Winter League 2

Last Sunday saw 7 Broccoli players make the trek to Shankill for more wind and rain dominated Ultimate. The weather was nearly as bad as the previous day but the rain abated somewhat so it wasn't quite as cold. Broccoli continued the Iron man tradition with a few absentess being replaced by the WL debutants, Stokesy and Colm both of whom had an excellent day.

Up first were the yellow-shirted DIT students lead by Podge, Cormac and Tall Paul. Zone was the order of the day with a strong wind limiting any easy passes. They used all the players with them, a mixture of strong beginners and experience and made the Brocs run hard for every point. We started strongly and DIT took a while to come out of their shells. It was quickly 7-0 despite their best efforts. The second half was much better fom them with all their players growing in confidence. Cormac appeared o be getting open with ease and Ste, Podge and Paul handled well. They pulled 2 points back but calm O and some solid Zone work saw Broccoli ease home to a 13-2 victory. A couple of fun calls added to the great Spirit throughout.

The second match was against Trinity who at the start of the Winter League we had identified as one of the strongest teams going. As always they were well drilled and each player knew exactly what was asked of him/her. All players got lots of game time and despite having learnt the zone only a week earlier their Defence was as strong a D as Broccoli has faced yet this season. Unfortunately for them their Captain and talisman was sitting pretty on the sidelines having suffered another bizarre injury - 'I got up to get a cup of Earl Grey to have with my English muffin and all of a sudden my knee...' On they battled nonetheless with Cian's throws, Rickards running and the cup proving formidable despite the winds. We played very well, with our handling and Zone O answering the questions asked of it. Despite the pressure being put on us we slowly ground out a lead before beginning to score consistently until half at 7-1. We came our strong and scored the next 3 before a cap of 2 was added. another point made it 11-1. Trinity weren't finished though and began to claw their way back. From our point of view a stronger wind and some tired throws and catches weren't helping but credit is due to them as thy pushed us right to the finish. 12-4 was the final score and despite the lp-sided scoreline this was the toughest match, by far, that we have played. Trinity will only get better this season, especialy with the large numbers and team spirit engendered in the squad. Intervarsity hopefuls take note!

Next up is a trip to Cork where the League will be decided. With UCD on 4 wins from 4 and Cork with 3 (and home advantage & Tigger returning), the weekend is set to be a a great climax to a fun competition. See you all in te second capital!!

MVP - Mark 'o' Earley
MSP - Rob 'Mahatma' Kiely

Team: Marko, Rob, BB, Fishbox, Langer, Stokesy, Colm.