Leicester Lions
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Topic: Leicester Lions
Posted By: tigerburnie
Subject: Leicester Lions
Date Posted: 26 May 2023 at 09:46
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Following on from a comment re the Lions, I thought I'd introduce the side. Firstly I am only a member, I don't have anything to do with running the club, I am a former Wigston player, most of those running the Lions are former team mates of mine, I also went to school with most of them. This is from Wiki https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leicester_Lions_RFC" rel="nofollow - Leicester Lions RFC - Wikipedia What it doesn't give is the story behind the side coming together, Westleigh and Wigston were fierce local rivals, their club grounds were barely two miles apart, back in the day, along with Hinckley, they were the clubs thought of as the top junior sides in the county. When the game went pro and the leagues began a meeting brought about the desire to get a Leicestershire side in the National leagues. Wigston owned their own clubhouse, but the pitches were rented, Westleigh owned the lot, so the decision was taken to form the Lions at Westleigh Park, sell the Wigston club house to a local soccer team and start the journey. Ambition was to get into Nat 2 and consolidate their position, they came close to being relegated once and just missed out on promotion once as well. I've not spoken to anyone at the club recently, so not privy to any plans for the new campaign in Nat 1, but I do know they are looking forward to it and some plans on the commercial side are already under way. They have a new £2 million club house and it is successful as a local amenity, the club has three adult sides and a thriving mini and junior section, with some of their own talent now just breaking into the first team squad. In the past they have had dual registered players from both Leicester Tigers and Northampton Saints, though last season there was just one from the Tigers. I'm sure you will get a warm welcome for those who have not met the Lions before, pretty sure those who have not played at Blaby for a while will be delighted to know the old wooden clubhouse is no more, it is now the car park and the old first team pitch has a small housing estate on it, the sale of the bit of land paid for the new facilities.
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Replies:
Posted By: jimbojetset
Date Posted: 26 May 2023 at 11:55
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We played down at Leicester Lions the day we won National 2 North and I believe were the first visiting team to use the new clubhouse. A very warm welcome by the club and their supporters who also joined in with our celebrations post match. This was remarked upon by everyone who travelled down on the day, so, I suspect this will be one of our club "awaydays" this season :-) |
Posted By: Halliford
Date Posted: 26 May 2023 at 12:05
| I went there with Esher in 21/22. The lunch was enjoyable but my waistline struggled with tangerines and chips followed by apple pie and custard! Good ground, nice atmosphere! |
Posted By: Kimbo
Date Posted: 26 May 2023 at 14:50
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I still just have bad memories of watered-down beer* in the old clubhouse. The next, and last, time we went (another friendly) we were assured the brand new clubhouse would be open, but wasn't, for some reason. *Not deliberately; it was raining in through a hole in the roof, and landed in my pint. Yes, seriously.  ------------- Our Club |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 26 May 2023 at 14:55
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Cohazelnut rugby, you cannae beat it lol. Lions have a way to go to meet the Premiership minimum standards lol, but it is still a good venue to visit now.
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Posted By: Paul10
Date Posted: 26 May 2023 at 15:22
Interesting background. How did the 2 clubs go from being rivals to merging? It seems a tricky road to walk.
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tigerburnie wrote:Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 26 May 2023 at 15:56
| My memory of it was that they felt the two together rather than competing for players was the way to go forwards. Most of the off field people are ex Wigston, though there's still a membership of former Westleigh players, I think all are happy that the outcome has been a success both on and off the field. Lucky to have good support from sponsors, coaching staff and back room team. The players seem to have formed a unit capable of anything, I hope that they are all able to continue the journey. |
Posted By: Paul10
Date Posted: 26 May 2023 at 16:25
That's good to hear. I'm from South Wales and the priority for my rugby has always been bragging rights with the neighbours even if I haven't lived in Wales for nearly 3 decades... We'll face it soon enough.
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 26 May 2023 at 17:04
| Had some great Easter tours to South Wales back in the 1970's with Wigston, we'd have a mixed side out so asked for a second team fixture. Of course they would field their first team to try and make sure they beat the English, but that didn't always work, we managed to win a few, even when we had to stop a game whilst one of our props went off to be sick and then return, bad Welsh beer we reckoned was the problem, can't have been the quantity we drank lol. |
Posted By: Paul10
Date Posted: 27 May 2023 at 09:09
Very good! |
Posted By: RedPete
Date Posted: 28 May 2023 at 11:35
Feelin Foul or Skull Attack? ------------- Compassion for the conned, contempt for the conmen. |
Posted By: Paul10
Date Posted: 28 May 2023 at 11:46
RedPete sounds like the voice of experience. Both are of course decent enough Ales.
