The Courier 1287 - Stan Calvert Pull-Out

Illustrations: Rebecca Irvine

60.75 - 80.25

Stan Calvert 2014

2.StanCalvert

Tuesday 4 March 2014

The Courier

Peerless Poly prevail ing omnipotence. No points are really at stake here, only pride, only the simple pleasure of being able to leave the field of play with your head held high, knowing that on this day, and at this place, you had the courage to stare adversity in the face and win the fight.

As to be expected of these two sides, the game started with furious and spellbinding intensity with early sniping runs and constricting defence. Newcastle, though without the ball, showed early signs of dominance at the breakdown and in defence with their customary blitz formation working to their advantage.

Stan Calvert Cup 2014

MEN’S RUGBY UNION Newcastle 1sts

7

Northumbria 1sts

10

By Jonty Mawer at Gateshead Stadium

Newcastle refused to pander to the conditions and instead decided to play their natural, free-flowing game

‘Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though chequered by failure... than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much, because they live in a grey twilight that knows not victory nor defeat’. The Stan Calvert competition has been lost by Team Newcastle, marking a sorry end to a seven-year reign of sporting dominance over Northumbria University. However, as admitted by both sides, nothing is truly decided until the final whistle is blown at Gateshead Stadium on the last day of competition.

The 1st XV Rugby match is undoubtedly the highlight of the championship; a game where no prisoners are taken, no quarter is given and much blood is spilt by both sides in pursuit of sport-

However, the occasion ultimately got the better of some of the players early on, most notably Newcastle Lock Jack Morphet, a regular 1st XV player, who after an illegal tip tackle was immediately sent to the sin bin giving Northumbria the man advantage early on in the half.

Northumbria sought to capitalise straightaway calling for the scrum on the Newcastle 22 metre line from the penalty. The first scrum of the game

King

Smales Blennerhassett

showed promising signs for Northumbria; their collective shove forced Newcastle backwards, epitomising their early dominance in the pack.

The conditions seemed to be taking an immediate effect in the game; handling errors by both backlines and a slip from Newcastle wing Teddy Hewins meant the game lacked any fluency in the early exchanges. Furthermore, at the lineout, both hookers were struggling to hit their jumpers with any regularity.

It seemed therefore that the team who were able to take their chances would be victorious.

Unfortunately for Newcastle, it was Northumbria who struck first. A quick penalty from the Northumbria scrum half, followed by a couple of sharp sidesteps allowed the half back to run in the first try of the game under the posts.

With the kick converted, Northumbria had opened up an early seven-point lead over their rivals.

Now with a full complement of players thanks to Morphet returning from his time on the naughty step, Newcastle seemed keen to exert immediate pressure. Right from the kick off, fly half George Cullen pressed Northumbria into their 22 and after a couple of phases, the diligence of Newcastle’s rush defence forced a mistake from Northumbria. At the scrum, the Newcastle pack drove well giving Number 8 Alex Hind the opportunity to pick and go from the

back, taking Newcastle up to their oppositions 5 metre line. After a couple of phases, Hamish Atkinson, who had been having a terrific first half in the loose, finally crashed over for Newcastle’s first try of the match. With the kick converted, Newcastle were now back on track.

They were getting a better foothold in the match and seemed more secure at set piece whilst the talented backline were starting to get some continuity in open play. They had the upper hand in terms of possession and territory, spending an inordinate amount of time in the Northumbria 22, turning the screw and trying to force another score.

However, handling mistakes hampered Newcastle’s progress, allowing Northumbria to clear their lines and retain their level score in the shadows of half time.

Northumbria now sought to inflict a scalp of their own, pressing the Newcastle line, seeking for scoring opportunities. Eventually, Newcastle’s overexuberance in defence came back to haunt them, giving Northumbria an opportunity to kick themselves into the lead, an opportunity the Northumbria fly half took with ease, giving them a 3 point lead at the half time break.

As the players left the field at half time, the tension was palpable for all the onlookers. The game had been played at a manic pace and showed no signs of slowing down. The difficult conditions were undoubtedly constricting both backlines causing them to operate in narrow channels instead of flinging the ball wide, however, this in no way put a dampener on proceedings. The battle of the two forward backs was critical; if either side could assert dominance at scrum time and in the loose, it would

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The teams prepare to do battle in the scrum Photography: Cat Schroeter

Martin East

Dusty Blyth

Scott-Paul

Harrison Pettet

McCrone

Davidson McCullough

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Leary

McCartney

Atkinson

Morphet

Goodwill

Witty Whitton

R Banks

give their respective side the necessary platform on which to score tries. Out of the two backlines, Newcastle looked the more dangerous; Beckett and co. seemed certain to score if presented with adequate space. It would seem that the team who struck first in the second half would have the game won. The stage was set for a scintillating second period.

Now playing with the wind on their backs, Newcastle seemed intent on scoring quickly after the break. This early pressure caused Northumbria’s defence to wain slightly, and after a high tackle on the left wing Cullen had the opportunity to gain parity on the scoreboard for his team. This would be no mean feat, about 50 metres from the posts and on the right-hand corner of the pitch, this kick was exceptionally difficult. Unfortunately, however, Cullen’s kick lacked the necessary distance and the score remained 10-7.

From then on in, the game seemed to embody a notion of stasis; both teams looked to score tries however the doggedness of their respective defences made for an immeasurably tight second half, tarnished by ill discipline and handling errors. Newcastle started to make changes in the pack and in the backline to try and revitalise their attacking rhythm, however, this was to no avail and Northumbria continued to slow the play down and play in the narrow channels.

Despite a spirited finish to the game by Newcastle, they were unable to chase down their opponents. One cannot help but be proud of their endeavour; in spite of the occasion, Newcastle refused to pander to the conditions and instead played their natural game, a strategy that so nearly paid off.

Hind T Banks Cullen Cruz

Beckett (c) Adams

Perkins Hewins

HOW IT UNFOLDED: Photography: Michael Oakes

23rd Feb Newcastle get the competition off to a great start with a comprehensive win in the American Football 42-0

The Courier

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Tuesday 4 March 2014

Royals dominate rowing ROWING

Stan Calvert Cup 2014

Newcastle

4

Northumbria

0

By Sally Hickey in Newburn NUBC played our part this week in the epic that is Stan Calvert, a week of com-

petition between Newcastle and Northumbria Universities, across all sports.

