The spectator, Phil Torkington (injured), was buzzing with anticipation for the 9:30am kick-off of the third fixture of Walking Rugby, held on the all-weather pitch at the Haberden ground.

Within minutes, in an event worthy of Hollywood, the Club’s President, Barry Cole, gathered the ball on the wing and burst over the line to open the scoring for the Others. Play resumed quickly, though Barry’s burst required some taping up.

The score was one all at the first pee break, thanks to an equaliser from Tim “Smoothas” Silk. His earlier attempt had been disallowed due to forgetting it was walking rugby.

The second quarter was postponed due to a sudden downpour, and the teams retired to the clubhouse to discuss pressing topics like the escalating cost of surgical supports.

Once the rain shower passed, the third quarter commenced. Due to masterful defence and tight marking, each side only managed one try. Duncan Drye, in a display of speed and agility belying his 76 years, touched down in the corner for the Others. Toby Hill lumbered over the line for a soft score for the Bibs.

All to play for going into the final quarter at two all: the spectator was visibly excited, though his brave attempt at a Mexican wave didn’t quite work.

The scoring was opened by Steve Newman, who powered over the line as if Harley-mounted, to put the Bibs ahead. The evergreen Barry Cole then touched down again to make it a heart-stopping 3–3, (medication-assisted, of course).

As the end approached, David “the Tortoise” Riedell, using a combination of multiple dummies and clever interplay with Steve Heffer, scored the winning try, giving the Bibs a 4–3 victory.

The entire field retired to the clubhouse for restorative coffees and to recount ever-more-imaginative versions of their prowess on the pitch.

Walking Rugby Overview
Walking rugby is a modified, no-contact version of the traditional 15-a-side game, with some similarities to Rugby League. It's played on a five-a-side football pitch and follows these key rules:

Walking only: One foot must be on the ground at all times.
Tackles: Made by a two-hand touch.
Ball turnover: After six tackles, the ball passes to the defending side.
No kicking (of the ball).
Passing: Must be backwards only.
Knock-on: If the ball is knocked forward, possession goes to the opposition.
Game format: Played in four 10-minute quarters, with 5-minute breaks.
Teams: Maximum of 7 players per side.

Join Us!
Bury Rugby Club welcomes new players—come and join in, or chat with us any Wednesday at 9:30am.