3 May 10


Andy Price announces the Team for the Army Navy Match on 1 May 10:

1
Lance Corporal Melvyn Lewis = 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
2
Lance Corporal Matthew Dwyer = 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
3
Lance Corporal Chris Budgen 2nd Battalion The Royal Welsh
4
Lance Sergeant Chris Scarf 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
5
Sergeant Darrell Ball The Defence Geographic Centre (Royal Engineers)
6
Private Apolesi Satala + ++ The Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland
7
Captain Mark Lee (Captain) + = Adjutant General’s Corps (Army Legal Services)
8
Corporal Ben Hughes Royal Engineers Recruiting and Liaison Team
9
Captain Ian Martin 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment (Duke of Wellington’s)
10
Private Jack Prasad ++ The Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland
11
Sapper Gus Quasevacatini 39 Engineer Regiment Royal Engineers
12
Sapper Perceli Nacamavuto 25 Engineer Regiment Royal Engineers
13
Lance Corporal Gerhard Wessels 39 Engineer Regiment Royal Engineers
14
Lance Corporal Malakai Magnus 17 Port & Maritime Regiment Royal Logistic Corps
15
Corporal Ceri Cummings 4 Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers
16
Warrant Officer Class 2 Stuart Silvester * 16 Medical Regiment
17
Lance Bombardier Ken Dowding * 7th (Para) Royal Horse Artillery
18
Corporal Dave Bates 3rd (UK) Divisional Signal Regiment
19
Lance Corporal Joe Kava 23 Pioneer Regiment. Royal Logistic Corps
20
Private Gareth Parry * 29 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps
21
Private Charl Coetzer * Adjutant General’s Corps (Staff and Personnel Support)
22
Private Gavin Ferguson * 9 Supply Regiment Royal Logistic Corps

* - Denotes Uncapped Player
+ - Denotes 7s International
++ - Denotes 15s International
= - Denotes Barbarian

Posted: 27 Apr 10

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Army Rugby Union

Inter-Services Championship 2010
Army XV v RAF XV
Newbury - 21 Apr 10

RAF Rugby Union

This match was cancelled because the Army XV were stuck in South Africa for more information see Postcards from the Cape

Andy Price Names Team to Play the RAF

This selection has been the most difficult of my tenure. So many players have peaked at the right time and held their hands up.

There are 3 new caps in the starting 15 (Front rowers Ken Dowding & Sly Silvester. And Gavin Ferguson on the wing) and another 2 on the bench (Charl Coetzer and Scrum Half Gareth Parry).

Mark Lee again leads the side from the back row and fellow back-rower Ben Hughes extends his army cap record to 29. Along side him on the flank is International Apo Satala. Apo is on fire over in SA and after the Inter-Services is looking forward to his move to Sale Sharks.

Fellow International outside half Jack Prasad is also in good shape. He returned from Op Herrick seven days ago and is in remarkable physical condition and scored a great try last night in SA.

The strength in depth on the bench is clear to see. 2 professional players in 25 cap Chris Budgen and Barbarian Matt Dwyer will certainly add fire power when unleashed. As will last years Twickenham hatrick hero Gus Quasevacatini.

1
Lance Bombardier Ken Dowding * 7th (Para) Royal Horse Artillery
2
Warrant Officer Class 2 Stuart Silvester * 16 Medical Regiment
3
Lance Corporal Melvyn Lewis = 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
4
Lance Sergeant Chris Scarf 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
5
Sergeant Darrell Ball The Defence Geographic Centre (Royal Engineers)
6
Private Apolesi Satala + ++ The Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland
7
Captain Mark Lee (Captain) + = Adjutant General’s Corps (Army Legal Services)
8
Corporal Ben Hughes Royal Engineers Recruiting and Liaison Team
9
Captain Ian Martin 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment (Duke of Wellington’s)
10
Private Jack Prasad ++ The Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland
11
Private Gavin Ferguson * 9 Supply Regiment Royal Logistic Corps
12
Sapper Perceli Nacamavuto 25 Engineer Regiment Royal Engineers
13
Lance Corporal Gerhard Wessels 39 Engineer Regiment Royal Engineers
14
Lance Corporal Malakai Magnus 17 Port & Maritime Regiment Royal Logistic Corps
15
Corporal Ceri Cummings 4 Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers
16
Lance Corporal Matthew Dwyer = 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
17
Lance Corporal Chris Budgen 2nd Battalion The Royal Welsh
18
Corporal Dave Bates 3rd (UK) Divisional Signal Regiment
19
Private Joe Kava 23 Pioneer Regiment. Royal Logistic Corps
20
Private Gareth Parry * 29 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps
21
Private Charl Coetzer * Adjutant General’s Corps (Staff and Personnel Support)
22
Sapper Gus Quasevacatini 39 Engineer Regiment Royal Engineers

