Phil Sharpe: Rugby is a tight knit family

Eton Manor 74: 17 Holt 1st XV (Away league loss)
Holt Tertians 24: 22 Lowestoft & Yarmouth 2nd XV (Home league bonus-point win)

We thank Head Coach Phil for his words today: "Amidst all of the happenings with our 1st & 3rd teams playing on Saturday, the heartbreaking news that emanated from Wisbech cast a heavy shadow upon everything. The rugby community is a tightly knit family, and the deeply distressing news has had a profound impact. Wisbech is a side we are intimately familiar with; please know our hearts go out to all the players and supporters of both clubs who were present and witnessed the tragic event. In these trying times, our deepest sympathies and condolences are extended to everyone affected.

This week's lengthy journey to Eton Manor was notably improved by the presence of Chris, our newly appointed official bus driver. Eton Manor, a formidable opponent, demonstrated precisely why they are contenders for promotion by efficiently capitalising on every opportunity that came their way. Despite their prowess, we remained steadfast, adopting a learning mindset and keenly analyzing every phase of play. Our progress was especially evident in the refinement of our set-piece plays.

Our scrums and lineouts, in particular, showcased remarkable strength, enabling us to execute some impressive phases of play. It was truly commendable that we managed to secure three scores in this match, a remarkable achievement against such a formidable adversary. This resilient performance underscores our team's determination and potential in the face of strong opposition".

The 1st XV performed with fortitude against a very strong Eton Manor who showed why they are promotion and league topping contenders. Watched by our Chairman Rob & President Chris, I hear the lads put a great shift in for the full 80 minutes and scored 3 well worked tries. Congratulations go to 1st XV Moongazer Man of the Match Oliver Pearse, out of position wearing the no 9 shirt, but playing with great vision. Ollie is generously sponsored this season by Mike Bush.

Watched by 1st XV Manager Martyn & Director of Youth Rugby Nev, I hear the Tertian lads put in a stellar performance to earn their victory, putting in 4 tries. Thanks go to Martyn for his words following the game: "With the 1sts playing away and the 2nds being without a game, all eyes at Bridge Road on Saturday were on the 3rds. The good number of supporters were treated to a strong performance and a highly entertaining game which ended up with Holt as the narrow victors by 24 points to 22 against Lowestoft & Yarmouth 2s. The Tertians paraded several newcomers to the club, all of whom played very well to help earn their bonus point win. Special mention must be made of Neil Robertson who booted the ball into touch to end the game, and promised me a pint if I got his name in print!"

Congratulations go to our 3rd XV Man of the Match Charlie Hield leading the pack so well.

Thank you to Simon Watson for his photography - to view, please click here.

The next home game at Bridge Road is this Saturday 21st October when the 1st XV host 3rd placed Harlow RFC. It's a home double header as on the same day, the 2nd XV play Beccles RFC in their EC Greene King Division One league. We will pay our respects with a solemn moment of reflection before the games.

The 2s currently sit in joint 3rd position with Beccles, so this is sure to be a closely fought match. On the same day the 3s are due to play away at Crusaders RFC.

Saturday 21st October therefore sees our next pre-match lunch, so please make your bookings for places with Geoff Flather by emailing lunches@holtrfc.com asap. This lunch is kindly sponsored by local independent investment company Barratt & Cooke; we thank you for your support and look forward to your visit.