Head Coach Match Report: "A credit in the face of adversity"

Southend Saxons 65: 5 Holt 1st XV (away league defeat)

Following some unavoidable player unavailability, searing heat outside, searing heat inside with broken coach air con, an early player injury, a Captain sin bin, thank you to Head Coach Phil Sharpe for his positive post match report after what was a really long tough day for all involved:

"In the realm of sports, there exist those extraordinary occasions when the universe appears to conspire against you. Such a fateful encounter unfolded in the annals of our team's journey. Throughout the preceding week, misfortune plagued us as injuries and ailments beset our players, compounded by the unavailability of key contributors. This concatenation of challenges thwarted our aspirations to build upon the promise displayed in the previous week's match.

Picture this: a relentless three-hour coach odyssey, unfurling beneath the scorching blaze of a 37°C sun, bereft of the solace of air conditioning or even the relief of open windows. Yet, not even this relentless ordeal could daunt the indomitable spirit of our squad. Even as the clock ticked past our scheduled arrival time due to the capricious whims of traffic, our countenances remained etched with smiles, our determination unyielding.

Our foray into the game commenced on a positive note, yet it was not long before adversity struck. We were compelled to bid farewell to our indomitable fly half, the enigmatic Chilli Simmons, victim to a forceful blow to the head. However, the valorous resolve of our players remained unswayed; they regrouped and pressed on. Alas, the fulcrum of our misfortune manifested late in the first half when our talismanic figure, Tom Jackson, found himself bearing the weight of a yellow card for an ill-fated attempt to secure a ball that eluded his grasp near the 5-yard line. In an alternate reality, his successful catch might have rendered him a hero, but in this instance, it left us vulnerable, particularly in the midfield where our defense showed uncharacteristic frailty. Our team, reshuffled and with players in unfamiliar positions, clung to their devotion to the Holt club, continuing to pour forth their unflagging efforts.

During this yellow-tinged interval, the opposition managed to exploit our momentary weakness, amassing an unsettling 31 points. Yet, as the clouds of adversity gave way to the return of Jacko, our defense found renewed strength, and we initiated an audacious counteroffensive.

This match, it must be acknowledged, was an anomaly in the context of our usual performances. Nonetheless, it stood as a resolute testament to our mettle and defiance in the face of adversity. I stand with immense pride alongside these valiant players, and the sight of our dedicated supporters only served to heighten my elation. With an eye toward the future, we eagerly anticipate the restoration of our customary consistency in the forthcoming week.

Credit is undoubtedly due to Southend, a semi-professional ensemble graced with splendid facilities and a meticulously structured setup. Their formidable presence added further luster to this memorable encounter."

To reitterate, congratulations to the Moongazerale Man of the Match Henry Perowne (Sponsored by Martyn Sloman and Jo Lincoln) for fantastic carrying and scrummaging performances.

Taking the time to watch the match in Southend were amongst others, Club President Chris Harrison and Director of Junior Rugby Nev Drewry.

Post match, Nev said: "Well done all. Southend were a well drilled and physically big team. All our lads played really well from the 1st till the 80th. I'm gutted for Chilli, it was a massive hit he took. Well done Hobbit, you done outstanding with some massive carries and scrummaging in that heat."

Post match Chris said: "It was our first visit to Southend on Saturday and we entertained so well by the club and looked after by David and David the Club President and Chairman, thank you. After a marvelous lunch, the Southend presented Holt with a shield as a recognition of our first visit. Southend was formed in 1870 and is one of the oldest clubs in England. On the field, we were out-played by a physically strong professional well drilled team, but Holt never gave up and the players were a complete credit to our club."