As one of the top rowing Universities in the country, it was little surprise that our athletes decimated Northumbria, winning by a devastating 4-0.

First up were the men’s novices, with a four of Mike Stevenson, Jamie Evans, Calum Shaw, Will Torr, and coxed

by Svenja Perkins. Jumping out of the starting blocks, Newcastle took the lead and moved away, coming down the course with clear water between them and Northumbria, and won with a verdict of ‘easily’.

Next up were the women, with the novice women’s four of Grace Hockenhull, Martha Dixon, Becci Brennan, Lottie Woodall and cox Katie BrydonJones. Once again, a speedy start put

them in the lead, striding over the finish line with over four lengths of clear water between them and the poly.

After a brief interlude, it was time for the seniors. The women’s lightweight double of Gemma Hall and Rosie Rust faced stiff competition with a fast Northumbrian double, but they were no match for NUBC and the Blue Star won yet again, by a verdict of four lengths.

Last up was the men’s singles, and with a lot of pressure on his shoulders, James Rudkin paddled up to the start.

After a few strokes, it was clear that this was Newcastle’s day, and James came through the finishing line first. This 4-0 win has confirmed us as the dominators of the Tyne, and Northumbria didn’t even stand a chance.

The Newcastle novicewomen’s 4’s cruise to victory Photography: NUBC

Downhill NWR edge Poly for skiers Stan Calvert Cup 2014

SKIING

Stan Calvert Cup 2014 Newcastle 1sts

1

Northumbria 1sts

2

By Laurie Tupper in Silksworth In the skiing, Newcastle’s 1st team of Toby Hughes, Will Cave, Olivia Parker, Martin Trotter and Jonathan Powell came agonizingly close to securing their second win of the year on dryslope against a far better funded and experienced Northumbria team.

The race was in a best-of-three dual slalom format, where five-person teams race head-to-head in a relay, with the first team to get all members of their team to the bottom taking the win. In

the first race, the teams were neck and neck until Parker managed to edge ahead of her opposite number on the Northumbria team; a lead which would be maintained by Trotter and Powell, giving Newcastle the win by a meter.

Northumbria upped their games in the second race and poorer starts from Newcastle left Powell with too much work to do as the last man. Northumbria ended up taking the win by a small margin, which set up a tense decider that looked like it could go either way.

The final race started well and a strong start by Hughes gave Newcastle the lead. Being chased down, a rare mistake from Cave caused him to crash and ski out of the course, handing Northumbria the win, and a 2-1 result overall.

Coming in to the contest as underdogs, Team Newcastle raced admirably and were unfortunate to come away second best. The finals of the British University Indoor Championships, on the 12th of March, may well set up a rematch between the two teams and Newcastle will be determined to make amends following such a disappointing result.

WOMEN’S RUGBY UNION Newcastle 1sts

22

Northumbria 1sts

5

By Megan Lines in Bullockstead Newcastle women’s rugby first team defeated Northumbria in the Stan Calvert match 22-5.

The tension was high as both teams made their way onto the Bullockstead pitches. Newcastle kicked off to Northumbria with the wind at their advantage. The ball was caught by a Northumbria forward, however Newcastle’s defensive line was quickly upon the

26th Feb

Stan Calvert Cup 2014

Cricket 1sts and 2nds succumb to Northumrbia but there’s a clean sweep from the Newcastle rowers

Newcastle men

20

Northumbria men

16

By Becky Rigby at Town Moor Despite Babushka the pig’s psychic prediction that Northumbria would win in the cross-country, overall it was a com-

27th Feb Spoils are shared in Waterpolo with the men narrowly losing but the women’s team triumphing

the line out and the forwards carried it on. The ball went out to the backs, and Olly Critchley made a powerful run, metres behind the try line. After a quick off-load to Sam West, she scored yet another try, making the score 15-0.

After half time, Northumbria were understandably riled, and managed to score a try fom their quick number 15 around the wing; they did not manage to convert.

In the final twenty minutes, Newcastle kept possession of the ball and were fighting for a final try. After yet another penalty, McEvoy utilized the setplay to make a sly switch ball to Price, who powered through and got the try. Neal proceeded to slot the conversion through the posts, making the final score 22-5.

The final whistle blew and the Newcastle women’s team started cheering and singing the classic song “40 Geordies”.

The win was well deserved. In the wake of a gruelling match against Cardiff Met last Wednesday, the team were understandably ecstatic to beat the Poly once again.

NUAXC run riot CROSS-COUNTRY

Jonny Powell in action Photography: Laurie Tupper

Northumbria’s players.

Tash Robson made a series of impressive tackles throughout, with one particularly heavy hit resulting in a Poly player being taken off injured.

After some play by Northumbria within their forwards, the ball was knocked on to gift Newcastle possession.

Northumbria gave away two penalties as a consequence of their poor rucking skills which ended up in Newcastle being a mere five metres away from the try line. After a strong carry from Zoe Price, Lauren Wallace scored the first try, unsuccessfully converted.

Again Northumbria kicked to Newcastle, and Newcastle caught it well and made their way into Northumbria’s 22.

After another few penalties were given away by Northumbria, Rosie Neal got spotted a gap in their defensive line and scored another try for NWR. Northumbria kicked to Newcastle, and after one phase from Sarah Driver, Rosie Neal kicked across the pitch resulting in a line out for Northumbria. Captain Katie “Magic” McEvoy stole the ball in

fortable victory for both the men and women this year.

With over 50 runners from Newcastle’s Athletics & Cross Country and Triathlon club’s descending on the Town Moor on Saturday morning to compete against Northumbria’s feeble 12 runners over the 5k distance, the odds were definitely stacked in Newcastle’s favour.

With the top 4 from each University scoring in their respective races and the men’s top places always hotly contested, it was all to play for to ensure a Newcastle win, having been pipped to the post by just a few points in past years.

