The Navy’s most capped player was sporting Bristol Vets colours and helped them to a tournament victory in the Veteran 10s event. Still playing with a smile on his face.
And still attracting some close attention from opposition defences.
Navy Sharks – Mens Open
A quarter final exit was probably a fair reflection. St Pauls Pirates who beat the Sharks in the pool stages went on to contest the final against Filton OBs, who beat the Sharks in the quarter final. St Pauls, with Toots Vakalutukali playing a key role in their midfield were eventual winners of the Mens Open.
It was good to see Jonny Stephen back in the Sharks jersey and he reminded all of the electric acceleration and fine all-round footballing skills he possesses.A number of the younger players, including Bobby Conray-Smith (above) learned some harsh levels. Gaps aren’t always what they appear, tackles have to be finished off and technique at the contact zone has to be spot on and the commitment to the ruck total.John Barnett did very many good things but a key missed tackle and then a Yellow Card will no doubt give him cause to reflect. However I am convinced he has a strong future in a Navy shirt.Kyle Woods finishing and also some very committed covering back in defence were highlights for the Sharks.
Nathan Huntley may have left Toots on the deck on this occasions but in St Paul’s Pirates colours Toots had the last laugh as his team won the Mens Open event. However Toots will join with Nathan in the Sharks side at their final tournament in a fortnight at the Newquay Surf Sevens. The Sharks squad will be stronger for his presence.
Navy Referees
Dave Philpott was amongst the referees at the tournament.and was determined not to be out run by anyone!
Army Win Mens Elite
The Army won the Mens Elite competition leaving a visiting French side at sixes and sevens in the final.Powerful defence.Elusiveness
and Strong Running were the foundation of the Army success.
Looks like a very enjoyable day of rugby in the West.
Good to see the Army back to winning ways and the Navy Sharks progressing well.
Its looking good for the U23 games before Christmas and the beat up to the inter services in the new year.
John, it was a good day of sevens played in both strong sunshine and very heavy rain. Army played some very good sevens and the Navy’s develop path was working well.
John Walton
Looks like a very enjoyable day of rugby in the West.
Good to see the Army back to winning ways and the Navy Sharks progressing well.
Its looking good for the U23 games before Christmas and the beat up to the inter services in the new year.
navyrugby
John, it was a good day of sevens played in both strong sunshine and very heavy rain. Army played some very good sevens and the Navy’s develop path was working well.
John Walton
Bob Armstrong looks very fit and obviously still enjoying his rugby. Is he a reservist and available next April?
Now that would worry the Army!!
Geraint
Never say never. With Shane Williams getting a British Lions call up I suppose anything is possible! Geraint
John Walton
More Army 7s at Aldershot on Wednesday. Starts at 1000hrs.
See you there?