This Wednesday, our 1st XV put together a monumental performance of immense effort, commitment and physicality to beat Midlands rugby giants, Old Swinford Hospital. A fantastic team effort culminated in a 19-17 victory for Vesey, which continues a remarkable run of form and maintains our unbeaten record at home throughout 2021. All of the boys played their part, and this result is a massive achievement against OSH who are coached by an ex-international and have reached the final of the National Cup in recent years.

BVGS took the lead through a try from a superbly worked line out close to the opposition's line, followed by a penalty to make it 8-0. OSH hit back with a try of their own but resolute defence kept the opposition out, before a second penalty gave Vesey an 11-5 lead at the break. After half-time, OSH increased the pressure again and the Vesey side matched their intensity, again keeping the opposition out after prolonged spells of pressure. As well as showing defensive toughness, the boys displayed good game understanding and attacking guile which was rewarded halfway through the half with another try. This again came from splendid work from the pack and a driving maul was powered over the line for 16-5. Again, OSH responded and eventually split the defence to bring the scoreline back to 16-10. After absorbing several more waves of attack from OSH, the Vesey side managed to work themselves downfield and assert pressure of their own which eventually led to a third penalty for 19-10. OSH scored yet again to make it 19-17 heading into the final few minutes, but a nerveless Vesey outfit stood firm and stayed calm to see the game out and cue raucous celebrations.

Progressing to the next round means the boys are amongst the final 32 teams nationally. It will be a home fixture, with confirmation of opposition and date to be arranged. All the very best to the lads and a massive well done from everyone.