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5/12/09 Durham School v Pocklington School on the Playground.

Misty sunshine 46F.Ground soft.
Durham were awarded a penalty when the visitors did not release. It was kicked by Gaff.
Durham 3 Pocklington 0 (2 min)
Play resumed on half way and Pocklington made it to the Durham 22 where they infringed coming in from the side. A penalty gave School a line out on their 10m line which was caught by Fraser(4) but the benefit was lost as an attempted pass went forward in the backs. A punt ahead was caught and returned by their outside centre to Simpson (1) then a series of scrums and penalties brought School to our visitors 5m line. Clean delivery to the backs gave them a chance but it was missed and Pocklington had a penalty which when kicked only made 5m. Another mistake from their line out resulted in a scrum to School on half way Hall (8) passed to Gaff (10) who got past the first line of defence and coming up to their full back took his tackle as he passed to Jordan (15) who had a clear run to the line.
Durham 8 Pocklington 0 (18 min)
School had an enterprising move in the next phase of the game.With Hall,Drysdale (11),and Simpson involved then back to Hall then Griffin(9) to Maw (7) and full back Jordan raised expectations but the ball was lost in contact.
Pocklington were the scorers when Durham overthrew a line out ball and ended up offside. The penalty was kicked by no 9.
Durham 8 Pocklington 3 (25 min)
With School offside again Pocklington had a scrum on our 22 attempting a rolling maul they then went blindside and were turned over. A spiralling kick by Gaff and the catch was misjudged giving us a scrum on the School 10 m. line. Evenly matched to this point School were showing signs of penetration when running with the ball.Now a long pass by Gaff missed out the centres and Jordan coming into the line sped through the forwards seemingly unstoppable until a last ditch ankle tap brought him down. Not held he got up and passed to the wing O'Brien(14) who was tackled. Securing the ball Pocklington tried to clear but the ball fell into space and Jordan scooped it up and flashed over for a try converted by Gaff.
Durham 15 Pocklington 3 (30 min)
Pocklington got to School's 5m line then Gaff kicked a penalty.
Durham 18 Pocklington 3 half time score.
The restart was caught by Adamson (6) and Jordan kicked upfield where the visitors fly half knocked on giving School a scrum.Hall broke and made 15m but the ball went loose and with a free kick then a grubber Pocklington were on the School's 22. A kick left us offside and the visitors tried to get across the line using the forwards. Pocklington had a penalty in front but eschewed the almost certain three points to pass to the no.8 to barge his way over. Griffin (9) brought him down and Drysdale cleared to the 22. A turnover by School resulted in Gaff getting clear then Taylor(2) backing up took the ball and being stopped just short extended his arm and reached over the line.
Durham 22 Pocklington 3 (48min)
The next try will live in anyone's memory. Pocklington dropped out and Phillips(5) a tall rangy lock caught the ball just outside our 22.Going forward he brushed aside a couple of challenges then changed direction wrong footed a back and found himself clear at around the half way line. Showing a surprising turn of speed he galloped away distancing himself from the chasers for a fantastic individual try converted by Gaff.
Durham 32 Pocklington 3 (49 min)
Pocklington's drop out did not go 10 m so School had a scrum back on half way with possession it was kicked to their 5m line. A clean catch and drive took Durham to the line but the ball went forward and the viistors made touch. Another try looked likely when Jordan caught a short kick head only to be called back for an infraction. Pocklington's flyhalf made 20m to School's 22 but passed to the forwards they infringed and School had a scrum. From this Griffin passed to Gaff who hoisted the ball high and long. Chased by Drysdale he picked it up and scored. Another Gaff conversion.
Durham 39 Pocklington 3 (60 min)
Pocklington continued to press and had School back on their 5m linethey had two penalties and then two yellow cards were given against School after which uncontested scrums had to be taken. Somewhat unfairly this did not allow them to use their weight advantage and strangely we had the ball with which Gaff found touch on the 22. From the line out they had their most fluid backline move but a chip ahead was charged down and the game ended when Durham kicked ahead from the ensueing scrum.
Durham 39 Pocklington 3 full time.

Comment
An excellent result in the last game with some fine play and what a try from a second row forward.
Pocklington provided constant opposition and got close several times but Durham kept them out.

Gareth Archer O.D. who played many times for England at rugby and who presently coaches the first XV forwards has won the English Indoor Rowing Championship representing Durham City Amateur Rowing Club. Congratulations.

28/11/09 Woodhouse Grove v Durham School played at Apperley Bridge

A sunny day, a well grassed and after all the rain a well watered pitch. No wind.
After the disappointing match at Barnard Castle Durham made an ominous start. Two high kicks went straight to their backs resulting in tackling practice. After they made 20m we had a free kick which was knocked on so they had a scrum on their 10m line. The left wing was given freedom to break away and he scored. The conversion by 9 was successful.
Woodhouse Grove 7 Durham 0 (3min)
Another breakaway was foiled with a trysaving tackle by Hall (8). When Woodhouse came in from the side at the breakdown the penalty gave School the opportunity to take play to their 5m line. With play on the other side in the corner it was impossible to see the cause but our no 4 was yellow carded*. However School's threequarters linked to take the ball crossfield then our no 12 was yellow carded* and we were down to thirteen men and they kicked the penalty to half way.
Depleted but still defiant Durham continued and after stopping a breakaway by W.G. returned play to within their half and our lock returned. An up and under from them was well caught by Owens(1) then a probing kick by Gaff(10) followed by a penalty brought a line out 15m from W.G's line. An accurate throw by our hooker Taylor(1) was cleanly caught and the forwards combined to push over for an excellent try by Hall (8). Gaff added two points with the conversion.
Woodhouse Grove 7 Durham 7 (27 min)
This remained the score at half time.
Unfortunately McLuskey had been hurt and had to go off. There was some confusion about the replacement and I noticed Hall had moved into the centre.This problem was resolved when Hagen was brought in from the second XV game. Play alternated between both ends then from a scrum on half way W.G. tried a garryowen which was collected by Jordan(15) who weaved his way forward and then going wide he was forced into touch.
A penalty by the scrum half took W.G. into a short lived lead.
Woodhouse Grove 10 Durham 7 (43 min)
A series of kicks ended on half way the hosts tried to turn Durham but their kick was charged down by Ritzema (12) and the ball wobbled as it bounced. Jordan relishing his opportunity chased with an opponent alongside as they reached the line. He was the first to touch the ball down for the try which Gaff converted.
Woodhouse Grove 10 Durham 14 (47 min)
W.G. had a scrum on the School 22 then at the next breakdown Durham won the ball.Over in the far corner the referee stopped play and brandished a red card* against one of our front row. It was impossible to see what happened in the melee. With School down to 14 W.G. kicked to the corner then drove from the line out to the Durham line. Still in possession they passed along their threequarters to the wing who was tackled into touch 5m out. The throw in was Durham's and a penalty cleared to half way. With the numerical advantage W.G. increasingly brought their big forwards into play as they tried to bullock their way over. Time and time again they were tackled. A cross kick nearly succeeded but the wing was pushed into touch. The W.G. scrum half and fly half were darting around bringing the heavy players to the fore. A move was halted with a line saving tackle by Simpson we gained the scrum but they had a free kick and the no 8 tried to barge his way over.
He got over but Maw(7) held the ball up. W.G. had the scrum 5m out they attempted a crash ball but knocked forward and Gaff was able to clear. W.G. were offside and we moved play out of our 22 at last. More pressure followed but the defence held and the final move of the game was an attack by School. The whistle blew to the relief of the team and the travelling supporters. School had survived over twenty minutes of constant danger with a splendid rearguard action.

Comment
At the dinner that evening I had the chance to talk to our captain Joe Maw. As captain he had ensured that no questioning of the referee's decisions would occur this season because it only gets the side marched back.
The two yellow cards that were issued were the result of retaliation by our players to punches and the ref. did not see the first from them. The story behind the red card was our player having been tackled had his legs held and not being released he tried to free them and he accidentally caught the head of his opponent. The ref. saw this and had no option. I spoke to the player he meant no harm and regretted the incident.
The XV acquitted themselves with great credit in particular the magnificent defence during the last stages of the game this was accomplished without both of our players selected for the North of England, Douthwaite our blind side flanker, a prop and a winger.
Well done.