* - Denotes Uncapped Player
+ - Denotes 7s International
++ - Denotes 15s International
= - Denotes Barbarian

Posted: 14 Apr 10

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Army XV (24) v Durbanville-Belleville RFC (0)
South Africa - 13 Apr 10

1. Ken Dowding
2. Sly Silvester
3. Melvyn Lewis
4. Chris Scarf
5. Darrell Ball
6. Apo Satala
7. Mark Lee (Capt)
8. Ben Hughes
9. Gareth Parry
10. Jack Prasad
11. Taniela Bakoso
12. Perceli Nacamavuto
13. Gerhard Wesells
14. Malakai Magnus
15. Ceri Cummimgs
16. Matt Dwyer
17. Chris Budgen
18. Dave Bates
19. Ifereimi Boladau
20. Ian Martin
21. Gavin Ferguson
22. Charl Coetzer
23. Joe Kava

See Postcards from the Cape - Squad training diary and pictures

Posted: 11 Apr 10

 
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Army XV (39) v Hamilton RFC (23)
South Africa - 8 Apr 10

Reporter: Andy Price

Four days high quality and intensive training in Cape Town this week culminated in a match against Hamilton RFC last night (Thursday 8th). The game took place in what must be the best backdrop and setting in world sport, the pitch perched half way up Table Mountain.

In front of a partisan crowd, the game kicked off and both teams started at a breathtaking pace. The Army surprising the opposition with an intent to play expansive entertaining rugby and after only 3 minutes after a scything break by Apo Satala, winger Malakai Magnus finished the off the move with a try wide out, converted by Ceri Cummings.

Burnie Burnard, Chris Williams & Dai Williams
Before the Hamilton game "what a back drop"
Burnie Burnard, Chris Williams & Dai Williams

Hamilton replied with a drop goal 2 minutes later. The next 10 minutes saw a ferocious contact area where most things were let go by a referee intent on seeing a contest and a game played. It was a real test of the Army's defence and character. The Army were the next to score through the other wing, Taniela Bakoso after a consolidated period of pressure and phase play in the Hamilton 22. Cummings again converted from the touchline.

Both teams then scored tries in the next 10 minutes. Hamilton through the forwards and the Army again after some great handling in the backs finished by fullback Charl Coetzer. Cummings converted and added a penalty before half time. Half time score Army 24 - Hamilton 10.

The second half started with the same tempo that the first ended. Hamilton kick a penalty on 44 minutes. The Army responded 3 minutes later with Bakoso's second try of the game after some great inter passing and hard running. Cummings again kept his 100% kicking record. The Army were starting to win over the crowd with the intent to play champagne rugby and the strength to maintain parity in the collision areas against a heavier pack of forwards.

The final 30 mins of the game saw both benches come on, but the Army players had the most impact. Both teams scored a penalty and a try in the final quarter of the game, the Army try was again a well worked entertaining passage of play and after a powerful run by back rower Boladau he offloaded to Gerhard Wessels to score on home soil in full view of his family members who were by now in full voice!!

So a bruising physical encounter which was a fine 5 try to 2 victory against the most successful Western Cape team in the last 2 seasons.

Team

1. Ken Dowding
2. Matt Dwyer
3. Melvyn Lewis
4. Dave Bates
5. Darrell Ball
6. Apo Satala
7. Mark Lee (Capt)
8. Ben Hughes
9. Ian Martin
10. Ceri Cummings
11. Taniela Bakoso
12. Perceli Nacamavuto
13. Gerhard Wessels
14. Malakai Magnus
15. Charl Coetzer
16. Sly Silvester
17. Rick Reeve
18. Chris Scarf
19. Joe Kava
20. Tom Chennell
21. Gavin Ferguson
22. Gareth Parry

It leave many selection dilemmas with all 23 players holding their hands up for selection. The intent to play attacking wide rugby showed with all outside Fitness and form all starting to peak at the right time. It is an exciting prospect with Chris Budgen and Fijian International Jack Prasad both set to play next week, the chin bar is again set to rise.

Army v Hamilton RFC - South Africa
Andy Price delivers a team chat and debrief post the Hamilton victory
Army v Hamilton RFC - South Africa

See Postcards from the Cape - Squad training diary and pictures

Posted: 9 Apr 10

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Andy Price announces the
South Africa Training Camp and Inter-Services Squad

As we approach the business end of the season I am enthused and excited by this group of players. They have quickly gelled into more of a club team than a representative one.

