Dear All
Despite a good interest for both the South Africa and New Zealand games the interest for Australia has not been forthcoming!!!
Perhaps you are all predicting an easy win. If so, we wouldn't want you to miss out on all those tries so the reserve has been removed!!
Tickets must go.
The closing date has also been extended until the end of Thursday, so get your bids in now.
wmorris2001@hotmail.com
Of course bidding is still open for the other games; so even if you cant afford to bid, keep spreading the message -
Friends, family, work colleagues, company executives with an expense budget, rich neighbours, crazy uncles with too much money.
Its all money to the club so - We want their cash!!
Good Luck
William Morris
Tuesday, 11 November 2008
Tuesday, 4 November 2008
International Tickets - Silent Auction
Dear All
Bicester RFC is pleased to announce the silent auction of...
5 PAIRS OF AUTUMN INTERNATIONAL TICKET
Bicester RFC is pleased to announce the silent auction of...
5 PAIRS OF AUTUMN INTERNATIONAL TICKET
1. 2 x England v Australia
2. 2 x England v Australia
@ Twickenham, Saturday 15th November, KO 1430
3. 2 x England v South Africa
@ Twickenham, Saturday 22nd November, KO 1430
4. 2 x England v New Zealand
@ Twickenham, Saturday 29th November, KO 1430
5. 2 x England v New Zealand
@ Twickenham, Saturday 29th November, KO 1430
The tickets will be allocated by silent auction, with bid submitted to me at this address: wmorris2001@hotmail.com
Bidding will close the Wednesday before each fixture and winners will be informed by lunch the following day.
These are excellent tickets, for sell out matches and with a face value of £150.
As this is a club fundraiser, bids should be greater than £150.
Your bid should include your name, a contact telephone number and the amount you wish to pay for the tickets. Please make genuine bids, however if the highest bidder cannot take the tickets, they will be offered to the next highest.
Please pass this opportunity on to other members of the club, or friends and family.
A reminder again the closing dates for bids are:
England v Australia - 2359 Wednesday 12th November.
England v South Africa - 2359 Wednesday 19th November.
England v New Zealand - 2359 Wednesday 26th November.
Good Luck
William Morris
Fundraising Officer
Monday, 27 October 2008
Results 25/10/08
A mixed week for our teams this week.
Whilst the first missed out at Chipping Norton the seconds came away with an impressive victory at Chesham that moves them to third in the table and sets up an exciting encounter with local rivals and league leaders Banbury next week.
Finally, although I am sure the third team would have liked the run out, it was an easy 2 points in the bag after Stow on the Wold gave the a walk over.
Southern Counties North
Aylesbury 18 - 12 Witney
Chipping Norton 25 - 7 Bicester
Grove 5 - 26 Marlow
Milton Keynes 8 - 0 Buckingham
Slough 24 - 38 Swindon
Windsor 20 - 15 Beaconsfield
Berks / Bucks & Oxon 1 North
Aylesbury Athletic 26 - 30 Buckingham III
Banbury II 36 - 7 Bletchley II
Beaconsfield II 18 - 11 Aylesbury II
Chesham 24 - 33 Bicester II
Witney III 7 - 8 Gosford All Blacks II
Berks / Bucks & Oxon 2 North
Amersham & Chiltern III 52 - 0 Chipping Norton II
Aylesbury III 20 - 12 Witney IV
Bicester III HWO Stow-on-the-Wold III
High Wycombe III 10 - 15 Chinnor IV
Winslow 29 - 11 Banbury III
Whilst the first missed out at Chipping Norton the seconds came away with an impressive victory at Chesham that moves them to third in the table and sets up an exciting encounter with local rivals and league leaders Banbury next week.
Finally, although I am sure the third team would have liked the run out, it was an easy 2 points in the bag after Stow on the Wold gave the a walk over.
Southern Counties North
Aylesbury 18 - 12 Witney
Chipping Norton 25 - 7 Bicester
Grove 5 - 26 Marlow
Milton Keynes 8 - 0 Buckingham
Slough 24 - 38 Swindon
Windsor 20 - 15 Beaconsfield
Berks / Bucks & Oxon 1 North
Aylesbury Athletic 26 - 30 Buckingham III
Banbury II 36 - 7 Bletchley II
Beaconsfield II 18 - 11 Aylesbury II
Chesham 24 - 33 Bicester II
Witney III 7 - 8 Gosford All Blacks II
Berks / Bucks & Oxon 2 North
Amersham & Chiltern III 52 - 0 Chipping Norton II
Aylesbury III 20 - 12 Witney IV
Bicester III HWO Stow-on-the-Wold III
High Wycombe III 10 - 15 Chinnor IV
Winslow 29 - 11 Banbury III
Saturday, 11 October 2008
Paul Chrisp’s County Round Up 11th October 2008
Good afternoon, Ladies and Gentleman, Boys and Girls, and welcome to our third home Southern Counties North League match of the new season.
Welcome to our visitors Swindon. They have had mixed fortunes in recent times; following a spell in South-West Division 2 East, they are currently, like ourselves languishing in the relegation zone. So today promises to be a nail-biting encounter as both teams seek to kick-start a revival in their form. We last met here on the 15th March 2003, with Swindon winning 13-0, and they also won the previous year 19-10. On that occasion Martin Ewins crossed for Bicester with Patrick Coogan adding the conversion and a penalty goal.
Bicester have so far been unable to maintain their promising start to the league programme. Following our home victory over Beaconsfield, we have fallen 53-0 to a well-drilled Buckingham side. Despite being 0-0 after 24 mins it was to be Henry Colver's day. The Buckingham centre scored a total of two tries, six conversions and two penalties. Last Saturday we went down 24-8 away at Grove. The scores were level 8-8 after Leigh Rushworth try and Tom Barnes penalty, but the home side used the strong wind, to kick 3 penalties and cross for a late converted try.
Next Saturday, 18th October, we shall be travelling to Cirencester in the 2nd round of the EDF Energy Senior Vase. We are hoping that as many Bicester supporters as possible will make the relatively short journey, to cheer Anthony Lewis and his team to a memorable National Cup victory. Other local clubs are also involved in the competition include; Chipping Norton, who will be away to Gordon League, Grove who play Chosen Hill Former Pupils at home, and Witney who entertain another Gloucestershire side, Widden Old Boys.
