Tewkesbury Veterans XV had a rare home run out against the Gloucester Combination Veterans on Sunday 22nd October. The game was played for the Bram & Chris Lane Shield and it is hoped it becomes an annual event.

Gloucester Vets arrived by coach and had a very large playing squad. The weather took a turn for the worst and Tewkesbury knew they were in for a tough afternoon. The early stages of the game were very even and competitive with a few big hits going in from both sides. The Gloucester side seemed surprised with the quality of the Tewkesbury play and it was no surprise when Tewkesbury drove over with Shaun Everis touching down. Randall converted with a kick that bore a striking resemblance to the winning kick in Dieppe. This stirred Gloucester into action and after a long period of possession they scored under the posts to make it 7-7. Tewkesbury upped the tempo and Gloucester eventually succumbed to a trademark series of Dave Randall dummies, who waltzed in under the posts and converted his own score. 14-7 at half time. The second half became a forward battle with the weather getting worse. Kicking from hand was not allowed and most of the game was played around the half way line until a spritely Chris Dean found a bit of space and sprinted away from the despairing tackles of a tiring Gloucester side to score. 21-7 turned out to be the final score and everyone headed for the warmth of the clubhouse and a few beers. Many thanks to the Gloucester Combination Vets for coming over in such large numbers and a great evening followed.

The Tewkesbury Vets are to entertain Torbay Sharks on Feb 6th 2010 who they met whilst on tour in Dieppe.

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