Username
Password
Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step

Wrecker of dreams
By Chris Oakley April 19 2008
15 minutes of madness and a guy called Qera doomed us to a year on the naughty step that is ND1. It could have been so different for the large part of the first half a neutral could be forgiven for wondering which team was at the top and which was at the bottom of the GP, the forwards were more than a match for Glos, Vainikolo was kept quiet and we started to play the best rugby for some time

The famous shed was subdued and we looked like a Premier team. True Gloucester scored a try from a scrum break by Qera but Leeds bounced back almost immediately with 2 penalties from Di Bernado. Ryan Lamb responded with a penalty and a Di Bernado drop goal meant we were only a point behind at 10-9.

A fracas between Hooper and James, nothing really, resulted in a 10 min break for both. A quickly taken free kick saw that man Qera make a break with Azzam scoring from short range. The few supporters who made the trip were still hopeful - the pack were going well, Hooper, Bouza and Oakley were stealing line out ball from some very poor throwing from Azzam, the scrum was as settled as I can remember and the tackling was making life difficult for Gloucester to get anything going. So with us playing with the wind in the second half we were hoping for a close game and maybe the upset of the season.

Then it all went wrong. Alberto just could not find touch - his kicks just landed in the laps of Gloucester players who simply ran at us in waves. Had he found touch just a few times and with Azzam throwing like he was we would have had real chances, however the constant wave after wave of attacks finally paid off for Glos when Alberto for once decided not to kick and threw a pass - one that was intercepted by Lamb for a try under the posts.

Maasi came on and was soon in the bin for tackling a player without the ball. From the penalty that followed Gloucester decided to scrum and drove Leeds over for Qera to score a try. Soon after from a throw to the back of a lineout that man Qera collected the ball to score under the posts. With 10 minutes left and with Brookes on for Alberto Leeds reverted to playing controlled rugby and following a yellow card for Bortolami, Darren Edwards dived over from short range from a 5 metre line out.

All the forwards played well Hopcroft, Macdonald, Bouza, Lock and Oakley all carried and tackled well, in the backs Hinton caught everything and kicked well, Burrell dropped a couple of passes but looks the part, Armstrong didn't see much of the ball but is a big lad with pace. He did tend to go lateral and got himself isolated on occasion but he will benefit from this game.

Yes we lost, yes we're relegated but as a Gloucester supporter said to me after the match, if you play like that next year you will get promoted and do a lot better in the GP next time.


Bookmark or share this story with:

19 Apr, 2008 18:56 Report
merry (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Jan, 2006
Location: york
Posts: 1791
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
we know hoops is off, but let's hope that we keep the majority of the squad intact so we can consolidate next year and prove that glaws supporter right the following year.

ReplyQuote
19 Apr, 2008 19:02 Report
boadecia (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Nov, 2006
Location:
Posts: 307
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
Well written considering you were sat with some very raucous Tykes fans!

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 09:06 Report
Wildwillie (IP Logged)
Anxiously anticipating
Date Joined: Dec, 2006
Location: Very over the hill
Posts: 2279
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
Thank you for a well balanced report - I for one will enjoy a season on the "naughty step"

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 09:53 Report
Leeds Carnegie signed flag (IP Logged)
IS THIS REAL????
Date Joined: Apr, 2007
Location: Anywhere where we're allowed
Posts: 1095
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
Well done dragon good report that sounds like we could have nicked it BUT as always our players for some reason just nod off for a few minutes and thats it we fall behind.
I'm yet another looking forward to our year on the naughty step and will love every second of it!



Some say he has a Tykes flag with team signatures on.
Others say that he's doing the same to the Carnegie flag,
All we know is that he's called Leeds carnegie signed flag.
(With Orange boots too!)

http://www.lexode.com/album/photos/a/n/annaig/115581811557.png

http://www.rugbynetwork.net/boards/file/s102.htm?105,file=1050http://www.rugbynetwork.net/boards/file/s102.htm?105,file=1362

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 10:04 Report
tyke si (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Apr, 2005
Location:
Posts: 671
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
I thought Glaws where poor but where still better than us and they desrved 5 points. I agree with Burell and Hints had a good game. I thought our scrum was as bad as ever. Also I thought our game plan was poor all we seemed to do is kick the ball. I took heart that the players never gave up and deserved at try.

