MDX Sevens: On The Cusp of Victory, Glory Washed Away

We had an excellent showing at MDX sevens this weekend. Everyone who played should be proud of their performance. So crack open a beer, give yourself a pat on the back, and read my match recap:

First and foremost I'd like to acknowledge our roster: Vinny, Scott A., Sunshine, The Beard, Fish, Bobby, Jack (or Jake), Jason, Tom K., Josh, Marvin, and Koz. Andy and Sharp kitted for the final match. Read more for the whole story...


vs. Philly/Wilmington 17-12
Our day started with the always inauspicious Medevac landing on the pitch before the preceding match, delaying the tournament. Once underway again, the West Potomac Sevens side took to the pitch for the first time. The match served to get our feet wet as a team, and I think it was evident that this was our first match together. Despite some sloppy play we were able to pull together and best Philly/Wilmington 17-12. Much thanks to Marvin for his mid-match lesson in picking the ball out of the ruck and making a fantastic play. For once I can account for where our other support was- they were taking notes.

vs. Frederick II 12-20
This match was a tale of two halves. In the first half the score went back and forth with West Potomac establishing a lead over Frederick. Frederick was a very beatable team, and I'll take this one on the chin for the loss. I believe I could have made better subbing decisions while still ensuring everyone gets on the pitch. I spoke to the Frederick guys later in the day and I think we may have started a friendly rivalry with them, more on that in a moment. BTW Bobby and Josh stood out as playmakers.

vs. Heavy Metal 29-5
Heavy Metal is a sevens team composed of forwards from the Exiles. They played a forwards game...lots of pounding the ball and mauls...in...sevens. These guys weren't just a bunch of meatshields, though. They were skilled and could run an effective switch and were disciplined on defense. A notable play was when they put 5 in a lineout and mauled for a good 30 meters. We were able to stand fast enough to force a penalty and regain possession. I won't go into a lengthy description of our complicated and intricate strategy, but I will offer a summary: get the F!@#$%^ ball to Josh. This theory, combined with the fact that a team of forwards was playing their third match of the day lead to a veritable track meet for Josh as he put 4 tries in the zone.

Championship vs. Frederick II
There were 4 teams in the social division. West Pot, Frederick II, and Heavy Metal were all 2-1 after pool play. Philly/Wilmington dropped out and because of point differential West Pot was granted a bye after pool play. Frederick II defeated Heavy Metal to advance to the championship against West Pot. The gentlemen of West Potomac were warmed up and ready to play when the sound of thunder roared across the land. We stuck around during the thunder 'n lightening delay long enough for the downpour to start. The tournament was called, and like an unsatisfying night with some girl you find in the downstairs bar of the Irish Times, it ended all too soon. Frederick and West Pot now have a little something to settle, and we've both expressed the mutual desire to put this baby to bed.

Man of the Match
The Man Of The Match for the day was Josh. Josh's 8 tries on the day made him our primary weapon and he deserves much props for his tiring efforts.

Honorable Mention:
A truly honorable mention goes to Bobby for his play at scrumhalf. Bobby proved to be a playmaker on offense and a rabid scrawny son-of-a-bitch on defense. Bobby's tackles in the match against Heavy Metal stood out particularly well.

Try Count
Note: If this is innacurate please leave a comment and it will be corrected.
Josh: 8
Bobby: 2
Sunshine: 1
Koz: 1