However, this year Northumbria’s lack of depth showed as our men took a 2016 win with Nathan Reed of Newcastle the first runner home, cruising over the line with an untied lace in a time of 15 minutes 56.

This having ensured a good lead, the men hammered another nail in Northumbria’s coffin with 7 from Newcastle crossing the line in the top 10.

Newcastle women Northumbria women

23 11

After a great cross country season from the women’s team, the women’s race was a much less close affair, with Newcastle having 12 of the top 13 women’s places.

This gave Newcastle a comfortable 23-11 win, with fastest runner Rebecca Rigby of Newcastle running a personal best time of 17.57, not far behind the men and well ahead of Northumbria’s first woman.

28th Feb Northumbria make a storming start comfortably winning both women’s basketball fixtures

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Tuesday 4 March 2014

The Courier

NUMHC clean sweep across the board to keep Poly in their pocket Stan Calvert Cup 2014

MEN”S HOCKEY

Newcastle 2nds

5

Northumbria 2nds

2

By Fran Fitzsimmons at Coach Lane With the 3rd XI securing the two points for Team Newcastle, the 2nd XI had a tough act to follow. A nervous start by the 2nds allowed Northumbria to slip into the lead after only two minutes, as an impressive reverse stick strike from the Poly forward caught Will Fabbro off guard in the Newcastle net.

Elated, the Northumbria support began to find their voice. The side-line

ing for a space for the Newcastle attack to draw into. Eventually the chance came. George Sams made a run out to meet the ball sent from the back by Ben James.

Playing it across the goal face to Sam Harris-Wright, Sams then followed it up and found the ball at the end of his stick on the back post and tapped it in to bring the score to 1-1.

The momentum suddenly shifted in favour of Newcastle. Northumbria struggled to cope with the pressure that the Uni were piling on them, and played some panicked clearances off the side line. With tensions mounting, Ben James found himself in a scuffle over the ball with a Poly midfielder, resulting in a spot of ‘argy bargy.’ The umpire concisely decided Northumbria were taking it too far, and showed the Poly number 5 a yellow card to cool off for ten minutes.

In spite of being a player down, the unphased Northumbria outfit managed to nab a goal against the run of play to make it 2-1. Newcastle, seemingly annoyed by something the umpire failed to see, appealed for the call to be recon-

Northumbria’s number 5 looks on in disbelief as he is shown an ultimately costly yellow card Photography: Fran Fitzsimmons

Heated displays by both sides saw Northumbria players getting into more trouble with the umpire chanting did little for the home side, as Newcastle stepped up the tempo and released an onslaught of well-executed attacks. The Uni forwards put their heads down and charged through the centre of the pitch, hungry to retaliate with a quick goal to equalise. Moment later, David ‘Leeroy’ Samuel, from the Newcastle midfield, sent a shot inches past the back post.

With the fiery atmosphere reminiscent of the final moments of a cup final match, the opening half remained tense.

Composed Newcastle defenders James Murphy and ‘Wobby’ plummeted the ball back and forth along the backline.

Northumbria failed to effectively press the ball, allowing the Newcastle back line to build up the play, patiently wait-

sidered. However with the goal already given there was little they could do.

Newcastle’s second goal came at the end of the second half. Despite losing some composure, the university midfielders maintained their accuracy in passing to set up their second score.

George Mason broke into the attacking 25 to find himself one-on-one with the Poly keeper. Holding it up until Newcastle support came, Mason played a square ball across to Harris-Wright who found a foot in the circle.

With the short corner blown, Newcastle set up expertly and executed a textbook corner. Hit out to the top of the circle, the ball was then played to the back post, which Wobby tapped in behind the goalkeeper. 2-2.

The second half of the game was equally tense, although Newcastle had a grip on the match. Heated displays by both sides saw the Northumbria players getting into more trouble with the umpire and for play to be stopped to allow players to count to ten.

A suspect call by the umpire resulted in Newcastle fury. A Northumbria midfielder swung for a shot and missed the ball at the top of the circle. Instead of hitting the ball, the Poly’s swing connected with Ben James’ knee. The umpire blew a short. Understandably,

Newcastle appealed for it to be overruled by the other umpire, but nothing was changed. Luckily, the Northumbria penalty corner was easily dismissed.

Putting the fiasco behind them, Newcastle carried on their top form. Two penalty corners brought two goals late into the second half to bring the score line to 4-2 going into the last five minutes. The previously buoyant Northumbria supporters on the touchline were stunned into silenced.

Not finished just yet, Newcastle led another onslaught against the North-

umbria back four with the umpires signalling two minutes left. Slamming the ball against the Northumbria sweeper’s foot, Leeroy won a fifth penalty corner for the Royals.

Obviously well practiced in their short corners, Newcastle set up with an air of swagger about them. With their confidence justified, a fifth goal was slotted between the Northumbria posts following an impressive shot by Navraj Johal sent the back board rattling, and brought the game to a close for a 5-2 win to NUMHC 2s.

Uni tennis hit all the wrong cords Stan Calvert Cup 2014

MEN”S VOLLEYBALL Newcastle

0

Northumbria

3

By Mark Sleightholm at Coach Lane Northumbria dominated all six of the men’s tennis first team matches at the

Northumberland Club in Jesmond. The matches were played inside so the rain did not matter, but Northumbria certainly rained on Newcastle’s parade.

Kicking off the doubles Tom Saunders and Alex Mooney of Newcastle played Northumbria’s Harry Peach and Sean Damer.

The match lasted little over an hour as Northumbria sprinted to a 6-2 6-3 victory, in front of a crowd of around fifty people.

Next up, Newcastle teammate Fin Orme played Phil Dutch of Northumbria in an emotion-filled match. Playing on the centre court, away from the crowd, meant that Orme could not benefit from the support his teammates had, and he lost 6-4 7-6 after a tense tie

up each of his service games, losing the first set 6-0. Early in the second set, the lack of umpires resulted in a five minute delay as Saunders and Peach debated whether or not a shot was out, with Peach loudly supported by the crowd, which was at this point predominantly made up of Northumbria students.

This support helped Peach to defeat Saunders 6-2 in the second set, therefore winning the match.

