Taylorian

Sport

Rugby

Moneke, D. Adeeyinwo, A. Sacranie, D. Joslin, B. Kleiner, A. Leitch, U. Otibo, M. Yip, F. Cawthorne, T. White, V. Paunovic, J. Kay, A. Knowles, O. Davies, D. Opoku, D. Patel, E. Idayefugbara, S. Ahmed, M. Duggleby. 3rd XV Although the season returned a mixed set of results, it can only be considered a success in terms of the bonds that have been developed, the challenges that have been met, and and memories that have been made. It began in high spirits as a talented squad travelled mid-week to Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet. Up against a large bench in very warm temperatures, MTS’ fitness was tested throughout the match. Although the team were under a lot of pressure, especially late on, moments of brilliance from Tommy White and a strong team performance led to us coming away with the win. Playing again just three days later, MTS were unable to replicate the same outcome against a strong St Albans team on the flagstaff pitch. With only 15 players for the day, it was always going to be a tall order. It was a close affair at half time, but with no substitutes the scores that came from St Albans were inevitable. Despite a heavy defeat, team captain K. Wagjiani embodied everything that is right about MTS rugby with some menacing carries and excellent tries. It was this leadership and resolve that eventually earned him one of the highest honours in schoolboy rugby – 3rd XV outstanding player of the year. A couple of weeks later in far more miserable conditions, we were again beaten at home in a competitive fixture against Mill Hill. With injuries beginning to mount and morale dropping after two difficult defeats, Taylors’ season was hanging by a thread; the fixture against Shiplake 2nd XV under lights during Rugby Week loomed large. There is a saying that you don’t rise to the occasion, you sink to the levels you reach in training. It is a saying that was resoundingly proved wrong when

comparing the training of the 3rd XV squad and their performance in the game against Shiplake. The highlights video of Rugby Week is littered with 3rd XV performances, which attests to the show they put on. O. Browne and E. Idayefugbara shone in a game that will live long in the memory of those that played and watched. The 3rd XV finished the season with a close-fought defeat against local rivals Haberdashers’. Although it was an agonising way to end the season, it

brought to the attention yet more players who will surely be making their mark in the 2nd and 1st XV next year. A. Sawant made a name for himself in his only appearance of the season, with some hard-hitting defence and his name on the score sheet. 3rd XV rugby is not so much about winning or losing but representing your school and enjoying your rugby. By those expectations, this season was a job well done! Mr A. C. Bruce

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Taylorian 2023