So far this season we have had 2 wins, a draw and 2 losses. Although these statistics are nothing to write home about, the style and standard of play has been!! We continue to play professional opposition and challenge ourselves at this high level. We hope to build on this next week in South Africa when we depart on our annual Training Camp. We will again play 2 fixtures in SA, including Hamilton RFC, who have proved to be the best team in the Western Cape by a long way in the last 2 seasons. The fact that they have chased us hard to get us to play them reaffirms our reputation at home and abroad and we look forward to raising the chin bar and rising to the challenge.

Although there are 8 uncapped players in this 27 there is also a massive amount of experience. We retain 12 starters from last years emphatic win at Twickenham and have 10 players with over 10 caps as well as our 2 full internationals.

There have been some really unfortunate players who have narrowly missed out this year. But all of the selected players know that there is immense pressure for places. We unfortunately lost prop Warren Ross-Allen to injury last week, we wish him a speedy recovery.

It is also nice to welcome back safely Jack Prasad and Team Analyst Marty Carraher from Operations in Afghanistan. Our thoughts remain with our friends and colleagues on Ops. We wish then all well.

The Army will again be led by the inspirational Mark Lee who is having an outstanding season on the field.

I must also say thanks to the Senior Teams fantastic Coaching, Admin and Medical staff, who as usual have been superb. They all continue to raise the standard off the field and on it and we look challenging ourselves and the players in SA.

We will keep you posted on our training and playing progress from Cape Town via our web site.

Captain Mark Lee (Captain) + = Adjutant General’s Corps (Army Legal Services)
Lance Corporal Chris Budgen 2nd Battalion The Royal Welsh
Lance Corporal Melvyn Lewis = 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
Lance Bombardier Ken Dowding * 7th (Para) Royal Horse Artillery
Sapper Rick Reeves 25 Engineer Regiment Royal Engineers
Lance Corporal Matthew Dwyer = 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
Lieutenant Tom Hughes * 9/12 Royal Lancers (Prince of Wales’)
Warrant Officer Class 2 Stuart Silvester * 16 Medical Regiment
Sergeant Darrell Ball The Defence Geographic Centre (Royal Engineers)
Lance Sergeant Chris Scarf 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
Corporal Ben Hughes Royal Engineers Recruiting and Liaison Team
Corporal Dave Bates 3rd (UK) Divisional Signal Regiment
Private Apolesi Satala + ++ The Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland
Private Joe Kava 23 Pioneer Regiment. Royal Logistic Corps
Gunner Ifereimi Boladau * 32 Regiment, Royal Artillery
Private Gareth Parry * 29 Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps
Captain Ian Martin 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment (Duke of Wellington’s)
Corporal Tom Chennell 7 Air Assault Battalion Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers
Private Jack Prasad ++ The Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland
Corporal Ceri Cummings 4 Close Support Battalion, Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers
Lance Corporal Gerhard Wessels 39 Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers
Private Gavin Ferguson * 9 Supply Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps
Sapper Perceli Nacamavuto 25 Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers
Sapper Gus Quasevacatini 39 Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers
Lance Corporal Malakai Magnus 17 Port & Maritime Regiment Royal Logistic Corps
Sapper Tanielia Bakoso * 25 Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers
Private Charl Coetzer * Adjutant General’s Corps (Staff and Personnel Support)

* Denotes Uncapped Player
+ Denotes 7s International
++ Denotes 15s International
= Denotes Barbarian

See Views from the Cape - Squad training diary and pictures

Posted: 29 Mar 10

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Army XV (28) v Saracens Storm (33)
Southgate - 24 Mar 10

Army Harries the Sarries

Reporter/Photographer: Roger Thompson

The Army countered the Saracens Storm with a fireworks display that met with the approval of a large North London crowd.

The Storm is a professional outfit that trains every day under the likes of England’s Richard Hill and is no doubt a forcing house for the 1st XV and various international set ups. "Various" because looking at the team sheet there were more Sarries from the South Africa and Fiji than from 'Norff Lunnen'-'yuh-no-whattah-mean !' Many listed as 'triallists' were clearly playing for a Sarries pro-contract so no favours on the night!

The Army opened by lighting the blue touch paper and then piling into the professionals who were clearly taken aback by the ferocity and continuity of the Reds' assault. Pressure forced errors and Charl Coetzer (AGC-SPS), who played for the Combined Services before winning a 'cap', effortlessly slotted three penalties.