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Posted By: Kimbo
Date Posted: 28 May 2023 at 14:57
I've had some pretty rough Felinfoel in the distant past. The other, I've no idea about.
------------- Our Club |
Posted By: kingsheathlad
Date Posted: 28 May 2023 at 15:16
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Brains OK. ------------- Cauliflower ear. |
Posted By: Kimbo
Date Posted: 28 May 2023 at 16:03
Mine isn't... ------------- Our Club |
Posted By: workerbee
Date Posted: 28 May 2023 at 17:58
| It will be interesting to see what size crowds Leicester get in Nat 1, they have been showing figures in the 150 region so far can they cope with crowds of 600-800? |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 28 May 2023 at 18:44
| Just put another shrimp on the barby, be alright......................... |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 28 May 2023 at 18:46
According to Wiki the grounds capacity is 2000.
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Posted By: Halliford
Date Posted: 28 May 2023 at 19:16
| 2000 with seating only if you bring your own! |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 28 May 2023 at 20:37
No-one mentioned seats...........................
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Posted By: fatbear
Date Posted: 29 May 2023 at 18:46
Neither travel pretty well though !
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Posted By: Kimbo
Date Posted: 29 May 2023 at 22:14
What's that? Four deep all the way round? At least 500 will be able to watch the match then  ------------- Our Club |
Posted By: workerbee
Date Posted: 30 May 2023 at 09:31
| I have not been to Leicester since the new clubhouse was built and the pitch sold, is there a bigger car park otherwise that will cause issues. |
Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 30 May 2023 at 09:46
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Looking on Google Maps, other mapping software is available, I would say they have space for about 60 cars and a coach - and then there may be space in the golf club car park, if they are able to use that. ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 30 May 2023 at 10:50
| I'm sure they will be looking at these things, but no comments yet. |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 23 Jul 2023 at 12:56
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It seems the squad signings are complete, though no idea if any dr's from Leicester Tigers will materialise, we seem to have at least one each year. Some surprising omissions from the announced squad, but some exciting looking signings going into the new era for the club. First pre-season game squad announcement will be interesting, not long to go.
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2023 at 09:37
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Leicester Lions squad for the trip to Championship side Coventry this weekend, a few new faces and a few having retired. https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=868822894916702&set=a.250862013379463&__cft__%5b" rel="nofollow - https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=868822894916702&set=a.250862013379463&__cft__[ 0]
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2023 at 10:44
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I see Simon Koroiyadi starts, not sure if he is a new signing or a loan from Leicester Tigers? senior academy. Also the winger Satala was also in the Tigers academy last season.
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Posted By: All the Way
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2023 at 12:17
He was on loan to Birmingham Moseley last season and impressed. Don't know how many games he played, but sure someone will tell us. Barring injuries, I think BM is covered well in the back row this season.
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2023 at 12:30
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Coventry are taking this serious then.......................... https://www.zeeon.co.uk/gamehubplus/coventry-rugby-v-leicester-lions" rel="nofollow - Coventry Rugby v Leicester Lions | Zeeon
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2023 at 17:23
| 33-21 was not a bad effort, 7-7 at HT shows we have some talent and hopefully the side will click together. |
Posted By: Kimbo
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2023 at 17:46
No point doing anything else. However, splitting the 'better' players between first- and second-half teams certainly didn't help Cov's performance - neither did the absence of Pellegrini and Ryan*. Alex Rae will have learned much here, and I would expect a rather different strategy against Mose. As I've said elsewhere, Lions looked good, and while we can't pre-judge the quality of L3 this season, I'd be surprised if they're not near the top at the death, on this showing at least. *Edit: And Chudley. How did I forget Chudley?
------------- Our Club |
Posted By: Kimbo
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2023 at 17:49
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BTW, the lad that scored the final Lions try has some serious wheels...
Edit: Stubbs? ------------- Our Club |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 19 Aug 2023 at 18:00
| I don't think Lions have a plan for promotion this year lol. I would guess it's about consolidating their position in the league, alphabetically they sit seventh, I would take that as a position at the end of the season lol. |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2023 at 10:18
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Well the new season in a new league is almost upon us, how will it go? In the prediction league only one other person thinks the Lions will get anything out of the game with Sale and to be fair, whilst we are guessing, it is a fair assumption. Can Sale carry on from last season, will they take a further step? Can the Lions carry forward their impressive league performance from last season? Exciting to see some rugby again, let's hope all keep fit and well for the coming season.