24/11/09 D.Mail U.18 Cup 5th round
Barnard Castle School v Durham School played at Barnard Castle.

The weather was foul, a howling gale straight off the Cross Fell with sleet mixed in the rain. 40 F but what a wind chill factor!
Testing conditions for the players. Some 120 members of the Rugby Club were there in support accompanied by the Head.

Playing into the wind. School gained a throw in on the B.C.22 which was caught and driven 20m but a penalty to the hosts saw Durham back on half way shortly after that initial incursion.Then with play in our 22 Barnard Castle had a scrum followed by a penalty which was successful.
Barnard Castle 3 Durham 0 (11 min)
The fierce wind caused problems with attempted clearances stalling although Pears(13) managed to get one to half way. Play came back to our 5m line and a short throw enabled School to kick to the 22. The Barnard Castle backs handled well and the move ended with a penalty which failed. Play was almost entirely in the School 22 but after 20 minutes despite considerable pressure the score was still 3-0. A ball was lost forward in a tackle and their outside centre was able to evade several tacklers in a dazzling run to between the posts. The conversion was effected by the scrum half.
Barnard Castle 10 Durham 0 (25 min)
School got to their 10m line with the drop out and had a scrum but the scrum half went blindside and was pushed into touch. The line out allowed School to get into the Barnard Castle 22 where another catch and drive took us close.
Regaining possession the Barnard Castle backs proved elusive and took play upfield where Durham conceded a penalty on the 10m line. Unsuccessful the restart was caught by their no. 9 who had been a threat throughout School won the breakdown and launched an up and under which was collected by the no.3 another threat. Half time intervened at 10-0
With the wind blowing into our opponents faces and only ten points adrift the match was finely balanced. A penalty to Durham only just went wide and another shortly afterwards was taken away by the wind. Pears made 30m and School won a penalty at the breakdown which Jordan put over.
Barnard Castle 10 Durham 3 (45 min)
Forceful play by Barnard Castle had them on the School 22, then a free kick gave the ball to the dangerous outside centre who nearly broke through only for the hooker to pick up and put down.
Barnard Castle 15 Durham 3 (52 min)
The home team were playing all the rugby despite our efforts and had a near interception. A cross kick was caught but knocked on and a clearance by School was well caught in the swirling wind by the full back and kicked to the Durham 10m line. A scrum to them gave quick ball to the fly half who passed out to the wing and he was able to take a return pass inside to score.
Barnard Castle 22 Durham 3 (58 min)
Throughout the game Barnard Castle had been quicker to the breakdown and taken advantage of our mistakes. From a scrum on our 10m line the ball shot out at the back and their scrum half pinched it and scooted away to score.
Barnard Castle 27 Durham 3 (63 min)
Pears was helped off injured and Ritzema replaced him in the centre. Apart from another catch and drive by School into their 22 there was no further incident of note.

Comment
Barnard Castle coped well with the appalling conditions playing with aggression and tenacity. The outstanding performances were given by Mellish (9), Bramwell (13) and Rigby (2) who was formidable in the loose. All three have been selected for the North of England. We wish them well in the next round where they will play Giggleswick.
Barnard Castle play Sedbergh on Dec. 5 th.

Durham School first XV play Pocklington on Saturday 5th Dec. on the Playground k.o 2 p.m. This is the last game this term.

Other news
Carl Hayman reputedly the best front row in the world and captain of Newcastle Falcons and a 46 cap winner in the All Blacks was guest speaker at the fund raising dinner held in Big School on Sat.28th Nov. In his address he said how much he enjoyed being in the North East and wished the School well in the future. Mickey Young who plays for the Falcons attended.

At the O.D. lunch on Monday 30th Nov. held in the Exhibition Room at the invitation of the Headmaster some 40 O.Ds were given an update on the School's position. There are now 471 pupils and the boarding places are full. Both Academic and Sport are progressing well with pupils receiving offers to Oxbridge.

Bradley Pears and Tom Kill have been selected for the North of England squad. Congratulations.

21/11/09 Durham School v Yarm School on the Playground.

A damp, misty day with a chilly wind. 50F. It was fortunate that Durham had played at Carlisle the previous Saturday 14th.
An enveloping drizzle commenced as the game started.
In the early stages Yarm pinned School back taking play to the 5m line with a drive from a line out. A knock forward gave us the scrum and Griffin(9) passed out to Gaff(10) who cleared but only to the 22. Two more of their efforts were repelled then Kill caught an exploratory kick and hared away for what seemed an inevitable try. The Yarm player cut the angle and brought him down inches out with an ankle tap after a 60m run. A slippery ball was causing play to be scrappy and after 26 minutes there was no score. Hall(7) filched a ball at their line out and tried to go through the middle, Maw(8) and Phillips(5) were prominent in the loose. The pack pushed Yarm back off a scrum and developed a rolling maul which made 25m. This was brought down illegally, Pears(13) had an unsuccessful go at a drop goal whilst the referee played advantage but it was left to Gaff to put over the penalty.
Durham 3 Yarm 0 (30 min)
With the handling difficult Gaff used a crosskick to bring Jordan(15) into play. He took the catch and would have scored were it not for an excellent tackle. A defensive clearance to half way was caught by Fraser(4) he passed out to Pemberton(14) on the wing but he was tackled into touch on the Yarm 5m. line. School were found offside and Yarm tried an up and under which Pears collected and he tried a crosskick. Yarm kicked their response straight out so Durham had the throw then the passes went along the line and we barged over. The scorer was not identifiable from a distance. Can I be told ?
Durham 8 Yarm 0 half time.
The School line out has functioned well all season and another accurate throw from Taylor(2) was caught and driven across from ten metres. Hall touched down at the back. Gaff converted a heavy ball from the touchline.
Durham 15 Yarm 0 (37 min)
The Yarm fly half wriggled his way towards the Durham line when they got into the 22. Awarded a penalty they kicked to the corner and tried to pick and go three times but made little ground. The next move was to pass back to the fly half who was promptly tackled did not release and Pears kicked the penalty back over half way. From that line out the ball went to Pears in the centre and he nearly broke through making 20m in the process.With the present laws on the breakdown the attacker is often penalised and Yarm now had possession so play was back in our 22. The visitors forced Durham back to just 5m out and won a free kick but went offside so School returned upfield with the kick by Pears. Our throw was caught by Fraser(4) and passed to the threequarters. The ball went along the line then a chip was caught by Yarm but knocked on. This gave Durham a scrum on their 22. Again the backs attacked but this time the last pass went forward. Gimby replaced Griffin and Anderson replaced Fraser. A penalty on half way allowed Yarm to get to School's 22 and then to the 5m line with a grub kick. We won the throw and cleared back to half way. With 12 minutes left Yarm threw in Phillips caught and Gimby passed to Gaff then to McCluske(12)who released Pears. He scorched forward making 20m drew his marker and passed to Kill(11) who put down in the corner for a well executed try.
Durham 20 Yarm 0 (62 min)
Hall picked up a loose ball and weaved his way to Yarm's 5m line. Durham had the scrum but could not go further and the game ended in a series of infringements and penalties by both sides.
Durham 20 Yarm 0 full time.

Comment
Yarm provided serious opposition but had three players substituted for injury Durham substitutes were for squad rotation.
The School forwards (Kirkley.Taylor, Simpson, Phillips.Fraser, Adamson, Hall and Maw captain) worked hard winning several important turnovers enabling the backs to attack. Good teamwork brought success.

Durham were noted today (16th November 2009) in the D.Telegraph under Schools at the bottom of the page of rugby scores.

14/11/09 Austin Friars School v Durham School at Carlisle.

