Football p4-5 >> Men’s firsts miss out on chance to clinch Varsity trophy for Uni

Rugby p14-15 >> Black and Gold whitewash rivals in Union and gain last-gasp League draw

Varsity2010

THE ONE THAT GOT AWAY

HALLAM TAKE VARSITY TITLE AFTER ANOTHER CLOSE ENCOUNTER

VARSITYV2 FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com

This year’s Varsity promised to be the biggest and best yet, and it certainly did not disappoint.

Although victory in the end went to Hallam, the University of Sheffield can be proud of their part in an incredible sporting spectacle.

Victories in key sports including Athletics, Ultimate Frisbee and Rugby Union as well as a draw in Rugby League, reveal the passion and character of our sports teams.

The unlikely Rugby League result in particular shows the dedication of our brave teams. They had not beaten Hallam since the conception of Varsity more than a decade ago, and to fight back from near-certain defeat is an immense achievement.

At the football finale at Hillsborough, rumours that the points tally was more or less even proved correct. Club Sport were determined to keep the scores ahead of the final day under wraps, and rightly so, keeping tensions high.

They needn’t have: Varsity, like previous years, was as close as ever.

Pleasingly, a significant difference this year was that the bitter rivalry and mindless violence that marred Varsity 2009 was largely lacking. There was sadly some alcohol-induced misbehaviour after the full time whistle at Hillsborough though; mainly from, would you believe it, the Hallam contingent.

As ever, our supporters were large in number, vocal in support and strong in character, a real credit to the University of Sheffield.

One of the key issues of Varsity 2010 was the change of format, moving from a singular hub day, like 2009 at Abbeydale, to a week’s event, with the final at Hillsborough.

All events were well supported though, and most in good spirits, with the standard ‘friendly’ banter featuring highly.

The move to Hillsborough left me questioning the decision, but I have been proven very wrong. The stadium, although obviously not full, was booming, with upwards of 3,000 loyal students in attendance and a fabulous atmosphere generated.

Indeed, the fans gave supporters at the Steel City

derby a run for their money in terms of noise level.

Uni might lament the fact that they lost this Varsity, with some results being disappointing.

The men’s lacrosse team were heavily backed to beat their cross-city rivals comfortably but couldn’t deliver the goods, while our lacklustre performance

in cricket raised several eyebrows.

But, we must not focus on these results. Our Uni teams put in their best effort and, to be fair, what’s wrong with closely being beaten by a ‘sports university’? At least we’ll have a proper degree at the end of our three years.

At 30-8 down the game looked out of reach for our Rugby League stars.

But to the amazement of the Hillsborough Park crowd they came back to claim a legendary 36-36 draw with a try in the dying seconds of the game.

It was the first time Hallam had failed to beat Uni in 12 years. Heroes.

Varsity High

All students did themselves justice in a terrific event

ChrisRoganVarsity comment

There was an unwelcome addition to the normal Population aroma this Monday.

Was it a spate of flatulence? The Union building work exposing some pongy sewers?

No.It was, in fact, the

hockey players of the men’s and women’s teams who hadn’t seen fit to wash or change their attire following closely-fought battles.

It seems it isn’t only there performances that stinks .

“And the RAF from Hallam shot them down” was the might chant of our cross city rivals at the football men’s final yesterday.

Great chant guys - shame it’s a twist on the song of fascists the English Defence League.

Who were the idiots playing on the hallowed Sheffield Wednesday turf following the women’s firsts?

Oh, it was members of Forge Media. Their joy wasn’t long lived after being ordered off. I guess it’s all over. It is now.

Varsity D.A.R.T.S.

We have to look back to 2003 for the last time Uni won the competition individually and after two ties this year looked like it would be the year.

After fighting back on the last day of competition only a win in the football men’s firsts needed to secure Varsity glory.

Yet again we missed out. Meaning another year to wait to taste success.

Varsity Low

American Football HallamAthletics UniMen’s Badminton UniWomen’s Badminton UniMen’s Basketball HallamWomen’s Basketball HallamMen’s Canoe Polo HallamWomen’s Canoe Polo HallamClimbing UniMen’s Cricket HallamWomen’s Cricket HallamCycling UniMen’s Football HallamWomen’s Football HallamGolf HallamMen’s Hockey UniWomen’s Hockey HallamIce Hockey HallamKorfball UniMen’s Lacrosse HallamWomen’s Lacrosse UniNetball HallamRowing UniRugby League TieMen’s Rugby Union UniWomen’s Rugby Union UniSailing UniSki Slope Style UniSki Racing UniSnowboard Slope Style HallamSnowboard Racing HallamSquash UniSwimming HallamMen’s Tennis HallamWomen’s Tennis UniTrampolining HallamUltimate Frisbee UniMen’s Volleyball HallamWomen’s Volleyball UniMen’s Waterpolo UniWomen’s Waterpolo Hallam

Varsity 2010 Uni 19.5 - 21.5 Hallam

2 Varsity commentFull results

3 KorfballLacrosse

4-5 Football 6 Swimming

Water PoloRowingSailing

7 TrampoliningVolleyballClimbing

8-9 Commemorative poster

10 TennisSquash

Badminton

11 BasketballNetball

Golf

12-13 Hockey

14-15 Rugby UnionRugby League

American Football

16 AthleticsUltimate Frisbee

Cricket

Cover photo: Helen Munro

Results

Contents

Forge Press is part of Forge Media

SUCCESS SMELLS

TOP BOMBING

MEDIA CENSORED

The Uni faithful at Hillsborough.

Photo: Helen Munro

VARSITYFORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com V3

The University of Sheffield survived a nail-biting finale to overcome Hallam in a tense Varsity fixture, triumphing 5-3 after an impressive display of attacking korfball.

Ponds Forge Sports Centre was awash with colour and noise as fans of both sides turned up to show their support, and it was those in black and gold

who were able to walk away at the end with this year’s bragging rights secured.

There was good reason for Uni to be confident before the game, having beaten their opposition 9-7 in last month’s BUCS Championships final.

Hallam may have feared the worst when Susan Gillie opened the scoring for Uni early on, but they quickly responded with an equaliser after being awarded a penalty.

Anna Woodhall soon restored Uni’s lead though, with her perseverance

paying off as she scored a superb effort from distance having gone close twice before in the preceding minutes.

Uni stormed into a 4-1 lead through further goals from James Woolmer and Tom Rockingham, but Hallam were able to reduce the deficit before half-time thanks to two goals in quick succession.

The second half began with a sustained spell of pressure from Uni, but they were unable to add to their lead even as Hallam struggled to cope with the

excellent Woolmer, who proved to be a constant threat in the attacking zone with his impressive range of shooting.

With only a slender lead going into the final minutes, Uni desperately attempted to retain possession but were somewhat lucky to survive a number of near-misses before Woolmer put the tie beyond doubt with a fifth for Uni, taking time to pick his spot after a neat one-two.

Celebrations among the Uni fans began almost immediately afterwards,

and the full-time whistle confirmed yet another korfball victory for their team.

University of Sheffield captain Dan Brooks was understandably pleased with his team’s performance, but also gave due credit to a hard-working Hallam side.

He said: “I think we just about edged it, but it was a tight game. There were some very good players and two very good teams on show here today.

“They surprised us a little bit at the start, but

we played really well and deserved the win.”

Hallam captain Tom Holmes meanwhile admitted that the better side had won. “It was a fair result.

“Sheffield have improved a lot, so it’s been competitive this year for a change,” he said.

The win ensured a comprehensive victory in korfball for Uni in this year’s Varsity owing to the triumph of the second team earlier in the day.

Jack Burnett

Korfball firstsUni 5Hallam 3

Five of the best for Uni champs

Two of the country’s best lacrosse teams met at Abbeydale sports ground to fight out the annual Varsity fixture as Hallam beat their city rivals Uni 11-8.

The game started with a goal a piece for both teams and this set the tone for the rest of the game.

Uni chased for the most part, gaining some ground ahead later on in the game, only for Hallam to reply with some quick fire goals at the death.

Both Hallam and Uni men’s lacrosse teams this year have had successful seasons and as a result no one was in any doubt that the Varsity tie was going to be a memorable one.

The final score of 11-8 was disappointing for Uni after what had been a great game of lacrosse and a strong Uni performance.

Finding the net twice each for Uni were co-captain Mike Armstrong, club co-captain Tom Leahy, England international Ben Lyon and Uni footballer Josh Sherry-Brennan.

Lamenting at the loss Mike Armstrong said: “It was a good game of lacrosse,

and was great competing against those players whom we play with on a weekend for our club lacrosse team.

“I’m really proud of the lads this season and given another chance I’d definitely fancy our chances.”

Club captain Tom Leahy said: “We have come so close in all competitions this season. Retaining the league and cup was always going to be difficult, especially with the competition this season from excellent university teams. We nearly made the Championship, lost by a goal in the Trophy final and were extremely disappointed to lose Varsity.”

Nearly men lose to Varsity rivalsMen’s LacrosseUni 8Hallam 11

A free-scoring performance from the University of Sheffield’s second team secured an emphatic 7-1 over Hallam.

Uni started at a high tempo and almost scored immediately when their captain, Craig Allison, narrowly missed.

Allison got his name on the scoresheet soon after with a calmly taken penalty.

Hallam equalised against the run of play when Alex McFarlane found space

and produced an exquisite finish.

However, Uni soon retook the lead and Hallam’s frustration was evident, with captain Dan Styne being forced to call an early time-out to try to stop Uni’s barrage.

The game became more physical thereafter, but Uni eventually unlocked the Hallam defence twice more before half-time to lead 5-1 at the break.

The second half started

evenly, but Uni soon capitalised on Hallam’s

mistakes, bringing Uni’s total to seven

by full-time. Uni’s captain

Allison was elated. “We deserved the win. I’m proud of the team. It’s great to

win against Hallam.”Hallam’s Styne

was left ruing missed chances, though.

“We had a few opportunities that we didn’t take, but at the end of the day Uni were the better side.”

Jack Burnett

Seconds smash seven past HallamKorfball secondsUni 7Hallam 1

The women’s lacrosse side secured a tidy and victory against Hallam last Thursday.

Although the final result suggests otherwise, much of the match was a close affair.

Uni opened the scoring early on, but Hallam quickly equalised and then took the lead.

Uni were always on the counter, however, and for three quarters of the match they always had the edge.

Goals from Georgie Matthews, Imogen Lyons and captain Sophia Saunders ensured that Uni held on to this lead, and a panicky Hallam disintegrated in the final quarter.

Saunders said: “The Hallam league match earlier in the year was the only loss all season so we were pretty nervous about Varsity.

“However, everyone did their best and we definitely deserved the win, I am really proud of the team.”

Chris Rogan

Top: the women’s lacrosse team line up. Photo: Adam Harley

Below: Korfall team in action Photo: Helen Munro

Women get revenge for league lossWomen’s LacrosseUni 19Hallam 10

Two goals in the last 13 minutes left Uni’s men’s first-team footballers with a decisive defeat in Wednesday’s showpiece event of Varsity.

There was a terrific atmosphere at Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough ground, with coach loads of fans from both universities being ferried to the stadium, and the South Stand was turned into cauldron of noise that most professional clubs would be proud of.

The game was crucial as a Uni win would have also secured the overall Varsity title, while Hallam simply had to avoid defeat to retain the trophy.

The first half was not a classic piece of football, but both teams did try to attack, Hallam had the first chance after six minutes, but it was off target.

After 23 minutes Hallam went much closer, with an effort from a corner eventually cleared off the line by a Uni defender.

