GALLERY: March Bears players old and new remember former vice president in Doug Cranwell memorial game
March Bears rugby v Invitation side. Picture: Steve Williams. - Credit: Archant
March Bears paid tribute to a much loved former club vice president on Saturday.
March Bears rugby v Invitation side. Picture: Steve Williams. - Credit: Archant
A Bears side made up of current and retired players took on Thorney in the annual Doug Cranwell memorial game.
March Bears rugby v Invitation side. Picture: Steve Williams. - Credit: Archant
Mr Cranwell, who was also a founding member of Ely Rugby Club, died in a car crash in September 2010.
His son, former Bears player Steve Cranwell, attended the game.
On the pitch, Bears put up a spirited showing but Thorney ran out 38-17 winners.
Thorney broke the deadlock through a converted try but March immediately hit back through James Garton’s unconverted try.
Good rucking and mauling from the Thorney pack saw them get their second try but Jamie Kerse then powered over for the Bears second try.
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Thorney then ran in two more tries to lead 26-10 at half time.
After the break, Garton bagged his second try of the game, which Andy Larham converted to make it 26-17.
But, despite March’s resilient defence, Thorney added two more tries to seal the win.
Club president Barry Feetham said: “I’d like to say a big thank you to all the volunteers who greatly contributed to making the day a success and Thorney for sending a side over at short notice.
“It was an enjoyable game, Thorney deserved their win in a game was watched a large crowd of old players, friends and people who have been involved with the club from day one.”