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Posted By: All the Way
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2023 at 12:37
| NAT 1 is a very competitive league and there are few givens. Over the years some clubs have performed very well in their first season in the league, and continue to do so. Therefore, I would not be surprised if LL or the other newly promoted teams do the same. Best of luck, I hope it's a great season and one not spoilt by adapting and interpreting the new tackle laws. |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 29 Aug 2023 at 14:13
| It's all unknown territory, the Lions won their last pre season game comfortably in the end and made a very good showing against Championship side Coventry, however we all know a couple of injuries can have a profound effect on a clubs season, I just hope all keep well this season, not just at the Lions. |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 08 Sep 2023 at 17:05
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Lions team for the visit to Cinderford https://twitter.com/LeicsLionsRFC/status/1700089980284981402/photo/1" rel="nofollow - https://twitter.com/LeicsLionsRFC/status/1700089980284981402/photo/1
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 09 Sep 2023 at 15:28
| I cannot find any feed for this game from Lions or Cinderford. The Lions Colts team are at home against Leicester Vipers Colts today, not found any info on that either |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 22 Sep 2023 at 12:49
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If anyone fancies lunch and a game in Leicester and not going to Welford Road to watch the Tigers in the Premiership cup, you'd better book early https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=890661809399477&set=a.250862006712797" rel="nofollow - Facebook
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 22 Sep 2023 at 19:57
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https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=890896789375979&set=a.250862006712797" rel="nofollow - Facebook
Geordie Irvine looks like a very useful addition to the squad.
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Posted By: Camquin
Date Posted: 22 Sep 2023 at 20:28
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He was at Cambridge last season for a few games. ------------- Sweeney Delenda Est |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 22 Sep 2023 at 20:42
| Seems he had a game with Northampton Saints last year too. |
Posted By: Kimbo
Date Posted: 22 Sep 2023 at 21:25
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Played for Bedford, and scored a try, against Covin the cup last season. ------------- Our Club |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 08 Oct 2023 at 11:53
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Leicester Lions minis and juniors now have a colts team as well, big win for them this weekend https://www.facebook.com/leicesterlionsrfc/" rel="nofollow - Leicester Lions Rugby Club | Leicester | Facebook
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Posted By: Paul10
Date Posted: 08 Oct 2023 at 12:06
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Sounds like a saints academy product. I was talking to a mum of the current crop. Her lad is in a bulking and strength phase and expects him to play for Cambridge or Bedford later in the year.
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 13 Oct 2023 at 17:35
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Congratulations to Ethan on 100 club appearances for the Lions tomorrow https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=904663127999345&set=pcb.904663221332669" rel="nofollow - Facebook
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Posted By: Jester10
Date Posted: 13 Oct 2023 at 18:22
Looking forward to my first visit to Lions tomorrow with Rams ------------- Enjoying life! |
Posted By: Rabbie Burns
Date Posted: 13 Oct 2023 at 19:45
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Very nice ground & clubhouse ------------- So many Christians not enough Lions |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 13 Oct 2023 at 20:08
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The Lions are a relatively new club formed by two clubs joining together and try to get into the National leagues, Nat 1 for the first time is a bit of a dream they planned for. The reality of the step up is something I believe this group can do and put together some results, but it will take a while to adjust. Sadly the very tight group that won the promotion was hit with some key players retiring, but the new players are showing they are a match for what went before, just need the side to gel and that will come from playing these top clubs in the league. The clubhouse is quite new, built from the proceeds of selling the old first team pitch for housing. Hoping with Tigers playing Bristol tonight there might be a few of their fans coming down to see what all the fuss is about.
