Chippenham Redbacks’ new Aussie Rules season started brightly in the pre-season tournament in Southampton on Saturday.

With 4 pool games to play and under clearing skies and what turned out to be a scorching day, the Wiltshire outfit started brightly against the host Titans.

With many new players, the Redbacks have been working hard in the off season and their fitness and commitment to the ball was evident in the opening exchanges. Goals from Tom Sobush, Stu McKay, Joe Beardsmore, Lee Tarn and a cracker from Rob Kerr set up the Redbacks famous win 42-25.

Game two against the Bournemouth Demons was a physical encounter. The Demons polished skills put the Redbacks under early pressure. However, the Redbacks are made of sterner stuff this year and came back strongly through the tackling efforts of Johnny Hope-Smith, Paul Conway and Chris Matthews to win 36-28.

The third game versus the new side Portsmouth Pirates allowed the Redbacks to experiment and Fijians William Frederickson, Ratu and Ben got a real taste of the action putting some big hits on the unfortunate Pirates. A clutch of goals from Nick Hardick, Aaron Khan and a star appearance from Mr Terminator Dan Proctor enabled a comfortable 48-12 score line.

In game four the Redbacks started slowly and never recovered against the experienced and well organised Sussex Swans team. The Swans’ superior kicking and movement in both defence and attack, along with the 6 goal loss, gave the coaching team exactly what they were looking for. An opportunity to highlight areas to work on over the summer season.

Still, the Redbacks had qualified for their first ever semi final against the Titans. In another slow start though, the Redbacks, despite the sterling efforts of Tarn and Hope-Smith, never managed to build momentum. The earlier kicking and shepherding skills were off target and the Titans claimed the final berth.

Nevertheless, it was a superb day for the team from Wiltshire and a lot of seasoned observers were impressed by the team’s improvement. Lee Tarn won tournament best on ground for his rucking and all round quality.

Johnny Hope-Smith was voted team man of the day for his energy around the pitch. The 1st ARUK Walkabout Southern League game for the Redbacks is against the Southampton Titans on 18th April. For more information on fixtures and training see www.chippenhamredbacksaussierules.co.uk for details.

In an open and welcoming environment, new players (16+) and supporters are always welcome to join in this high paced, fantastic sport.