Let's get the bad bits over first. The Sarries scored five tries-ouch-but there was more to the night's story. The first try was a 'tap'n-go'from 5m which was almost impossible to defend, two came when a key player was in the bin and a fourth was a charge down, attempting to clear the lines.

Charl Coetzer-a real find at full back
Charl Coetzer - a real find at full back

Notwithstanding, the Army gave a positive performance-hard up front and slick in the backs. Darrell Ball (RE) made a very welcome return to join Dave Bates (R Sigs) at lock and cream his line-out ball. Rick Reeves (RE) and Ken Dowding (RHA) was a strong front row combination whilst the Lee-Kava-Satala back row was again rampant.

Darrell Ball--great return from injury
Darrell Ball--great return from injury
Nacamavuto thunders into the defence
Nacamavuto thunders into the defence

Outside scrum half Ian Martin (3 Yorks), who plays with more authority each game, the precision and pace were exceptional. The pros could not prevent Peceli Nacamavuto (RE) breaking the line and Gus Qasevakatini (RE) was at his quicksilver best. Both outplayed those seeking pro-contracts, Gus scoring a brace of jack-flash tries.

Gus Qasevakatini scored a brace
Gus Qasevakatini scored a brace
Matt Dwyer--quick hands
Matt Dwyer--quick hands

Watch out for both 'Baks' Bakoso (RE), who came on and showed real pace, and possibly the most improved player over the season full back Charl Coetzer. As well as kicking three good penalties he crossed the line showing power and determination. All being well he would enjoy the open spaces, the firm ground and 55,000 cheering nutters at TW1.

A mark of fourth quarter supremacy was a penalty try awarded after the Sarries were pinned back in a corner until well after the pubs had closed. At scrum and line-out the Army was supreme and oh-just for a few more minutes !

No excuses but Army errors on the night provided a huge lesson in playing to win at this level. Cut out just one of those mistakes and it would have been a draw. Sour grapes-not a bit. It was a great game and this Army squad was terrific working as a team on the pitch and individually.

After the match Coach Andy Price said "This is the level at which we want to play. We need to take on outfits with professional skills and professional fitness--having the cast-iron confidence that says we can win in their backyard. Tonight we played the rugby and at the end had them on the rack. Five more minutes and they would have gone under-- and that is a massive plus. We played the Reds' exciting brand of rugby but maybe we should remember that the winner is the team with the more points".

The Team
1. Ken Dowding, 2. Matt Dwyer, 3. Rick Reeves, 4. Dave Bates, 5. Darrell Ball, 6. Apo Satala, 7. Mark Lee (Capt), 8. Ben Hughes, 9. Ian Martin, 10. Ceri Cummings, 11. Gus Quasevacatini, 12. Perceli Nacamavuto, 13. Gerhard Wessells, 14. Malakai Magnus, 15. Charl Coetzer, 16. Sly Silvester, 17. Chris Budgen, 18. Joe Kava, 19. Ifermi Boldau, 20. Tom Chennell, 21. Gavin Ferguson, 22. Taniela Basoko, 23. Tom Hughes, 24. Chris Scarf

Posted: 25 Mar 10

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Army (15) v Worcester Warriors (15)
Aldershot - 10 Mar 10

Reds and Warriors draw a thriller

Reporter/Photographer: Roger Thompson

'High rewards for high risks' was Coach Andy Price's mantra as the Army faced Premiership club Worcester Warriors at Aldershot on 10th March - and it almost paid off.

The Reds were out of the blocks quicker than Usain Bolt. After high pressure to right and left along the length of the Warrior's line full back Charl Coetzer crossed by the posts in under 7 minutes. Ceri Cummings converted.

The Warriors, a thoroughly professional outfit, shook its collective head like a boxer caught in the early rounds, and came back strongly to test the Reds' defence for most of the second quarter

The Warriors had paid the Army the great compliment of fielding a strong team that knew how to turn the screw Wing Marcel Garvey showed glimpses of his England past whilst centre Greg King and flanker James Freeman ran excellent lines to score good tries for a 12pts-7 lead at the break

Ian Martin snipes
Ian Martin snipes
Chris Budgen powers forward
Chris Budgen powers forward

The Reds took a little while to regain its composure. Perhaps significantly the Army received an unwelcome 'hosing' in the lines-out. The Warriors enjoyed commanding height and retained their own ball with ease and, surprisingly, also succeeded in disrupting the Army throws. Even more surprisingly, however, the Army persisted in kicking to touch rather than upping the 'ball in hand' tempo that had been so successful in the first quarter.

The Army scrum held well and frequently marched the Warriors back towards their own line. Even when coach Price changed the front three en bloc the Reds maintained their marked supremacy that had an experienced Warriors in shreds.

