Amersham & Chiltern wins 2013 Bucks Cup

At the request of the County, Chiltern fielded only three regular 1st team players, the rest of the squad consisting of Colts, 2nd, 3rd and 4th team players.

With so many unused to playing in such an exalted game on the 1st team pitch, the game proved to be fascinating in many respects. Chiltern provided a Christmas Dinner before the game at very reasonable cost and 120 booked in, including a good number of Buckingham supporters. A plentiful supply of beer, wine and port ensured the Festive Spirit was evident and allowed for a large vociferous crowd to cheer on the players, despite the poor weather conditions.

Making his debut for Chiltern at fly-half was 17 year old Ollie Choules, watched by his father and grandfather, David and Geoff. David also made his debut for the 1st team at 17 and memorably won the Bucks Cup for Chiltern in a win over Wycombe with a touchline kick, in atrocious conditions, back in the 1980’s. Also playing for Chiltern on Saturday was Giles Westgarth, also only 17 and who has been selected for the current England U18 squad.

In the event, Chiltern proved a little too strong for a game Buckingham side, who struggles particularly in the scrums. Tries from No. 8, Nick Fischer (2), second row and skipper, Tom Grammenos and centre, David Skelton, plus a great kicking display by Ollie Choules that saw him convert two of the tries and also kick a penalty. Considering the conditions, this was an exemplary performance.

Chiltern’s next League game is at home to Barnstaple on Saturday 4th January 2014. There is, however, the annual “Wanderers” game next Saturday 28th December, where Chiltern boys at home from University for Christmas, together with other recent ex-players take on a Chiltern side. A good way to work off the excesses! Kick-off will be at 1.30pm, the bar will be open and all are welcome.

Bucks Cup Winners 2013: Ally Davidson, Ben Allman, David Robertson, David Skelton, Elliot Turner, Giles Westgarth, Harvey Gould, Jack Claridge, Jack Davidson, Jack Secher, James Ashton, Matt Craggs, Nick Fischer, Ollie Choules, Phil Siave, Rob Smalley, Ryan Cole, Stuart Day, Tom Fletcher, Tom Grammenos (Captain), Troy Janse Van Vuuran