A very wet day. 46F
I drove over from the east where the weather was pleasant. As I crossed the Pennines the rain grew heavier and there was standing water in the fields. I stopped intending to have a cup of coffee but thought I should ring to make certain the game was still on. I was assured it was and it would start at 11.30 a.m. I was in Penrith and I thought the kick off was 2.15 p.m.
Goodbye to my gourmet lunch. By dint of keeping to the speed limit I arrived in time.
School fielded a changed back line with Grifin at scrum half, Gaff at fly half, Drysdale and ? centres and Corcoron and Pemberton on the wings. Jordan remained at full back. The changes were necessitated by Simpson, Pears and Kill playing in County Trials the following day. With the weather at its worst it was fortunate that Hugh Dias Hon. O.D.was present with his umbrella so I could make notes.
Durham won a scrum against the head on their 22. Gaff(10) took play to their 22 with a long kick, then a catch and drive pushed the home side back the ball came loose Maw collected and passed to the winger who was forced into touch. Hall (7)caught their throw the forwards combined again and Hall scored from the back of the maul..
Austin Friars 0 Durham 5 (7 min)
School survived a kick and chase just touching down . We had a player in front at the drop out so Carlisle had a scrum on our 22. They transgressed and awarded a penalty Gaff reached their 22 with his kick. Our throw in produced another catch and drive then Griffin (9) had the ball and it went out to Gaff he passed to Jordan who caught it one handed and he to Pemberton (14) who scored. An excellent conversion was made by Gaff from the touchline in difficult conditions.It was raining hard the ground heavy.
Austin Friars 0 Durham 12 (14 min)
Carlisle missed a penalty on our 22. A long drop by Griffin reached well into their half and they kicked straight out. From the line out Durham got a clean catch and Gaff chipped but too far. Hall caught their drop out but Carlisle next had a scrum and their 3/4 made a break to School's 10m line. The fly half feinted and made a half break the ball came free in the tackle and Taylor (2) latched onto it and was pushed into touch. Carlisle won a penalty at the line out but it was missed. From our drop the Carlisle 9 made a break but was halted with a good tackle by Jordan. Durham had the next penalty which took them back over half way with the throw. Fraser (4) caught the ball and put in a grubber, Jordan picked it up and scored.
Austin Friars 0 Durham 17 (25 min)
A penalty each left play on half way and Gaff kicked to their 22 from ours. Another good line out gave quick ball to the backs who spread it to the wing where Pemberton went over in the corner.
Austin Friars 0 Durham 22 (30 min)
The restart was caught by Kirkley(3) given to Gaff who thumped the ball upfield but it was returned to School's 10m line. The throw in was too long play went crossfield and Austin Friars developed a rolling maul which was halted. Durham just managed to keep them out but in doing so came off their feet giving Carlisle a penalty 5m out. Taken quickly the scrum half was going full tilt before being tackled a metre out by Griffin.
Half time
Play alternated between the 22's with errors evenly matched until a mark by Corcoron allowed our backs to attack and the winger Corcoron made 30 m to the line.
Austin Friars 0 Durham 27 (48 min)
School gave away a penalty on their 22 and their outside centre wriggled his way across. A fine conversion by no 11 added two points.
Austin Friars 7 Durham 27 (52 min)
From a break by Maw the pass went to Gaff then to Jordan.tackled Maw won the ball at the breakdown and Carlisle were penalised. The kick gave School a throw in on Carlisle's 5m line. Caught by Fraser(4) the forwards pushed Austin Friars back over their line and Adamson on for Hall put down. Gaff was successful with the conversion.
Austin Friars 7 Durham 34 (60 mins)
The home side went blindside, charged down a kick and it required a clearance by Gaff to relieve the seige they mounted.. Two more attempts were repulsed and the match ended with a penalty to Austin Friars on half way.
No further scores.

Comment
A good result with a much changed back line. Austin Friars battled hard. Hard graft by all the forwards.
Both sides tried to play rugby in monsoon conditions and it was worthwhile forgoing my lunch to watch the game.
Austin Friars was the school attended by Hugh Dias now Chairman of the O.D.Society. He was well tutored in the art of umbrella use. Thank you.

11/11/09 Durham School v Dame Allan's School on the Playground. D. Mail U.18 Cup round 3.

Sunny 47F. Ground soft underfoot.
Dame Allan's tapped back their line out ball from the drop out. It went loose and Jordan pounced on it speeding towards the line.He was stopped just short but from that time Dame Allan's kept control with School unable to get possession due to several factors. Persistent mistakes, penalties and a determination by the visitors to play running rugby. This phase lasted some ten minutes then a chip was collected by Jordan, he kicked into space and Durham gained a scrum from their knock on on the half way line. We managed a clean heel but were penalised and found ourselves back on our 22. Dame Allan's tried a catch and drive but Hall (7) stole the ball. Passing it along the line Jordan(15) collected the pass ran 50m, sold two dummies, drew his man then gave the ball to Pemberton(14) backing up for the try,
Durham 5 Dame Allan's 0 (15 min)
Play was now almost entirely in the visitors half but Durham could not breach their defence until a line out brought a chance for a rolling maul. Unfortunately it ended in an accidental offside. School won the scrum that was given. A pass to Kill(11) and he released Jordan(15) who touched down.
Durham 10 Dame Allan's 0 (30 min)
A free kick taken by the visitors was caught by Pears(12) who passed to Jordan and his chip brought Durham a line out on their 22. A promising three quarter move ended with a knock on but School pushed their pack off the ball the ball went loose and another scrum was given this time to Durham. Maw(8) picked up and gave the ball to Jordan who scored.
Durham 15 Dame Allan's 0 (35 min) Half time.
Dame Allan's dropped out towards the Bow end, and pushed School back to their 22. Winning their line out the fly half tried a crash ball by the inside centre. He was tackled by our openside flanker Hall(7) but the centre managed to pass out to the winger who was tackled into touch. Durham took the line out just inside our 22 with a clean catch tapped back to Gimby(9) he passed to Griffin(10) and he to Pears who released Jordan to run 50 metres to the line.
Durham 20 Dame Allan's 0 (40 min)
The drop out did not go 10m so School took the scrum option on half way. Griffin chipped and chased and we won the throw in when they put the ball out of play. From just within their 22 Durham caught and drove over for Hall to touch down.
Durham 25 Dame Allan's 0 (42 min)
The visitors were the next to score when Durham became adventurous with exciting moves by the backs 10-12 -14( Pemberton) then back to Hall and then to Phillips(5) on to 10 then to 15, 10 again but their inside centre took a fine interception to run between the posts chased all the way by full back Jordan.
Durham 25 Dame Allan's 7 (47 min)
The referee was injured and his replacement was O.D. Patrick Dias who plays for Blaydon. He was on the touchline with the Under 16 squad which he coaches. Durham were now dominating play and the backs produced several moves but did not pierce the defence until a scrum midway between their 22 and 10m lines gave an opportunity for Gimby to pass to Griffin and he to Jordan who sped away.
Durham 32 Dame Allan's 7 (59 min) conversion by Griffin.
Dame Allan's dropped our drop out and Jordan picked the ball up broke a tackle and put down under the bar for his fifth try of the afternoon. Converted by Griffin.
Durham 39 Dame Allan's 7 (60 min)
School did not relent Kill(11) followed up a grubber Dame Allan's fumbled. Phillips(5) fought his way forward from the scrum and offloaded to Kirtley who had replaced Simpson(3).Griffin converted.
Durham 46 Dame Allan's 7
The last try came from a turnover Owens(1) who had Maw in support and he passed out to Kill who outran his man.Griffin converted the try.
Durham 53 Dame Allan's 7

Comment
An emphatic win with some enterprising back line moves made possible by the engine room of the pack. Credit to Dame Allan's who could have scored several times were it not for the excellent defence.
Durham face Barnard Castle in the next round away. It is to be played a week on Wednesday 25/11/09 away k.o.about 2p.m.

Important
The game versus Barnard Castle in the next round of the Daily Mail U.18 cup is arranged for Wed. 25/11/09 k.o. around 2 p.m. at Barnard Castle.

Other news.
Two O.D's appeared on television the other evening Fri. 6/11/09
Geoff Parling played rugby for Leicester against South Africa and Alexander Armsrtong in Armstrong and Miller.
He had his own programme on the following Sunday about holidays in England, and has been a guest host on 'Have I got news for you'.

11/11/09 Durham 53 Dame Allan's 7

7/11/09 Ampleforth college v Durham School at Ampleforth.