And the backs are still strongly playing the right notes. With Andy Price ringing the changes it shows the 2010 squad has great depth. The Sapper pairing of Gerhard Wessels and Peceli Nacamavuto, who scored the second try, worked decisively in tandem and were often held only by Worcester finger tips. On the wing season newcomer Taniela Basoko was very quick whilst Gus 'Q' remained elusive in offence and solid in defence.

Mark Lee takes it to the front
Mark Lee takes it to the front
Apo Satala again in imperious form
Apo Satala again in imperious form

Increasingly scrum half Ian Martin called the fireplan whilst taking the opportunity to snipe at every sensible opportunity. His 'close coord' with the back row of skipper Mark Lee and Joe Kava was a Reds'feature as Andy Price turned to the team to show who are the leaders. Apo Satala could only, once more, be described as 'awesome'.

Ceri Cummings converted one try and a penalty to bring the result to 15pts all.

This was a satisfying performance against a professional team with eleven first team members playing 'for their contracts'. The Reds played high octane rugby and only just missed out on Andy Prices' promise of 'high rewards for high risk'. Maybe in a couple of games time the eagerness to play 7s from the bottom of the trench will be tempered by the pragmatic need for retention. Not, I trust, to the point where we cease to enjoy this particular exciting brand of rugby.

Posted: 11 Mar 10

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Army XV (41) v Oxford University (19)
Oxford - 23 Feb 10

Army takes the Campbell Lamerton Trophy

Reporter/Photographer: Roger Thompson

Two moments of great rugby lifted this Army performance where the Red's engine spluttered on anything from 2 to 5 cylinders. That the Army comprehensively walloped a pretty reasonable Blues XV is neither here nor there.

For much of the play in a cold February Oxford fog it was a case of over- kicking in attack at the expense of using the firepower on the wings and making too many unforced errors. The Army should have grossed a half ton and only narrowly missed out.

Early tries by wings Gus Qasavakatini and Malakai Magnus provided a 12 pt lead and settled the direction of the game with Apo Satala and Chris Budgen putting in mighty performances. Also lock Dave Bates was an ever present force. Bates is a big fast man with a 'rip roaring' presence, a strong sense of direction and good hands. He operated efficiently in the lines out and ran well for his first half try.

The half concluded with the referee claiming he was unsighted after he sent two Army players for an extended rest. Down to thirteen men ensured the Reds front row had to gear up to cover the gaps which they did-almost. Two tries in that brief period was enough ammunition for Andy Price to re-draft his half time chat.

After the break the Reds welcomed back Peceli Nacamavuto to the centre and the resident scrum half Ian Martin. 'Naca' oozed penetration and was more than a handful for one man in defence. Martin brought terrier like leadership and bossed the game from the tight and broken play. They made a big difference both to the accuracy and tempo of a match that was by that time won but had, for periods, failed to show the Reds in their best light.

Army XV Team

Melvyn Lewis *
Matt Dwyer *
Chris Budgen *
Chris Scarf *
Dave Bates *
Apo Satala * + ++
Mark Lee (Capt) * + =
Joe Kava *
Tom Chennell *
Ceri Cummings *
Gus Quasavacatini *
Gavin Ferguson
Gerhard Wessells *
Malakai Magnus *
Will Gough
Tom Hughes
Ken Dowding
Ifereimi Boladu
Matt Bowman
Ian Martin *
Perceli Nacamavuto *
Taniela Basoko

* - Denotes Army Cap
+ - Denotes 7s International
++ - Denotes 15 International
= - Barbarian

In the fourth quarter the engine started to purr. Mark Lee and Nacamavuto scored good tries whilst full back Will Gough finished off clinically after some excessive flamboyance from skipper Mark Lee. Also a beautifully controlled scrum emphasised the scrumming power of the 2010 team and showed they could, if necessary, play an ugly game and still move forward. That is massive credit at the bank

Peceli Nacamavuto steps the Oxford defence
Peceli Nacamavutosteps the Oxford defence
Hooker Tom Hughes goes Route 1
Hooker Tom Hughes goes Route 1
DAVE BATES PERFORMS THE STAR JUMP
Dave Bates performs the Star Jump

No10 Ceri Cummings slotted four conversions and one penalty.

Griping about a 41pts-19 victory over Oxford University for the first time in seven years is a luxury-maybe, but, with the bar set high, we are starting to see the way Andy Price and his coaching team are pumping up an already successful squad.