The second doubles match of the afternoon saw Mike Tang join Corless to take on Northumbria’s Dutch and Hindle. The sound of the rain on the roof and a declining number of supporters did not deter either side, and the standard of tennis was high.

Both sides were initially very evenly

2nd Mar

1st Mar

Newcastle bring home two wins in Cross Country but Northumbria retaliate and take five in the swimming.

break at the end of the second set.

Nick Corless played valiantly for Newcastle in his match against Ollie Hindle.

After getting off to a strong start he began to falter, at one point managing to get the ball stuck in the net, which unfortunately is an achievement not rewarded with points. In the second set Corless continued his bad afternoon, slipping over and later breaking his racquet.

In the end all this proved too much for him and he lost the match 3-6 6-7 just minutes after Orme’s loss on the next court.

Tom Saunders continued his battle against Peach in a singles match, but unfortunately he was unable to convert his efforts into points. He reluctantly gave

Photography: Chiril Matei

First blood Northumbria on the main day of competition with wins in the Gaelic football and tennis.

matched, with several long rallies and a tie break that Northumbria eventually won 7-4. This gave them a psychological advantage going into the second set, and they were able to win that 6-4, bringing the total score to 7-6 6-4 and winning the match.

Attention then turned to Alex Mooney’s match against Northumbria player and Head Coach Sean Damer. Damer, aged 47, has extensive experience both as a coach and a player, but incurred the wrath of several Newcastle fans by gesturing to Mooney when Mooney’s back was turned.

This did not affect his performance, however, and he eventually won 7-6 6-4, completing Northumbria’s whitewash.

13.02 PM

Things are looking up. Newcastle netball 4s win 29-28 and women’s tennis demolish Northumbria 10-2.

The Courier

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Tuesday 4 March 2014

Mixed bag for netballers Poly squashed Stan Calvert Cup 2014

WOMEN’S NETBALL Newcastle

0

Northumbria

3

By Kate Bennett at Sport Central After a close game between the 2nds, the Newcastle and Northumbria 1sts straight afterwards were separated by a fraction of a hair’s breadth, with Northumbria just edging it 34 goals to 33.

The tone of the match was fiery with players from both teams channeling some serious aggression on court with regular shoving, elbowing and general getting-all-up-in-your-opponent’s-grill It was a slightly nervous start by Newcastle, but as the first quarter went on they seemed to find their groove and settle into the match, raising hopes of a third consecutive netball win to add to the 3rds and 2nds.

The second quarter saw the action slow, with a general stalemate seeming to set in, the first half eventually ending

an incredibly tight 17-15 to Newcastle.

The third quarter saw a lot of sloppy mistakes, with wild overthrows and missed shots; it seemed both teams were letting the pressure get to them.

The big moment of the match came not on the court but in the stands. In the third quarter, news came through that Team Northumbria had built an unassailable lead over Team Newcastle in the Stan Calvert championship, technically rendering the rest of the netball match irrelevant to the overall standings.

As Poly fans in the stands erupted into celebrations, a general air of dejection

Northumbria netball 2nds saw Newcastle win by a nose, 36 goals to 31.

With Northumbria pulling ahead in the overall Stan Calvert score, the pressure was most definitely on Newcastle.

Despite being held on the enemy territory of Sports Central, there was a fair amount of Newcastle support in the stands, preventing the court from turning into a cauldron of ‘Uni-bashing’ from the Poly - with the two camps chanting and shouting over each other throughout what was a very close game.

Despite this, the first quarter of the match saw the two teams largely at

hit the Uni support. On court, however, the Newcastle players appeared steeled by the news, realizing they were now playing for their university’s honour.

As the match entered its final quarter, the Newcastle support picked up and greeted every Newcastle goal, interception or even pass with celebration.

Goals began to flood in thick and fast for both teams as tension mounted in the room, with Northumbria ultimately nicking it at the death by just one goal.

neck-and-neck, Northumbria snatching back a couple of goals every time Newcastle seemed likely to pull ahead.

Poly players began to look nervy, missing straightforward shots, and over the course of the second half Newcastle stretched their lead considerably, at one point extending it to nine goals.

To give Northumbria their dues, they rallied late in the match, finding a new lease of life to gnaw away at what seemed like an unassailable goal-deficiency made by Newcastle. However, Newcastle held firm against Northumbria’s determined finish to the match and bagged a 36-31 victory over their local rivals.

In the third quarter, news came through that Team Northumbria had built an unassailable lead

NUNC 2nds Northumbria 2nds

36 31

A tight match between Newcastle and

Stan Calvert Cup 2014

MEN’S SQUASH

Newcastle

3

Northumbria

0

come Alex in 3 games. Finally, James Worsick, number 1 for Newcastle faced Ross from Northumbria. James, being the fitter player eventually overcame Ross in a nail biting 5 sets, concluding a victorious day Newcastle men’s squash.

By Tiezheng Yuan at Sport Central The highlight of the day is the 1st team match. Starting the match is Tiezheng Yuan playing at 5. Superior in skill and fitness, Tiezheng won against Ed Smith in straight games by only hitting straights and cross-courts. George Evan, number 4 won against Alex Griffiths in straight games. George had some long hard rallies with Alex but with superior racquet skill eventually George prevails.

Samuel Smith, number 3 showed great resilient against Alex Fraser and won 3-1. Michael Collins, number 2 won against Matthew Robinson in straight games. Michael’s racquet skill and fitness proves too much for this opponent.

Making some impossible returns and good use of deception, Michael over-

It was a clean sweep for the Uni squash squad. Photography: Tiezheng Yuan

Poly ping Cricketers slip to Uni’s pong double defeat Stan Calvert Cup 2014

MEN”S TABLE TENNIS Newcastle

0

Northumbria

3

By Peter Style at Newcastle Sports Centre On the top floor of the Newcastle University sports centre, tensions were running high as the Newcastle and Northumbria table tennis teams. Before the order of play started, Newcastle University table tennis team captain Matthew Stevens, who used to represent Yorkshire juniors, described his pregame emotions with regard to achieving Stan Calvert success as “uncertain but hopeful”. While his opposite Northumbria number Sam Hitchin simply stated that “they were ready to win”.