A fine day after early rain. 45F Turf soggy and grass wet.
Ampleforth started strongly pinning School down on their right hand flank. After several attempts to cross our line we infringed at a line out Ampleforth were awarded a free kick and their pack ground over for a try. Durham had not been out of their own half.
Ampleforth 5 Durham 0 (7 min)
Another forward drive by the home side brought them a 15m gain the ball passed to the winger but he was the recipient of a fine tackle.The full back came into the line sold a dummy and made 15m then Ampleforth tried another rolling maul but the ball went forward and play was stopped to allow Maw(8), our Captain, to recover his boot. From the scrum we pushed play back to half way then with a pick and drive the home side made 10m. Consistent attack by Ampleforth was severely testing our defence. A stolen throw at the line out gave our fly half Gaff(10) the chance to kick to their 5m line. Ampleforth ran the ball back but it went forward in the tackle. A scrum to School brought no advantage when we knocked on, however the College transgressed and Durham had a penalty kicked by Gaff.
Ampleforth 5 Durham (3) (20 min)
Simpson (3) pinched a line out ball but the attack went nowhere and just seconds later the College won possession kicked and chased to the School 5m line.The runner was tackled out then Durham kicked ahead followed up by Taylor(2). This resulted in a penalty which Pears(13) kicked to their 10m line but it was touched by them and Durham had the throw. Passed to Pears he made their 5m line. From the College line out the kick did not make touch and Kill(11) caught the ball and passed inside to Gaff who drilled it into the corner. Maw won the throw and the forwards drove over for Hall(7) to touch down at the back.
Ampleforth 5 Durham 8 (31 min)
After surviving the first 20 minutes Durham were getting more of the play and both teams appeared evenly matched. Ampleforth had an accidental offside ruining one of their moves. From that scrum the School backs developed a break
with Griffin(9) being tackled into touch inside their 22. Moments later School were penalised for playing the ball on the ground and Ampleforth made touch on the 5m line It was a repetition of the circumstances that brought the first try but this time our resolute defence was unyielding. The first half ended with an interception by Gaff but it was disallowed then Durham extricated themselves with a penalty to touch.
Ampleforth 5 Durham 8 half time.
A charge down provided the next excitement but the ball went dead. Our drop out resulted in an Ampleforth knock on so we had the scrum. A kick took Durham upfield then Maw took a clean catch and passed out to Griffin and he to Gaff. Both sides found difficulty with the slippery ball and the agressive defence from their opponents. A penalty to Ampleforth brought them to Durham's 10m line however the ball went loose from the tap back and Jordan(15) latched onto it starting a good 3/4 move which ended in a knock forward. Ampleforth kicked from the scrum and Jordan made 30m after taking the catch. Winning a turnover Pears was able to make touch in the College 22.
A catch and drive forced Ampleforth back pushing them off the ball. Griffin the scrum half tried to go round the fringe but was stopped but not before he passed to Simpson on his shoulder who barged his way over alongside the post. Gaff converted.
Ampleforth 5 Durham 15 ( 54 min)
School endured severe pressure as Ampleforth tried to breakdown the defence utilising their 20 stone prop.on crash ball. Play was almost entirely in the Durham 22 relieved by occasional forays into the other half.
A line out stolen by Maw passed to Gaff who got us out to our 10m line but a catch and drive by the home team brought them 15m. From that they kicked to touch back on the School's 5m line. Phillips(5) won the line out ball Gaff kicked but did not make touch. Ampleforth returned the kick and Gaff made a mark. With four minutes left the College threw all their resources at School to no avail as the team coninued to deny them.
Ampleforth 5 Durham 15 full time

Comment
It had been a tough game. Ampleforth had most possession and territory yet Durham had excelled in defending their two tries causing the College to go laterally and it was remarkable that wave after wave of attacks had been stopped. Covering for each other every member of the team had played well.
Ampleforth had held Sedbergh to a 17-6 score earlier in the season..

A fundraising dinner is to be held at the School on Sat.28th November in aid of the forthcoming rugby tour to Australia.
The guest speaker will be Carl Hayman captain of Newcastle Falcons and All Black international.
Further information from p.gerrard@durhamschool.com
The game against Dame Allan's in the Daily Mail U.18 Cup will be played at School on Wed.11/11/09 k.o. 2.30 p.m.
It could have a 2.15 start since the hour has changed.

21/10/09 Daily Mail U.18 Cup Round 3
King's Tynemouth v Durham School played at Percy Park.

On arrival in Tynemouth a light drizzle turned into incessant rain as the start approached.
School put the home side on the back foot from the k.o. with Griffin(10) and Gimby(9) prominent but it was a penalty for offside which led to the first try from a catch and drive with Hall (8) touching down. Jordan (15) converted
with a well judged kick from just inside the touchline.
King's 0 Durham 7 ( 6 min)
Durham were forced back by a penalty and King's tried a crash ball effort in the School's 22 but our clearance from there only took us to our 5m line. King's won their line out but knocked on so Durham had the scrum from which
Griffin cleared to half way. School were trying to spread the ball wide despite the atrocious conditions which led to numerous mistakes by both sides. My notes were suffering under the deluge and are scarcely legible. The next score came as Griffin found a gap passed to Hall in support and he in turn to Jordan on his shoulder who put down under the bar. He converted his try.
King's 0 Durham 14 (30 min)
Durham scored again before half time when McClusky broke down the right side then passed out to 15 or 11 or 14. I will try and clarify this but the rain is my excuse now dripping down my neck or onto my pad. Try converted by Jordan.
King's 0 Durham 21 half time.
King's developed an attack through the centre but Pears (12) stopped it with an impressive tackle and followed it with a kick and chase but King's were first to touch down. Their drop out was caught by Griffin who passed to Maw (8) and he brought Kill (11) into play. Possession went to King's, Gimby had a charge down then King's cleared and play was back on half way.
At this point School were offside King's penalty kick was caught by Pemberton (14) who sped towards their 22 but was ushered into touch.The home side responded using a penalty to gain touch and take play just outside the School's 5m. line. King's lost their opportunity with a mistake in the line out Durham had a scrum and moved play wide but the slippery ball was dislodged. Simpson (3) and Owens (2) had hold as School probed. From a chip by Jordan School won the breakdown that followed and Pears made touch on the King's 5m line. A scrum to King's went to School when we pushed them right off the ball. A quick pass to Pears and he cut inside to score .Enterprising play had brought rewards. Jordan converted.
King's 0 Durham 28 ( 52 min)
School took play back into the home sides half immediately with Hall, Griffin, Jordan and Pemberton contributing but going offside King's were able to mount an attack. It was stymied by our defence with Simpson (3) bringing down their centre. Gimby got clear but was caught 5m short of their line. A near interception, a scrum on their 22 but a forward pass spoiled another move. Then from a scrum on King's 22 two passes took the ball to Gimby who scored.
King's 0 Durham 33 ( 64 min)
In the pouring rain the game concluded six minutes later.
School are scheduled to play Dame Allan's in the next round at home.

Comment
A worthy win. Five tries in appalling weather. King's deserved a score for their efforts.

Durham have four O.Ds playing in Premier Rugby: Hall Charlton and Mickey Young at Newcastle, Michael Stephenson at Bath and Geoff Parling at Leicester.
The U.11 won the Loretto ten aside tournament.
U.11 and U.15 teams were runners up in the Sedbergh 15 aside tournament.
Rowing.
Please acess the Boat Club website but I am informed in the Wear Sculler's Head Durham School U.18 4 X came 2nd.

17/10/09 Durham School v Sedbergh School on the Playground.

