The Dark Art: Hoppa Surfs to Plymouth Albion

Hoppa, our very own Silver Surfer, washed up in Devonport, to 'watch' Plymouth Albion. Ok sat in his armchair, with a large Malt and Stilton, in the warmth of his own castle, hovering his mouse.

Thanks to Plymouth Albion for the match report and Beechwood for the photo.

Albion after being up in Yorkshire for their last two games, the team looked happy to be back in Devonport.

The sun was shining over brickfields and the pitch was looking good, considering how much rain we have had over the last few months.

Nat Saumi made only two changes to the team he had initially named on Friday day time. Lock Brett Beukeboom was forced out with an infection and he was replaced by Rupeni Nasiga, while Lloyd Fairbrother was passed fit and came in for David Morton. Wayne Sprangle was named on the bench for Beukeboom

Bedford made a great start and took the lead after less than three minutes into the game. From a penalty the Blues went for the corner and hooker Neil Cochrane scored from a catch-and-drive move from the line-out. James Pritchard converted to make it 7-0.

Bedford could have doubled their lead six minutes later. Mark Atkinson made a good break and put James Stephenson away down the wing. But Tom Bowen managed to get his hands on the ball before being turned over just inside Albion’s 22.

And with the last kick of the half, Roberts kicked a penalty to reduce the gap to just four points at the break with a penalty.

Half time score was Albion 10-14 Bedford.

Tries from Harrison Tovey and Ruari Cushion had Albion in front, but Josh Bassett got one back for the visitors.

Darren Veenendaal's try had Blues ahead then Aaron Carpenter went over for Albion, but Roberts missed the extras.

The final score ended Albion 28-29 Bedford.


Albion could have stolen the game with the last kick of the game, but Paul Roberts attempt went slightly right of the upright.

However the West Country side will again be happy to come away with two bonus points, this gives them a 12 point cushion from bottom side Doncaster.

Albion has now narrowly lost their last three Championship matches by a combined total of just six points.
Next week the Albion players have a well deserved week off from Rugby, I’m sure all the players will embrace the time away.

Albion are next playing against Nottingham away on Sunday 3^rd March, KO 3pm. Please get in contact with the travel club if you would like to come and watch the lads?

Albion: Rhodri McAtee, Lewis Waner, Toby Howley-Berridge, Tom Bowen, Paul Roberts, Ruairi Cushion (capt), Jack Andrew, Jon Vickers, Lloyd Fairbrother, Rupeni Nasiga, Harrison Tovey, Sean-Michael Stephen, Sam Hocking, Aaron Carpenter. Reps: Paul Rowley, Paul Bailey, Ben Rogers, David Morton, Tom Cowan-Dickie, Wayne Sprangle, Sam Matavesi.

Bedford: James Pritchard, James Stephenson, Brendon Burke, Mark Atkinson, Josh Bassett, Jake Sharp, Ricky Reeves, Neil Cochrane, Phil Boulton, Paul Tupai, Mike Howard, Greg Gillanders, Darren Fox, Don Barrell. Reps: Chris Locke, Dan Seal, Ben Gulliver, Tom Armes, Darryl Veenedaal, Myles Dorrian, Ollie Dodge.

Referee: Steve Lee (RFU)