Turning now to the National League 3 South, Henley have re-established themselves as the premier rugby union side in Oxfordshire. They were made to battle all the way at basement boys Worthing before Neil Baggett's 80th minute try converted by Danny Wells, earned them a 10-6 win. Last Saturday the Hawks recorded a more impressive 28-19 home success against Richmond. There is precious little joy at Chinnor however, who went down 25-20 away to Bridgewater Albion before losing at home 32-20 to Worthing.
In South West 1, Oxford Harlequins were routed 55-7 at league leaders Readingensians, and despite making changes to the side, the again lost, 39-10 to 4th place Bracknell at home. This leaves Quins rooted to the bottom of the table. Wallingford made it 4 from 4 with an excellent 30-15 success at Olney, followed by a thrilling home victory over Swanage and Wareham. They now occupy third place in South West 2 East, behind Reading and Maidenhead. At the other end Henley Wanderers lost 31-18, at home to Olney.
Returning to our own Southern Counties North, a late penalty goal by Adam Smith gifted Chipping Norton a pulsating 28-26 victory at home to Windsor and a week later, they earned a emphatic 32-0 triumph away at Aylesbury to make it 3 from 4. Witney, like ourselves are still out of form. A narrow 20-17 home defeat by Slough preceded a 18-12 reverse away to Milton Keynes. Grove drew 27-27 at home to Alyesbury and gained their first win of the season last week against ourselves.
Oxford leads the field of local teams in BB&O Premier League. Successes against Stow 27-13, and Wheatley 48-7, mean they are now joint third. Newly promoted Harwell have made a highly creditable start to their first season in the League, winning 2 of their first 3 games. However, they returned to earth last week, crashing 83-10 at Newbury Stags. Newbury now top the league. Gosford, Abingdon and Wheatley are so far without any points. Gosford had thrashed Wheatley 54-0, but then forfeited 2 points due to a lack of front row and last week they lost 39-7 at Broadmoor. Littlemore secured an impressive 48-12 win at home to Berkshire Shire Hall in BB&O Division 1 South. In the same division, Hungerford beat Didcott 17-8. Two recent wins, against Huntingdon 27-12 and Old Newtonians, 32-15, have elevated Banbury to 4th position in Midlands 3 East South.
Witney Angels began their Midlands 2 Campaign with a 12-5 success over Longton Ladies. Veteran lock forward Debbie Gorrod, the former international sailor and Olympic trialist, scored the second try. Henley Ladies lost to title favourites Bath in their Championship Division 1 South opening game. Full back Chris Catling crossed for 2 tries in Oxford University's 24-8 defeat of Moseley. Despite the collapse of sponsors Lehman Brothers, the 127th Varsity match will take place at Twickenham as scheduled on Thursday December 11th.
To the Mini and Junior section now and it was another successful campaign for the mini section at the annual Grove festival last Sunday. Of the12 finals played in all (a main final and a plate final in each of the six mini age groups) Bicester appeared in 5 of them, winning 3; the Under 8's went unbeaten all day defeating Wheatley in the final match, as defending county champions the Under 9's got the season off to a perfect start and a special mention should go to Under 7's who were runners up in their first ever competitive outing. Well done to all the players and the ever dedicated coaching staff.
Finally a reminder that we shall be travelling to Chipping Norton on the 25th October, following the cup game in Cirencester, and on Saturday 1st November we entertain Slough in the league here at Oxford Road.
See you all soon
Paul Chrisp
Welcome to our visitors Swindon. They have had mixed fortunes in recent times; following a spell in South-West Division 2 East, they are currently, like ourselves languishing in the relegation zone. So today promises to be a nail-biting encounter as both teams seek to kick-start a revival in their form. We last met here on the 15th March 2003, with Swindon winning 13-0, and they also won the previous year 19-10. On that occasion Martin Ewins crossed for Bicester with Patrick Coogan adding the conversion and a penalty goal.
Bicester have so far been unable to maintain their promising start to the league programme. Following our home victory over Beaconsfield, we have fallen 53-0 to a well-drilled Buckingham side. Despite being 0-0 after 24 mins it was to be Henry Colver's day. The Buckingham centre scored a total of two tries, six conversions and two penalties. Last Saturday we went down 24-8 away at Grove. The scores were level 8-8 after Leigh Rushworth try and Tom Barnes penalty, but the home side used the strong wind, to kick 3 penalties and cross for a late converted try.
Next Saturday, 18th October, we shall be travelling to Cirencester in the 2nd round of the EDF Energy Senior Vase. We are hoping that as many Bicester supporters as possible will make the relatively short journey, to cheer Anthony Lewis and his team to a memorable National Cup victory. Other local clubs are also involved in the competition include; Chipping Norton, who will be away to Gordon League, Grove who play Chosen Hill Former Pupils at home, and Witney who entertain another Gloucestershire side, Widden Old Boys.
Turning now to the National League 3 South, Henley have re-established themselves as the premier rugby union side in Oxfordshire. They were made to battle all the way at basement boys Worthing before Neil Baggett's 80th minute try converted by Danny Wells, earned them a 10-6 win. Last Saturday the Hawks recorded a more impressive 28-19 home success against Richmond. There is precious little joy at Chinnor however, who went down 25-20 away to Bridgewater Albion before losing at home 32-20 to Worthing.
In South West 1, Oxford Harlequins were routed 55-7 at league leaders Readingensians, and despite making changes to the side, the again lost, 39-10 to 4th place Bracknell at home. This leaves Quins rooted to the bottom of the table. Wallingford made it 4 from 4 with an excellent 30-15 success at Olney, followed by a thrilling home victory over Swanage and Wareham. They now occupy third place in South West 2 East, behind Reading and Maidenhead. At the other end Henley Wanderers lost 31-18, at home to Olney.
Returning to our own Southern Counties North, a late penalty goal by Adam Smith gifted Chipping Norton a pulsating 28-26 victory at home to Windsor and a week later, they earned a emphatic 32-0 triumph away at Aylesbury to make it 3 from 4. Witney, like ourselves are still out of form. A narrow 20-17 home defeat by Slough preceded a 18-12 reverse away to Milton Keynes. Grove drew 27-27 at home to Alyesbury and gained their first win of the season last week against ourselves.