WO2 Andy Price (Welsh Guards), the Red's senior coach said "Yes, we put a few down but time is required for change--and then polish. We have the players to handle such change and I believe we are starting to see the improvements we all seek. The first big test will be against Worcester Warriors on 10 March at Aldershot".

Posted: 26 Feb 10

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Army XV (10) v Northampton Saints (33)
Northampton - 10 Feb 10

Army show their mettle in the pro arena

Reporter/photographer: Roger Thompson

Northampton Saints Wanderers outscored the Army at Franklin's Gardens on 10 February. That the score was 33pts -10 camouflaged the complete story of a match where the Army played some excellent rugby, frequently testing the Saints defence to the last man.

The Saints , a truly professional club, fielded a number of youngsters of great quality who will no doubt feature on the international stage one day. On the afternoon they were held together principally by the seasoned Premiership pro Barry Everitt playing at No10 and former Wales and British Lion Darren Morris in the front row.

Before the game Reds coach Andy Price (Welsh Guards) had hammered home to anyone that would open half an ear that this was the standard that the Army aspired to in preparation for the 2010 Inter Services Championship. He got what he was looking for ! The Saints opened with a string of fluent moves orchestrated by fly half Everitt. The Reds were undoubtedly on the defence but, and it is a great but, they defended with spirit, organization and courage.

Mark Lee leads the Reds out of defence
Mark Lee leads the Reds out of defence
Chris Scarf drives the Saints back
Chris Scarf drives the Saints back

Time and again skipper Mark Lee led the Reds out of the trenches, hugely backed up by Chris Budgen, Chris Scarf and Joe Kava. In one particular snowstorm there was a chance of outflanking the home side to windward but a foot in touch denied a score.

The Saints scored four good tries in the first half where only a Ceri Cummings penalty lifted the fair number of Army supporters who had travelled from Bicester. Down 28pts-3 at the break and it doesn't take a Royal Signals technician to work out that the Army won the second half 10 pts-5!!

After the interval, with a number of 'bcr' and planned reinforcements, the game went the Reds' way. The forwards retained possession and growled their way towards the Saints line. The rucking was first class and scrummaging low, tight and vigorous. As Cpl Jones said, so frequently and eloquently, "Sir, they don't like it up 'em".

Chris Scarf and Dave Bates execute a triple reverse with tuck
Chris Scarf and Dave Bates execute a triple reverse with tuck
Scrum half Ian Martin gets the backs moving
Scrum half Ian Martin gets the backs moving

As the home team started to blow into the wind Darren Ball and Dave Bates drew a second breath and surged forward surrounded by red shirts. It was heart warming to see such great grinding mesmerising skills born on fitness and cohesion. Inch by inch may not be pretty but the exercise of unrelenting forward power is one of the great sights of our game and it is better than chasing opposition lightweights dancing down the touchline.

Throughout the match the Saints locks, both 6 ft-8ins, secured their own ball to effect but clever disguise and brilliant teamwork ensured the Army never lost their own line out. Indeed the Reds launched many attacks off the top, particularly in the second half. From one particular 'jump'n'drive' the Reds camped on the Saints line until, at the fourth successive scrum, the referee awarded a penalty try.

So 33pts-10 loss at the final whistle-down hearted ? -not a bit of it. "We fielded five players who wore the Reds shirt for the first time and welcomed back Peceli Nacamavuto at centre for the first time in three years. It was a terrific performance, full of pride, against a professional team" said Andy Price. "We have set our benchmark at this level and we gained a massive amount from what was a very sharp encounter. We may have leaked a couple of soft tries to dancing feet, and we will learn from that, but this was a top notch performance of which the players can be proud".

Read Northampton Saints' report (pdf 684Kb))

Posted: 12 Feb 10

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Army XV (20) v Cambridge University (7)
Cambridge - 27 Jan 10

Army emerge refreshed

Reporter/Photographer: Roger Thompson

The Army emerged from nine months of hibernation eager to show that they are refreshed and ready to lift their game to a higher platform.

Cambridge, the Varsity champions, fielded their strongest XV under the captaincy of Australian international Dan Vickerman. They started confidently with a ‘must attack’ spirit but quickly ran into some Red defence in depth—which was the story of the first half.

The Army defence was superb with Gerhard Wessels a rock at centre. It was particularly satisfying to see the Reds understanding of the new laws relating to the tackle area. Cambridge on the other hand surrendered two kickable penalties which Ben Mc Neil despatched with great aplomb for a half time lead of 6pts-nil.

Head coach Andy Price rang the changes at the break fielding skipper Mark Lee and Apo Satala who made an immediate impact. Strong in the tackle and off-load Satala drew more of the defence than the Students could afford to shepherd one player. This allowed Danny Cootes to crash over and create a 13 pt advantage.

