Match Report: London Welsh v Grasshoppers
Seniors: First XV: 9th November 2019
London Welsh 15 – 0 Grasshoppers. Frustration for The Hoppers as League leaders London Welsh hosted an intense clash in torrid conditions - as we honoured the fallen on Remembrance Day weekend. With Welsh playing to defend an unbeaten record, The G’s were keen to bring that to an end and maintain their position at 3rdplace in the league. An impressive turnout of fans on both sides (800 in total) meant all was to play for in the South West London derby. With skipper Callum McCormack returning to the starting line-up Grasshoppers came out strong, proving to be the better of the two sides early on. With the rain and slight hill against them The G’s were forced to change tact from their typical fast-break rugby, and were successful in playing conservatively for territory and possession. Impressive set piece from Grasshoppers forwards and some tactical kicking from the backs kept Welsh advances to a minimum. However, unable to reach the London Welsh try line or convert an early 3-point opportunity, The G’s diligent team effort didn’t amount to anything on the scoreboard. They eventually lost the upper-hand as Welsh mounted a counter attack from 50 metres that put them over for a first try. The final portion of the half went to them as G’s conceded two penalties allowing Welsh to convert a further 3 points and end the half 10-0. With renewed determination after the break, The G’s started the 2nd half with their heads screwed back on and were straight into the opposition 22. The weather forced errors in equal amounts for both sides, and a lot of time was spent there before Welsh cleared their lines and Grasshoppers were again sent away without getting onto the scoreboard. Welsh were able to re organise and put themselves on the front foot, and The G’s spent the next 20 minutes defending waves of attack. A few key turnovers won by James Kent kept them in game for a while, but unfortunately G’s conceded a string of penalties leading to a 2ndtry for London Welsh as they scrummed over the line, capitalising on a yellow card in the Grasshoppers front row. G’s battled for the final ten minutes and were able to manage a more exciting spell of rugby, albeit in vein as the game ended 15-0. An unfortunate result for the visitors but heads were held high after a valiant effort despite the conditions. One to watch for the return game at Syon Lane in February.