A fine day with no wind. A good day for running rugby.
Prior to the start rumours circulated that the Sedbergh squad included thirteen school boy internationals. Others said seven with the lowest estimate I heard being five. It was later confirmed as six. As they came on I estimated they were at least a stone heavier per man.
Within three minutes they produced a try from a line out in their 22. Stuart(9) to Barrett(10) to Harrison(11) created room for Stratton(15) the full back to enter the line at full tilt to cross our line.
Durham 0 Sedbergh 5 (3 min)
School pushed them back into their 22 then from a scrum their scrum half broke, passed to the fly half who delayed his pass which opened up our defence and in a flash the full back found the gap running to put down under the bar. Converted try.
Durham 0 Sedbergh 10 ( 8 min)
School's drop out was long, the full back caught it but the passing move ended in a knock on. We had the scrum on their 22 and from our put in Griffin (10) tried blindside. Sedbergh won possession but the ball went out and it was Durham's line out. A clean catch and the pack drove over for a try. No conversion.
Durham 5 Sedbergh 10 (10 min)
The match continued at a fierce pace with the visitors ball in hand moves rarely kicking. The Sedbergh full back Stratton was concussed and had to go off. School were competing well as the next fifteen minutes showed. Pears (12) kicked a penalty into their 22. A catch and drive brought another as Sedbergh brought down the maul, this procedure was repeated but Durham lost a line out and Sedbergh passed out hurriedly this time forward. Ten metres from their line the ball went loose Sedbergh collected it and this time cleared. Jordan(15) our full back took the ball and set off to attack, he slipped but play was again just outside the Sedbergh 5m line.Gimby(9) the School's scrum half tried to go round the fringe but the ball went forward in the tackle. Sedbergh's backs set off again but committed tackling by Durham's back line arrested the move. They had made ground and School gave away a penalty which was kicked to touch.Sedbergh won the line out ball and the forwards grouping together got a pushover try by Evans.
Durham 5 Sedbergh 17 (28 min)
Both teams managed to get to their opponents 22 but the defences held. The School pack were performing well against heavier opponents and had a penalty when Sedbergh came up in a scum this was kicked to their 10mline and Phillips(5) nearly crossed in the corner. Sedbergh scored with a try from the flyhalf (Barrett) receiving a long pass from the scrum half who constantly caused difficulties with his probing runs as did the hooker and captain Clare (2).Converted.
Durham 5 Sedbergh 24 half time
Another threequarter move involving Duffy(12), Harrison(11) and Block(14) brought a try for the latter two minutes after the start.
Durham 5 Sedbergh 31 (37 min)
Some eight minutes later the visitors had a penalty which they kicked to touch on our 5m line. A rolling maul took them over for another try to Evans converted by the fly half.
Durham 5 Sedbergh 38 (45 min)
The passages of play that followed saw Sedbergh pound away at School relentlessly. Now the forwards were harrying our defences and behind the pack their scrum half who was brought down just short with a fine tackle. My notes show all their players were involved as they tried to add to their total. Some committed defence prevailed. The dominance by Sedbergh faltered as Kill (11) collected a chip. A break by Drysdale(14) was nearly clear but the pass to Jordan(15) was marginally forward and the referee who had a good game spotted it. Durham won a penalty taking a scrum just outside the visitors 22, taken on by a maul it was brought down and we kicked to the corner. A line out to Durham became a scrum as they knocked forward. Then a free kick followed by another penalty as Sedbergh were pressured into mistakes. Midfield Maw(8) broke to challenge their defence in the last move of the game.
Result Durham 5 Sedbergh 38

Comment,
This summary is by Dan Harrison the Sedbergh coach
The first XV had a much better performance against a strong Durham XV. The score line doesn't really reflect the hard fought and competitive nature of the game at which Sedbergh had to work hard for their victory.

Next regular fixture v. Ampleforth is on Sat. Nov 7th away k.o.2.15 p,m,

King's Tynemouth 0 Durham 33 - next round is v. Dame Allans (Daily Mail U18 cup).

Service of Thanksgiving and Celebration for the life of Gordon Bell O.D. 1928-2009 30th September 2009 - see Other News

From the Darlington and Stockon Times 9/10/2009 - Obituary - Malcolm Fordy O.D.(47-52) - see Other News

Durham School welcome Sedbergh School on Saturday 17/10/09
The first XV match will be on the Playground K.O. 2.30 p.m.
Sedbergh have played 5 won 5 so far.
On Wed.21/10/09 at Percy Park we play King's Tynemouth in the U.18 Daily Mail Cup. k.o. t.b.a.

10/10/09 Durham School v Hymers College On the Playvground.

A bright sunny day 56F. Thr ground firm and well grassed.
From the start School were penned in their own half. After 10 minutes play Hymers had a three quarter move which ended in a knock forward. Durham had the scrum 5m out but it was disrupted and the ball shot out backwards their scrum half Wilson was the first to touch down.
Durham 0 Hymers 5 (12 min)
Still in our half Hymers would gain possession only for School to push them back, These actions were repeated several times the most notable event being a fine tackle by O'Brien (11) tro arrest on of their moves. After 25 minutes Pears (12) raised the seige when he cleared to touch at Hymers 10m line. Hymers returned the kick and Durham had a throw in which was caught and driven. The visitors pulled down our maul so we had a penalty kick. The outcome was contentious. Many onlookers thought it was successful as did our touch judge but their coach did not agree and the referee directed Hymers to take a drop out from their 22. As events turned out it did not matter. The remainder of the first half was spent in the visitors half but there was no score.
Durham 0 Hymers 5
School had been unable to release the backs during the first 35 minutes and our chance came when given a penalty Hymers were penalised 10m again by the referee for questioning his decisions. The penalty made touch but our throw was not straight and they had a scrum. A misfield next another scrum and from that Hymers launched another attack by their backs. Once more good tackling by Durham frustrated them. Then Hammersley(13) made ground and Hymers were on our 22 once more. Despite continuous onslaughts School remained in touch as we made another clearance to touch. From this line out their scrum half darted forward passing to Schofield (8) a big, strong competitor. He was brought down by several defenders. Hymers brought the threequarters into play again with the passes going along the line but Durham's tacklers stopped them. At this point School lost the services of Owens(1) who had to be helped off with a leg injury. Durham had a penalty which gave position on their 22. A catch and drive was tried but School had a penalty. From a wide position it was unsuccessful. (60 mins).
Their drop out was caught by Hall (7) and taken on by Adamson (5). Another penalty to School again unsuccessful at 62 min.
With play mainly in the Hymers half. Phillips(5) was prominent in the loose and Durham made to Hymers 5m.
A monster kick relieved the pressure on them and in the last few seconds they failed with an ambitious drop goal attempt.
Final score Durham 0 Hymers 5

Comment
Hymers had won 6 from their 7 games with a hefty pack and quick backs including a centre who had represented England.
Durham's defence was committed but we were unable to field our strongest team with five of our best players injured.

Today 8/10 Durham School's results were published on page 15 of the Telegraph sports section under heading Rugby Union Schools Sport.
This is the only one so far reported this season.Unfortuately we lost at Edinburgh who were on top form.

7/10/09 Edinburgh Academy v Durham School at NewField Edinburgh.
A rain shower arrived just before the start but it relented and the only other factor was a strong cross wind which did not affect the game.56F
Well grassed pitch with springy turf
Both teams were dressed in similar strips. Edinburgh in pale blue and white hoops Durham in green hoops. It did not confuse the referee.
Edinburgh demonstrated their intent from the start. Gaining possession they passed out to their left wing who went over in the corner.
Edinburgh 5 Durham 0 (3 min)
School now had one of their best passages of play pinning the Academy back in their 22. A series of drives and Maw(8) picked up a loose ball passed to Gaff(11) and onto Pears15) who went close. A turnover to School and a penalty brought Durham to the Edinburgh 5m line. In control we switched play but his time the penalty went to the home side clearing to their 22. Maw broke and passed to Pears who ran cross field but the Edinburgh defence held. The pattern of the match changed. Our line out throw was not straight, a scrum to the home side on our 22 and in a flash their backs made a hole.
Edinburgh 12 Durham 0 (20 min)
Pears at full back tackling saved a certain try when their outside centre got free. Durham given a penalty did not make touch and the Academy ran back to gain a throw 5m from our line. Hall (7) took the ball from their forward and Pears secured touch on the 22m. Another display of handling by their backs ended with a knock on. From the scrum Durham were back in Edinburgh's half. It was their line out and once more we were defending this time they passed into touch. Durham's relief was short lived as the Academy snapped up an interception scoring in the corner. Try converted.
Edinburgh 19 Durham 0 (27 min)
Another score materialised when their scrum half side stepped his way over. Edinburgh's backs menaced every time they got the ball.
Edinburgh 26 Durham 0 (30 min)
The next try for them came from our drop out. Caught by their no 8 he passed to the fly half who jinked his way through puting down under the bar for a simple conversion.
Edinburgh 33 Durham 0 (33 min)
School managed to push Edinburgh back into their 22 with Hall prominent but the whistle blew for half time.
Every mistake was being punished with the Edinburgh backs playing some scintillating running rugby.
Our drop out was caught by no 8 who kicked. A penalty went to Edinburgh on the Durham 10m line. Passing back from the throw the ball went from 9 to 10 to12 then a grub kick went over the dead ball line. The 22m drop out was caught by no 8 then to the wing and he was over in the corner. The converson was made from the touchline.
Edinburgh 40 Durham (38 min)
School gained a penalty from the kick and Pears took play to Edinburgh's 5m line. Now the Academy had to defend. Phillips(5) caught and the forwards drove but were repelled. School won a turnover but the last pass went forward so it was scrum to Edinburgh. The ball out to no15 and he made 20m, play was only 2m from the Durham line as first their forwards tried to heave their way over. Thwarted Edinburgh tried their winger but he was tackled into touch but they had the throw. A clean catch and this time the pass went along the line to no 14 and he went over. Converted by no 10.
Edinburgh 47 Durham 0 (45 min)
School were contesting the Academy but were on the back foot with our opponents crossing the gain line at pace. Durham won a scrum against the head, had a near interception then in an attack lost the ball forward in their 5m line. When our backs had control Edinburgh were up in defence quickly and the next try by them came from a loose ball which they pounced upon and went unhindered to touch down. The conversion by no 10 followed.
Edinburgh 54 Durham 0 (55 min)
In the final 20 minutes the Academy were under pressure as School mounted attacks with Maw, Pemberton(on at full back) and Pears combining. An interception by School gave the ball to Gaff(11) he chipped ahead the Edinburgh full back hurriedly made touch but only to the 22m. Our throw in resulted in a free kick and Maw thrust his way over. Gaff converted. (65 min).
There were no further events of note.
Final score Edinburgh Academy 54 Durham School 7