Arguably Uni’s biggest chance of the first half came with a low cross just after the half hour mark which had to be dealt with by Hallam, and it went on to force a corner, and the half ended goalless.

Uni started the second half the brighter of the two sides, but as it started to unfold Hallam became more dominant and appeared to have more of the chances.

However Uni were not out of it, proved by a great chance on 66 minutes, where a close range shot was saved by the Hallam keeper, but he could not hold onto it and

a defender had to come across to head it over the crossbar and settle for the corner.

However, 13 minutes from time Hallam broke the deadlock, when their left-back charged down the left flank, cut inside and managed to get a shot past Uni’s keeper and into the back of the net.

Uni attempted to get the equaliser, and went close twice in two minutes, but after 88 minutes Hallam wrapped up the victory with a low cross tapped in at the far post in the six yard area.

The victory sealed Hallam’s winning of the entire Varsity competition, with a minority Hallam students attempting a pitch invasion at full time.

Anthony Hart

VARSITY FOOTBALL VARSITY FOOTBALLV4 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com V5

Men Football firstsUni 2Hallam 0

Hallam beat firsts in vital Varsity final

Football firsts could not overcome Hallam to claim Uni a historic Varsity victory.

Photos: Helen Munro

The Women faired no better - losing to Hallam 1-4.

Photos: Adam Harley

The University Football fourths beat their rivals Hallam with a hard-fought victory.

The first half was typical of a derby match with scrappy midfield play and only delivered a solitary goal.

Hallam’s captain pumped a free kick into the box which went goalbound via the head of a Uni defender. Although keeper Joey Farnell did well to prevent an own goal he failed to stop the rebound being smashed home.

The second half was a much more open affair. Uni began with some fine attacking play, and eventually equalised when Matthew Lee latched onto a long ball and nodded it past the onrushing keeper.

Uni’s offensive tactics continued with some decent pressure in the Hallam third. Joe Okafor managed to break the deadlock by getting in front of a Chris Walker shot and heading it past the keeper.

Provider then turned scorer when Okafor laid the ball off to Walker, who scored a stunning 30 yard strike making the score 3-1.

A nervy finish resulted as Uni conceded another goal from a well-worked Hallam set-piece but Uni held out for a well-deserved win.

Captain Davis Reader was quick to heap praise on his team: “The lads were fantastic. They showed a lot of character to come back from a goal down.

“This result has capped a wonderful season for us as we sealed promotion earlier in the season.”

Michael Hallam

Fourths hit three in thrillerMen’s Football fourthsUni 3Hallam 2

The University of Sheffield women’s football seconds were unable to claim victory despite opening the scoring at the Niagara Club.

A goal by Becky Grevitt early in the second half was followed by three goals from Hallam as Uni squandered a great opportunity to win.

In a generally uninspiring first period there was little in the way of goalmouth action.

The best chances fell to Hallam in the last minutes of the half.

The game came alive five minutes into the second half when Grevitt latched on to a slow ball and coolly slotted the ball into the bottom corner.

Uni’s manic celebrations were short-lived, however. On the hour mark Hallam equalised after a Uni mistake left gifted Hallam a one on one with the Uni keeper.

Five minutes later and Hallam were ahead a long throw was allowed to bounce onto the crossbar and was bundled in at the far post.

With 15 minutes to go Hallam went further ahead with another scrappy goal.

This time a free kick was not dealt with and another goalmouth scramble resulted in Hallam’s third goal.

Despite valiant attempts to force their way back into the game Uni did not look like scoring again and fell to defeat.

After the game Helen Jones, of Uni, said: “It’s really gutting. It was good to score first because last year we lost six - nil, but the pressure was always on us and the atmosphere was brutal at times.”

Jones remained upbeat, however, about the state of women’s football.

“There is defiantly progress. We have got supporters down here from both sides and that’s great to see.”

Matt Duncan

Hallam’s women leapfrog the secondsWomen’s Football 2sUni 1Hallam 3

The University of Sheffield women’s football firsts lost by four goals to one against Sheffield Hallam in an energetic battle at Hillsborough on Wednesday afternoon.

For the first 10 minutes the teams were evenly matched with both teams having chances to go forward.

Both Uni and Hallam’s defences seemed to be working well to keep out the opposing players.

Just after the 15 minute mark a handball from Uni led to a free kick for Hallam just outside the area.

Some bad defending and goalkeeping from Uni resulted in Hallam scoring from their free kick.

The Uni team had a half chance after 25 minutes but it was dealt with easily by Alice Williams, goalkeeping for Hallam.

Some solid defending stopped the Uni team from going further behind and the Uni women were looking sharp on the break.

A brilliant throw into the box and a magnificent strike by Alex Weeks put Uni back in the game at one goal apiece.

However, it only take a matter of minutes for Hallam to get back in the game with a perfect shot

from Jodie Hancock from 25 yards out going straight over the head of Kim Griffiths in net for Uni.

Hallam went into half time with a 2 – 1 lead.

Both teams came out determined to steal the victory but it was Hallam who started the better of the two teams.

Emma Bird had a brilliant chance to level the scores with a one on one chance with the goalkeeper but it went just wide of the post.

Hallam got their third goal from not long after the restart and it would have taken something really impressive by the Uni team

for them to win this match. Hallam got a corner

minutes before the end and managed to score after some poor defending from Uni left their striker unmarked in the area.

Hallam continued to tackle and defend well to keep Uni out, and even Uni’s best efforts couldn’t stop Hallam from winning the points.

Uni cooach Natalie Allen was understandably disappointed at the result, but said: “I thought we put in a really good performance. We tried really hard and we were very unlucky with that result.”

Charlotte Duncker

Women’s Football 1sUni 1Hallam 4

Floored by four: football firsts fail

The third team football match at Norton started brightly with Sheffield University striker Owen having the first chance within minutes.

The pressure started to mount against Hallam and another through ball by Winters had the keeper

reaching for the ball as Owen’s shot glanced wide.

Hallam began fighting back and after a corner kick wasn’t properly dealt with, they came close with a well struck volley.

But Uni retaliated and another long through ball from the left back sent Owen running.

Beating the defender for pace he tried to cross the ball to his advancing teammates but the pass was cut out.

On the stroke of 20

minutes the ball again failed to be cleared out of the defence, and a gently looped volley beat the keeper putting Hallam ahead.

Uni replied with some great play down the right by Berry and Lauo but the shot was again smothered by the Hallam keeper. After some more pressure Berry finally capitalised on some last-ditch defending and calmly slotted the ball in the back of the net to draw level.

The high intensity continued after half time and the challenges got later and later. Another long ball by Hallam sent their striker on a darting run and after bringing it down he calmly placed it past the keeper.

Uni players were furious, and surrounded the referee to complain about a handball. They continued to pressure, however, with a handful of chances, but to no avail.

Chris McKay

Men’s Football thirdsUni 1Hallam 2

Sheffield’s second team battled against a tough Hallam side to earn a draw in what was a thunderous encounter at Norton Playing Fields.

Uni took an early lead when Kieran Quinn’s free kick was not dealt with by the Hallam keeper and found its way into the net.

The game became an attritional affair that

threatened to boil over at times. A late tackle on Uni’s right back sparked a brief encounter between the teams.

However, both teams maintained a full compliment throughout.

In the second half Hallam mustered an equaliser as a high and hopeful ball was headed home by the Hallam centre forward.

Uni continued to battle away and always looked capable of scoring the winner. The pace of Uni’s wingers caused Hallam problems in

particular. However, Uni could just

not find the breakthrough, leaving the scores at 1-1 at full time.

Captain Richard Brough, who led by example all afternoon, was still pleased with his side.

He said: “I am so proud of the lads. We have lost twice to Hallam this year so we were massive underdogs today.”

Michael Hallam

Seconds cannot break stalemateMen Football secondsUni 1Hallam 1

Sharp start for Uni, but Hallam claim the win

Two goals in the last 13 minutes left Uni’s men’s first-team footballers with a decisive defeat in Wednesday’s showpiece event of Varsity.

There was a terrific atmosphere at Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough ground, with coach loads of fans from both universities being ferried to the stadium, and the South Stand was turned into cauldron of noise that most professional clubs would be proud of.

The game was crucial as a Uni win would have also secured the overall Varsity title, while Hallam simply had to avoid defeat to retain the trophy.

The first half was not a classic piece of football, but both teams did try to attack, Hallam had the first chance after six minutes, but it was off target.

After 23 minutes Hallam went much closer, with an effort from a corner eventually cleared off the line by a Uni defender.

Arguably Uni’s biggest chance of the first half came with a low cross just after the half hour mark which had to be dealt with by Hallam, and it went on to force a corner, and the half ended goalless.

Uni started the second half the brighter of the two sides, but as it started to unfold Hallam became more dominant and appeared to have more of the chances.

However Uni were not out of it, proved by a great chance on 66 minutes, where a close range shot was saved by the Hallam keeper, but he could not hold onto it and

a defender had to come across to head it over the crossbar and settle for the corner.

However, 13 minutes from time Hallam broke the deadlock, when their left-back charged down the left flank, cut inside and managed to get a shot past Uni’s keeper and into the back of the net.

Uni attempted to get the equaliser, and went close twice in two minutes, but after 88 minutes Hallam wrapped up the victory with a low cross tapped in at the far post in the six yard area.

The victory sealed Hallam’s winning of the entire Varsity competition, with a minority Hallam students attempting a pitch invasion at full time.

Anthony Hart

VARSITY FOOTBALL VARSITY FOOTBALLV4 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com V5

Men Football firstsUni 2Hallam 0

Hallam beat firsts in vital Varsity final

Football firsts could not overcome Hallam to claim Uni a historic Varsity victory.

Photos: Helen Munro

The Women faired no better - losing to Hallam 1-4.

Photos: Adam Harley

The University Football fourths beat their rivals Hallam with a hard-fought victory.

The first half was typical of a derby match with scrappy midfield play and only delivered a solitary goal.

Hallam’s captain pumped a free kick into the box which went goalbound via the head of a Uni defender. Although keeper Joey Farnell did well to prevent an own goal he failed to stop the rebound being smashed home.

The second half was a much more open affair. Uni began with some fine attacking play, and eventually equalised when Matthew Lee latched onto a long ball and nodded it past the onrushing keeper.

Uni’s offensive tactics continued with some decent pressure in the Hallam third. Joe Okafor managed to break the deadlock by getting in front of a Chris Walker shot and heading it past the keeper.

Provider then turned scorer when Okafor laid the ball off to Walker, who scored a stunning 30 yard strike making the score 3-1.

A nervy finish resulted as Uni conceded another goal from a well-worked Hallam set-piece but Uni held out for a well-deserved win.

Captain Davis Reader was quick to heap praise on his team: “The lads were fantastic. They showed a lot of character to come back from a goal down.

“This result has capped a wonderful season for us as we sealed promotion earlier in the season.”

Michael Hallam

Fourths hit three in thrillerMen’s Football fourthsUni 3Hallam 2

The University of Sheffield women’s football seconds were unable to claim victory despite opening the scoring at the Niagara Club.

A goal by Becky Grevitt early in the second half was followed by three goals from Hallam as Uni squandered a great opportunity to win.

In a generally uninspiring first period there was little in the way of goalmouth action.

The best chances fell to Hallam in the last minutes of the half.

The game came alive five minutes into the second half when Grevitt latched on to a slow ball and coolly slotted the ball into the bottom corner.

Uni’s manic celebrations were short-lived, however. On the hour mark Hallam equalised after a Uni mistake left gifted Hallam a one on one with the Uni keeper.

Five minutes later and Hallam were ahead a long throw was allowed to bounce onto the crossbar and was bundled in at the far post.

