Date: December 26, 2024
Venue: Harlow Rugby Club, Latton Park
On a foggy Boxing Day lunchtime, Harlow Rugby Club witnessed a festive and spirited showdown between two invitational sides, Mex’s All Stars and Bully’s Bullies. The match, which embraced the holiday spirit, featured a unique blend of players from various walks of the club, offering a light-hearted yet competitive atmosphere for all involved.
Mex’s All Stars vs. Bully’s Bullies
This traditional game is played every Boxing Day bringing together players from different generations and from around the country as families gather to celebrate Christmas. Mex’s All Stars is a team pulled together by Adam ‘Mex’ Clark, of anyone who showed up on the day or could be persuaded to dust off their boots and run off some turkey, spanning the full spectrum of club members, from the youngest fittest hopefuls to seasoned less fit veterans including local Harlow MP Chris Vince. This patchwork team took on Bully’s Bullies traditional pulled together by Ross Ashcroft in memory of Chris ‘Bully’ Ball, this year composed primarily of former Colts players, including some of the club’s older Colts stars, offering a formidable challenge for the All Stars.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the match referee, Dan Ricketts, donned a Santa hat, keeping with the holiday cheer. While the match adhered to the standard rugby rules, there was one notable exception: the number of players on the pitch. In the spirit of inclusivity, all players were welcomed, ensuring no one was left out of the fun.
Family bonds were on display as most family connections were made on the pitch. Brothers Stan and Nathan Dennis played together for the first time, creating a memorable moment for both players and their parents. Similarly, Jake and Ben Rutherford joined forces with cousins Owen and Rhys Eynon, who were joined by their father, Paul Eynon, adding a special family touch to the match.
Lots of tries were scored by both sides some were converted, but no-one was keeping score that closely.
Same time and place next year!