Throughout the afternoon the speed at which the sport was played was mesmerising, with rallies easily reaching 30+ shots. However, during one of the men’s singles clashes, play had to be stopped for Stephen Baxendale to nurse a gash on his hand he received while

clipping his hand on the edge of the table while striking a powerful shot.

For the singles league, each member from both the men and the women played each other once for separate 15 minute games. The winners of each individual game were then totted up to calculate the overall score and winner.

Unfortunately, Northumbria came out winners for the singles games winning by a small margin of 10 games to 7, leaving Newcastle to rue their missed chances and thrown away mid game leads. Captain Matthew Stevens performed well across the tournament winning all but one of his separate games.

However, pride was somewhat restored to the Newcastle corner as the men’s doubles came out victorious over their Northumbria counterparts 3-1.

The relief of this redeeming victory was evident across the tired faces off Matthew Stevens and Stephen Baxendale.

The Newcastle players felt clearly that it was the least they deserved to come away with a victory in the doubles, especially when they felt they were unlucky earlier throughout the afternoon.

As everybody representing table tennis for Newcastle were freshers, there were hushed feelings that the occasion may have got the better of them.

However, there can be no doubt that it was a valuable experience for all of them. They sure to be stronger and better mentally prepared next year.

Stan Calvert Cup 2014

MEN’S CRICKET

Newcastle 1sts

93

Northumbria 1sts 85

By Tom Nicholson at South Northumberland CC They say that much of sport is played in the mind, and at South Northumberland Cricket Club it looked for all the world that Northumbria had been taking brain-control tips from Derren Brown. Newcastle’s cricketing hopes were crushed easily by two excellent displays of controlled bowling and astute, economical batting from Northumbria’s first and second teams.

The firsts set out with purpose. Perhaps mindful of the fact that his team were in danger of being psychologically overwhelmed, Newcastle firsts captain Will Streep decided to take matters into his own hands. Twice in two separate overs he went to bowl and pulled away, making as if to run out the batsman backing up at his end, and twice he took

13.30 PM

Photography: Stephanie Blain

Women’s hockey 1sts, 2nds and 3rds all win, as do Men’s squash 3s, to tie the overall score.

a wicket with the very next ball. These devilishly ingenious goading tactics helped him to a five-wicket haul from some decidedly average slow right arm bowling, though the Northumbrian total of 121 still appeared extremely steep.

The run chase was hampered by the extra movement which Northumbria’s fast bowlers squeezed from a largely unhelpful surface. Nonetheless, Tom Clarke followed the Northumbrian batsman’s lead, taking twos and threes rather than going for big shots down the ground. When Streep fell – to a deeply controversial catch which Newcastle thought had been thrown away rather than taken cleanly – so did the last bastion of Newcastle’s resistance.

60 108

The defining moment of the seconds’ display came in the eighth over, with a run-out attempt which demanded to be soundtracked by slide whistles and honking clown horns. The Northumbrian batsman popped one into the leg side and set off for a run which only he saw. Alas, the throw came in to the wrong end and missed, dribbling toward Harry Boothe at short midwicket with the batsman still stranded several yards short of his ground. Diving forward and taking a shy at the stumps, Boothe contrived to launch the ball 20

The defining moment of the 2nd’s display was a comical run-out in the eighth over which demanded to be sound tracked by slide whistles After that, the pressures of the varsity championship weighed heavy on the Newcastle players’ shoulders. By the final few overs they were reduced to attempting to flay the ball into the middle of Gosforth high street with wild crossbatted swipes, though this only served to help usher the game away from them as sharp work in the field by Northumbria helped keep the scoreboard stuck on 85 for the last three overs.

14.07 PM

Photography: Holly Magill

Newcastle 2nd Northumbria 2nds

Northumbria regain the lead with wins in women’s football and rugby league 2nds.

feet high and wide of the stumps while landing on his face.

By the end of the innings, Northumbria had nudged and nurdled their way to 108 all out, a total which Newcastle never really threatened thanks to the Northumbrian quick bowlers’ ability to hold a tight line outside off stump.

Newcastle’s batsmen were frequently squared up and couldn’t find any fluency, crumbling to 60 all out and a decisive loss.

14.55 PM

Some good news from rugby union as the women’s 1sts win 22-5. Elsewhere, women’s lacrosse win 18-3.

6.stancalvert

Tuesday 4 March 2014

The Courier

Spoils shared in indoor thriller Stan Calvert

WOMEN’S INDOOR CRICKET Newcastle 1sts

93

Northumbria 1sts

93

By Fran Fitzsimmons at South Northumberland CC Having been victorious in their past two Stan Calvert clashes, Newcastle went into the contest aware that the Poly didn’t want to win as such, but rather wanted to stop Newcastle from winning.

Branded across the county as ‘the one woman team’, Northumbria managed to force a draw out of the Newcastle Women’s 1sts. It came down to the last ball with Northumbria needing three to cause a tie. As Laura Pearson bowled at the Northumbrian number 1, the Newcastle crowds watched on speechless, as the Poly batters managed to rack up the 3 runs required to draw 93-93.

The game had looked promising for Newcastle from the onset. Northumbria fielders scrambled around the nets to get the ball back to the crease and threaten the Uni batters. The Poly fast bowler did enough, however, to stop Newcastle from getting too far ahead.

Talented all-rounder Laura Pearson held her nerve against the fast balls with exquisite defensive play, much to the amusement of the Newcastle support in

the gallery.

The first real threat from Northumbria came in the 11th delivery of the match.

Tense moments passed as both Newcastle’s Britt Webster and Laura Pearson found themselves at the same crease.

Characteristically slow of Northumbria, the Poly fielders failed to react, giving Webster time to rush back to the safety of her own wicket. An attempt at the stumps by Northumbria flailed wide, and two opportunities for the Poly were missed in as many runs.

Getting into their stride in the 5th over, Newcastle sent the back netting rattling, for the equivalent of a boundary, adding another 6 to the tally. Gaining momentum, Pearson and Webster got creative.

With the Poly fast bowler finally allowing someone else do something, the second Northumbria bowler sent loopy balls down the crease, inspiring Laura to play a cheeky shot behind her, which got lost in the back netting for four.

