Crusaders Masters v Boothtown Masters

On Saturday, Crusaders Masters had their first home outing of the season against our very good friends Boothtown Terriers Masters.

Crusaders had good numbers for the game, and were backed up by Jim, Big Foot, Graeme, Den and Tex from neighbours (if 25+miles can be classed as a neighbour) North East Thunder Masters.

Having their first Crusaders run out for the season were Butch and Baz and it was great to have their impact on the park. Dean also made debut for the Crusaders, welcome on board.

Great numbers!

The game itself was of course played in great spirit and extremely well controlled by the Match Official, Clarkie.

Boothtown troubled Crusaders in the usual areas by utilising their Gold Short Tag players to great affect in their go forward and scored some great tries off the back of them.

Crusaders game is constantly improving and the work around support and establishing some partnerships is beginning to pay dividends.

Deep into the second 20 minute period the Crusaders made a “Car Park” call. Jase got himself lined up ready and executed perfectly a new style of kick known as a Drobber. It is a cross between a Drop Kick and a Grubber and relies on the kicker toe punting rather than hitting it with his laces. Despite the perfect execution we were not able to execute “Car Park” itself.

In another kicking episode, Butch lined himself up to hoof the ball forward on a 5th and last. Now there’s bad luck, and then there’s Butch bad luck. Just as he cleanly struck the ball and beautifully followed through with a raised boot, sending the ball skyward at optimum velocity. A freak gust of wind that had gain speed as it travelled down Swaledale hit the Garrison!!! The tragically well timed natural weather phenomenon sent his potentially superb kick, hurtling backwards. Disaster.

Crusaders would like to thank The Hildyard Arms for hosting our after match.

In the build up to the game Crusaders Masters had organised a Rugby card and a raffle. As with previous seasons the Masters team will take great pride in giving back and supporting the local community, charities and the wider club. Unfortunately a few weeks prior to the game the Boothtown club were struck by tragedy. The moneys raised by the card and the raffle (£300) have gone to funds being raised by Boothtown club to help support those families affected.

Crusaders would also like to thank the new club shirt sponsors;

Fusion Joinery, Specsavers and Hearing Centre Harrogate, eCreative Designs and Emmels Tree and Garden Services.

Crusaders Masters now have a quick turn around, and will take to field again this coming weekend in the Cumbria festival over in Carlisle.