With 15 minutes to go Hallam went further ahead with another scrappy goal.

This time a free kick was not dealt with and another goalmouth scramble resulted in Hallam’s third goal.

Despite valiant attempts to force their way back into the game Uni did not look like scoring again and fell to defeat.

After the game Helen Jones, of Uni, said: “It’s really gutting. It was good to score first because last year we lost six - nil, but the pressure was always on us and the atmosphere was brutal at times.”

Jones remained upbeat, however, about the state of women’s football.

“There is defiantly progress. We have got supporters down here from both sides and that’s great to see.”

Matt Duncan

Hallam’s women leapfrog the secondsWomen’s Football 2sUni 1Hallam 3

The University of Sheffield women’s football firsts lost by four goals to one against Sheffield Hallam in an energetic battle at Hillsborough on Wednesday afternoon.

For the first 10 minutes the teams were evenly matched with both teams having chances to go forward.

Both Uni and Hallam’s defences seemed to be working well to keep out the opposing players.

Just after the 15 minute mark a handball from Uni led to a free kick for Hallam just outside the area.

Some bad defending and goalkeeping from Uni resulted in Hallam scoring from their free kick.

The Uni team had a half chance after 25 minutes but it was dealt with easily by Alice Williams, goalkeeping for Hallam.

Some solid defending stopped the Uni team from going further behind and the Uni women were looking sharp on the break.

A brilliant throw into the box and a magnificent strike by Alex Weeks put Uni back in the game at one goal apiece.

However, it only take a matter of minutes for Hallam to get back in the game with a perfect shot

from Jodie Hancock from 25 yards out going straight over the head of Kim Griffiths in net for Uni.

Hallam went into half time with a 2 – 1 lead.

Both teams came out determined to steal the victory but it was Hallam who started the better of the two teams.

Emma Bird had a brilliant chance to level the scores with a one on one chance with the goalkeeper but it went just wide of the post.

Hallam got their third goal from not long after the restart and it would have taken something really impressive by the Uni team

for them to win this match. Hallam got a corner

minutes before the end and managed to score after some poor defending from Uni left their striker unmarked in the area.

Hallam continued to tackle and defend well to keep Uni out, and even Uni’s best efforts couldn’t stop Hallam from winning the points.

Uni cooach Natalie Allen was understandably disappointed at the result, but said: “I thought we put in a really good performance. We tried really hard and we were very unlucky with that result.”

Charlotte Duncker

Women’s Football 1sUni 1Hallam 4

Floored by four: football firsts fail

The third team football match at Norton started brightly with Sheffield University striker Owen having the first chance within minutes.

The pressure started to mount against Hallam and another through ball by Winters had the keeper

reaching for the ball as Owen’s shot glanced wide.

Hallam began fighting back and after a corner kick wasn’t properly dealt with, they came close with a well struck volley.

But Uni retaliated and another long through ball from the left back sent Owen running.

Beating the defender for pace he tried to cross the ball to his advancing teammates but the pass was cut out.

On the stroke of 20

minutes the ball again failed to be cleared out of the defence, and a gently looped volley beat the keeper putting Hallam ahead.

Uni replied with some great play down the right by Berry and Lauo but the shot was again smothered by the Hallam keeper. After some more pressure Berry finally capitalised on some last-ditch defending and calmly slotted the ball in the back of the net to draw level.

The high intensity continued after half time and the challenges got later and later. Another long ball by Hallam sent their striker on a darting run and after bringing it down he calmly placed it past the keeper.

Uni players were furious, and surrounded the referee to complain about a handball. They continued to pressure, however, with a handful of chances, but to no avail.

Chris McKay

Men’s Football thirdsUni 1Hallam 2

Sheffield’s second team battled against a tough Hallam side to earn a draw in what was a thunderous encounter at Norton Playing Fields.

Uni took an early lead when Kieran Quinn’s free kick was not dealt with by the Hallam keeper and found its way into the net.

The game became an attritional affair that

threatened to boil over at times. A late tackle on Uni’s right back sparked a brief encounter between the teams.

However, both teams maintained a full compliment throughout.

In the second half Hallam mustered an equaliser as a high and hopeful ball was headed home by the Hallam centre forward.

Uni continued to battle away and always looked capable of scoring the winner. The pace of Uni’s wingers caused Hallam problems in

particular. However, Uni could just

not find the breakthrough, leaving the scores at 1-1 at full time.

Captain Richard Brough, who led by example all afternoon, was still pleased with his side.

He said: “I am so proud of the lads. We have lost twice to Hallam this year so we were massive underdogs today.”

Michael Hallam

Seconds cannot break stalemateMen Football secondsUni 1Hallam 1

Sharp start for Uni, but Hallam claim the win

VARSITYV6 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010

The University of Sheffield’s swimming team put up a strong fight against an impressive Hallam squad at Ponds Forge aquatics centre, but were narrowly beaten by seven points.

Jenny Dean, one of the captains, said she was nervous before the event as Uni have failed to win in any of the previous Varsity meetings.

The first competition was the 4 x 50m individual

medley with the women’s teams finishing second and fourth with the Uni boys recording an impressive win in a closely fought race.

Next came the women’s and men’s 100m butterfly, the girls managed a credible second and third place giving Uni a total of five points for the race and the men managed to come in first.

Steph Hackett’s valiant effort in the 100m breaststroke ended in drama with the lifeguards having to be called after a near asthma attack but

despite this the girls still managed to pull in another five points for Uni. The men also managed an equal number of points from the same event.

At the halfway stage it was a tightly fought contest between the two universities with Hallam just 10 points ahead.

Hallam were in excellent form but Uni weren’t going to let them run away with it and put in a brilliant effort with Andy Robson and Laura Huggon winning the men’s and women’s 50m backstroke.

Uni also emerged

victorious in the 50 metre freestyle events with Jenny Starling winning for the women and George Grace and Jimmy Murrary taking the first and second places in their events.

The final races were the 4 x 50m freestyle relays. Both the men’s and women’s races were really close and had exciting finishes with the Uni women winning and the men picking up second and third in their race.

The men’s captain for Sheffield Hallam, Dwaine Bushell, was very happy with his teams win and

said: “It pays off for all the hard work we have been doing.

“The Uni team have been really good this year and the close score shows that we put up a good fight. It was a lot closer than the previous years.”

The University of Sheffield’s club captain, James Woodcock said afterwards:

“I thought we did really well, it was very close. We gave everything we have got and they have a very good side so I’m very impressed with our team.”

Charlotte Duncker

SwimmingUni 127Hallam 134

Swimmers sink to narrow loss

The Sailing squad cruised past Hallam to secure another Varsity point.

Although Hallam sailed well, Uni were always just one step ahead. It proved to be consistency that was the difference between the two.

Captain Tom Haslam said: “I always enjoy it when we win, and it’s great to sail against such a good Hallam side.”

Chris Rogan

Easy cruising for sailors as they dominateSailingUni 5Hallam 0

Uni claimed the rowing point after a dominant performance at Damflask Rowing Centre.

The team looked assured from the start winning all but one of the races to claim victory over Hallam for the first time in seven years.

Club President Elias Hammer said: “ I’m immensely proud of the whole squad.”

Matt Duncan

Uni rowers stay on course to beat city rivalsRowingUni 5Hallam 1

The men’s water polo squad narrowly beat Hallam with a late and exciting comeback.

The match seemed like it was Hallam’s from the start as Uni trailed 5-1 early on.

Uni were not outplayed however, and the only difference in the early stages was quality of finishing.

Uni seemed to be galvanised after the break and goals from Conrad Rhodes, Tom Brown and captain Will Liddie brought Uni back into the game.

In the last quarter, Uni

trailed 7-6, and a brilliant equaliser from John McCloskey in the closing minutes set Uni up for a showbiz finish.

Uni desperately attacked, searching for the winner. Hallam’s keeper managed to keep out a fantastic effort, only for Tom McDonald to score the rebound in the very last seconds.

Captain Liddie said: “It was certainly one of the most satisfying ways to win a game, and I’m sure the most depressing way for Hallam to lose it.

“This was one of the most exciting matches I’ve been involved in. I’m proud of the team.”

Chris Rogan

Men’s Water PoloUni 8Hallam 7

Polo men have edge whilst women defeated

Top: Uni swimmer in the butterfly.

Below: Uni water polo player makes a pass.

Photos: Helen Munro

Women’s Water PoloUni 13Hallam 3

Uni’s women’s water polo team floundered against an aggressive Hallam last week.

The team were well beaten by a superior team, but at times Uni showed glimpses of brilliance.

Goals from Heather Parry, Helen Bennett and Claire Burnham kept Uni in the fight but it was not enough.

Captain Caroline Walpole said: “It was a disappointing result. But it’s great to play in front of such good support.

Chris Rogan

VARSITYFORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com V7

TrampolineUni 11Hallam 19

Trampolinists flop to defeat

The men’s volleyball team were just outplayed against a tough Hallam side at the Pearson Building on Tuesday evening.

It was expected that it would be a tough fixture, with the Hallam side known to be one of the strongest.

The Uni side at times showed glimpses of brilliance, but could never really get a toe-hold in the game. However, Uni’s defensive prowess ensured that the final result was never more than 3-0.

Captain Adam Brewer said: “It was always going to be difficult, but I’m pretty happy with how we played. The team showed great ability against such tough opposition.”

Once again men can’t overcome mighty rivalsMen’s VolleyballUni 0Hallam 3

Strong scoring from the likes of Paul Latham and Lisa Trollope helped seal a comfortable point for The University of Sheffield in the bouldering competition.

H a l l a m succumbed to a 516-295 defeat after a record 72 competitors from both universities completed all 20 problems at The Foundry on Mowbray Street yesterday afternoon.

University of Sheffield

climbers Martin Watson and Rosie Gibson joined their teammates Latham and Trollope in the top four high-scorers after showing some novel moves.

Uni’s squad was bolstered by strong

p e r f o r m a n c e s from members of the High Peak Club and Medsoc Boulderers.

T h e competit ion

included some of the best

young climbers in the country, many

of whom are at Sheffield universities for training.

David Knight

ClimbingUni 516Hallam 295

Latham and Trollope help Uni to huge win

Hallam and Uni battled it out once again in the annual trampolining Varsity competition last Friday and once again Hallam picked up the all important point.

The competition consisted of five categories: novice, intermediate, intermediate-plus, advanced and elite.

Hallam managed to clinch the novice category with a third and first place but second place was won by Sheffield Uni’s Heidi Waghorn, with a very stable and aesthetic routine.

The intermediate category also saw first and third place go to two Hallam students. Second place went to Carmilla Hague of Sheffield Uni, who showed exceptionally good form but was unfortunately pipped to the post with a difference in score of less than a point by Peter Ellis.

The intermediate-plus section was over-run with Sheffield Uni students and the Black and Gold team seemed to dominate the hall. Francesca Ball and Annabel Eastwood of Sheffield University managed to secure respective third and second places but once again Hallam’s amazing form

shone though sealing first place.

The advanced category showed off some high quality talent from a range of performers, all competing several somersaulting moves throughout their set routines. There seemed to be a real battle for first place and with everyone hoping to clinch it, there were a few disappointed faces.

However, Sheffield Hallam’s Rebecca Hales managed to show beautiful form throughout her routine, just beating Sheffield Uni’s Sarah Reynolds who also put in a top-quality performance.

Third place went to

Megan Fowler, a very consistent competitor in this category from Hallam.

To finish off the best of the two universities performers competed for the elite title.

Each routine showed a minimum of seven somersaults and the audience seemed to be gripped in awe by the six competitors.