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 14 Oct 2023 at 11:17
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Here's todays digital program for the Rams visit to Westleigh Park https://publuu.com/flip-book/228604/627320/page/1" rel="nofollow - Rams Programme (publuu.com)
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 16 Oct 2023 at 17:10
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Leicester Lions have a friendly arranged https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=906678437797814&set=a.250862006712797" rel="nofollow - Facebook
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 19 Oct 2023 at 11:08
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Mid week game result, quite a few loanees that the Lions were having a look at, plus some of the development team along with a couple of first team players. https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=908484654283859&set=a.250862006712797" rel="nofollow - Facebook |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 24 Oct 2023 at 13:16
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For those in the area the Lions have two floodlit junior games on the Friday evening with free entry and the bar open [ https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=909758184156506&set=a.250862006712797" rel="nofollow - www.facebook.com ] |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 26 Jan 2024 at 16:24
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Leicester Lions welcome back Geordie Irvine from a spell with Cambridge, Simon Koroyadi starts at number 8 in place of the injured Nick Cairns and Charlie Davis starts on the wing, Loosehead Aaron Dawson returns from injury in place of Tim Hoyt who is on the bench at the Stoop for tonight's Tigers game against Harlequins. https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=972320927900231&set=a.250862006712797" rel="nofollow - https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=972320927900231&set=a.250862006712797
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 02 Feb 2024 at 15:57
| Having seen the team sheet for tomorrow I've changed my prediction, might regret it, but a very good squad for tomorrow who are on a roll. |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 05 Feb 2024 at 11:46
| Huge game this weekend in what might be a new Midlands derby game, Moseley had the better of the game at Billesley Common, where the Lions picked up a losing bonus point and will no doubt be aiming to take advantage of being at home and get another win under their belts. The weather is forecast for light winds and light rain, with no game at Welford Road it is hoped a few Tigers fans will come along and swell the crowd for what promises to be great game. |
Posted By: Wobbler
Date Posted: 05 Feb 2024 at 12:45
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Mose will be bringing a coachful along with independent travellers too, looking forward to ticking off another new ground. ------------- moseleyfans.wix.com/moseleyfans |
Posted By: CJB1
Date Posted: 07 Feb 2024 at 10:00
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Moseley match preview https://moseleyrugby.co.uk/match-previews/2023-24/leicester-lions-v-birmingham-moseley-sat-10th-february/" rel="nofollow - https://moseleyrugby.co.uk/match-previews/2023-24/leicester-lions-v-birmingham-moseley-sat-10th-february/ ------------- "What I need is a strong drink and a peer group" |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 07 Feb 2024 at 12:06
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Leicester Lions don't do a pre match review, so I'll have a go myself Midlands Derby match Westleigh Park Blaby 10th February 2.00 pm kick off. This will be Moseley's first visit to the Lions den and after a close encounter at Moseley's where the Lions secured a losing bonus point. Much has gone on since that early season match with the Lions finding their feet in the league at last and stringing together a run of four successive victories, including impressive away wins at Richmond and Blackheath. Moseley are pushing at the top of the league and are sure to be trying to take advantage of their rivals Plymouth Albion's loss at the Lions last week to gain a place in the league. The Lions now sit above the relegation drop zone, but it is very tight with few points separating the sides and the Lions will be keen to press home their advantage of playing at their own ground as they strive for safety. The fans are divided on the Rolling Mauls weekly match prediction league so it would seem the outcome is very much in the balance. Wishing those travelling to the ground have a safe journey and that they enjoy their visit.
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 10 Feb 2024 at 11:40
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Digital program for the visit of Moseley to the Lions den https://publuu.com/flip-book/228604/892895/page/1" rel="nofollow - Moseley Programme (publuu.com)
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Posted By: semisonic
Date Posted: 13 Feb 2024 at 23:11
| Having watched the replay of the Lions - Moseley game on YouTube, the actions of the Lions 16 (Drew Rudkin if the programme is correct) when Danny Eite gets hit and falls down are exceptional, gets the ref to blow up and straight into the mouth to clear his airway. Real class and quick thinking there. |
Posted By: Se7en
Date Posted: 16 Feb 2024 at 19:14
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Leicester Lions visit Rams at OBR for the first time tomorrow, and did very well beating them at their place earlier in the season. I see that the MoM that day, Geordie Irvine, is not in the squad for tomorrow? He has been a regular for Cambridge in the Champ also, but is he now back with Saints? I also saw on the Lions twitter feed that their squad is still stacked with Prem players and England U20 internationals: https://twitter.com/LeicesterTigers" rel="nofollow - @LeicesterTigers โ Charlie Myall returns from injury
 https://twitter.com/SaintsRugby" rel="nofollow - @SaintsRugby โs Emeka Atuanya returns
 Will Glister and Malelili Satala are back from England U20 duty
 Will Roberts and Nick Cairns return to the benchI don't know much about Leicester Lions, so wondered if anyone knew how many of these lads are homegrown from the club? I know they have produced former international players in the likes of Deacon a few years ago. Thanks, and hoping for another cracking Nat 1 game tomorrow!