Newcastle remained solid in the defensive block, as Northumbria looked short of ideas on how to dismiss the Newcastle 1 and 2. Sensing an opportunity, Britt attacked the ball, sending it into the air. As the Newcastle watched the ball drop, the Northumbria number 1 wasn’t close enough to take the catch.

Instead another Poly fielder got to play, and seemingly stunned at being allowed to get involved, dropped the catch, allowing Britt and Laura to another 2.

The seventh over brought a moment of magic. Bowling a slow ball, Northumbria dared Laura. Pearson stepped through the shot and struck it high into the back netting. With no need to run, Newcastle added another six to their steadily growing total.

Brittany RussellWebster in action Photography: Fran Fitzsimmons

Eventually a wicket did come for Northumbria as Laura Pearson was ran out; an impressive display by the second year, whose good work had put Newcastle in an opportune position.

The runs kept coming until Britt was eventually run out too. With Newcastle making an impressive 93, Northumbria had a hard task ahead to catch them before their 60 balls ran out.

The first overs didn’t bring anything inspiring, as the Poly racked up few runs. Coming in to the final 3 overs, recently appointed Newcastle coach, Jacques, rallied his team and showed great cooperation with Captain Jen Ha-

slam at organising fielding positions.

In the 9th over Northumbria had to inspire something spectacular. Typically of the Poly, some unsportsmanlike decisions cost Newcastle the win. The Poly number 1 came on field and said something in the ears of the two Northumbrians currently batting. Unaware of what was going on, Newcastle’s Laura Pearson sent a bowl to the Northumbria batter who shot into the air and straight back into her hands for a catch. Coincidently (or maybe not so coincidently) the Poly number 1 came on to bat following her team mate’s dismissal.

In the tenth and final over, the ‘one

Laura Pearson bowls for Uni Photography: Fran Fitzsimmons

man team’ knocked a couple of 6s into the back netting. Three balls were left, and Northumbria were trailing by ten.

Newcastle’s jubilance dropped as a few moments of panic set in for the Uni. With one ball to be played, the umpire announced Northumbria needed three runs for a draw and four to win the game. Pearson once again bowled down the crease to the Northumbria number 1, who crashed the ball into the side netting for one, and then clocked up two more runs off the final ball, making Northumbria’s final total 93.

Northumbria revelled in their draw, leaving Newcastle disappointed.

Rugby threes take two Stan Calvert Cup 2014

MEN’S RUGBY UNION Newcastle 3rds

35

Northumbria 3rds

12

By Luke Davis at Bullocksteads

On the final day of competition, and with Northumbria leading, the Newcastle NURFC 3rds were aware of the immense significance that their result would have on the overall Stan Calvert score. With Newcastle and Northumbria tied on the final score at the time of their kick off, if the men’s thirds lost then all hope of the coveted trophy would be over.

Un-phased by the pressure, Newcastle’s Men’s third team made a victory over Northumbria look easy in a comfortable result for the Uni. Despite trailing at halftime, three tries in the second half gave Newcastle the win in an exhilarating game of rugby.

Northumbria fielded a visibly larger team than the Uni, and dominated the early period. It didn’t take long for them to break through Newcastle’s ranks, with a well-worked try in the corner followed by a poor conversion miss. The Uni continued to be put under pressure, but good defending kept the Poly at bay under the posts. It was to no avail however, and Newcastle paid for missing a penalty when Northumbria took a second try soon after in the same corner, this time scoring the conversion to make it 12-0.

The Uni began to work their way into the game after this, with some good carries from prop Eghobamien Emma-

Photography: Peter Georgiev

Rugby league 1sts and union 2nds lose, but wins in 2nds netball and squash give Newcastle 4 points.

Uni restarted the second half confidently Photography: Luke Davis

16.38 PM

15.16 PM

Newcastle fencing dominate the men’s and women’s duels. However, golf and squash go to Northumbria.

nuel leading to a try for Scott Murchie, though Ben Nichols was unable to add the extra points from a tight angle.

chins on the side lines, to make it 12-16.

Newcastle upped the tempo, with Emmanuel stealing a lineout throw deep

Newcastle were rewarded when fullback Joshn Bateson cut through the middle of Northumbria’s defence, allowing Murchie to grab his second try The period before halftime was a great contest to watch, with several big hits from the Poly and some mazy runs by the Uni wingers.

Newcastle were rewarded when fullback Josh Bateson cut through the middle of Northumbria’s defence, allowing Murchie to grab his second try just before the whistle. A second missed conversion meant the score remained 12-10 at the break. Newcastle continued in the ascendency, catching their own kick straight from the restart and winning an early penalty, which Nichols converted to put them in front.

When the Uni won another soon after, the fly half kept his cool, despite the wind and the goading of the Poly ur-

in his own half to influence a great run from Nichols, who set up a try for Bateson, before adding the extra points himself. Within minutes they were over the line again, Murchie scoring his third of the day to leave the Poly captain screaming in frustration.

Northumbria’s day got even worse when their second row was sin-binned for the final ten minutes after a late tackle.

Substitute Nathan Yarde came on to add to their misery with a late try also converted by Nichols, bringing the final score to 12-35. The result will be especially welcomed considering that the results of the 2nds and 1sts rugby went in Northumbria’s favour.

16.56 PM Men’s football 2nds draw to bring a rare point home for the luckless Newcastle

The Courier

stancalvert.7

Tuesday 4 March 2014

Poly volley Uni in the balls Stan Calvert Cup 2014

Newcastle’s Pablo Fernandez unleashes a poweful blast past Northumbria blockers Photography: Zhulien Genev

MEN”S VOLLEYBALL Newcastle

0

Northumbria

3

By Peter Georgiev at Northumbria Sport Central The noticeable absence of regular setter Yoshitomo Iriguchi along with Northumbria’s well-known volleyball traditions were conceivably the two major premises for Newcastle’s expected but honourable defeat in the Stan Calvert competition. The Geordie boys suffered a clean 0-3 loss (12-25, 13-25, 14-25) against city rivals to match the scoreline from the Ladies’ encounter earlier in the same day.

