Derbyshire Shield Final 2006
Dronfield 1st XV 3 - 3 Castle Donnington 1st XV (after extra time)
In their final match of the season Dronfield 1st XV travelled down to Amber Valley for the club's most prestigious game for many seasons. In the Derbyshire Shield final they were up against Castle Donnington, a side who had gained comfortable victories over Dronfield in all three encounters this season. Right from the kick off, in front of vociferous supporters from both sides, it was obvious that Dronfield were not overawed by their opponents or the occasion, and to a man produced an outstanding performance. The match proved to be one of the most exciting in the history of the Derbyshire knock- out competitions.
For the first 30 minutes it was Castle Donnington who had the advantage in both lineouts and loose play. Their attacks however, were cancelled out by superb Dronfield defensive play. On the half hour Donnington broke the deadlock with a successful penalty kick. In the last ten minutes of the first half Dronfield began to have more influence in forward play through Chris Burgan, Tom Walshaw and Scott Garland .From the resulting increased possession, Dronfield showed glimpses of their attacking potential. Dave Yule, in his final game for the club,and captain Andy File, leading by example, both found gaps in the Donnington defence but final passes failed to go to hand.
In the second half it was now Dronfield's turn to dominate play. Attacking moves involving John Steade and then Ashley Guth resulted in Dronfield coming close to scoring. Donnington were now spending long periods of play encamped in their own half and when penalised Matt Lowry's penalty kick levelled the scores. In a nail-biting finish to normal time Dronfield had the opportunity to go into the lead but unfortunately the ball fell from the tee as the kicker approached With neither side able to break the deadlock the game went into extra time. Fitness levels on both sides were tested .Despite total endeavour defences remained on top and the game finished level with both sides sharing the trophy.
This was an exceptional Dronfield performance and one that had surprised their opponents who had anticipated a comfortable victory. The result and the efforts of all the players was a credit to the club. Everyone of the nineteen players representing Dronfield gave 100% effort and deserved the honour of being man of the match.It is hoped that the impetus gained from this performance will be carried forward to the start of next season. Well done Dronfield Rugby Club!
Team: Scott Garland, John Smalley, Adrian Finlay, Gary Foxon, Nick Barker, Chris Burgan, Tom Walshaw, Ryley Wing, Matt Lowry, John Steade, Chris Sorsby, Dave Webb, Dave Yule, Ashley Guth, Andy File(C).
Replacements: Dave Poole, Craig Laughton, Matt Green, Tony Hutton.