Comment
Edinburgh have had some impressive wins already and were at the top of their game with the threequarters outstanding in particular 9, 10 and 12. The no 8, also a Scottish youth international excelled.
Unfortunately Durham had no 4, 14. 13 absent through injury and no 12 was hurt.

3/10/09 Dame Allan's School v Durham School at Fenham, Newcasrtle.

A bright but blustery morning turned into torrential rain as the start approached. 59F
The players were undetered the match started promptly at 10.30 a.m.
School scored almost immediately driving Dame Allan's back over their line. Gaff (11) converted.
Dame Allan's 0 Durham 7 (2 min)
School had several moves along the backs playing into what was now a gale force wind. Forcing the pace we punted ahead and did not release in the tackle.
They kicked the penalty to touch we won the line out but gave away a penalty which was quickly taken and the scrum half scored. The try was converted,
Dame Allan's 7 Durham 7 (12 min)
Three minutes later School had a line out on their 22. The throw was caught and passed to Jordan (15) who chipped over the head of the intending tackler and ran round to catch and put down in a skilful display.
The try was converted by Gaff .
Dame Allan's 7 Durham 14 (15 min)
Their drop out was caught by Phillips(5) and the School's forwards pushed their pack off the ball from a reset scrum, the scrum half was collared he held on but a penalty went to Dame Allan's who tried to go wide.
Their outhalves were tackled Durham won a turnover and passed to Jordan who cut across to go over. Gaff converted the try.
Dame Allan's 7 Durham 21 (18 min)
The sun had been out for most of the time and the wind had dried the turf but it was causing problems as was the proximity of the 2nd XV match on the adjacent pitch and the referee's whistle was confusing to spectators. I suspect the plyers too. Their drop out went too far and Durham had a scrum back on half way picking up at the back Maw (8) was tackled did not release but his efforts led to School's next attack as the opposition knocked on and Hall (7) at openside flanker released Ritzema (12) thence a pass to Pears(13) who broke two tackles and went wide outflanking the full back to score.
Dame Allan's 7 Durham 26 ( 23 min)
At this time the gale blew off the protective padding secured to the posts. After reattachment the game continued. A move involving our scrum half McClusky (9), Griffin (10). Ritzema (12) and McClusky again nearly breached their
defence this led to a line out for Dame Allan's. Hall caught the the throw in and passed out to Drysdale(14) but there was a knock on. The School pack pushed them back and ? scored. Gaff converted.
Dame Allan's 7 Durham 33 ( 28 min)
The home side scored next when they had a penalty awarded on our 10m line. The Dame Allan's scrum half spotted a half chance and made room for his support to weave across. The attempt at conversion was stalled by the wind.
Dame Allan's 12 Durham 33 ( 33 min)
An attack by School petered out when we were offside and Dame Allan's had another score which they converted.
Dame Allan's 19 Durham 33 half time.
A lapse by Durham on the 22m gave the home team another chance and theyy closed the gap with a converted try.
Dame Allan's 26 Durham 33 (38 min)
A most unfortunate occurrence from a late tackle left Jordan prostrate. He was taken to hospital with a suspected broken leg which ultimately was only severe bruising. Pears moved to full back.
School now were without one of their best players and only gained a penalty.
Soon after Durham produced one of the best moves so far Hall ( 7) wrested the ball free in a melee passed to Ritzema who returned it to Hall and he to Gaff on the wing for a good try.
Dame Allan's 26 Durham 38 (42 min)
The passage of play that followed was evenly matched. School made ground with Hall,Maw, and Pears then Ritzema brought off a try saving tackle on their dangerous inside centre.
A line out throw to Durham was caught and driven from the 22 to add to the total. The conversion by Gaff was good.
Dame Allan's 26 Durham 45 (65 min)
The drop out went too long and Durham had a scrum back on half way. Maw (8) picked up Dame Allan's infringed and McClusky(9) took a tap penalty passing to Ritzema who drew the tackler and off loaded to Simpson (3) in support. Gaff converted.
Dame Allan's 26 Durham 52 final score.

Comment
A good effort with an emphasis on open rugby. Passing rather than kicking in an unpredictable wind.
It was marred by the unwarranted flooring of Jordan to whom we send our best wishes.

The next match is against Edinburgh Academy on Wednesday at their Kinnear Road ground.
On Saturday we play Hymers College on the Playground K.O.2.15 p.m.

1/10/09 Under 16's Durham School 31 Stokesley School 12
A dropped pass neatly bounced into the hands of their centre. He scored under the bar. The conversion was successful.
Durham 0 Stokesley 7 (5min).
Stokesley scored again with try from a maul.
Durham 0 Stokesley 12 (20 min)
Swart put School on the scoresheet woth a try coverted by Robinson (B). (28 min).
Durham 7 Stokesley 12 half time.
A try by Brown(J) drew Durham level. A kick from the touchline hit the bar but bounced outward,
Durham 12 Sokesley 12 (32 min).
Two more tries came quickly one by the hooker Clewes(2).A conversion by Robinson(B)
Durham 24 Stokesley 12 (50 min)
The final score came with Swart (15) bursting through whoch Robinson(B) converted.
Durham 31 Stokesley 12
Stokesley won last year knocking Durham out of the Daily Mail U.16 Cup.

The 1st Xv were training on the Playground with the forwards being coached by Gareth Archer O.D. who played lock for England many times. We are grateful for his help.

3/10/09 Dame Allan's School v Durham School at Fenham, Newcasrtle.