James Blencowe of Sheffield Hallam University was expected to win the category, being an international performer, and there was no disappointment when the judges held up scores of at least eight out of 10 for his breath-taking routine.

Megan Stevens and Dale Bevan from Sheffield University gained respective second and third places in the category and both routines retained good height and showed impeccable form.

Sheffield Hallam once again retained their title and won the competition 19-11 giving them another point for the Varsity table.

Andrew Cuming, captain of Sheffield University’s trampoline team said: “I was pleased with how everyone performed as we pushed the gap even closer this year.

“I think because our club trains on lower quality trampolines, a few of our

bouncers had difficulty adjusting to the springy trampolines at the event.

“I hope that with a new trampoline coming and with a bit more focus on getting our form right, next year we can finally beat Hallam.”

Hannah Kendrick, captain of Sheffield Hallam said: “Everyone in our squad performed to the best of their ability and I could definitely see a lot of improvement in both squads since last year.

“I am really pleased we won as there was a lot of pressure to win after dominating the competition last year.”

Lauren Bell

Top: Trampoline star in action.Photo: Helen Munro

Below: Ruthless climbers. Photo: Michael Bamford

The women’s volleyball squad nearly let slip a two set lead to a battling Hallam side, but scrambled to win the final set to halve the Varsity point.

Uni started off well, rushing to win the first two sets by a considerable margin.

In a tie-break at the end of the third, a supposedly winning shot played by was adjudged to be the wrong side of the line, ending celebrations prematurely.

Although galvanised, the Hallam side could not overcome the might of veteran Uni hitters Jenna Stevens-Smith and Clara Egbuson, as well as newcomer Abigail Murray, who pinned back their rivals in the final set.

Women smash past Hallam to claim victoryWomen’s VolleyballUni 3Hallam 2

UNI 19 -21 HALLAM

American Football HallamAthletics UniMen’s Badminton UniWomen’s Badminton UniMen’s Basketball HallamWomen’s Basketball HallamMen’s Canoe Polo HallamWomen’s Canoe Polo HallamClimbing UniMen’s Cricket HallamWomen’s Cricket HallamCycling UniMen’s Football HallamWomen’s Football HallamGolf HallamMen’s Hockey UniWomen’s Hockey HallamIce Hockey HallamKorfball UniMen’s Lacrosse HallamWomen’s Lacrosse Uni

Netball HallamRowing UniRugby League TieMen’s Rugby Union UniWomen’s Rugby Union UniSailing UniSki Slope Style UniSki Racing UniSnowboard Slope Style HallamSnowboard Racing HallamSquash UniSwimming HallamMen’s Tennis HallamWomen’s Tennis UniTrampolining HallamUltimate Frisbee UniMen’s Volleyball HallamWomen’s Volleyball UniMen’s Waterpolo UniWomen’s Waterpolo Hallam

Photo: Helen Munro

The independent student newspaper of the University of Sheffield // www.forgetoday.com

Varsity2010

1 2/ 1 2/

UNI 19 -21 HALLAM

American Football HallamAthletics UniMen’s Badminton UniWomen’s Badminton UniMen’s Basketball HallamWomen’s Basketball HallamMen’s Canoe Polo HallamWomen’s Canoe Polo HallamClimbing UniMen’s Cricket HallamWomen’s Cricket HallamCycling UniMen’s Football HallamWomen’s Football HallamGolf HallamMen’s Hockey UniWomen’s Hockey HallamIce Hockey HallamKorfball UniMen’s Lacrosse HallamWomen’s Lacrosse Uni

Netball HallamRowing UniRugby League TieMen’s Rugby Union UniWomen’s Rugby Union UniSailing UniSki Slope Style UniSki Racing UniSnowboard Slope Style HallamSnowboard Racing HallamSquash UniSwimming HallamMen’s Tennis HallamWomen’s Tennis UniTrampolining HallamUltimate Frisbee UniMen’s Volleyball HallamWomen’s Volleyball UniMen’s Waterpolo UniWomen’s Waterpolo Hallam

Photo: Helen Munro

The independent student newspaper of the University of Sheffield // www.forgetoday.com

Varsity2010

1 2/ 1 2/

VARSITYV10 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010

The men’s tennis team were on the wrong end of an 8-12 scoreline against Hallam at Hallamshire Tennis Centre in an absorbing encounter.

Uni had looked in control of the match following the morning doubles matches but a Hallam fightback in the early singles ties meant saw Hallam claiming victory.

With one point available for each of the four doubles matches and two points on offer in every one of the eight singles ties it was clear that the emphasis would be upon the afternoon singles.

However the four doubles matches were played first and Uni enjoyed the better of the exchanges, winning all four in comprehensive fashion to surge into a 4-0 lead.

The doubles ties were played on a first to eight

games basis due to time constraints, and the number one pairing of Chris Harrison and Chris Duffy got Uni off to the perfect start winning by a clear margin of 8-3.

All three other matches were won by Uni by eight games to four, as all other pairing triumphed.

This put Sheffield in pole position moving into the afternoon singles, and they extended their lead when Simon Witts secured a comfortable 6-1, 6-4 victory leaving Hallam still to register their first point.

However, defeats for O’Kane and Williams reduced the deficit and put pressure upon Uni’s remaining players to see out a victory that had at one stage seemed a formality.

In the number one singles Chris Harrison battled back from a set down against his Hallam counterpart to take the second set and force the game into a championship tie-break.

Harrison could not hold

off his battling Hallam rival who calmly took advantage of Harrison’s errors and secured the match levelling the overall scores at 6 apiece with four singles matches remaining.

As the afternoon went on Hallam clearly had the momentum and defeats for Yoksimovitch, Duffy and Pendred gave Hallam the six points they needed to gain victory.

Allan Witts’ late win was to prove in vain, as he and his brother were the only two Sheffield players to emerge triumphant as Hallam gained an unlikely victory.

Sheffield were downbeat after the match. Conor O’Kane said: “The team is really disappointed considering the position we were in after the doubles. We thought our top four players going into the singles were better than theirs, but it wasn’t to be.”

Andy Rivers

Men’s TennisUni 8Hallam 12

Tennis slip up after Hallam comeback

The men’s badminton firsts produced a highly polished performance to beat rivals Hallam at the EIS.

Hallam looked a sorry sight as they were consistently outplayed by a classier Uni in both the doubles and the singles.

Rich Granger in particular was crucial in helping his team earn a deserved victory.

It was more of the same for the seconds, who put in a similar innings to beat Hallam.

Captain Iain McBrairdy said: “It was a really solid performance. Hallam just couldn’t get a foothold.

“This has capped a really decent season, with the seconds getting promotion. Everyone just put in a brilliant effort.”

Chris Rogan

Badminton seal victory against poor opponentsMen’s Badminton 1sUni 6Hallam 2

The women’s badminton team confidently punished a weak Hallam side in their Varsity fixture.

Singles players Kim Lau and Rachel Hickie never gave their Hallam opponents a chance, with

both players dominating and winning both their matches with ease. The performances were classy and polished.

The Doubles fixtures were less comfortable, with second pairing Emily Nelson and Hannah Parsons losing both their matches.

Although not expected to beat the firsts, Nelson said: “It was quite

annoying to lose to their seconds. It was quite close.”

The first pairing of Laura Harrison and Sarah Walker was a different affair, thrashing their Hallam counterparts to ensure victory, despite clear gamesmanship coming from the Hallam side.

Verity Freeman

Badminton women claim point Women’s BadmintonUni 6Hallam 2

The University of Sheffield Squash team hammered their Hallam counterparts in a one-sided affair at the Hallamshire Tennis Centre on Finals Day.

In the men’s contest Uni comprehensively defeated their Hallam rivals in emphatic style.

Their Varsity point was secured after only seven of ten games had been played.

Uni lost just one of the first six matches as Ben Willan, Luke Elcock, captain Johnny Stephenson, Lemmie Green and Paul Snape all emerged victorious, Willan and Snape without even dropping a game.

It fell to Tom Anthistle, ranked third, to secure the point for Uni, and despite being 1-0 and 2-1 ahead in his best of five match he was taken into a fifth game by his Hallam opponent Crease.

Anthistle seemed galvanised by

this attempt at a comeback, and produced some impressive play to surge into a 10-1 lead.

He had nine match points, eventually gaining the point he needed at the eighth time of asking after Crease rallied.

It was a fitting end to a sporting contest that had seen a spirited Hallam display but it was Sheffield who achieved the win that their far superior play deserved.

Andy Rivers

University squash opponentsMen’s SquashUni 10Hallam 1

Sheffield’s Women’s tennis team managed to secure a Varsity point against Hallam.

Uni won the two doubles ties to gain an early advantage, but defeats in the first two singles matches meant that

Hallam had a chance to launch an unexpected fightback.

The Sheffield side, comprising of Georgia Smith, Hannah Darby, Annabelle Sidwell and Lizzie Jones and Helen Whitehouse, remained composed throughout and were able to close out a deserved 7-3 victory.

Andy Rivers

Tennis women winWomen’s TennisUni 7Hallam 3

The Tennis firsts flounder after strong start.Photo: Helen Munro

Men’s Badminton 2sUni 6Hallam 2

Squash ease to routine victoryPhoto: Helen Munro

FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com V11

VARSITY

Hallam simply too good for Uni’s firsts

The netball seconds lost to their Hallam counterparts after being behind from the first quarter.

Hallam were 21-14 up by the end of the second quarter and stayed at least five points up throughout.

The Uni side faltered despite an inspired performance from Rochelle Thomas who constantly kept Uni hopes alive.

Netball twos unable to keep up with HallamNetball secondsUni 26Hallam 31

A strong second half performance from Hallam gave them victory in the men’s basketball at the English Institute of Sport on Tuesday afternoon.

Students from both universities made their way up to the venue, packing out the Badminton Hall where the game was played to create a fantastic atmosphere, and they were treated to some entertaining passages of play from both sides.

The first half was a close affair, with Hallam ahead by seven points for most of the second quarter.

Uni, however, were within touching distance and a three point effort on the buzzer reduced the gap to four points at the half-time interval, giving Hallam a 44 - 40 lead.

Hallam took control of the second half, and what had been a closely-fought affair turned into a game that Hallam seemed odds-on to win, opening

up a gap of 21 points and leading 83-62 by the end of the third quarter.

The fourth quarter was far more even, but the damage was already done.

Hallam only outscored Uni 19-17 in the final period, but just over a minute from the end they passed the 100-point mark and went on to win the game 102-79.

After the game Uni’s captain David Morris seemed proud with his team’s efforts, but conceded that Hallam were the better side, admitting:

“They showed quite a lot of heart but we ran out of steam.

“They are a good team and deserved to win in the end”.

The end result was no surprise according to the form-book as Hallam had won five and lost five of their league games in Division 1A of the Northern Conference, while Uni’s team had won just one game in their division this season.

Anthony Hart

Men’s BasketballUni 79Hallam 102

The University of Sheffield netball first team put in an impressive performance to beat a strong Sheffield Hallam team at the English Institute of Sport on Tuesday afternoon.

The match started at a highly energetic pace with Hallam quick to start the scoring. Despite some excellent defending from goal keeper Natalie Morris, Hallam managed to score twice in quick succession.

After a shaky start Uni started to come back

into the match with some perfect shooting from Katie Beardsmore.

Despite some good movement around the court from Hallam, Uni continued to score their chances and at the end of the first quarter Uni were edging the match 8 – 6.

Uni started the better out of the two teams in the second quarter and some brilliant defending prevented Hallam from scoring for over five minutes.