In front of a constantly cheering crowd, Newcastle picked most of the expected starting six except for only a few, though crucial, changes. At the net, Pablo Fernando, Gian Montevecchi and Attila Berndt were looking to make the most of the early stages supported

by Kahwing Fung, Raphael Ramos and Ahmad Al-Shafai (C) from behind.

The captain had to step into the uncomfortable shoes of a playmaker and surprise Northumbria’s blockers, a burdensome task usually handled by Iriguchi. However, in the absence of the Erasmus student who left the team for good, Newcastle experienced headaches throughout the whole clash, struggling to find their desirable rhythm.

The opening moments of the game

saw Northumbria take the initiative with a four-in-a-row streak to edge at 4-10. In the face of a considerable confusion, the home side came up with a brilliant response after Pablo Fernando received a precise lay-off from Al-Shafai and unleashed a powerful blast past a double block.

But the visitors arrived unbeaten in the League and their intentions to preserve this admirable status paid off. A couple of superb serves doubled the

difference between the teams and although Newcastle were happy to reach a double-digit number, their opponents closed it at 12-25.

The Geordies cherished their one and only moment in front thanks to excellent blocking from Attila Berndt in the second set. Regrettably, it wasn’t enough to trouble their rivals.

Another six consecutive points secured the turnaround and a quite disturbing 2-12. Berndt and Montevecchi

held their nerves to win a 13th point after some inspiring play in defence but hope was dead and gone long before Northumbria claimed a 0-2 overall advantage.

Only a formality, the third part felt like a quick bandage rip to the hosts who witnessed the longest point streak of the match – ten sequential points by Northumbria to bring in a familiar 2-12 scoreline.

Newcastle did their best to stand tall

until the end but were denied by an impressive performance from the opposition, as even Al-Shafai acknowledged their dominance.

“They physically and athletically surpassed us. They are on a different level”, stated the captain after the game.

With two back-to-back victories by the men and women, Northumbria 1st team collected four valuable Stan Calvert points.

Ballers edged out in tight affair Stan Calvert Cup 2014

MEN’S BASKETBALL Newcastle 1sts

71

Northumbria 1sts

83

By Huezin Lim at Newcastle Sports Centre Amongst the sports played during the Stan Calvert Cup, the hype around basketball is incomparable to sports such as rugby union and football. It was therefore encouraging to see a significant crowd cheering on both teams at Newcastle Sports Centre.

Past results were not on Newcastle’s side, having lost all recent basketball matches since 2009, but as the saying

goes, “when you hit rock bottom, the only place left to go is up”.

With a tall front-court to start the match, led by Matthew Martin as power forward and Rob Wright as centre, Northumbria took the tip and began the match well immediately, taking an early 5-0 lead.

However, unable to find a rhythm and dominate the inside after some time, Newcastle pulled ahead with a slew of three-pointers from Nick Yil, Newcastle’s starting point guard.

Calling his first time out, the coach of Northumbria emphatically called for his players to relax and calm down, returning to their own style of play. Hitting four three-pointers alone, Nick was finding his shooting touch with ease but relying on outside shooting would be risky for Newcastle.

As the first quarter ended with Newcastle leading 23-19, both teams focus would be on defence.

During the break, the coaching team of Newcastle called for strong boxing out and maintaining a high defensive

Photography: TCTV

towards uncomfortable outside shots which was their Achilles heel throughout the night.

As Newcastle strived to claw their way

Newcastle coaching team strived to galvanise the players, stressing that four minutes were more than enough to spring a surprise comeback The momentum slowly shifted to Northumbria as White began to lead the charge through dominant post play. Newcastle played with some uncertainty, unable to find their shooting touch or any penetration and at halftime, Northumbria led 43 - 31. During the second quarter, centre, Chuck Duru scored all 8 points for Newcastle.

As the second half began, Newcastle began strongly with a 7-0 run over the first two minutes, forcing Northumbria

19.45 PM

17.34 PM

With Northumbria 20 points ahead they are untouchable and it is all over for Newcastle before the Rugby at GIS.

intensity. As the game continued, the coach’s words rang true as Northumbria committed a turnover at the start of the second quarter.

Rugby Union kicks off at Gateshead International Stadium, where Northumrbia have won the athletics.

back, Northumbria were able to find that extra pass or dribble to force the foul or the easy basket. As Newcastle committed a turnover, a timeout was called, the focus being on a watertight defence and calm within the team.

In the final moments leading to the end of the third quarter, Northumbria mistakenly called a timeout with fifteen seconds left with the score at 53-60 in favour of the Poly.

The coach was looking to draw up a

strong play to finish the quarter but a miscommunication between the referee and the coaching staff meant the third quarter ended flat.

The pressure was on Newcastle for the final quarter, as they had to continue to score and to contain the inside. With five minutes left, the gap between the two team remained at 7 with Northumbria leading at 64 - 71.

Calling another time-out, the Newcastle coaching team strived to galvanise the players, stressing that four minutes were more than enough to comeback.

As time wound down, there was palpable fear as Yil fell down clutching his ankle, in agony. Regardless of the rivalry, it was a sight to behold as both teams clapped as he was helped off the court.

Offensive rebounds by Northumbria dominated the fourth quarter and Newcastle were unable to box out the Northumbria front court, leading to several easy second-chance baskets.

The final score for the match was Northumbria 83, Newcastle 71 - a valiant effort by Newcastle.

21.30 PM

Northumbria break Newcastle’s 6 year winning streak to lift the Stan Calvert trophy in 2014.

STAN CALVERT: The wannabeWAG’s view

The hype surrounding Stan Calvert makes it a spectacle worthy of attention for the even the fairest of fair weather sports enthusiasts. Said example Katie Smith offers her take on the varsity clash between the Men’s Football 2nd teams After arriving fashionably late and armed with a pair of my favourite wagettes, (Bex’s ex used to play for Sunderland, but now on the sidelines of Newcastle-Northumbria Men’s 2nds she’s looking to move up a division or two), I was relieved to see that my next boyfriend Lewis had not scored without my being there, nor had anything actually yet happened.