Oxford leads the field of local teams in BB&O Premier League. Successes against Stow 27-13, and Wheatley 48-7, mean they are now joint third. Newly promoted Harwell have made a highly creditable start to their first season in the League, winning 2 of their first 3 games. However, they returned to earth last week, crashing 83-10 at Newbury Stags. Newbury now top the league. Gosford, Abingdon and Wheatley are so far without any points. Gosford had thrashed Wheatley 54-0, but then forfeited 2 points due to a lack of front row and last week they lost 39-7 at Broadmoor. Littlemore secured an impressive 48-12 win at home to Berkshire Shire Hall in BB&O Division 1 South. In the same division, Hungerford beat Didcott 17-8. Two recent wins, against Huntingdon 27-12 and Old Newtonians, 32-15, have elevated Banbury to 4th position in Midlands 3 East South.
Witney Angels began their Midlands 2 Campaign with a 12-5 success over Longton Ladies. Veteran lock forward Debbie Gorrod, the former international sailor and Olympic trialist, scored the second try. Henley Ladies lost to title favourites Bath in their Championship Division 1 South opening game. Full back Chris Catling crossed for 2 tries in Oxford University's 24-8 defeat of Moseley. Despite the collapse of sponsors Lehman Brothers, the 127th Varsity match will take place at Twickenham as scheduled on Thursday December 11th.
To the Mini and Junior section now and it was another successful campaign for the mini section at the annual Grove festival last Sunday. Of the12 finals played in all (a main final and a plate final in each of the six mini age groups) Bicester appeared in 5 of them, winning 3; the Under 8's went unbeaten all day defeating Wheatley in the final match, as defending county champions the Under 9's got the season off to a perfect start and a special mention should go to Under 7's who were runners up in their first ever competitive outing. Well done to all the players and the ever dedicated coaching staff.
Finally a reminder that we shall be travelling to Chipping Norton on the 25th October, following the cup game in Cirencester, and on Saturday 1st November we entertain Slough in the league here at Oxford Road.
See you all soon
Paul Chrisp
Thursday, 9 October 2008
Bicester Can Bounce Back
This Saturday the first team will be hoping to bounce back from recent results when we host basement boys Swindon College in Southern Counties North.
They give a debut to Luke Harris at tight-head prop, while Esava Rakacikaci continues in his new role at hooker. Rakacikaci's fellow Fijian Marau Tuiwai starts at lock. No 8 Martin Linstrom and loose-head Will Morris return to the squad.
Nick Kenny, who has recovered from an ankle sprain, is preferred to Steve Risbridger at scrum half.
The second team will be looking for a home double when they host Buckingham 3rds. Jeff Willmore will be casting his keen managerial eye over the teams as ever.
The third team are this week away to Chipping Norton 2nds and its a first outing this season for the veterans 'select' squad lead by Jed Pell. Their numbers will be boosted by Colin Morris and his 'regulars' so good luck to both of them.
Good luck to all our senior, junior and mini teams this weekend. See you all at Oxford Road to celebrate.
They give a debut to Luke Harris at tight-head prop, while Esava Rakacikaci continues in his new role at hooker. Rakacikaci's fellow Fijian Marau Tuiwai starts at lock. No 8 Martin Linstrom and loose-head Will Morris return to the squad.
Nick Kenny, who has recovered from an ankle sprain, is preferred to Steve Risbridger at scrum half.
The second team will be looking for a home double when they host Buckingham 3rds. Jeff Willmore will be casting his keen managerial eye over the teams as ever.
The third team are this week away to Chipping Norton 2nds and its a first outing this season for the veterans 'select' squad lead by Jed Pell. Their numbers will be boosted by Colin Morris and his 'regulars' so good luck to both of them.
Good luck to all our senior, junior and mini teams this weekend. See you all at Oxford Road to celebrate.
Tuesday, 7 October 2008
Training and Membership
Hi again blog fans
Remember senior training is Tuesdays and Thursday 1900 - 2100
All players welcome NEW and OLD
I will be in the changing rooms after in my role as senior registration organiser (or if you just want a chat).
If your not registered please come get a form. You need to be registered to play first team rugby.
Finally no programme for this weeks home game but look out for
county round up EXCLUSIVELY ONLINE
coming soon...
Remember senior training is Tuesdays and Thursday 1900 - 2100
All players welcome NEW and OLD
I will be in the changing rooms after in my role as senior registration organiser (or if you just want a chat).
If your not registered please come get a form. You need to be registered to play first team rugby.
Finally no programme for this weeks home game but look out for
county round up EXCLUSIVELY ONLINE
coming soon...
Monday, 6 October 2008
County Round Up 27/09/08
GOOD afternoon, Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls andwelcome to our second home league game of the 2008 - 2009 season. As you will all be aware, Bicester were promoted back into the Southern Counties League North at the end of last season and today we aredelighted to be entertaining our friends from Buckingham for the first time since the 12th March 2005, when our visitors earned an emphatic 52 - 17 victory. As part of our Diamond Jubilee celebrations, we are staging a special luncheon for both vice presidents and former players before the match, and we hopethat you will all have a mostenjoyable afternoon.
I will begin these notes with a very brief sketch of the 2007 - 2008season. Firstly, skipper Steve Risbridger. Steve led the 1st XV to promotion in his final year as captain, and congratulations in advance for your wedding to Kim next year! Although Bicester finished in 2nd place, they defeated champions Chipping Norton on 2 of the 3occasions that they clashed during the season. The 2nd XV werechampions of the BB&O Division 2 North, whilst a newly formed 3rd XV are playing in BB&O 2 North. Ourveterans side won the Oxon Veterans County Cup, beating Chinnor 16 - 6 in a high quality final at Oxford RFC. The senior Colts XV won 7 out of 9 league matches, whilst the Under 12’s won the Banbury tournament. Five of this age group were members of the County Development squad. The Under 11’s won silverware at the Oxon Festival of mini rugby, and the Under 8’s and Under 7’s were bothunbeaten in the Supermarine 50th Anniversary tournament. To sum up, the 2007 - 2008 season was a hugely successful one for Bicester Rugby Club and our thanks and appreciation go out to all the players and officials who contributed to this spectacular success.