Some of the Hallam girls started to use brash tactics of bullying the Uni girls off the ball which led to Hallam’s Wing Defence being cautioned by the referee for her behaviour.

As play continued both teams played some exciting netball but it was Uni who went in to half time with a convincing six point lead.

The second half continued in the same aggressive vein as the first with the referee having to have a word with another of Hallam’s players.

Some excellent Hallam defending kept Uni from scoring for quite a long time in the third quarter but Uni fought back to level the score at 4 – 4 for the quarter.

Uni got into their stride and scored another three times before the end of the quarter.

Hallam gave it their

all in the final quarter and even some excellent defending from Uni couldn’t stop Hallam from scoring eight times in the quarter.

It was Hallam’s best quarter of the match but some fantastic netball from Uni lead to them scoring six times in the quarter resulting in them emerging winners of the match.

Olivia Mason, Uni’s captain was ecstatic by the result.

She said: “I think the best team won, we worked really hard and kept our cool, and we definitely deserved the win because we were the better team.”

Charlotte Duncker

Netball firstsUni 29Hallam 22

Netball firsts play with pride to claim win

Anna Cannon’s netball third team felt beaten and bruised after a tight game with an aggressive Hallam side.

Hallam’s tactics included taking down anyone in their way, injuring several Uni players in the process.

With five minutes remaining, Uni took themselves from 34-43 down to just 41-43. Afterwards, captain Cannon said: “One more minute and we would have beaten them.

Agony for threes in close defeatNetball thirdsUni 41Hallam 43

Uni’s golf team lost to Hallam in a close match.

The side won one match, drew two and lost two to make it 4-2.

Stand-in captain Jonny McLoughlin said: “It was a decent effort and is a good sign that we can push on and improve next year.”

Golfers in narrow lossGolfUni 2Hallam 4

Top: Men’s basketball firsts lose.

Below: Meanwhile Netball firsts beat Hallam rivals.

Photo: Helen Munro

Sheffield University firsts put the women’s hockey club in pole position to claim their varsity point after an excellent 3-2 victory at Abbeydale last Thursday. The result saw them put one over on their cross-town rivals who had pushed them into second place in the league.

Uni started brightly and soon delighted the black and gold support by taking a deserved lead through Mary Mackinder, who shot past the diving Hallam keeper.

The goal appeared to galvanise Hallam and it was they who dominated much of the ensuing half, enjoying more possession and putting Uni firmly on the back foot. It was unsurprising that Hallam levelled the scores as their forward line sliced through the Sheffield defence and a firm shot was crashed home.

After half time Uni looked to regain their lead and forced several short corners, but against the run of play it was Hallam who moved 2-1 ahead as a scramble in the Sheffield defence was poked into the net.

It was not long before the Hallam defence wilted under constant Sheffield pressure and Beth Harrison made the scores two apiece.

After that, the match was clearly only going to have one winner as Uni, who passed the ball excellently at times, dominated in terms of possession, territory and chances. Captain Rachel Sharp was on hand to steer the ball past the Hallam goalkeeper, and despite late Hallam pressure, Uni remained steadfast in defence and held on for a well-deserved victory.

Andy Rivers

VARSITY HOCKEY VARSITY HOCKEYV12 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com V13

Women’s Hockey firstsUni 3Hallam 2

Sticks ahoy for Uni women’s hockey win

It was payback time for the women’s firsts as they pummelled their Hallam rivals.Photos: Helen Munro

Uni swept aside a stubborn Hallam defence to clinch victory in the men’s hockey thirds at Goodwin on Monday afternoon.

A dominant attacking display in the second half ensured victory, with Dean Stevens hammering home what proved to be the winner early in the second half.

Despite being on top for much of the first period, Hallam fell behind when Gareth Morgan hooked in a fine finish from a cross after some good interplay on the wing.

Hallam fought back well, forcing a number of short corners before winning a penalty stroke midway through the first-half. Matt Bridges converted, flicking the ball high beyond the reach of the goalkeeper and levelling the scores in the process.

The rest of the first-half saw continued dominance from the Hallam attack, employing a blend of rapid counterattacks and sheer physical strength to put Uni on the defensive.

As the whistle sounded for the interval, Uni could be grateful to finish the half on a par with their Hallam counterparts.

Just moments after the restart though, Uni took the lead when Stevens smashed in a fine effort from close range. Reinvigorated by this, Uni pressed to convert their dominance into goals.

It took some brave defending and heroic goalkeeping from Hallam to stymie the relentless torrent of attack from Uni, but they held out to avoid conceding again.

Apart for a late flurry of counterattacks from the fast-paced Hallam side, Uni controlled the pace of the second-half remarkably well, with much of the play firmly encamped in Hallam’s half.

The late rally from Hallam could have unnerved the Uni defence but they repelled the attacks with relative ease. Despite not adding more goals to their tally, the Uni side were well deserving of their victory after outclassing their opponents for much of the game.

Tom Bollard

Thirds overcome determined Hallam Men’s Hockey thirdsUni 2Hallam 1

Clinical finishing proved to be the difference as the University of Sheffield men’s seconds overcame Hallam on a bitterly cold evening at Goodwin.

Uni fans turned out in droves, providing the soundtrack to an accomplished performance from the league champions against underdogs Hallam.

Hallam almost took a surprise lead within minutes but Uni goalkeeper Leigh Gettens produced a decent save from point-blank range.

Any nerves displayed by the Uni players in front of a large crowd were soon settled when Ross Barrable found space inside the D and converted a ball whipped in with pace via a deflection off the Hallam keeper’s foot.

Uni did not have to wait long to get another either, with Jed Mills finding the net to double their lead.

A whitewash looked on the cards for a moment when Will Wilson added a third after Hallam had carelessly ceded possession in dangerous territory, but Hallam’s Trevor Matthews’ effort spoiled the fans’ hopes for a rout.

Uni continued to dominate, hitting the post from a penalty corner before conceding a second goal against the run of play on the stroke of half-time.

Order was restored, however, when Dave Cook scored a fourth for Uni after

battling past two defenders and firing past the keeper.

Kiagh Bridges effectively ended the tie with Uni’s fifth, though Hallam did not give up and managed to reduce the deficit to only two goals before full-time.

The victory sparked exuberant celebrations from the Uni section of the crowd, with one fan braving the cold to take the opportunity to streak across the pitch, much to the delight of his fellow supporters.

An overjoyed Matthew Tottey, Uni’s captain, could have been forgiven for considering paying tribute to the performance in similar fashion, but instead settled for more conventional methods of celebration before lavishing praise on his team-mates.

“I thought we played really

well, and showed fantastic spirit. The better team won in the end.

“Obviously they came here as underdogs, but it’s always especially sweet to win against Hallam,” he said.

His coach David Smith agreed: “I’m very pleased. It’s been a great season and we’ve deserved to win the league as well as Varsity. We could have even won more convincingly, I thought, but I’m happy with the score.”

Hallam’s captain Jonny North accepted that Uni had been the better side.

He said: “It was a fair result. We had a few injuries which didn’t help, but they were fitter, harder in the tackle and always first to the ball. It seemed like we were always one gear below them.”

Jack Burnett

Men’s Hockey secondsUni 5Hallam 3

Quality sees off injury hit Hallam

The women’s seconds were edged out by Hallam despite putting in a spirited performance in what was for the most part a scrappy affair.

Hallam, who earlier this season secured promotion with a victory over Uni, did not get off to the best possible start but rallied to complete an impressive comeback.

Kirsty Thompson put Uni ahead when she pounced on what proved to be an uncharacteristic error by Sunita Singh in the Hallam goal, reacting well to force home a rebound after the keeper had failed to gather.

Hallam went into the half-time break on level terms after Kirsty Grace netted an equaliser, though they can perhaps count themselves lucky to have done so as Uni enjoyed most of the possession but could not break through a resolute Hallam back line.

Uni created a number of opportunities at the beginning of the second half, but were denied by a series of smart saves by Singh.

Hallam slowly began to have more of an influence on the game, and their pressure paid dividends when captain Claire Smith netted the winner midway through the half after a neat move down the right flank.

Smith was in jubilant

mood after the full-time whistle, praising the determination of her team-mates.

She said: “We’re obviously delighted, especially as this is the first time we’ve beaten Uni during Varsity in nine years. We definitely deserved the win today though – everyone put in 110 per cent, so I’m absolutely thrilled with them.”

Uni captain Ellen Storvik, though, believed her team’s performance warranted a different result: “I thought we were the better side to be honest. Everyone outdid themselves, and it was probably our best match all season so to come away without the win is obviously disappointing.”

Jack Burnett

First loss in a decade for secondsWomen’s Hockey twosUni 1Hallam 2

Despite dominating much of the game on Monday Uni’s women’s hockey thirds were on the end of an undeserved 1-0 defeat to Hallam. It was cruel on Uni as they had the

lion’s share of possession but could not find a way past a resolute Hallam defence.

Hallam started strongly and immediately pressed Uni onto the back foot. Sheffield however had the first chance as they broke from deep as Hallam pushed forward but could not create a real opening.

Midway through the half

it was Hallam who took the lead despite the best efforts of the Uni defence. Sheffield’s confidence didn’t drop however and they finished the half as the team more likely to score the crucial next goal.

The second half was much of the same story as Hallam were constantly pressed back into their own half as Uni dominated. Sheffield were unable to turn their possession into the elusive equalizer even though they forced a number of short corners.

As time ran out Uni upped their efforts one last time but the Hallam defence stood firm to secure the narrowest of victories.

It was harsh on Uni whose performance reflected their status in the league above their cross-town rivals and were the better team for the vast majority of the game. But simply could not find a way past a determined and spirited Hallam outfit.

Andy Rivers

Thirds fail to make dominance count

Women’s Hockey thirdsUni 0Hallam 1

Club captain David Harvey commended the hockey firsts after a hard-fought draw.

He said: “It was a great result. We have worked so hard all season trying to close the gap between the two universities and this year we achieved it.

“After the heartbreak of last year it was great to come here, to Hallam’s home pitch, and play this well.

“It was a great spectacle and extremely intense. A lot of the team are leaving this year so it’s a great way to say goodbye to the club.”

The draw was an anomaly in a fixture that has historically been dominated

by Hallam. After 15 minutes of

the game gone, John Hamilton mesmerised the Hallam defence with some breathtaking skills to force them to concede a short corner. After a slick passage of play, Harvey calmly slotted the ball into the net.

After this Uni dominated in possession and it was a surprise when Hallam drew level with a firmly struck reverse stick shot.

The goal came as a sucker punch for the Uni team and, caught slightly off-guard, it wasn’t long until Hallam scored a second. The home side capitalised on a mistake in defence to make it 2-1.

The second goal rejuvenated the Uni side, although when it came the equalising goal was from an

unlikely source. A few minutes before half

time, David Dykes ghosted past five Hallam players and then playing an outrageous reverse stick pass to Phillip Morrant, who put the ball in to the path of diving Timmy Austin, who made it 2-2 just before half time.

In the second half, Hallam dominated possession and a string of short corners saw Uni goalkeeper Ben Parton pull of some outstanding saves.

Left back Michael Husk was to thank for stopping a great ball on the line. Uni survived this assault to create chances themselves. In the dying minutes Will Beeching had a chance to be a Varsity hero but blazed the ball over the bar.

Ross Turner

Men’s Hockey firstsUni 2Hallam 2

Veteran men’s team equal their city rivals

Sheffield University firsts put the women’s hockey club in pole position to claim their varsity point after an excellent 3-2 victory at Abbeydale last Thursday. The result saw them put one over on their cross-town rivals who had pushed them into second place in the league.