A bright but blustery morning turned into torrential rain as the start approached. 59F
The players were undetered - the match started promptly at 10.30 a.m.
School scored almost immediately driving Dame Allan's back over their line. Gaff (11) converted.
Dame Allan's 0 Durham 7 (2 min)
School had several moves along the backs playing into what was now a gale force wind. Forcing the pace we punted ahead and did not release in the tackle. They kicked the penalty to touch we won the line out but gave away a penalty which was quickly taken and the scrum half scored. The try was converted,
Dame Allan's 7 Durham 7 (12 min)
Three minutes later School had a line out on their 22. The throw was caught and passed to Jordan (15) who chipped over the head of the intending tackler and ran round to catch and put down in a skilful display. The try was converted by Gaff .
Dame Allan's 7 Durham 14 (15 min)
Their drop out was caught by Phillips(5) and the School's forwards pushed their pack off the ball from a reset scrum, the scrum half was collared he held on but a penalty went to Dame Allan's who tried to go wide. Their outhalves were tackled Durham won a turnover and passed to Jordan who cut across to go over. Gaff converted the try.
Dame Allan's 7 Durham 21 (18 min)
The sun had been out for most of the time and the wind had dried the turf but it was causing problems as was the proximity of the 2nd XV match on the adjacent pitch and the referee's whistle was confusing to spectators. I suspect the players too. Their drop out went too far and Durham had a scrum back on half way picking up at the back Maw (8) was tackled did not release but his efforts led to School's next attack as the opposition knocked on and Hall (7) at openside flanker released Ritzema (12) thence a pass to Pears(13) who broke two tackles and went wide outflanking the full back to score.
Dame Allan's 7 Durham 26 ( 23 min)
At this time the gale blew off the protective padding secured to the posts. After reattachment the game continued. A move involving our scrum half McClusky (9), Griffin (10). Ritzema (12) and McClusky again nearly breached their
defence this led to a line out for Dame Allan's. Hall caught the the throw in and passed out to Drysdale(14) but there was a knock on. The School pack pushed them back and ? scored. Gaff converted.
Dame Allan's 7 Durham 33 ( 28 min)
The home side scored next when they had a penalty awarded on our 10m line. The Dame Allan's scrum half spotted a half chance and made room for his support to weave across. The attempt at conversion was stalled by the wind.
Dame Allan's 12 Durham 33 ( 33 min)
An attack by School petered out when we were offside and Dame Allan's had another score which they converted.
Dame Allan's 19 Durham 33 half time.
A lapse by Durham on the 22m gave the home team another chance and theyy closed the gap with a converted try.
Dame Allan's 26 Durham 33 (38 min)
A most unfortunate occurrence from a late tackle left Jordan prostrate. He was taken to hospital with a suspected broken leg which ultimately was only severe bruising. Pears moved to full back. School now were without one of their best players and only gained a penalty. Soon after Durham produced one of the best moves so far Hall ( 7) wrested the ball free in a melee passed to Ritzema who returned it to Hall and he to Gaff on the wing for a good try.
Dame Allan's 26 Durham 38 (42 min)
The passage of play that followed was evenly matched. School made ground with Hall,Maw, and Pears then Ritzema brought off a try saving tackle on their dangerous inside centre. A line out throw to Durham was caught and driven from the 22 to add to the total. The conversion by Gaff was good.
Dame Allan's 26 Durham 45 (65 min)
The drop out went too long and Durham had a scrum back on half way. Maw (8) picked up Dame Allan's infringed and McClusky(9) took a tap penalty passing to Ritzema who drew the tackler and off loaded to Simpson (3) in support. Gaff converted.
Dame Allan's 26 Durham 52 final score.

Comment
A good effort with an emphasis on open rugby. Passing rather than kicking in an unpredictable wind.
It was marred by the unwarranted flooring of Jordan to whom we send our best wishes.

The next match is against Edinburgh Academy on Wednesday at their Kinnear Road ground.
On Saturday we play Hymers College on the Playground K.O.2.15 p.m.

Dame Allan's 2nd XV 7 Durham School Hawks 61
A report later.

26/9/2009 King's Tynemouth Durham
Apology
The match on Saturday was at Tynemouth (Percy Park).In my report I mistakenly advised it was at home. I arrived at School in good time and enjoying my coffee purchased en route was approached by two parents enquiring why I was not with the first XV. Faintly I recalled a conversation concerning lunch after the game. It dawned that I was in the wrong place and I was nearly out of petrol having run down the tank to get the most from my 5p per litre discount voucher. Panic. I set off. Every learner, caravan and farm tractor were on their way to North Shields .There was even a queue for the overpriced petrol I had to buy.The consequence was that I missed the first half.
My sincere apologies to any one I misinformed.

26/9/09 The King's School, Tynemouth v Durham School played at Percy Park.

A glorious sunny day 60F+. A well grassed pitch.

I arrived as King's scored.
The story so far according to spectators had seen Durham score two tries by Adamson( 6) and Jordan(15) with a conversion by Gaff(11)
Two lapses by School had let King's through. One an uncontested line out and the other a misjudged catch.
With the conversion King's led 14-12.
From the drop out Durham kept play in King's 22 forcing errors. A forward pass by School spoiled a good move but their scrum half was caught in possession, another scrum followed they kicked for touch then Durham won the line out and drove over Hall(7) touching down. Gaff converted.
King's 14 Durham 19 half time.
The home side kicked off after the interval Hall caught the ball and after being moved back to our 22 we kicked. A follow up brought the ball to the backs and it went out to Drysdale(14) who ran outside his opponent placing the ball under the bar for a conversion by Gaff.
King's 14 Durham 26 ( 40 min)
King's scored next when School were penalised for coming in from the side. An attempt at a rolling maul was stopped but a penalty was conceded. Quickly taken their scrum half darted across for the try. No conversion.
King's 19 Durham 26 ( 42 min)
Another effort by Durham's back line ended with a forward pass. A kick by King's from that scum went well into School's 22. It was fielded by Jordan our full back. Accelerating he ran through the pack then turned laterally until he found a gap in their backs and changing direction again swerved to score between the posts. A run of over 80m. Gaff added the points.
KIng's 19 Durham 33 ( 47 min)
In another exciting move McClusky(9) moved the ball to Griffin(10) thence it went to Ritzema(12) who drew his man then passed out to Jordan(15) who changed direction then displayed fine technique handing off two would be tacklers to touch down. Gaff converted.
King's 19 Durham 40 ( 52 min)
Ritzema at inside centre freed Drysdale on the wing but the referee spotted another forward pass. He had been very alert to School's running onto the ball with the result that many manouveres ended correctly in a scrum to the other side.
Despite this Durham continued to press. A definite try was properly denied when our man had his foot in touch.
Play was stopped for a blood injury. A very evident nosebleed for Owens(1)
There was a scrum on the home 22 King's kicked it was caught by Drysdale who passed inside to Pears now at fly half. He had not been in the starting XV having a County Trial the next day. Pears eluded two tacklers and put down. Gaff converted.
King's !9 Durham 47 ( 57 min)
King's responded pouncing on a loose ball with their no.8 crossing. No conversion.
King's 24 Durham 47 ( 62 min)
The catcher of our drop out was scragged and Durham won possession but another knock forward ended that move. King's also knocked on and School had a scrum on their 22. This time the ball was passed without error from scrum half to fly half then between the centres and to full back coming into the line at speed. He handed off their full back and scored. Gaff converted.
King's 24 Durham 54 ( 65 min)
The drop out by King's was caught and passed amongst the three quarters ending in the hands of Pears for a try. Gaff converted.
King's 24 Durham 61 ( 67 min)

Comment.
The School backs gave a fine display of attacking rugby with two particularly inspiring tries in a well refereed game. This was based on hard work by the pack. Owens(1), Lyall (2), Simpson (3), Fraser (4). Phillips (5) and the back row of Adamson (6) blindside, Maw (8 and captain) and Hall (7) openside.
I was reminded of the first time I saw School play many years (? 24) when I saw the XV play Giggleswick and win by 40 points. I enjoyed the open rugby then and have been an avid supporter since.

Tom Kill who played in the first three games has been injured in training. Details when permissible. We wish him a rapid recovery.

The next game is against Dame Allan's AWAY. Sat. 3/10/09 k.o. 10 30 a.m followed by Edinburgh Scademy away on Wed.7/10/09.
The game against Hymers follows on Sat.10/10/09 k.o.2.30 p.m.

Cricket.
Gordon Muchall O.D. finished the season as a member of the Durham County C.C. who won the County Championship. He played in 11 matches had 17 innings not out 2 scored 497 runs at an average of 33.13 with a highest score of 106*.
Michael Turns captain of cricket last term is now in Perth W.A. where this weekend he will play in the Suburban Turf league. I am informed this standard is just below W.A.C.A. league standard. We wish him good luck.

Recent results 30/9/09
Edinburgh Academy 54 Dundee High School 7
Hymers 29 St. Peter's 22
Q.E.G.S Wakefield 14 Woodhouse Grove 10
R.G.S. Newcastle 14 Sedbergh 52
Leeds G.S. 7 Yarm 10

I have traced the following results:
Ampleforth 12 Leeds G.S.10
Barnard Castle 32 Yarm 3
Colstons 12 Sedbergh 18
Edinburgh Academy 84 Howe of Fife R.C.0
Hymers 10 Bradford G.S 39
Pocklington 5 Ashville 7
St. Peters 17 Woodhouse Grove 24
Edinburgh A. 31 Dollar 19
George Watsons 15 R.G.S. Newcastle 42
Hymers 29 Mount St. Marys 10
Pocklington 7 Woodhouse Grove 36
Yarm 27 Silcoates 10
R.G.S. Newcastle 53 Northumberland U.18. 24
I have sent our results to the Telegraph but it is not publishing them. I have e-mailed them but no reply

19/9/09 Durham School v Royal Grammar School, Newcastle on the Playground.