The Oxford Harlequins club, who now play their 1st XV home games at the Southern Bypass, have announced that the Oxford University Director of Rugby, Steve Hill, will be helping out with their forwards and defence. Witney have promoted Martin Moran to their Senior coaching staff andcentre Aaron Justin has joined them from Chipping Norton. Former American football team player John Gerring has signed for Grove. Bicester, now captained by Anthony Lewis, have so far registered 10 new players, including former Chinnor Academy player Alec Warriner. Craig Smith’s father Alec is now Chief Coach at Gosford All Blacks, while No 8 Simon Brand captains Banbury RFC. Anton Oliver, the ex New Zealand hooker heads the Oxford University line up on new recruits. Former England head coach Brian Ashton is working in aconsultancy role, as the Dark Bluesprepare for the Varsity match.
The 53rd A Plan Abingdon Sevens Tournament was won by Kamikazee from South wales. Having overcome Abingdon 44 - 0 in the semi finals, they beat Pony Smackers 42 - 12 in the final. Oxford Harlequins defeated Chipping Norton 40 - 12 in the Plate Final. Debbie Gorfod, the Witney Angels lock forward, celebrated her 60th birthday on September 18thand the RFUW (Rugby Football Union for Women) has confirmed she isthe oldest registered player in the county. Debbie was once aninternational sailor and Olympictrialist for Great Britain! Continued on page 8Henley Hawks earned a comfortable 29 - 7 win over Newport Saracens in a pre season ‘friendly’. They opened their National 3 South League programme, with a nail biting 12 - 12 draw at Barking, before proving they are still Oxfordshires leading club with a 22 - 14 away success at newly promoted Chinnor. Then, last Saturday they crushed Bridgwater & Albion 43 - 20 . Chinnor bounced straight back to win 23 - 19 at Barking after suffering their second defeat 45 - 3 away to animpressive London Scottish. Oxford Harlequins conceded 4 tries in 17 minutes to lose 44 - 25 at Old Patesians, and as a consequence of last week’s 41 - 25 home defeat by Clifton, they now occupy the bottom spot in South West 1.
Meanwhile, the Wallingford success story continues. Trailing 21 - 3 at half time, they went on to beat Henley Wanderers 25 - 21 away and made it 2 wins from 2 with a 28 - 12 victory at home to High Wycombe.
In the Southern Counties League Alex Warriner celebrated his birthday by scoring the winning try in Bicesters 13 - 8 victory at home to Beaconsfield, but last Saturday our boys went down to a 34 - 15 defeat at Aylesbury. With only 7 minutes of the game left, Bicester needed a converted try to earn a draw, but then Aylesbury scored twice to register a victorymargin which did not reflect our gutsy performance. After losing at home to Buckingham, 27 - 10, Witney then crushed Swindon away 25 - 14. Chipping Norton withstood some late pressure to edge past Slough 20 - 17, but they werehammered 42 - 8away at Milton Keynes. Grove lost 31 - 25 also to Milton Keynes and their visit to Windsor ended in another defeat 26 - 15.
Harwell opened their BBO Premier programme with a fine 29 - 15 win away at Swindon College OB, but went down at home to Amersham & Chiltern 47 - 27. Oxford likewise, lost at home to Newbury Stags 53 - 7, but triumphed away at Phoenix 22 - 17. Phoenix however, outgunned Gosford All Blacks 27 - 0 and the All Blacks were then forced to forfeit theirfixture at Stow-on-the-Wold due to a lack of front row forwards. Both Wheatley and Abingdon lost their opening 2 matches. Banbury have made a somewhat erratic start to their Midlands 3 East programme.A heavy 50 - 0 defeat at home to Old Northamptonians preceded a 48 - 3 rout of Aylestone St. James, also at Bodicote Park. Oxford University began their season with a 53 - 7 victory over Henley Alliance at Dry Leas. Oxford bowed out of the EDF Energy Senior Vase, away at Gloucester Old Boys 36 - 27, whilst Harwell conceded a walk over to Drybrook. Bicester play Spartans or Cirencester away in the 2nd round of the Vase on October 28th.
The next home game is on October 11th when we play Swindon. See you all then!
Paul Chrisp.
I will begin these notes with a very brief sketch of the 2007 - 2008season. Firstly, skipper Steve Risbridger. Steve led the 1st XV to promotion in his final year as captain, and congratulations in advance for your wedding to Kim next year! Although Bicester finished in 2nd place, they defeated champions Chipping Norton on 2 of the 3occasions that they clashed during the season. The 2nd XV werechampions of the BB&O Division 2 North, whilst a newly formed 3rd XV are playing in BB&O 2 North. Ourveterans side won the Oxon Veterans County Cup, beating Chinnor 16 - 6 in a high quality final at Oxford RFC. The senior Colts XV won 7 out of 9 league matches, whilst the Under 12’s won the Banbury tournament. Five of this age group were members of the County Development squad. The Under 11’s won silverware at the Oxon Festival of mini rugby, and the Under 8’s and Under 7’s were bothunbeaten in the Supermarine 50th Anniversary tournament. To sum up, the 2007 - 2008 season was a hugely successful one for Bicester Rugby Club and our thanks and appreciation go out to all the players and officials who contributed to this spectacular success.
The Oxford Harlequins club, who now play their 1st XV home games at the Southern Bypass, have announced that the Oxford University Director of Rugby, Steve Hill, will be helping out with their forwards and defence. Witney have promoted Martin Moran to their Senior coaching staff andcentre Aaron Justin has joined them from Chipping Norton. Former American football team player John Gerring has signed for Grove. Bicester, now captained by Anthony Lewis, have so far registered 10 new players, including former Chinnor Academy player Alec Warriner. Craig Smith’s father Alec is now Chief Coach at Gosford All Blacks, while No 8 Simon Brand captains Banbury RFC. Anton Oliver, the ex New Zealand hooker heads the Oxford University line up on new recruits. Former England head coach Brian Ashton is working in aconsultancy role, as the Dark Bluesprepare for the Varsity match.