Uni started brightly and soon delighted the black and gold support by taking a deserved lead through Mary Mackinder, who shot past the diving Hallam keeper.

The goal appeared to galvanise Hallam and it was they who dominated much of the ensuing half, enjoying more possession and putting Uni firmly on the back foot. It was unsurprising that Hallam levelled the scores as their forward line sliced through the Sheffield defence and a firm shot was crashed home.

After half time Uni looked to regain their lead and forced several short corners, but against the run of play it was Hallam who moved 2-1 ahead as a scramble in the Sheffield defence was poked into the net.

It was not long before the Hallam defence wilted under constant Sheffield pressure and Beth Harrison made the scores two apiece.

After that, the match was clearly only going to have one winner as Uni, who passed the ball excellently at times, dominated in terms of possession, territory and chances. Captain Rachel Sharp was on hand to steer the ball past the Hallam goalkeeper, and despite late Hallam pressure, Uni remained steadfast in defence and held on for a well-deserved victory.

Andy Rivers

VARSITY HOCKEY VARSITY HOCKEYV12 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com V13

Women’s Hockey firstsUni 3Hallam 2

Sticks ahoy for Uni women’s hockey win

It was payback time for the women’s firsts as they pummelled their Hallam rivals.Photos: Helen Munro

Uni swept aside a stubborn Hallam defence to clinch victory in the men’s hockey thirds at Goodwin on Monday afternoon.

A dominant attacking display in the second half ensured victory, with Dean Stevens hammering home what proved to be the winner early in the second half.

Despite being on top for much of the first period, Hallam fell behind when Gareth Morgan hooked in a fine finish from a cross after some good interplay on the wing.

Hallam fought back well, forcing a number of short corners before winning a penalty stroke midway through the first-half. Matt Bridges converted, flicking the ball high beyond the reach of the goalkeeper and levelling the scores in the process.

The rest of the first-half saw continued dominance from the Hallam attack, employing a blend of rapid counterattacks and sheer physical strength to put Uni on the defensive.

As the whistle sounded for the interval, Uni could be grateful to finish the half on a par with their Hallam counterparts.

Just moments after the restart though, Uni took the lead when Stevens smashed in a fine effort from close range. Reinvigorated by this, Uni pressed to convert their dominance into goals.

It took some brave defending and heroic goalkeeping from Hallam to stymie the relentless torrent of attack from Uni, but they held out to avoid conceding again.

Apart for a late flurry of counterattacks from the fast-paced Hallam side, Uni controlled the pace of the second-half remarkably well, with much of the play firmly encamped in Hallam’s half.

The late rally from Hallam could have unnerved the Uni defence but they repelled the attacks with relative ease. Despite not adding more goals to their tally, the Uni side were well deserving of their victory after outclassing their opponents for much of the game.

Tom Bollard

Thirds overcome determined Hallam Men’s Hockey thirdsUni 2Hallam 1

Clinical finishing proved to be the difference as the University of Sheffield men’s seconds overcame Hallam on a bitterly cold evening at Goodwin.

Uni fans turned out in droves, providing the soundtrack to an accomplished performance from the league champions against underdogs Hallam.

Hallam almost took a surprise lead within minutes but Uni goalkeeper Leigh Gettens produced a decent save from point-blank range.

Any nerves displayed by the Uni players in front of a large crowd were soon settled when Ross Barrable found space inside the D and converted a ball whipped in with pace via a deflection off the Hallam keeper’s foot.

Uni did not have to wait long to get another either, with Jed Mills finding the net to double their lead.

A whitewash looked on the cards for a moment when Will Wilson added a third after Hallam had carelessly ceded possession in dangerous territory, but Hallam’s Trevor Matthews’ effort spoiled the fans’ hopes for a rout.

Uni continued to dominate, hitting the post from a penalty corner before conceding a second goal against the run of play on the stroke of half-time.

Order was restored, however, when Dave Cook scored a fourth for Uni after

battling past two defenders and firing past the keeper.

Kiagh Bridges effectively ended the tie with Uni’s fifth, though Hallam did not give up and managed to reduce the deficit to only two goals before full-time.

The victory sparked exuberant celebrations from the Uni section of the crowd, with one fan braving the cold to take the opportunity to streak across the pitch, much to the delight of his fellow supporters.

An overjoyed Matthew Tottey, Uni’s captain, could have been forgiven for considering paying tribute to the performance in similar fashion, but instead settled for more conventional methods of celebration before lavishing praise on his team-mates.

“I thought we played really

well, and showed fantastic spirit. The better team won in the end.

“Obviously they came here as underdogs, but it’s always especially sweet to win against Hallam,” he said.

His coach David Smith agreed: “I’m very pleased. It’s been a great season and we’ve deserved to win the league as well as Varsity. We could have even won more convincingly, I thought, but I’m happy with the score.”

Hallam’s captain Jonny North accepted that Uni had been the better side.

He said: “It was a fair result. We had a few injuries which didn’t help, but they were fitter, harder in the tackle and always first to the ball. It seemed like we were always one gear below them.”

Jack Burnett

Men’s Hockey secondsUni 5Hallam 3

Quality sees off injury hit Hallam

The women’s seconds were edged out by Hallam despite putting in a spirited performance in what was for the most part a scrappy affair.

Hallam, who earlier this season secured promotion with a victory over Uni, did not get off to the best possible start but rallied to complete an impressive comeback.

Kirsty Thompson put Uni ahead when she pounced on what proved to be an uncharacteristic error by Sunita Singh in the Hallam goal, reacting well to force home a rebound after the keeper had failed to gather.

Hallam went into the half-time break on level terms after Kirsty Grace netted an equaliser, though they can perhaps count themselves lucky to have done so as Uni enjoyed most of the possession but could not break through a resolute Hallam back line.

Uni created a number of opportunities at the beginning of the second half, but were denied by a series of smart saves by Singh.

Hallam slowly began to have more of an influence on the game, and their pressure paid dividends when captain Claire Smith netted the winner midway through the half after a neat move down the right flank.

Smith was in jubilant

mood after the full-time whistle, praising the determination of her team-mates.

She said: “We’re obviously delighted, especially as this is the first time we’ve beaten Uni during Varsity in nine years. We definitely deserved the win today though – everyone put in 110 per cent, so I’m absolutely thrilled with them.”

Uni captain Ellen Storvik, though, believed her team’s performance warranted a different result: “I thought we were the better side to be honest. Everyone outdid themselves, and it was probably our best match all season so to come away without the win is obviously disappointing.”

Jack Burnett

First loss in a decade for secondsWomen’s Hockey twosUni 1Hallam 2

Despite dominating much of the game on Monday Uni’s women’s hockey thirds were on the end of an undeserved 1-0 defeat to Hallam. It was cruel on Uni as they had the

lion’s share of possession but could not find a way past a resolute Hallam defence.

Hallam started strongly and immediately pressed Uni onto the back foot. Sheffield however had the first chance as they broke from deep as Hallam pushed forward but could not create a real opening.

Midway through the half

it was Hallam who took the lead despite the best efforts of the Uni defence. Sheffield’s confidence didn’t drop however and they finished the half as the team more likely to score the crucial next goal.

The second half was much of the same story as Hallam were constantly pressed back into their own half as Uni dominated. Sheffield were unable to turn their possession into the elusive equalizer even though they forced a number of short corners.

As time ran out Uni upped their efforts one last time but the Hallam defence stood firm to secure the narrowest of victories.

It was harsh on Uni whose performance reflected their status in the league above their cross-town rivals and were the better team for the vast majority of the game. But simply could not find a way past a determined and spirited Hallam outfit.

Andy Rivers

Thirds fail to make dominance count

Women’s Hockey thirdsUni 0Hallam 1

Club captain David Harvey commended the hockey firsts after a hard-fought draw.

He said: “It was a great result. We have worked so hard all season trying to close the gap between the two universities and this year we achieved it.

“After the heartbreak of last year it was great to come here, to Hallam’s home pitch, and play this well.

“It was a great spectacle and extremely intense. A lot of the team are leaving this year so it’s a great way to say goodbye to the club.”

The draw was an anomaly in a fixture that has historically been dominated

by Hallam. After 15 minutes of

the game gone, John Hamilton mesmerised the Hallam defence with some breathtaking skills to force them to concede a short corner. After a slick passage of play, Harvey calmly slotted the ball into the net.

After this Uni dominated in possession and it was a surprise when Hallam drew level with a firmly struck reverse stick shot.

The goal came as a sucker punch for the Uni team and, caught slightly off-guard, it wasn’t long until Hallam scored a second. The home side capitalised on a mistake in defence to make it 2-1.

The second goal rejuvenated the Uni side, although when it came the equalising goal was from an

unlikely source. A few minutes before half

time, David Dykes ghosted past five Hallam players and then playing an outrageous reverse stick pass to Phillip Morrant, who put the ball in to the path of diving Timmy Austin, who made it 2-2 just before half time.

In the second half, Hallam dominated possession and a string of short corners saw Uni goalkeeper Ben Parton pull of some outstanding saves.

Left back Michael Husk was to thank for stopping a great ball on the line. Uni survived this assault to create chances themselves. In the dying minutes Will Beeching had a chance to be a Varsity hero but blazed the ball over the bar.

Ross Turner

Men’s Hockey firstsUni 2Hallam 2

Veteran men’s team equal their city rivals

“We stick together as a team. They’re a bunch of individuals and always have been.”

Those are the words of Alex Murphy, captain of the Uni rugby union first team. And it was that team spirit which saw his side battle through a tough encounter with their Hallam counterparts and claim the Varsity point.

Tries from James Caddy and Oli Arnold, along with a superb kicking performance

from Uni helped them to a 20-10 win. However it was the well-drilled Uni defence that prevented Hallam from scoring any points from the relentless pressure they exerted in the second half.

Murphy said: “I’m ecstatic. Two years at Uni and I’ve had two losses here and to get a whitewash is just perfect. I couldn’t ask for more.

“It’s been a long time coming and we just knew it had to come our way. We defended a lot towards the end but to be fair, the forwards especially, stuck it out and just battled and battled.”

It was Uni who dominated

the opening phases with Hallam struggling to get out of their own half. They took the lead with a penalty after Hallam were penalised for hands in the ruck. This was converted despite much jeering from a bumper Abbeydale crowd.

However Hallam got themselves back in the game with two impressive breaks down the wing. It was from one of these moves that led to their centre finding the gap in the middle of the Uni defence to finish under the posts.

Hallam’s skill at keeping the ball put Uni under pressure, trapping them in

their own 22. When they were able to get the ball back a penalty was immediately conceded for holding on which Hallam converted to open up a 10-3 lead.

The game turned only a couple of minutes later as Uni levelled with a controversial try. As James Caddy attempted to break the Hallam line, he appeared to knock the ball on before picking it up again himself. Roars came from the Hallam fans for the referee to blow the whistle but he let the game continue.

Caddy, constantly turning to look at the referee in disbelief, grounded the ball

with some embarrassment before being mobbed by his teammates.

Then just before the half time break, Oli Arnold chased down and claimed his own grubber kick to score what was to be the final try of the game. Baker again converted from a difficult angle to extend the lead, before adding a penalty a minute later.

Uni struggled to get out of their own 22 for the majority of the second half as Hallam turned on the pressure. But the brave defence held off drive after drive, leaving Hallam just inches away from the line.

Murphy believes it was the Uni attitude to the game which helped them to victory.

“Hallam always bring a different squad to Varsity without marring the occasion at all,” he said.

“They play a league side and then they come along with some people, some older boys, who have never played all year and they just turn up to play for Varsity. That’s not a team to me. We’ve been a squad all season and it’s worked out that way [winning] because we came together as a team.”