Gerhard Wessels shifts the gears
Gerhard Wessels shifts the gears

In patches the Army played some stunning rugby ‘upping’ the pace and speed of ball through the hands. It was for some, with a major role to play in achieving continuity of attack, lung blowing stuff but it was effective and provided a glimpse of where Andy Price wants to go in order to achieve nine Twickenham successes on the trot.

The return of thunder-hoof, Joe Kava
The return of thunder-hoof, Joe Kava
No10 Ceri Cummings goes for the gap
No10 Ceri Cummings goes for the gap

Chris Scarf who played a full 80 minutes was everywhere. After an extended period of ‘continuity’, newcomer Taniela Basoko showed elusive pace on the right flank before Scarf lowered his 18 stone to the point where there was no stopping his thunder to the line. His cohort down in the part of the scrum that reeks of diesel, Darrell Ball, also had a fine game showing uncommon pace for a grafting lock.

Dave Bates, heavyweight with all round skills played at No6 and more than once attracted the massed defence from the Light Blues. Bates is something of a ‘go-getter’ who showed consummate versatility against an accomplished university back row.

The REME half back pairing Tom Chennel and Ceri Cummins brought a different perspective after the break. Chennell may not have the ‘hunter-killer’ instincts of Ian Martin but he has a long service and fine understanding with Cummings who is a natural predator with an instinct to attack and kicked his conversions with apparent ease.

Cambridge were never out of this match and showed great initiative and determination. No doubt some of these players will go on to professional contracts which puts the Army performance into context. The Blues scored a good try from short range but thereafter the Reds stood firm on the rock of good organization and self belief-- and the Thin Red line got thicker.

After the match Andy Price said he was satisfied with the outcome, especially as this was in effect the first Army game of 2010 and the coaching staff and team were attempting to change the pattern and tempo of the Reds’ game. “Our aim is to keep the ball alive with unbroken successive phases of play. The emphasis is on continuity and I saw enough of that tonight to convince me we are on the right track”.


1. Ken Dowding
2. Simon Bull
3. Melvyn Lewis *
4. Ben Hughes * (Capt)
5. Chris Scarf *
6. Dave Bates *
7. Matt Bowman
8. Joe Kava *
9. Ian Martin *
10. Ben McNeil
11. Gus Quasavacatini *
12. Danny Cootes *
13. Gerhard Wessells *
14. Taniela Basoko
15. Malakai Magnus *
16. Matthew Dwyer *
17. Warren Ross-Allen *
18. Chris Budgen *
19. Darrell Ball *
20. Apolosi Satala *+ ++
21. Mark Lee * = +
22. Tom Chennell *
23. Ceri Cummings *
24. Will Gough

* - Denotes Army Cap
= - Denotes Barbarian
+ - Denotes 7s International
++ - Denotes 15s International

Posted: 31 Jan 10

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Andy Price names his 2010 Army Senior Squad

Andy PriceAndy Price, safely back from operations, is delighted to name this season's 30 man Senior squad (see below). He states:

"It is the most exciting player base in my tenure. My selectors and I have looked at and discussed in excess of 75 players this season, culminating in a cracking game yesterday (16 Dec 09) between the Army A team and British Army (Germany). From that game 8 players confirmed their selection."

"There are 10 uncapped players in the 30, so clearly it will be a special year for some who will win a new cap. Some who have caught the eye already are: Matt Bowman, the backrower was the Under 23's 'Man of the Season' and the 'Man of the Match' yesterday (16 Dec 09). He will have 4 Internationals as his fellow back row colleagues this year. Gavin Ferguson has semi-professional experience in the Welsh Premiership. Charl Cootzer has already been capped for the Combined Services and watch this space as Taniela Basoko and sevens specialist Semesa Rokodguni who will both push hard for wing slots and are destined to score lots of tries."

"Among the young exciting new talent are some familiar names. Mark Lee will again skipper the squad, with 4 full time professionals in the ranks: Chris Budgen (Exeter Chiefs), Ken Dowding (Birmingham Solihull), Matt Dwyer (Worcester) and Apo Satala (Gloucester)."

"It is also great to have Joe Kava and Ledua Jope back safely from operations to again contest for the number 8 shirt."

"Melvyn Lewis, Chris Scarf and Ian Martin were also on Op Herrick 10, so 5 of these players have been at the sharp end of operations recently and we are pleased they are back safe to again were the red shirt."

"I must also add that many players again are not available for selection because of operations. Jack Prasad among many others deploy this week, we wish them well and god speed."

