The Long awaited Centenary season has finally kicked off and what a lovely weekend it was down at the club where we saw young and old in attendance on both Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th September.
The weekend began with a sponsors lunch where our Chairman, President and Playing Committee laid out all that the club had achieved during the last year and detailed some of the exciting future plans already in place to our valued sponsors.
On Saturday Tunbridge Wells arrived with 3 coaches full of players and supporters of all ages ready to embrace the day. With glorious weather, a newly refurbished clubhouse, boasting the new viewing balcony, and a huge crowd of supporters the players were hyped and ready to go.
Prior to the senior fixtures 7 Junior teams took to the pitches at the Big Field, with the stars of the future entertaining the growing crowds.
It was then time for the the 1st team to start their league campaign, taking on a Tunbridge Wells team who we had exchanged victories with the previous season. Spurred on by the large crowds, Dorking got off to a great start, going out to an early 21-3 lead. Whilst the remainder of the game was relatively even with both teams looking to entertain, Dorking maintained their early advantage securing a 33-11 bonus point victory.
The 2nd team took on the same opposition in a friendly fixture and in a game that definitely focused on attack, we’re unlucky to lose a lead they had he’d throughout with the last play of the game. With each team crossing the line 8 times, it was an exciting encounter which ended 50-52.
The 3rd team took on Harlequin Amateurs with a squad that showcased both the younger and more senior generations of the playing squad. With the opposition offering a well experienced pack and pacey backline it was always going to be a tough challenge, however all the players stepped up and were unlucky to slip to a 5-36 defeat. Lots to be encouraged by!
After the game we all gathered on the pitch for the all important group photo, before the live band had everyone on the dance floor, leading to celebrations which carried on late into the night.
On Sunday we saw the return of our youth sections and it was fantastic to see the players and coaches with similes on their faces. With so many young players enjoying their rugby, the future really is bright.
We look forward to continuing the celebrations for Centenary season and please make sure you follow the DRFC social channels, website and subscribe to our mailing lists for more updates on events to come.