Bright sunshine, 60F. The ground in splendid condition.
One minutes silence in remembrance of Gordon Bell O.D. (39-40) was observed with players from both sides and spectators standing in the centre of the Playground where he scored a try for the School and attended many rugby and cricket matches.
Griffin(10) was at fly half with Pears(13) at outside centre and McClusky(9) at scrum half. Kill was injured and replaced by Drysdale(14)
Durham kicked off toward the Bow end. The teams were evenly matched for the first ten minutes then Clunies-Ross(9) made a surge he passed out to Munnelly(15) who when tackled by Gaff(11) did not release.The penalty was kicked to Newcastle's 22.
School caught and drove from the throw. R.G.S. brought down the maul and Gaff put the penalty over.
Durham 3 R.G.S. 0 (12 min.)
Now School dominated the play and apart from one line break play was in the Grammar School's half. From a penalty the ball went out to Pears who recycled it only for the ball to be lost in contact as the move developed. Newcastle upset the referee questioning his decision and we had a free kick. Going wide Newcastle nearly intercepted.
If my memory serves me well interceptions have been frequent occurances in games between these sides in recent years. Mostly by Newcastle.This time the ball was knocked forward and our scrum was on the half way line. Newcastle took it but the recipient of the pass was the subject of a crunching tackle by Pears. They got control and kicked to the Durham 22m. Robinson(3) caught the throw and kicked. R.G.S. recovered to chip ahead Gaff took the ball and returned with a grubber chasing it so we were now on their 22m.
Ritzema(12) was hurt and play stopped while he had treatment.
The Grammar School had a line out on our 22 from a penalty winning it they passed it to Gibson (13) who was enveloped.
Hall(7) wrestled the ball free and made touch. Newcastle attempted a rolling maul Durham brought it down, penalty to R.G.S.
Another effort at a maul was tried but this time it was stopped legally and School had the penalty.
McClusky (9) cleared with a box kick. Just minutes later Newcastle were back in Durham's 22. Despite being a man short (the visitors blind side flanker had been yellow carded) School were under the cosh. Then Durham had a penalty and now R.G.S. lost their captain(8) also to a yellow card. School kicked the penalty to their 10m line. The throw was caught at the back and taken by Maw(8), he drew the tackler then passed out to Jordan(15) in support who touched down for the try.
Durham 8 R.G.S. 0 half time.
Down to 13 men Newcastle managed to keep Durham out until they were back to a full complement. Using their hefty locks R.G.S made an impressive 30 m. before the weight of tacklers arrested the drive up the middle. Hall caught a line out throw at the back and linked up with Pears and Gaff but in the breakdown that followed Newcastle secured possession. There was another line out and again Hall won the ball at the back this time passing to Griffin(9) and on to Pears. Spirited play continued and Pears was nearly across after Hall initiated a further attack.
Pears made 25m from the School 22 but was tackled. Adamson(6) was in support to take the pass and score. Gaff converted.
Durham 15 R.G.S 0 (55 min.)
Robinson was replaced by Simpson. Both players only 15 and thus only able to play 60 minutes.
Hall was hurt but played on after application of the magic spray. In my time it was a cold sponge.
Newcastle continued to press in the centre with a substitute no 17 prominent making 20m. and advancing to School's 5m line.
Pushed back to the 22 R.G.S. mounted an attack going wide. The ball went through three pairs of hands before reaching the winger.
He went outside the attempted tacklers and scored in the corner. The conversion failed.
Durham 15 R.G.S. 5 (65 min.)
Almost immediately the visitors replicated that move with their quick backs again making space for their winger to score again.
The conversion was unsuccessful and the referee blew for the end of the game.
Result Durham School 15 Royal Grammar School, Newcastle 10

Comment
School were charge for much of the game with Newcastle down to 13 at one time.
Two defensive errors in the last five minutes allowed two tries.

The next game is on Saturday against King's Tynemouth k.o.10.30 a.m. on the Playground.

12/9/09 Durham School v Barnard Castle School on the Playground.

A beautiful late summer day, cloudless sky 70F.
The Playground looked at its best, the turf dry with short grass. A couple of hundred spectators in attendance.

Last weeks prop and hooker were missing from the squad i.e. Simpson and Taylor both injured replaced by Robinson and Lyall.
Durham had an inauspicious start when after 5 minutes Barnie's full back scored between the posts. Converted by 9.
Durham 0 Barnard Castle 7 (5min)
Play went to the visitors 22 but penalised School ended back on their own 22.
Durham won the throw and Pears(10) kicked accurately to the Barnard Castle 5m line.
A free kick enabled School to feed the backs but infringing we were penalised sending Durham back to their 10m line. B.C, kicked for touch Jordan caught the ball and returned it with a massive one for School the ball was fumbled and we had a free kick quickly taken and Adamson(6) burst over. Gaff converted the try.
Durham 7 Barnard Castle 7 (12 min.)
When the visitors were able they spread the ball amongst their dangerous backs but play was evenly matched.
A drive of some 30m by the pack and an attack into their corner marked the next few minutes then Newbould(5) was injured. Play stopped for 5 minutes but he was unable to continue and was helped off. He was replaced by Douthwaite.
Barnard Castle took a penalty for offside by Durham on the half way line. No 9 put it over to take what turned out to be three vital points.
Durham 7 Barnard Castle 10 (20 min.)
The drop out by Pears(10) was chased and picked up by Hall(7). Barnard Castle won the breakdown but knocked on then School knocked on from the reset scrum also.
Barnard Castle conceded a penalty on their 5m line but School could not cross and they too were penalised this time for holding on.
The referee yellow carded a Durham three quarter and they had to reshuffle the back line with Griffin(9) moving to 10 and Gaff(14) to 9.
Durham 7 Barnard Castle 10 half time.
A man short and Barnard Castle attacking left School having to play in their 22 for the first seven minutes of the second half.
A long kick by full back Jordan took play back to the visitors 10m line. At this time the Barnard Castle 12 was hurt. The match was stopped for ten minutes whilst he was examined. It appeared to be concussion. Durham were now back to full strength but after a series of moves the visitors had a line out moved the ball into the centre who had a half chance and released the other who at speed evaded
two tacklers to score.
Durham 7 Barnard Castle 15 (35 min)
Our drop out did not go 10m. so Barnard Castle had a scrum on half way. This was reset several times then their blindside flanker found space to cross.
Durham 7 Barnard Castle 15 (37 min)
Under pressure once again School defended frantically then from a scrum a chip ahead saw Pears(10) nearly through.
The Barnard Castle no 3 was yellow carded and Gaff(14) converted the penalty. Uncontested scrums the consequence.
Durham 10 Barnard Castle 20 (55 min)
The visitors drop out was caught by Hall(7) and following some untidy play a line out on half way was won by School. This led to Maw(8) chasing a loose ball which he collected passed out and Corcoran on the left wing as a replacement touched down for a try. Gaff converted it.
Durham 17 Barnard Castle 20 (60 min)
School developed an exciting back line move from the visitors drop out which was caught by Hall.
A breakaway by Gaff got clean through the defence running hard for the line two defenders cut the angle to bring him down 2m short to the disappointment of the O.Ds watching. This would have won the game. All credit to the visitors defenders.
Both teams continued to contest possession but there were no further incidents of note.
Result Durham School 17 Barnard Castle School 20

Comment The visitors edged it just. The game had a staccato format, penalties and stoppages galore.
Barnard Castle were up onto our backs quickly and effectively stopped the development of lateral moves whilst their forwards equalled our pack. Their injured player recovered.

The next match is on the Playground against the Royal Grammar School, Newcastle on Saturday 19/9/09 k.o.11a.m.

Cricket

Gordon Muchall O.D. was a member of the Durham County Cricket Club team that retained the County Championship on 12/9/09

School News

The Headmaster Mr Martin George gave a short summary of developments at the O.D. Dinner held in Big School in the evening.
It was attended by about 100 O.Ds and staff.
His remarks included the information that the School is operating at its capacity with 470 pupils, the number of boarders is up by 25%.
More information will be in the next issue of the Dunelmian.