The 53rd A Plan Abingdon Sevens Tournament was won by Kamikazee from South wales. Having overcome Abingdon 44 - 0 in the semi finals, they beat Pony Smackers 42 - 12 in the final. Oxford Harlequins defeated Chipping Norton 40 - 12 in the Plate Final. Debbie Gorfod, the Witney Angels lock forward, celebrated her 60th birthday on September 18thand the RFUW (Rugby Football Union for Women) has confirmed she isthe oldest registered player in the county. Debbie was once aninternational sailor and Olympictrialist for Great Britain! Continued on page 8Henley Hawks earned a comfortable 29 - 7 win over Newport Saracens in a pre season ‘friendly’. They opened their National 3 South League programme, with a nail biting 12 - 12 draw at Barking, before proving they are still Oxfordshires leading club with a 22 - 14 away success at newly promoted Chinnor. Then, last Saturday they crushed Bridgwater & Albion 43 - 20 . Chinnor bounced straight back to win 23 - 19 at Barking after suffering their second defeat 45 - 3 away to animpressive London Scottish. Oxford Harlequins conceded 4 tries in 17 minutes to lose 44 - 25 at Old Patesians, and as a consequence of last week’s 41 - 25 home defeat by Clifton, they now occupy the bottom spot in South West 1.
Meanwhile, the Wallingford success story continues. Trailing 21 - 3 at half time, they went on to beat Henley Wanderers 25 - 21 away and made it 2 wins from 2 with a 28 - 12 victory at home to High Wycombe.
In the Southern Counties League Alex Warriner celebrated his birthday by scoring the winning try in Bicesters 13 - 8 victory at home to Beaconsfield, but last Saturday our boys went down to a 34 - 15 defeat at Aylesbury. With only 7 minutes of the game left, Bicester needed a converted try to earn a draw, but then Aylesbury scored twice to register a victorymargin which did not reflect our gutsy performance. After losing at home to Buckingham, 27 - 10, Witney then crushed Swindon away 25 - 14. Chipping Norton withstood some late pressure to edge past Slough 20 - 17, but they werehammered 42 - 8away at Milton Keynes. Grove lost 31 - 25 also to Milton Keynes and their visit to Windsor ended in another defeat 26 - 15.
Harwell opened their BBO Premier programme with a fine 29 - 15 win away at Swindon College OB, but went down at home to Amersham & Chiltern 47 - 27. Oxford likewise, lost at home to Newbury Stags 53 - 7, but triumphed away at Phoenix 22 - 17. Phoenix however, outgunned Gosford All Blacks 27 - 0 and the All Blacks were then forced to forfeit theirfixture at Stow-on-the-Wold due to a lack of front row forwards. Both Wheatley and Abingdon lost their opening 2 matches. Banbury have made a somewhat erratic start to their Midlands 3 East programme.A heavy 50 - 0 defeat at home to Old Northamptonians preceded a 48 - 3 rout of Aylestone St. James, also at Bodicote Park. Oxford University began their season with a 53 - 7 victory over Henley Alliance at Dry Leas. Oxford bowed out of the EDF Energy Senior Vase, away at Gloucester Old Boys 36 - 27, whilst Harwell conceded a walk over to Drybrook. Bicester play Spartans or Cirencester away in the 2nd round of the Vase on October 28th.
The next home game is on October 11th when we play Swindon. See you all then!
Paul Chrisp.
Friday, 26 September 2008
County Round Up
This season my world famous County Round Up returns to the programme at all first XV home games.
Why trawl the counties press for the latest rugby news? Find all you need to know in one place.
Coming soon...
County Round Up ONLINE
Even if you can't make it Oxford Road on match days you will now be able to get all the latest news here the following day.
Dont forget to look out for my match reports for all senior games in the Oxford Mail, Bicester Advertiser and Bicester Review as well as on the team blogsites.
Why trawl the counties press for the latest rugby news? Find all you need to know in one place.
Coming soon...
County Round Up ONLINE
Even if you can't make it Oxford Road on match days you will now be able to get all the latest news here the following day.
Dont forget to look out for my match reports for all senior games in the Oxford Mail, Bicester Advertiser and Bicester Review as well as on the team blogsites.
The Paul Chrisp Awards 2008
Hi all and welcome to my new blog page
At the end of season awards I presented my annual press officer awards.
The 2007/08 winners were:
Nick Kenny and Mark Malins
Winners recieved a bottle of the finest port as usual.
Look out for next years awards...
Season Review 2007/08
The club has enjoyed phenomenal success on the field since last August. At a senior level, both the first and second XV have been promoted from their current leagues, the third XV have won all their matches, the veterans won the OXON county vets cup, and the colts too, have performed consistently well in the local colts league. Whilst managers and coaches must take a lot of the credit for the high quality rugby which has been served, the enthusiasm, team work and dedication of so many players has, without any doubt, been a crucial factor in producing some impressive statistics.
First XV
Bicester 1st XV have once again been led by popular scrum-half Steve Risbridger, who has been quick to praise the immense contribution made to the ultimate goal of promotion by long-serving flank forward and vice-captain, Anthony Nightingale. Quite apart from their leadership and the tremendous support and organisational talents of manager Michael Hutchinson the squad have benefited enormously from the regular Tuesday night training sessions led by fitness coach James Shields.
Of course, no coach, captain or manager can succeed without full cooperation from the players. It is therefore a joy to report that our 1st Xv, reinforced by members of the 2nd team and senior colts side, have attended both the Tuesday and Thursday training sessions with gusto throughout the league programme, even on those nights prior to the Christmas and Easter holidays. Long may the spirit continue!
Bicester began with an impressive 7-7 draw against High Wycombe, who plays in a division two levels higher than our own. Martin Linstrom scored the Bicester try, and Wycombe only equalised just before the end. After last weeks final game against Phoenix, Bicester have won 21, drawn 1 and lost 5 of their 27 matches, comprising 22 league, two “friendly” and three cup games. Four of the five defeats took place before Christmas, the first of which was away to Gloucester side Old Richians in the EDF Energy Senior Vase. The following week, we beat Abingdon here at Oxford Road 35-16, in our opening league match. Our first encounter with Chipping Norton ended in their favour 28-10, but another emphatic victory was earned away at Farnham Royal 55-3, before a below-par performance ended in a 16-10 reverse at Oxford. Further league wins continued, away at Stow, at home to Wheatley, and away at Broadmoor.
Bicester completed the double against Gosford All Blacks before Christmas, as well as accounting for Drifters and Phoenix both at home. Centre Chris Nash, was nominated man of the match for the Phoenix game on November 24. The final defeat of 2007 occurred on December 1 away at Swindon College O. B. (10-9), where the referee ended proceedings at least seven minutes early.
