Once again, those who remember when thumping your opponent was not only within the rules but actively encouraged, spent Christmas Day rummaging around in the attic looking for those rugby boots for the annual Gentleman’s, (and I use the word loosely,) Ross RFC Chris Greene Trophy Match. Thankfully, the Wilton Road Sports Centre micro climate ensured the game was played in blazing sunshine.

A few intoxicating libations ensured the Old Gits were fully warmed up prior to kick off and Referee Powell made sure both teams understood the serious nature of the encounter during his pre match talk, reminding both sides that whatever they could get away with was fine by him.

It became obvious early on that the Old Gits had not taken on enough alcohol pre kick off as the Young Guns took an early lead. Showing scant regard for the old amateur ethos of 'sticking it up the jumper,' they ran the ball from all parts of the pitch. Fortunately the referee quickly got tired of this and settled into a series of scrum, ruck, scrum, ruck rugby that brought comfort to those who remembered the days when half time was taken to be a chance for a quick fag.

The fear that a good game of rugby might break out proved unfounded however, and the sizeable, enthusiastic crowd quickly returned to sharing their Yuletide stories with each other. These enjoyable anecdotes were punctuated by the odd try, but fortunately there was not enough action to spoil the crowds conversations. After what seemed an age, the referee remembered the pubs had opened and brought the encounter to a welcome close.

After consulting the abacus, the Old Gits found they had prevailed, winning 29 - 24,and all made their way to the Drop inn to add a considerable dose of poetic licence to the previous 80 minutes of action. (Again I use that word loosely.)

All at Ross RFC would like to wish all those that have sponsored and supported them throughout 2009 a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2010.

The club would also like to offer their congratulations to TC leech and his wife, Jennifer, who gave birth to a baby girl on Christmas Day.