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 11:17 Report
cheerycherry (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Apr, 2007
Location:
Posts: 2770
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
Glaws were poor first half but credit to Leeds for tackling like demons and scoring on virtually every visit to the Glaws 22. Unfortunately Leeds were not going to win with the tactic of continually kicking possession away and once they tried throwing it around, Lamb intercepts for a try then Glaws got a head of steam up. Credit to Leeds though they never gave it up and fully deserved their late try. Looking like Exeter are going for it next season but best of luck to you all and hope to see you at Kingsholm soon.

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 11:21 Report
Zandra LaPoI (IP Logged)
Tonight We Dine in the Carnegie Cafe - or not as the case may be!
Date Joined: Nov, 2006
Location: Poo Hole!
Posts: 1028
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
As I keep saying there are worse things happening in the world than losing a game of rugby!

Yes I am sad and a bit upset but thereis always next season to look forward to. Now I know a few more of you I will venture to some away games and maybe have a drink or 2!

Lets keep as many of the lads as we can and give them all hell next year!

Come on Leeds!

Zandra LaPoI
LaPoI - Leeds (Lady Lardie!) and Proud of It

http://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/downloads/buttons/h4h.jpg

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 12:15 Report
farmertyke (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Apr, 2007
Location:
Posts: 342
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
Thanks for the report Dragon, did you get your nails done.... Listened to a very fair commentary and it seemed as though we made the same old errors when we have possession in the opposition half. Looking forward to next season.

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 13:57 Report
dragon27 (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Apr, 2007
Location:
Posts: 1647
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
Didn't get my nails done Farmer, didn't want to be known as Puffter the magic Dragon, yes poor decision making especially at the start of the second half changed what looked like a close match into another faily heavy loss, I agree totally with the Glos supporter and the need to get an experienced 2, 10 and 13.

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 13:58 Report
tomenspielen (IP Logged)
unauthorised user
Date Joined: Apr, 2007
Location: East Yorkshire
Posts: 63
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
whats wrong with our 13?

not really much of a linebreaker?

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 14:00 Report
dragon27 (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Apr, 2007
Location:
Posts: 1647
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
I think you just answered your own question.

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 14:07 Report
Mark_C (IP Logged)
Goat Man
Date Joined: Sep, 2004
Location: My Head or Yours?
Posts: 2968
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
Nice one Chris!

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 15:23 Report
CardyRoadTyke (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Apr, 2007
Location: YCCC East Stand
Posts: 149
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
Thanks for the report, Dragon.

I will echo the sentiments of those above looking forward to much more fun next season following a group of players who will grow in stature and confidence and become a winning team.

------------------------------------
Watching the Cricket 'till August, then
looking forward to winning rugby in ND1...

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 17:16 Report
boadecia (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Nov, 2006
Location:
Posts: 307
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
IMHO Luther Burrell is going to have a huge impact next season. He was strong and accurate making his tacklesand even dragged a few opposition with him when he was tackled. I only remember him dropping one ball. When you consider he was against Mike Tindall I thought he was incredible and not phased at all.
Looking at the programme again today,Glaws had a star studded side compared with little 'ol' Leeds. Balsh'was hardly in evidence on the pitch ( I know that will please some of you!)Yes I know we didn't score enough points, but we certainly entertained. Have you noticed that whenever we have given a creditable performance, the opposing fans say their team have played badly? We pinched ball yesterday, both in the line out and on the ground. Ref was pretty consitent, didn't spoil the game too much either.

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 18:13 Report
Toptyke's Dad (IP Logged)
Registered Boozer
Date Joined: Apr, 2007
Location:
Posts: 549
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
Bo, thank you for the textual updates yesterday, much appreciated.

ReplyQuote
20 Apr, 2008 20:40 Report
Beeston Lion (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Feb, 2005
Location:
Posts: 190
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
It is worth remembering, if any inspiration is required, that Akapusi Qera played last season as a National One player with Pertemps Bees. Scored against the Tykes in the Midlands early on in the campaign.

ReplyQuote
24 Apr, 2008 09:39 Report
Elburton Albion (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Aug, 2006
Location:
Posts: 314
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
I like the optimism but I feel you may well be spending more than one season on the naughty step. You wont be doing a Northampton, and all us already on the naughty step see next season as a good opportunity.
Enjoy your stay on the naughty step, however long it may be!

Oh, and we will have Martin back now as well. Thanks!