Bicester began the New Year with a well-earned 30-7 away win at Drifters. Man-of-the-match Daniel Spencer later celebrated his birthday in the clubhouse. Brother Adam crossing with two tries. A thrilling victory followed, away at Chipping Norton in the first round of the Oxon County Shield (18-0). In the words of manager Mike Hutchinson: “All we did was put on a game of basic rugby, concentrating on the line-out, scrum and defence,” and “as a team performance that was our best of the season”. Two more decisive triumphs ensued, against Broadmoor and Wheatley, before a below strength Bicester side went down 12-8 on their own turf to invitation side Blue Boar in the semi-final of the Oxon County Shield. However, their cup exit only made Steve Risbridger’s boys all the more determined to win promotion to the Southern Counties League (North, winning all of the league matches to be played since. Chad Ward scored four tries in Bicester’s 27-5 win over Stow, and skipper Steve Risbridger was named Man of the Match by club president John Deeley after the 23-17 home win against Oxford. Bicester then annihilated Farnham Royal 66-0 also at home, with Daniel Spencer kicking eight out of nine conversions. Away victories followed at Chipping Norton 10-9, and Abingdon 37-3. Chipping Norton were ahead 9-5 until late in the second half, when Mark Malins set up a superb driving maul from a line-out, and Man of the Match hooker James Davies was driven across for the winning try. It was Chippy’s first league defeat of the season. A stunning tackle by Anthony Nightingale ensured the Bicester try line remained intact at Abingdon (37-3) and two weeks later on April 12, Bicester crushed Swindon College O. B. 68-7. Paul Leverton scored a hat-trick of tries, and Will Morris two, in the 11-try romp.
In a ceremony after the Swindon game, President John Deeley presented the club heraldic shield to Michael Hutchinson, who in turn gave a framed colour photograph of the team to captain Steve Risbridger. Vice Captain Anthony Nightingale also received a photograph of the team, from Steve Risbridger, whilst the Captain’s Player of the Year award went to John Rollason. Will Morris was named the Most Improved Player of the Year and Anthony Lewis received the Player’s Player of the Year trophy. Other awards were received by touch judge Tom Abernethy and myself!! I presented two awards: to Mark Malins and Nick Kenny.
Second XV
Bicester 2nd XV have even managed to upstage their 1st XV colleagues, by finishing their season as champions of the Berks, Bucks and Oxon Division two North. They will be playing in Berks, Bucks and Oxon Division One North next year. They have won all but one of their 18 matches amassing a total of 655 points, and conceding 134 points. The side have been astutely managed by Steve Coogan and captained by prop Pat Zdyrko. Their only defeat was away to a strong Amersham and Chiltern 3rd XV on April 12, the last game of their campaign. Of the more notable earlier triumphs, the 2nds beat Winslow away 48-26, and Chipping Norton 2nds at home 50-14. Andy Blacklock scored a hat-trick in the first, and a brace of tries in the second game. They went on to crush Witney 4ths, 75-7 at Witney and achieved the double over runners – up, High Wycombe 3rds, before Christmas. Chris Nash touched down four times in the Witney game, whilst George Williams scored a hat-trick in the 37-24 home win over Wycombe. In the return fixture at High Wycombe, Bicester won 41-0, with Jon Barnes and George Williams both bagging a brace of tries. They began the New Year by thrashing Bletchley 3rds 54-0 and winning away at Stow, 39-0. The double was completed over Chipping Norton 2nds with an impressive 52-0 victory at The Greytones. Other doubles included a 29-7 home win over Milton Keynes 3rds and a 44-5 success against Aylesbury 3rds also at home. The return fixture with Winslow resulted in a narrow 20-17 win for Bicester 2nds. The only setback occurred during the home game against Milton Keynes when flanker Adam Willmore had the misfortune to rupture a kidney. He was rushed to the Churchill Hospital where he spent several days in the intensive care unit. Adam is making an excellent recovery and is on course to hopefully resume his playing career with Bicester next season.
Third XV
Bicester 3rds won all 14 of their friendlies with a total points aggregate of 73 for and 35 against. They began last October with a 12-8 win away at Chipping Norton and continued before Christmas with a 10-5 victory over Oxford Harlequins 4ths here at Oxford Road. Winger Chris Stone scored both tries against Harlequins and both he and scrum half Stuart Venning scored in the 25-5 win over Farringdon played on the Chesterton pitch. Number eight Dave Brind notched a hat-trick in the latter game and Chris Stone was in action a week later contributing a brace of tries as Bicester won the return fixture at Oxford Harlequins 26-17. Nigel Cox also scored twice and conversions came from the boots of Ian Mann (2) and Chris Stone. Simon Ellison and Paul Davies were the try scorers in the Chipping Norton game with Stuart Venning adding one conversion.
Veterans XV
The Bicester Veterans topped off the season by winning the Oxon Vets Cup last week. They crushed Grove 69-19 at Banbury in the first round. Martin Linstrom and Chris Austin both recorded hat tricks while Adam Wade, Dave Brind, Steve Coogan, Geoff Woolloff, and Will Deeley scored one try apiece. Stuart John kicked six conversions and Steve Coogan converted his own try. The semi-final against Witney was a far closer affair but Bicester’s overall superiority was clearly evident from the outset. They finished 12-5 victors with tries from Lee Boulter and Dave Brind. Stuart John converted the winning try. In the final at Oxford RFC Bicester defeated Chinnor in a close game 16-6. A Stuart John penalty opened the scoring before Dave Brind crossed for Bicester to lead 8-0 at half time. In the second half after an exchange on penalties (Adam Wade slotting for Bicester) Chinnor pilled on the pressure, pinning Bicester to their own line. But Chinnor could only come away with a penalty and as time ran out Justin Hitchcock crossed in the corner to seal the win. Captain James Davies collected the trophy whilst Dave Brind was named man of the match.
Colts
Not to be outdone by their senior brethren, today’s ‘home team’ Bicester colts have likewise enjoyed resounding success. Aided by highly professional organisation comprising coaches Chris and Dan Kimber and Steve Coogan, manager Keith Nash, and skipper Joe Macaneany. They have won seven, lost won, drawn one and had one walkover in their nine league matches. The Ox, Berks and Bucks colts league programme began with a 5-5 draw away at Banbury and a 24-0 away win at Oxford Harlequins. Following the Aylesbury walkover Bicester gained victories over Buckingham 24-17, and Wallingford away 17-18. Matt Flegg bagged three tries in the Buckingham match here while Joe Macaneany scored twice at Wallingford. Their only defeat occurred at Stow in January where they went down 13-7. The colts then proceeded to win all their last four matches at home. First they edged past High Wycombe 13-12, next they beat Beaconsfield 14-0, and after a thrilling 20-17 success against Reading they defeated Windsor 31-22. In the latter game Jack Briggs and Joe Macaneany both crossed the try line twice. They also made it to the final of the Oxon County Sevens losing narrowly to Chinnor 9-7, with Joe Macaneany crossing.