"We have a challenging season ahead. We were unbeaten last season and only conceded 2 tries in the Inter-Service matches against the Royal Navy and RAF. So we have much to live up to, but with this squad we can achieve similar."


Army Senior Squad 2010

Forwards

1. LCpl Chris Budgen – 2nd Battalion Royal Welsh
2. LCpl Melvyn Lewis – 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
3. LCpl Warren Ross-Allen – 7 Regiment, Army Air Corps
4. Gnr Ken Dowding * – 7th (Parachute) Regiment, Royal Horse Artillery
5. LCpl Matt Dwyer - 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
6. WO2 Stuart Silvester * - Army Medical Services
7. Sgt Darrell Ball – Royal Engineers
8. Cpl Dave Bates – Royal Signals
9. Cpl Ben Hughes – Royal Engineers
10. LSgt Chris Scarf - 1st Battalion Welsh Guards
11. Capt Mark Lee (Captain) – Adjutant General’s Corps (Army Legal Services)
12. Pte Apolosi Satala – 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland (Royal Scots)
13. Pte Joe Kava – 23 Pioneer Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps
14. LCpl Ledua Jope - – 26 Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers
15. Cfn Matt Bowman * - Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers

Backs

1. Capt Ian Martin – 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment (Duke of Wellington’s)
2. Cpl Tom Chennell – Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
3. Pte Gareth Parry * - 29 Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps
4. Capt Ben Mc Neil * - Scots Dragoon Guards
5. Cpl Ceri Cummings - Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
6. LCpl Danny Cootes – 33 Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers
7. Spr Perceli Nacamavuto – Royal Engineers
8. LCpl Gerhard Wessells – 39 Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers
9. Pte Gavin Ferguson * - 9 Supply Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps
10. Pte Charl Cootzer * - Adjutant General’s Corps (SPS)
11. Tpr Semesa Rokodguni * - Scots Dragoon Guards
12. Spr Gus Quasavacatini – 39 Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers
13. Spr Taniela Basoko * – Royal Engineers
14. LCpl Malakai Magnus – 17 Port and Maritime Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps
15. Capt Will Gough * - Army Medical Services

* - Denotes uncapped player.

Posted: 18 Dec 09

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Army 'A' (39) v British Army (Germany) (9)
Aldershot - 16 Dec 09

Renewable Energy

Reporter/Photographer: Roger Thompson

Copenhagen does not have sole trader rights to 'renewable energy'. It is a must at all levels of Army Rugby. Players are injured or simply age, their personal circumstances change and, of course, there comes the big bugle call to head for Afghanistan.

For the Army team the outcome is that as many as a dozen uncapped players will be called up each season to bolster the Inter-Services squad.

The Academy has an excellent record in grooming players for the Senior XV but frequently a ‘chunky’ prop at junior level does not have the complete ticket for Twickenham. The summertime 7s team makes a major contribution but a ‘quick kid’ in the wide open spaces in July may not be able to handle the rough and tumble of XVs in February.

Giles Sayner
Giles Sayner

"Trials" I hear the 'over-50-somethings' shout and Chief Coach Andy Price (Welsh Guards) agrees. Since the Summer his scouts have been roaming the Regiments and Corps to find an Army 'A' team of uncapped players to take on British Army (Germany) at Aldershot.

Under the watchful glower of former Scotland prop Mattie Stewart (PWRR) and Army skipper Ed Smith (3 YORKS) the 'A' Team were given two training sessions before facing a well settled team from Germany-with outstanding results. The score 39pts-9 hardly matters but a number of players certainly lifted their head, and shoulders, above the parapet.

Matt Bowman (REME)
Backrow Matt Bowman (REME), who was the Under 23's 'Man of the Season' and the 'Man of the Match'
Charl Coetzer (AGC)
South African born Full Back Charl Coetzer (AGC)

In no particular order Taniella Bakoso (RE) showed excellent acceleration, finishing power and defence. South African born Charl Coetzer (AGC), normally a winger but playing at full back, woke up at half time to show the 'Executive' how he arrived in the Army with such a great pedigree.

Blindside flanker Matt Bowman (REME), aged 19 (!) sent out a clear message to all Fiji warriors that the backrow for Twickenham 2010 was not a 'shoe-in'. An old hand but going strongly was Sly Silvester (AMS) who is making a name at London Scottish.

And, a big AND, the crowd who braved the snow and bitter cold were entertained with five good tries. Once defrosted Andy Price said "That was a very worthwhile exercise where a number of players, who might not make it this time, performed well and showed they were ready to climb the next rung on the ladder".

Posted: 19 Dec 09

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