From the opening kick off that we returned all the way for a try, the victory over the Lions was complete and definate.

Final score Gents of NY 48 - Village Lion Kings 0

In a game that harkened back to the glory days of Les Vieux and the New York Old Boys, the Gents, on the back of Drew Fautley took the opening kick off into the try zone and never looked back. In fact, we scored three tries off the first three possessions and the game was never really in doubt after that.

There were actually 24 guys that put on the Gents colors including, Joe Bartlett, at 75 years old, Joe is officially the oldest living Gent. His career stretches back to the Great Depression, ok not that far, but he was much fitter in the 1960's when he started playing. Joe has played for Manhattan, Les Vieux, the Connecticut Greys and now he is back in the fold with the Gents. Joe ran on the field and got in a few minutes in his usual second row slot and no doubt found some way to get in a few jabs somewhere. He wouldn't be Joe Bartlett any other way.

The try of the day award goes to John Adelaine who executed a brilliant diving try putting the ball down right next to the goal posts. It was one of three. Ok, I don't know who scored all the tries, but I think Gianni Lopez and Kevin Fagan both put in a few tries too. The Gents welcome back Kevin playing his first game since he tore out his knee during New York 7's two years ago. he is back in his customary flyhalf position and I think he really liked having a bloody knee to show for it.

Overall the Gents dominated in most aspects of the game. We out ran and outscored them and moved the ball up and down the field easily. A great group of backs made sharp passes and keep the communication up and kept the Lions off balance. Our pack is getting older but we managed to win all our line out ball and held up in the scrums, but it was a backs day and they won the game with fast passes and great running. We slacked off a bit in the second half and the Lions never laid down and in fact nearly scored in the closing minutes.

Our last game this season is May 16 at Randalls Island, same field. We are taking on the Poltroons for about the 8th or 9th year in a row. Flying in from all over the world, the Poltroons will be loaded and looking to avenge their loss last year. They are a good group and always give us a great game and a great way to end out the season.

Finally, Pat O'Callahan is entering a team in the JoJo Moore tournament June 27th at West Point. If you want to play, contact Paddy O at pat@thewindownetwork.com.

See you next week.

David Martin

oldboyprop@secondrowproductions.com