Niall Morrow scored two tries as Bicester accounted for Banbury 32-15 in the national colts cup second round, but they lost 12-0 to Long Levens away at Gloucester in the third round. They then went down 18-5 to Newbury in the national plate before crashing out of the Oxon county cup 27-10 away at Witney. However, Bicester’s league success was matched by their record in friendly fixtures. Despite playing away from home on all three occasions, Bicester won at Wallingford 12-0, Cirencester 21-15 and Windsor 42-14.
Mini and Junior
The results this season of the mini and junior section have likewise mirrored those of the senior club teams. The under-17s recently trounced Abingdon 41-0, whilst earlier this year a below-strength Bicester under-16s achieved and excellent 26-24 win over Banbury. Jimmy Mcphee with two tries was nominated Man of the Match. Centre Elliot Nicklin ran in four tries as Bicester under-14s routed Oxford Harlequins 55-0 in the Oxon cup. Last year’s county champions Bicester under-13s won the Banbury tournament trophy scoring 102 points in five matches and conceding only 10. They saw off Brackley, Wallingford, Oxford Harlequins and Henley in the group matches, before triumphing 29-3 over Witney in the final. Dougie Haynes was the principle hero with a hat trick of tries aided by Dan Rowland who touched down twice. The Supermarine 50th anniversary tournament featured teams from Wiltshire, Dorset, Hampshire and Oxfordshire, and whilst Bicester under-12s lost 5-0 to Abingdon in the semi-final, both the under-7s and under-8s went through the day unbeaten. The Bicester under-7s scored a total of 37 tries conceding only 17, whilst the under-8s scored 49 and conceded 19.
First XV
Bicester 1st XV have once again been led by popular scrum-half Steve Risbridger, who has been quick to praise the immense contribution made to the ultimate goal of promotion by long-serving flank forward and vice-captain, Anthony Nightingale. Quite apart from their leadership and the tremendous support and organisational talents of manager Michael Hutchinson the squad have benefited enormously from the regular Tuesday night training sessions led by fitness coach James Shields.
Of course, no coach, captain or manager can succeed without full cooperation from the players. It is therefore a joy to report that our 1st Xv, reinforced by members of the 2nd team and senior colts side, have attended both the Tuesday and Thursday training sessions with gusto throughout the league programme, even on those nights prior to the Christmas and Easter holidays. Long may the spirit continue!
Bicester began with an impressive 7-7 draw against High Wycombe, who plays in a division two levels higher than our own. Martin Linstrom scored the Bicester try, and Wycombe only equalised just before the end. After last weeks final game against Phoenix, Bicester have won 21, drawn 1 and lost 5 of their 27 matches, comprising 22 league, two “friendly” and three cup games. Four of the five defeats took place before Christmas, the first of which was away to Gloucester side Old Richians in the EDF Energy Senior Vase. The following week, we beat Abingdon here at Oxford Road 35-16, in our opening league match. Our first encounter with Chipping Norton ended in their favour 28-10, but another emphatic victory was earned away at Farnham Royal 55-3, before a below-par performance ended in a 16-10 reverse at Oxford. Further league wins continued, away at Stow, at home to Wheatley, and away at Broadmoor.
Bicester completed the double against Gosford All Blacks before Christmas, as well as accounting for Drifters and Phoenix both at home. Centre Chris Nash, was nominated man of the match for the Phoenix game on November 24. The final defeat of 2007 occurred on December 1 away at Swindon College O. B. (10-9), where the referee ended proceedings at least seven minutes early.
Bicester began the New Year with a well-earned 30-7 away win at Drifters. Man-of-the-match Daniel Spencer later celebrated his birthday in the clubhouse. Brother Adam crossing with two tries. A thrilling victory followed, away at Chipping Norton in the first round of the Oxon County Shield (18-0). In the words of manager Mike Hutchinson: “All we did was put on a game of basic rugby, concentrating on the line-out, scrum and defence,” and “as a team performance that was our best of the season”. Two more decisive triumphs ensued, against Broadmoor and Wheatley, before a below strength Bicester side went down 12-8 on their own turf to invitation side Blue Boar in the semi-final of the Oxon County Shield. However, their cup exit only made Steve Risbridger’s boys all the more determined to win promotion to the Southern Counties League (North, winning all of the league matches to be played since. Chad Ward scored four tries in Bicester’s 27-5 win over Stow, and skipper Steve Risbridger was named Man of the Match by club president John Deeley after the 23-17 home win against Oxford. Bicester then annihilated Farnham Royal 66-0 also at home, with Daniel Spencer kicking eight out of nine conversions. Away victories followed at Chipping Norton 10-9, and Abingdon 37-3. Chipping Norton were ahead 9-5 until late in the second half, when Mark Malins set up a superb driving maul from a line-out, and Man of the Match hooker James Davies was driven across for the winning try. It was Chippy’s first league defeat of the season. A stunning tackle by Anthony Nightingale ensured the Bicester try line remained intact at Abingdon (37-3) and two weeks later on April 12, Bicester crushed Swindon College O. B. 68-7. Paul Leverton scored a hat-trick of tries, and Will Morris two, in the 11-try romp.
In a ceremony after the Swindon game, President John Deeley presented the club heraldic shield to Michael Hutchinson, who in turn gave a framed colour photograph of the team to captain Steve Risbridger. Vice Captain Anthony Nightingale also received a photograph of the team, from Steve Risbridger, whilst the Captain’s Player of the Year award went to John Rollason. Will Morris was named the Most Improved Player of the Year and Anthony Lewis received the Player’s Player of the Year trophy. Other awards were received by touch judge Tom Abernethy and myself!! I presented two awards: to Mark Malins and Nick Kenny.
