Tries, Disallowed Tries and Statistics
Warming up?!?!
By Markc
September 5 2005
Statistics will show that Saracens won this match 14-5, with a try from No 5 Rauluni and three penalties from Jackson, whilst Leeds reply was a solitary Rees try. Statistics will show that the visitors went 14-0 up before our consolation score.
Statistics will show that Sarries former Leeds favourite Dan Scarbrough was unable to play due to injury. Shame. I’ve still got a lot of time for Dan.
Statistics won’t show that Saracens ground out their win in front of a small band of noisy, good humoured travelling fans, who braved the inclement weather to cheer on their side and silence the few Southstanders who bothered to turn up.
Statistics won’t show that the RFU and SRFU will not be shedding any tears for Leeds, despite denuding a bottom of the table side of it’s stars and starlets. That the club was reduced to 17 of it’s own squad. Statistics will not also show the gratitude owed to Borders and Newcastle for getting us out of the mire. When you’ve your back to the wall it’s good to know you’ve got friends.
Statistics won’t show that Iain Balshaw probably had his best game for the club, ably supported by Phil Christophers. That Captain Tom was once more immense in the linouts. Nobody in the Leeds colours can be accused of shirking and both the new boys stood up and were counted.
Statistics will not show that Leeds destroyed Saracens at the line out, but that the visitors absolutely walked over the Tykes scrum at the end of the first half, yet inexplicably did not press this advantage home throughout the remainder of the game.
Statistics will not show the narrowness of the angle of the alleged ‘forward pass’ which led to ‘Ronnie’ Regan’s 50th minute try being disallowed, yet far greater angles of advantage from the visitors lineouts were deemed ‘straight’.
There was something else on the field of play tonight. Best ignored.
No doubt things will feel better on Monday. I will once more be placated by hearing of the ‘great things’ that the club is on the verge of. That the silly mistakes of the (past four) season(s) will soon be ironed out. By the end of March we’ll have Twickenham to look forward to, with optimism after beating Wasps and Tigers……and sounds of the first cuckoo of spring will fill the air!
The Fat Lady isn’t singing yet, but she’s clearing her throat.