Andrew Marsh

VARSITY RUGBY VARSITY RUGBY

Uni’s third team triumphed over Hallam in a hard-fought contest last Thursday.

In a scrappy game Uni showed enough heart and determination to close out victory despite a spirited Hallam performance.

It was Uni who were able to take the lead as the game neared half time with a well-worked try in the corner that was finished off expertly by Mike Denholm.

A tough conversion was successful from near the touchline and Sheffield led 7-0 at half-time. After a period of Hallam pressure after the break Uni were unable to keep them out as

the number eight burrowed over from close range.

The subsequent conversion was missed and Uni r e s p o n d e d strongly, being awarded a penalty in front of the posts that was calmly dispatched to extend the lead to five points.

Around the hour mark, both sides clearly felt the tension and Hallam became more adventurous in their attacking play.

With 15 minutes to play Uni’s defence relented and Hallam secured a try. The conversion was missed, however, and the scores remained level.

Uni soon re-established

their lead as forward play forced Hallam to concede a

penalty which was coolly slotted over

to the delight of the Sheffield s u p p o r t . Despite late p r e s s u r e from Hallam, Uni’s defence held firm as

they secured victory. Uni

captain Gareth Hall said: “I’m

relieved. We showed good character. It wasn’t our best performance of the season.”

Hallam captain Josh Wilson said: “I think we dominated vast spells of the match, but unfortunately we just couldn’t convert this possession into points.”

Andy Rivers

V14 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com V15

Men’s Rugby firstsUni 20Hallam 10

Team spirit leads Uni to victory

Rugby Union firsts vs Hallam at Abbeydale.All Photos: Helen Munro

Uni’s Women’s Rugby team crushed Hallam in front of a bumper crowd last Thursday to secure a Varsity point for Uni.

Sheffield did not once relent from the constant pressure that they exerted upon their Hallam counterparts.

Early pressure proved too much for Hallam and two tries were scored in quick succession just before the interval, with Catherine Ellis scoring the first of her four tries on the day with a surging run through the ailing defence.

After the break Uni played with confidence preventing Hallam from

getting a foothold in the game.

Flanker Niki Fitzgerald proved the standout performer as she crossed the Hallam line on four occasions, the third of which was a stunning solo effort.

Rachel Simpson and Sarah Peters also scored as Hallam were overrun by a bout of unrelenting Uni pressure.

The final score was a deserving outcome as Hallam barely threatened once Uni had moved into the lead.

Speaking after the game key player Fitzgerald said: “The team played well and never gave Hallam a chance. We won 56-0, plus we get a real degree when we graduate!”

Andy Rivers

Women cruise to winWomen’s RugbyUni 56Hallam 0

Dogged thirds edge out oppositionMen’s Rugby thirdsUni 13Hallam 10

Sheffield University Sabres lost out on their bid to end Hallam Warriors’ 100 per cent record in Varsity Bowl VI on Sunday afternoon.

The Sabres were no match for Hallam’s superior running game and could not prevent the Warriors securing a deserved victory.

Sheffield started brightly and forced Hallam to surrender possession on their opening drive but could not capitalise on good field position.

After having little success rushing through the heart of the Sabres defence Hallam switched tactics and adopted a wide rushing game, resulting in Darren Gayle cantering round the outside of the Sheffield’s defence to score the game’s first points.

This was to be a sign of things to come as Gayle and his rushing partner Lolu Akindoyin experienced success around the fringes at vital parts of the contest, Gayle finishing up with four touchdowns to his name and Akindoyin with two.

With Hallam a score up after the first quarter the Sabres battled back with a score of their own as defensive back Robin Toone stole the ball from the Hallam wide receiver and returned it 60 yards to draw Sheffield to within a point of the Warriors.

However, Hallam responded with a further three touchdowns before the half, and despite a stunning 80 yard kick-off return from Simon Bell the Sabres went in at the half facing a deficit of 29-13.

The first score after half-

time was going to be crucial as the Sabres sought to narrow the margin but after a costly error on an offensive snap Uni were forced to surrender possession.

Hallam quarterback David Saul was able to exploit one-on-one coverage to throw a 15 yard touchdown and leave the Sabres with a mountain to climb.

To their credit, Sheffield never gave up and their offence responded by driving down the pitch thanks to consistent gains from running back Colin Williams, who deservedly scored and then secured a two-point conversion.

Perhaps fittingly it was the Warrior rushers who

had the last say, Akindoyin running around the Sabres defence to end any Sheffield hopes of a miracle.

The final score was harsh on a Sabres side who had shown great character against their unbeaten rivals.

The Defensive captain Kieran Rieley said: “It was a hard fought game with a lot of respect shown by both teams. We were hitting hard but the Warriors were able to change tactics and managed to keep moving the ball down the field.

“It was a great game to play in and it was a shame the score line wasn’t closer.”

Andy Rivers

Battling Sabres fall on the sword

The rugby league team secured their best result in a decade with a draw over an impressive Hallam side.

Uni took the lead with a penalty kick by Dan Gray within the first five minutes, and followed up with a great passing move that resulted in a try from Doug Moss. Gray then converted to make it 8-0.

A defensive lapse, that would plague the Uni team throughout, resulted in a relatively easy try for Hallam, but the conversion was well wide.

Hallam took advantage of an inferior defence,

quickly scoring three tries but converting only one, leaving the half time score at 8-20 to Hallam.

The second half began much in the same way, and it seemed that Uni would really suffer a massive defeat, and were 8-30 down within minutes of the restart.

Uni managed to get one back very much against the run of play, which seemed to galvanise the squad.

Hallam then conceded three tries in quick succession, the latter resulting from a brilliant surging run from Matt Dudley, taking the lead with minutes to play.

Hallam countered impressively and scored once more to regain the

lead. The result seemed secure for Hallam, but for a very late try by James Adams, who bundled the ball over the line.

With pressure on Dan Gray, he missed the conversion, and Uni managed to hold their rivals to a stalemate.

Captain Mike McGrath said: “It feels like a victory to be honest. This is the first time in a long time that Hallam haven’t beaten us. We showed great character against a good side.”

Coach Rob Winstanley echoed these sentiments. “It was a brilliant fightback from the boys. It would have been great if we’d scored that conversion, but it does feel like a win.”

Chris Rogan

Rugby League fight back for draw

Uni’s rugby seconds finished off their season on a high after a convincing win in their Varsity clash against Hallam.

Uni dominated from the start and ran out worthy winners amidst perfect conditions at Abbeydale on Thursday.

Uni signalled their attacking intentions from the start, piling early pressure on their rivals.

Whilst this did not lead to

a try Sheffield immediately moved into the lead after Hallam indiscipline conceded a penalty in front of the posts that was coolly slotted home.

This seemed to galvanise Hallam who fought back strongly, but a solid Sheffield defence meant that they were not able cross the line.

Nearing half time Sheffield’s forwards began to dominate from the set piece and were rewarded when prop George Dinsdale touched down after an effective driving maul.

With the score at 8-0 Uni began to play with

confidence and a quick tap penalty in front of the posts caught Hallam cold. Second row Adam Goodband broke through a poor defence to extend the Uni lead.

The first half concluded with Uni leading Hallam 13-3.

After the break the Uni forwards continued to dictate play as Hallam struggled to reduce the deficit.

Goodband in particular was enterprising and effectively ended the contest with 20 minutes left with a stunning solo try leaving the Hallam defence trailing in his wake.

As Hallam heads began to drop Uni ran in two more tries, one converted, through wing Andy Hill and fly-half Dan Smith. The result was never in doubt and was a testament to the intensity and discipline displayed by Uni throughout.

After the game club captain Ali Booth was quick to praise the team’s display: “We took a while to get going but played good phase rugby and put in a good performance”.

Hallam coach Matt Rhodes conceded that the best team had certainly won on the day.

Andy Rivers

Men’s Rugby secondsUni 30Hallam 3

Seconds batter a sorry Hallam in an emphatic domination

American Football

Sheffield Sabres 21Hallam Warriors 49

Rugby LeagueUni 36Hallam 36

“We stick together as a team. They’re a bunch of individuals and always have been.”

Those are the words of Alex Murphy, captain of the Uni rugby union first team. And it was that team spirit which saw his side battle through a tough encounter with their Hallam counterparts and claim the Varsity point.

Tries from James Caddy and Oli Arnold, along with a superb kicking performance

from Uni helped them to a 20-10 win. However it was the well-drilled Uni defence that prevented Hallam from scoring any points from the relentless pressure they exerted in the second half.

Murphy said: “I’m ecstatic. Two years at Uni and I’ve had two losses here and to get a whitewash is just perfect. I couldn’t ask for more.

“It’s been a long time coming and we just knew it had to come our way. We defended a lot towards the end but to be fair, the forwards especially, stuck it out and just battled and battled.”

It was Uni who dominated

the opening phases with Hallam struggling to get out of their own half. They took the lead with a penalty after Hallam were penalised for hands in the ruck. This was converted despite much jeering from a bumper Abbeydale crowd.

However Hallam got themselves back in the game with two impressive breaks down the wing. It was from one of these moves that led to their centre finding the gap in the middle of the Uni defence to finish under the posts.

Hallam’s skill at keeping the ball put Uni under pressure, trapping them in

their own 22. When they were able to get the ball back a penalty was immediately conceded for holding on which Hallam converted to open up a 10-3 lead.

The game turned only a couple of minutes later as Uni levelled with a controversial try. As James Caddy attempted to break the Hallam line, he appeared to knock the ball on before picking it up again himself. Roars came from the Hallam fans for the referee to blow the whistle but he let the game continue.

Caddy, constantly turning to look at the referee in disbelief, grounded the ball

with some embarrassment before being mobbed by his teammates.

Then just before the half time break, Oli Arnold chased down and claimed his own grubber kick to score what was to be the final try of the game. Baker again converted from a difficult angle to extend the lead, before adding a penalty a minute later.

Uni struggled to get out of their own 22 for the majority of the second half as Hallam turned on the pressure. But the brave defence held off drive after drive, leaving Hallam just inches away from the line.

Murphy believes it was the Uni attitude to the game which helped them to victory.

“Hallam always bring a different squad to Varsity without marring the occasion at all,” he said.

“They play a league side and then they come along with some people, some older boys, who have never played all year and they just turn up to play for Varsity. That’s not a team to me. We’ve been a squad all season and it’s worked out that way [winning] because we came together as a team.”

Andrew Marsh

VARSITY RUGBY VARSITY RUGBY

Uni’s third team triumphed over Hallam in a hard-fought contest last Thursday.

In a scrappy game Uni showed enough heart and determination to close out victory despite a spirited Hallam performance.

It was Uni who were able to take the lead as the game neared half time with a well-worked try in the corner that was finished off expertly by Mike Denholm.

A tough conversion was successful from near the touchline and Sheffield led 7-0 at half-time. After a period of Hallam pressure after the break Uni were unable to keep them out as

the number eight burrowed over from close range.

The subsequent conversion was missed and Uni r e s p o n d e d strongly, being awarded a penalty in front of the posts that was calmly dispatched to extend the lead to five points.

Around the hour mark, both sides clearly felt the tension and Hallam became more adventurous in their attacking play.

With 15 minutes to play Uni’s defence relented and Hallam secured a try. The conversion was missed, however, and the scores remained level.

Uni soon re-established

their lead as forward play forced Hallam to concede a

penalty which was coolly slotted over

to the delight of the Sheffield s u p p o r t . Despite late p r e s s u r e from Hallam, Uni’s defence held firm as

they secured victory. Uni

captain Gareth Hall said: “I’m

relieved. We showed good character. It wasn’t our best performance of the season.”