Momentum was definitely moving in Newcastle’s direction, which was, by our keen eye, the more attractive team. #winning. While usually not a lot about football grabs my attention (I would prefer to spend 90 minutes doing anything that doesn’t involve being outdoors), there is one thing about football I can appreciate: the players.

Stan Calvert, whilst being a bit of a laugh for us is their biggest (only?) event of the year, their behaviour resulted in a warning from the ref that if they didn’t stop yelling abuse at the Newcastle team they would be out of there. It was a scrappy game all around and I wonder if Newcastle’s Sweet number 16 is as dirty a boy off the pitch as he is on.

Jake Salisbury scored the first goal of the game for Newcastle in the 43rd minute, but Northumbria were back in it after halftime. Jonny Randles then took a free kick so quick... I actually didn’t really see it, as I was attending to a broken nail. However, it seems that I wasn’t the only one, as the Northumbria goalie didn’t even put his

While usually not a lot about football grabs my attention, there is one thing I am able to appreciate: the players Newcastle number 3, you know I’m talking about you. Number 2, I’m sorry to hear you are spoke for, and although the Northumbria fans insist that you “throw like a girl,” I’m sure many a girl are queuing up to be thrown around by you. However, there is one thing about this football match in particular that I could just not appreciate, and that was said Northumbria fans.

Dressed in what can only be described as skinny-legged trackies (why?) and snapbacks, I can assure you that standing next to them for 70 minutes (I’ve already admitted I was late, but I was also unimpressed that a uni match would actually play a full 90 minutes), was in fact 70 minutes too long. Overcompensating for the fact that they attend a pretend university and that

arms up.

I wonder if he was having the same problem? First penalty of the night took the score to 3-2 in Northumbria’s favour. When Newcastle’s Robbie Sweet came to take a free kick facing (WHEN THE OTHER TEAM MAKES A WALL OF PLAYERS?) chances of it ending in a goal seemed as likely as a footballer being faithful to their wife, but the perhaps questionable call by the ref of a Northumbria handball gave Newcastle their third goal from the day’s second penalty.

Not a great day all around, Newcastle were hoping for a win, and probably should have got one. Though, here’s betting they all scored at Tiger later that night.

e Squ al

e of n fortu

Last week we asked Babushka and Fizziwig over at Ouseburn Farm for their expert opinions on who would come out on top. Let’s revisit their predictions and see whether or not we’ll bother going back next year...

Sport American Football Athletics (T & F) Badminton - W Badminton - M 1 Badminton - M 2 Basketball - W 1 Basketball - W 2 Basketball - M 1 Basketball - M 2 Basketball - M 3 Cricket - W Cricket - M 1 Cricket - M 2 Cross Country - M Cross Country - W Fencing - W Fencing - M Football - W 1 Football - W 2 Football - M 1 Football - M 2 Football - M 3 Futsal - W Gaelic Football Golf 1 Golf 2 Hockey - W 1 Hockey - W 2 Hockey - W 3 Hockey - M 1 Hockey - M 2 Hockey M - 3 Lacrosse - W Lacross - M Netball - 1 Netball - 2 Netball - 3 Netball - 4 Rugby League - 1 Rugby League - 2 Rugby Union - W 1 Rugby Union - M 1 Rugby Union - M 2 Rugby Union - M 3 Rowing - Beg four W Rowing - Beg four M Rowing - S Double W Rowing - S Single M Skiing Squash - W 1 Squash - W 2 Squash - M 1 Squash - M 2 Squash - M 3 Swimming M & W Table Tennis - W 1 Table Tennis - M 1 Table Tennis - M 2 Tennis - W 1 Tennis - M 1 Tennis - M 2 Volleyball - W Volleyball - M Water Polo - W Water Polo - M

RESULTS Venue

Gateshead Stadium Gateshead Stadium Gateshead Stadium Gateshead Stadium Gateshead Stadium NU Sports Centre NU Sports Centre NU Sports Centre NU Sports Centre NU Sports Centre South North CC South North CC South North CC Town Moor Town Moor Sport Central Sport Central Longbenton Longbenton Coach Lane Coach Lane Coach Lane Longbenton Bullocksteads Close House Matfen Hall Longbenton Longbenton Longbenton Coach Lane Coach Lane Coach Lane Bullocksteads Bullocksteads Sport Central Sport Central Sport Central Sport Central Cochrane Park Cochrane Park Bullocksteads Gateshead Stadium Bullocksteads Bullocksteads Newburn Newburn Newburn Newburn Silksworth Sports Centre Sports Centre Sport Central Sport Central Sport Central Sport Central Sports Centre Sports Centre Sports Centre Churchill Northumberland Club Virgin Active Sports Centre Sports Centre Sport Central Sport Central

Date

Winner

23/2/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 28/2/14 28/2/14 27/2/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 27/2/14 26/2/14 26/2/14 1/3/14 1/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 24/2/14 2/3/14 19/2/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 27/2/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 28/2/14 28/2/14 28/2/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 26/2/14 26/2/14 26/2/14 26/2/14 1/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 1/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 2/3/14 24/2/14 24/2/14 27/2/14 27/2/14

Newcastle Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Draw Northumbria Northumbria Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Draw Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Northumbria Northumbria Newcastle Northumbria Newcastle Northumbria Northumbria Newcastle Northumbria Northumbria Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Northumbria Northumbria Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria Northumbria There you have it, then. After a gruelling tournament for everyone involved, the gang has come out with a not-exactly-respectable...

Mens Rugby 1s Babushka said: Newcastle Winners: Northumbria

Badminton Babushka said: Northumbria Winners: Newcastle

Cross Country Netball Fizziwig said: Newcastle Winners: More or less a draw, but we’ll call this a win for Fizziwig. She’s only a pig, after all

Cross Country Fizziwig said: Northumbria Winners: Newcastle

Overall Result This chicken said: Newcastle Winners: Northumbria

2/5

...proving once and for all that animals know bugger all about sport. Better luck next time, ladies.

Terrible sports pundits then, but excellent pigs nonetheless. If you want to test out their precognitive abilities for yourself, you can visit the girls down at Ouseburn Farm and donate at www.bykerbridge.org.uk/farm