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2008:04:24:09:59:41 by Elburton Albion.

ReplyQuote
24 Apr, 2008 10:13 Report
JDH (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Apr, 2007
Location:
Posts: 584
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
opportunity it maybe, whether you can take it is a different matter!!

ReplyQuote
24 Apr, 2008 11:00 Report
CornishChief (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Jan, 2007
Location:
Posts: 735
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
The thing is JDH its not us ND1 teams that have to win ND1 next year. If we don't then we keep building until we do. But what happens to Leeds finances if you don't make it straight back up ?

ReplyQuote
24 Apr, 2008 11:26 Report
apb (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Sep, 2003
Location:
Posts: 2240
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
Or, CC, put another way, Leeds are favourites for the title. It'll be v. disappointing if they don't do it.

TykesRugby.co.uk
http://v4admin.sportnetwork.net/upload/102/102_0_1182811253.jpg
Supporting Leeds RU since 2002

ReplyQuote
24 Apr, 2008 11:48 Report
JDH (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Apr, 2007
Location:
Posts: 584
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
exactly, its up to everyone else to beat leeds, just like it was last time. looking forward to a hard fought season...

ReplyQuote
24 Apr, 2008 12:09 Report
CornishChief (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Jan, 2007
Location:
Posts: 735
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
Of course Leeds are favourites and from a financial point of view Leeds must be promoted straight back to the Prem.

The pressure is all on Leeds. Personally I expect you to manage it but you never know......(Sm100)

ReplyQuote
24 Apr, 2008 19:01 Report
Cider Drinker (IP Logged)
An Apple a day keeps doctor away
Date Joined: Oct, 2006
Location: In the Apple Tree
Posts: 2128
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
it looks like its going to be a good season
looking forward to visiting and to see you at Brickfields

(Sm82) 5 Fruits a day = Apples, Pears, Lemon, Lime and Grapes

ReplyQuote
25 Apr, 2008 09:06 Report
greenandwhitetiger (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Apr, 2007
Location:
Posts: 242
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
But for their squad strength, Saints could have lost 4 games this season, any weaker and they would have lost more. However, Exeter and Nottingham have lost 6 and 7 games respectively, which would still be too many next season to get promoted IMO. On paper, the Leeds squad is not as gifted as the Saints squad of this season. However, I'd expect the Leeds forwards to be more savvy than the Saints pack has been. Leeds will start as favourites but depending how Exeter and Nottingham strengthen their squad and whether Doncaster and Pirates can get all their new players to gel quickly, the promotion spot will be highly competitive. Teams such as Bedford could well influence proceedings as well. It's going to be an interesting season, that's for sure.

ReplyQuote
25 Apr, 2008 09:13 Report
Fan of Rugby (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Apr, 2007
Location:
Posts: 1690
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
'But for their squad strength, Saints could have lost 4 games this season, any weaker and they would have lost more'

I hate comments like that. If we had Dan Carter playing for us we would have stayed up. Good job they had a strong squad then isn't it?

ReplyQuote
25 Apr, 2008 10:06 Report
Elburton Albion (IP Logged)
Registered User
Date Joined: Aug, 2006
Location:
Posts: 314
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
greenandwhitetiger - Dont forget Plymouth Albion. Admittedly we have not had best of seasons but that was just a well timed blip!! Best time to have a bad season is when the likes of Northampton are sat on the edge of the naughty step!

ReplyQuote
25 Apr, 2008 18:31 Report
Wildwillie (IP Logged)
Anxiously anticipating
Date Joined: Dec, 2006
Location: Very over the hill
Posts: 2279
Re: Leeds Crash back to the ND1 Naughty Step
No-one has ever said that ND1 is not tough. The only question really is who will be toughing it out with Leeds to be top gun. I expect Leeds Donny, Notts, Pirates & Exe will all be in the mix in 12 months time.

ReplyQuote
Goto Thread: PreviousNext
Goto: Message ListLog In

Sorry, only registered users may post in this forum.
We record all IP addresses on the Sportnetwork message boards which may be required by the authorities in case of defamatory or abusive comment. We seek to monitor the Message Boards at regular intervals. We do not associate Sportnetwork with any of the comments and do not take responsibility for any statements or opinions expressed on the Message Boards. If you have any cause for concern over any material posted here please let us know as soon as possible by e-mailing abuse@sportnetwork.net