LER - FCL v Avignon : Mon Oct 11, 2010 4:40 pm
on the way back from the France v Ireland game we stopped off to watch the two games at Lezignan yesterday (sunday) v Avignonthe weather for the reserve match was appalling but the two teams provided tremendous entertainment in virtually unplayable conditions ie constant driving rain.FCL reserves ran out comfortable winners but credit to both teams.The ball handling was nothing short of miraculous.
The main event got underway at 1515 as planned with the rain falling even heavier than before though the wind did abate just a bit.The first half saw FCL dominate with excellent handling skills and some good finishing with five well constructed tries mainly with Nathan Wynn at the centre of the moves none of which were converted by Nathan which is not surprising due to the position of the touchline kicks in the monsoon like conditions.The visitors replied with a try almost under the posts which was also not converted due to the conditions (he did a 'Don Fox' for the more elder rl fans - CC final etc !).FCL were well worth the 20 - 4 lead at the interval.
The second half saw a similar story with FCL dominating and adding another half a dozen tries with three conversions in the slightly 'easier' conditions.Avignon managed a try plus conversion as some kind of consolation.
A game which should never have been played was an exceptional feat of entertainment for the hardy (foolhardy ?) fans who paid their entrance money. The players from both teams were a credit to our great game and it's impossible to give a MOM award. Everyone was a hero for having the ability to provide such majestic skills in impossible conditions - final score 50 - 10
Good to see 'Big' Phil Leuleui in action again especially his trademark try in the first half - the way he ploughed through the Bisons defence then landing in the pool of water on the touchline nearly triggered a tsunami ! he,at least seemed happy in the conditions - memories of Salford maybe ................