Second XV
Bicester 2nd XV have even managed to upstage their 1st XV colleagues, by finishing their season as champions of the Berks, Bucks and Oxon Division two North. They will be playing in Berks, Bucks and Oxon Division One North next year. They have won all but one of their 18 matches amassing a total of 655 points, and conceding 134 points. The side have been astutely managed by Steve Coogan and captained by prop Pat Zdyrko. Their only defeat was away to a strong Amersham and Chiltern 3rd XV on April 12, the last game of their campaign. Of the more notable earlier triumphs, the 2nds beat Winslow away 48-26, and Chipping Norton 2nds at home 50-14. Andy Blacklock scored a hat-trick in the first, and a brace of tries in the second game. They went on to crush Witney 4ths, 75-7 at Witney and achieved the double over runners – up, High Wycombe 3rds, before Christmas. Chris Nash touched down four times in the Witney game, whilst George Williams scored a hat-trick in the 37-24 home win over Wycombe. In the return fixture at High Wycombe, Bicester won 41-0, with Jon Barnes and George Williams both bagging a brace of tries. They began the New Year by thrashing Bletchley 3rds 54-0 and winning away at Stow, 39-0. The double was completed over Chipping Norton 2nds with an impressive 52-0 victory at The Greytones. Other doubles included a 29-7 home win over Milton Keynes 3rds and a 44-5 success against Aylesbury 3rds also at home. The return fixture with Winslow resulted in a narrow 20-17 win for Bicester 2nds. The only setback occurred during the home game against Milton Keynes when flanker Adam Willmore had the misfortune to rupture a kidney. He was rushed to the Churchill Hospital where he spent several days in the intensive care unit. Adam is making an excellent recovery and is on course to hopefully resume his playing career with Bicester next season.
Third XV
Bicester 3rds won all 14 of their friendlies with a total points aggregate of 73 for and 35 against. They began last October with a 12-8 win away at Chipping Norton and continued before Christmas with a 10-5 victory over Oxford Harlequins 4ths here at Oxford Road. Winger Chris Stone scored both tries against Harlequins and both he and scrum half Stuart Venning scored in the 25-5 win over Farringdon played on the Chesterton pitch. Number eight Dave Brind notched a hat-trick in the latter game and Chris Stone was in action a week later contributing a brace of tries as Bicester won the return fixture at Oxford Harlequins 26-17. Nigel Cox also scored twice and conversions came from the boots of Ian Mann (2) and Chris Stone. Simon Ellison and Paul Davies were the try scorers in the Chipping Norton game with Stuart Venning adding one conversion.
Veterans XV
The Bicester Veterans topped off the season by winning the Oxon Vets Cup last week. They crushed Grove 69-19 at Banbury in the first round. Martin Linstrom and Chris Austin both recorded hat tricks while Adam Wade, Dave Brind, Steve Coogan, Geoff Woolloff, and Will Deeley scored one try apiece. Stuart John kicked six conversions and Steve Coogan converted his own try. The semi-final against Witney was a far closer affair but Bicester’s overall superiority was clearly evident from the outset. They finished 12-5 victors with tries from Lee Boulter and Dave Brind. Stuart John converted the winning try. In the final at Oxford RFC Bicester defeated Chinnor in a close game 16-6. A Stuart John penalty opened the scoring before Dave Brind crossed for Bicester to lead 8-0 at half time. In the second half after an exchange on penalties (Adam Wade slotting for Bicester) Chinnor pilled on the pressure, pinning Bicester to their own line. But Chinnor could only come away with a penalty and as time ran out Justin Hitchcock crossed in the corner to seal the win. Captain James Davies collected the trophy whilst Dave Brind was named man of the match.
Colts
Not to be outdone by their senior brethren, today’s ‘home team’ Bicester colts have likewise enjoyed resounding success. Aided by highly professional organisation comprising coaches Chris and Dan Kimber and Steve Coogan, manager Keith Nash, and skipper Joe Macaneany. They have won seven, lost won, drawn one and had one walkover in their nine league matches. The Ox, Berks and Bucks colts league programme began with a 5-5 draw away at Banbury and a 24-0 away win at Oxford Harlequins. Following the Aylesbury walkover Bicester gained victories over Buckingham 24-17, and Wallingford away 17-18. Matt Flegg bagged three tries in the Buckingham match here while Joe Macaneany scored twice at Wallingford. Their only defeat occurred at Stow in January where they went down 13-7. The colts then proceeded to win all their last four matches at home. First they edged past High Wycombe 13-12, next they beat Beaconsfield 14-0, and after a thrilling 20-17 success against Reading they defeated Windsor 31-22. In the latter game Jack Briggs and Joe Macaneany both crossed the try line twice. They also made it to the final of the Oxon County Sevens losing narrowly to Chinnor 9-7, with Joe Macaneany crossing.
Niall Morrow scored two tries as Bicester accounted for Banbury 32-15 in the national colts cup second round, but they lost 12-0 to Long Levens away at Gloucester in the third round. They then went down 18-5 to Newbury in the national plate before crashing out of the Oxon county cup 27-10 away at Witney. However, Bicester’s league success was matched by their record in friendly fixtures. Despite playing away from home on all three occasions, Bicester won at Wallingford 12-0, Cirencester 21-15 and Windsor 42-14.
Mini and Junior
The results this season of the mini and junior section have likewise mirrored those of the senior club teams. The under-17s recently trounced Abingdon 41-0, whilst earlier this year a below-strength Bicester under-16s achieved and excellent 26-24 win over Banbury. Jimmy Mcphee with two tries was nominated Man of the Match. Centre Elliot Nicklin ran in four tries as Bicester under-14s routed Oxford Harlequins 55-0 in the Oxon cup. Last year’s county champions Bicester under-13s won the Banbury tournament trophy scoring 102 points in five matches and conceding only 10. They saw off Brackley, Wallingford, Oxford Harlequins and Henley in the group matches, before triumphing 29-3 over Witney in the final. Dougie Haynes was the principle hero with a hat trick of tries aided by Dan Rowland who touched down twice. The Supermarine 50th anniversary tournament featured teams from Wiltshire, Dorset, Hampshire and Oxfordshire, and whilst Bicester under-12s lost 5-0 to Abingdon in the semi-final, both the under-7s and under-8s went through the day unbeaten. The Bicester under-7s scored a total of 37 tries conceding only 17, whilst the under-8s scored 49 and conceded 19.
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