Hallam captain Josh Wilson said: “I think we dominated vast spells of the match, but unfortunately we just couldn’t convert this possession into points.”

Andy Rivers

V14 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 FORGE PRESS Thursday April 22 2010 www.forgetoday.com // sport@forgetoday.com V15

Men’s Rugby firstsUni 20Hallam 10

Team spirit leads Uni to victory

Rugby Union firsts vs Hallam at Abbeydale.All Photos: Helen Munro

Uni’s Women’s Rugby team crushed Hallam in front of a bumper crowd last Thursday to secure a Varsity point for Uni.

Sheffield did not once relent from the constant pressure that they exerted upon their Hallam counterparts.

Early pressure proved too much for Hallam and two tries were scored in quick succession just before the interval, with Catherine Ellis scoring the first of her four tries on the day with a surging run through the ailing defence.

After the break Uni played with confidence preventing Hallam from

getting a foothold in the game.

Flanker Niki Fitzgerald proved the standout performer as she crossed the Hallam line on four occasions, the third of which was a stunning solo effort.

Rachel Simpson and Sarah Peters also scored as Hallam were overrun by a bout of unrelenting Uni pressure.

The final score was a deserving outcome as Hallam barely threatened once Uni had moved into the lead.

Speaking after the game key player Fitzgerald said: “The team played well and never gave Hallam a chance. We won 56-0, plus we get a real degree when we graduate!”

Andy Rivers

Women cruise to winWomen’s RugbyUni 56Hallam 0

Dogged thirds edge out oppositionMen’s Rugby thirdsUni 13Hallam 10

Sheffield University Sabres lost out on their bid to end Hallam Warriors’ 100 per cent record in Varsity Bowl VI on Sunday afternoon.

The Sabres were no match for Hallam’s superior running game and could not prevent the Warriors securing a deserved victory.

Sheffield started brightly and forced Hallam to surrender possession on their opening drive but could not capitalise on good field position.

After having little success rushing through the heart of the Sabres defence Hallam switched tactics and adopted a wide rushing game, resulting in Darren Gayle cantering round the outside of the Sheffield’s defence to score the game’s first points.

This was to be a sign of things to come as Gayle and his rushing partner Lolu Akindoyin experienced success around the fringes at vital parts of the contest, Gayle finishing up with four touchdowns to his name and Akindoyin with two.

With Hallam a score up after the first quarter the Sabres battled back with a score of their own as defensive back Robin Toone stole the ball from the Hallam wide receiver and returned it 60 yards to draw Sheffield to within a point of the Warriors.

However, Hallam responded with a further three touchdowns before the half, and despite a stunning 80 yard kick-off return from Simon Bell the Sabres went in at the half facing a deficit of 29-13.

The first score after half-

time was going to be crucial as the Sabres sought to narrow the margin but after a costly error on an offensive snap Uni were forced to surrender possession.

Hallam quarterback David Saul was able to exploit one-on-one coverage to throw a 15 yard touchdown and leave the Sabres with a mountain to climb.

To their credit, Sheffield never gave up and their offence responded by driving down the pitch thanks to consistent gains from running back Colin Williams, who deservedly scored and then secured a two-point conversion.

Perhaps fittingly it was the Warrior rushers who

had the last say, Akindoyin running around the Sabres defence to end any Sheffield hopes of a miracle.

The final score was harsh on a Sabres side who had shown great character against their unbeaten rivals.

The Defensive captain Kieran Rieley said: “It was a hard fought game with a lot of respect shown by both teams. We were hitting hard but the Warriors were able to change tactics and managed to keep moving the ball down the field.

“It was a great game to play in and it was a shame the score line wasn’t closer.”

Andy Rivers

Battling Sabres fall on the sword

The rugby league team secured their best result in a decade with a draw over an impressive Hallam side.

Uni took the lead with a penalty kick by Dan Gray within the first five minutes, and followed up with a great passing move that resulted in a try from Doug Moss. Gray then converted to make it 8-0.

A defensive lapse, that would plague the Uni team throughout, resulted in a relatively easy try for Hallam, but the conversion was well wide.

Hallam took advantage of an inferior defence,

quickly scoring three tries but converting only one, leaving the half time score at 8-20 to Hallam.

The second half began much in the same way, and it seemed that Uni would really suffer a massive defeat, and were 8-30 down within minutes of the restart.

Uni managed to get one back very much against the run of play, which seemed to galvanise the squad.

Hallam then conceded three tries in quick succession, the latter resulting from a brilliant surging run from Matt Dudley, taking the lead with minutes to play.

Hallam countered impressively and scored once more to regain the

lead. The result seemed secure for Hallam, but for a very late try by James Adams, who bundled the ball over the line.

With pressure on Dan Gray, he missed the conversion, and Uni managed to hold their rivals to a stalemate.

Captain Mike McGrath said: “It feels like a victory to be honest. This is the first time in a long time that Hallam haven’t beaten us. We showed great character against a good side.”

Coach Rob Winstanley echoed these sentiments. “It was a brilliant fightback from the boys. It would have been great if we’d scored that conversion, but it does feel like a win.”

Chris Rogan

Rugby League fight back for draw

Uni’s rugby seconds finished off their season on a high after a convincing win in their Varsity clash against Hallam.

Uni dominated from the start and ran out worthy winners amidst perfect conditions at Abbeydale on Thursday.

Uni signalled their attacking intentions from the start, piling early pressure on their rivals.

Whilst this did not lead to

a try Sheffield immediately moved into the lead after Hallam indiscipline conceded a penalty in front of the posts that was coolly slotted home.

This seemed to galvanise Hallam who fought back strongly, but a solid Sheffield defence meant that they were not able cross the line.

Nearing half time Sheffield’s forwards began to dominate from the set piece and were rewarded when prop George Dinsdale touched down after an effective driving maul.

With the score at 8-0 Uni began to play with

confidence and a quick tap penalty in front of the posts caught Hallam cold. Second row Adam Goodband broke through a poor defence to extend the Uni lead.

The first half concluded with Uni leading Hallam 13-3.

After the break the Uni forwards continued to dictate play as Hallam struggled to reduce the deficit.

Goodband in particular was enterprising and effectively ended the contest with 20 minutes left with a stunning solo try leaving the Hallam defence trailing in his wake.

As Hallam heads began to drop Uni ran in two more tries, one converted, through wing Andy Hill and fly-half Dan Smith. The result was never in doubt and was a testament to the intensity and discipline displayed by Uni throughout.

After the game club captain Ali Booth was quick to praise the team’s display: “We took a while to get going but played good phase rugby and put in a good performance”.

Hallam coach Matt Rhodes conceded that the best team had certainly won on the day.

Andy Rivers

Men’s Rugby secondsUni 30Hallam 3

Seconds batter a sorry Hallam in an emphatic domination

American Football

Sheffield Sabres 21Hallam Warriors 49

Rugby LeagueUni 36Hallam 36

The Uni Athletics team beat Hallam for the second year running at the English Institute of Sport (EISE) this week.

Following last year’s shock victory by just one point in the Athletics, the Uni club put in another fine performance to beat Hallam 122 to 113.

On the track, Sarah McCormack, fresh from winning a BUCS medal at the recent BUCS championships teamed up

with Emily Armstrong to dominate the first track event the Women’s 3000m.

Spurred on by the early success on the track, the University team never looked back.

Strong performances across the board in the women’s events including wins for Suki Cirillo in the long jump and 200m, Rosie Marino in the 60m hurdles, with McCormack adding victory in both the 1,500m and 800m to her early 3,000m triumph, helped to keep the early lead against a determined Hallam team.

The men produced some fine performances to match

their female counterparts. Matt Quine, the track

and field captain, led the team with victory in the 60m in 7.1 seconds, 200m in 22.3 seconds and over 400m in 50.0.

Supporting him Steven Garrett the club captain, took the 60m hurdles with ease, and produced good performances in the triple jump and 200m.

A number of athletes turned their hands to a multitude of events to ensure the University team of a much deserved victory, Lucy Hawkins, Alicia Roberts-Brown, Laura Bealey, Lousie Rayner, Lawrence Grey,

Jake Fehily and Mike Fraser all putting in strong performances across a wide variety of events.

A highlight was the participation of Simon Bell who won the men’s shot put and put a good showing in the 60m, running 7.3 seconds, in his first foray into track and field competition.

One constant throughout the match was the massive difference in participation between the teams, with the University team fielding more than double the number of athletes than the Hallam team.

An extreme example of this was in the men’s

3,000m where no less than seven University athletes finished ahead of the second Hallam athlete.

Commenting on the victory, club captain Steve Garrett said: “Today was the culmination of two years of improvements within the club.

“We have turned a certain Hallam point into a comfortable University victory.

“We can take this victory and recent success indoor at the BUCS Championships to Bedford for the Outdoor Athletics Championships and build on a fantastic season.”

AthleticsUni 122Hallam 113

Uni athletes right on track Uni were left disappointed in the Varsity cricket as Hallam claimed a clean sweep of wins last Wednesday at the Graham Solley Sports Ground.

There was no joy for the women’s firsts either. They scored more runs than either of the men’s sides after posting a score of 117-5 in their innings, but Hallam still managed to win, reaching 119 during the 16th over, helped by an incredible top score of 81 not out.

Anthony Hart

Women outplay men but still lose outWomen’s CricketUni 117-5Hallam 119 (16 overs)

The Phat ’Eds breezed past their Hallam counterparts 15-8 yesterday afternoon to earn a vital Varsity point for Uni.

The game started rather cautiously as neither side took control.

But by half time Uni had gained some initiative and started a spell of

dominance. As the game continued

and Uni’s hold on the tie seemed almost certain, Hallam started to hit back with Uni feeling the pressure.

Without doubt the highlight of the game was a stunning big layout from Aiden Thorpe to score a fantastic point.

In the end, Uni finished the games the victors with the score at 15-8.

Ben Bruin picked up Most Valuable Player.

Uni captain, David Pryce, said: “I am absolutely ecstatic. I’ve been waiting for this moment for three years, it feels great.

“The team were fantastic today and it’s a brilliant day for Uni ultimate frisbee.”

Hall captain Hayden Slaughter joked that his side should have won.

He said: “I think Hallam deserved to win today.”

Brendan Allitt

Ultimate FrisbeeUni 15Hallam 8

The Pryce is right as Hallam slaughtered

The men’s firsts were c o m p r e h e n s i v e l y beaten by their Hallam counterparts. After a slow but steady opening couple of overs, they then lost three wickets in the following two overs, leaving them on a disastrous 13-3 after just four overs.

The wickets continued to tumble, with no partnership scoring higher than 11, and Uni were finally bowled out for 51 in the 16th over. Hallam’s target of 52 was reached easily in the tenth over with the fall of just one early wicket.

Uni’s first team captain Ross Stewart said: “Obviously we never really got off to a good start. We didn’t apply ourselves with the bat.

“But it’s early days, and it was good to see freshers with good performances.”

Anthony Hart

Firsts collapse to just 51 all-outMen’s Cricket firstsUni 51 all-outHallam 52 (10 overs)

The men’s seconds was a closely fought affair with Uni recording a first innings score of 105.

But despite the loss of a wicket in the third over, Hallam’s batsmen managed to keep themselves at the crease with a second wicket partnership of 32.

They managed to surpass Uni’s score with three wickets in hand in the nineteenth over.

Anthony Hart

Final over lossMen’s Cricket secondsUni 105Hallam 106 (19 overs)

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The hurdlers take to the track.Photo: Helen Munro

Uni score a point in the frisbee. Photo: Adam Harley