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 16 Feb 2024 at 19:28
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16 of the squad are Lions, Emeka and Will are Northampton products with Malelili and Charlie Myall both Tigers products. All four were registered to the Lions as dual registered at the beginning of the season and have played before Christmas, but both host teams do call them back, indeed some have played for other National league sides. Fin Ogden is a former Lion who has signed with Coventry, but is back on loan and has been for a while and Will Roberts, a Lion for many seasons returns this week after a brush with stardom having come off the bench for Leicester Tigers in their friendly last Friday against Nottingham, so the Lions also loan players out too. https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=986878243111166&set=a.250862006712797" rel="nofollow - Facebook
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Posted By: Clive Norling
Date Posted: 17 Feb 2024 at 18:59
So technically 5 loan players out of 20 match day squad โฆ your man from Coventry cannot be classed as a Lion if heโs signed for Coventry? |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 17 Feb 2024 at 19:46
Unless he has left Coventry and returned, not too sure is the answer
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Posted By: Jester10
Date Posted: 17 Feb 2024 at 22:25
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Don't often post these days. Leicester Loanees' were one of the worst sides I've seen at OBR this season, possibly because they didn't know each other. ------------- Enjoying life! |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 18 Feb 2024 at 21:00
| Good enough to beat you at Westleigh Park, not sure if the sheep shaggers were the worst side to visit this year though. This side is still new to this league, but have been together since the first day of the season. |
Posted By: Clive Norling
Date Posted: 19 Feb 2024 at 09:01
Indeed you were and thoroughly deserved โฆ. I hope we donโt rue the 3 points dropped in the last minute to yourselves and the 3 points dropped in the last minute of the next game at home to DMP โฆ. Those 6 points would have made a massive difference to the table for us โฆ |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 19 Feb 2024 at 10:03
| Quite right Clive, but as a relatively young side finding their feet in this league has it's up's and downs. Going on the comments I read from folk at the other clubs, the Lions are described as an exciting club who like to play expansive rugby with threats all over the park. Playing what some may describe as high risk rugby trying to run the ball from everywhere and both enjoying themselves and hopefully entertaining the crowd, they will have those tough days at the office as the Lions head coach describes it. Hopefully we can remain at this level and if we do, then the experience of this season will stand us in good stead for the future. Almost all of this squad played last season in National 2 West, a couple of key players retired and recruitment is something the club is doing. The minis and juniors now have a colts side and one of those colts is now part of the adult team development, playing a couple of games last season in Nat 2. This club is growing and will experience some knock backs against those clubs with many years of experience at this level or in the Championship, the clubs performances have been encouraging and the results are what they are, promising, they will continue to try their best and grow. |
Posted By: Jester10
Date Posted: 19 Feb 2024 at 10:17
Apologies Tiger, my comment wasn't really justified - note to self, don't post after a boozy dinner party. Best of luck for the remainder of the season. ------------- Enjoying life! |
Posted By: Clive Norling
Date Posted: 19 Feb 2024 at 10:37
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 19 Feb 2024 at 10:47
| No need to apologise, we battle on the pitch and share a beer afterwards as the best of mates |
Posted By: Clive Norling
Date Posted: 19 Feb 2024 at 15:15
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Posted By: No 7
Date Posted: 19 Feb 2024 at 15:19
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What is the max amount of clapping emojo's possible ........just trying guage the extent of applause possible. ------------- Ambition should be made of sterner stuff. |
Posted By: Clive Norling
Date Posted: 19 Feb 2024 at 15:34
Well if Iโm busy chatting to Conor OโShea, I have far less time to upload emojiโs ๐ |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 29 Feb 2024 at 22:46
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Try highlights from the Lions last week https://www.facebook.com/leicesterlionsrfc/videos/810529650875477/" rel="nofollow - ๐ฅ ๐๐๐๐ฅ๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ญ๐ฌ Tries from the bonus point win over Sedgley Tigers RUFC For full match footage head to our you tube channel ๐... | By Leicester Lions Rugby ClubFacebook | Facebook
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 16 Mar 2024 at 09:29
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Todays digital program for the visit of Taunton Titans to Westleigh Park in this battle for Nat 1 survival, should be a corker with so much at stake for both sides. https://publuu.com/flip-book/228604/980792/page/2" rel="nofollow - Taunton Programme (publuu.com)
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 17 Mar 2024 at 21:11
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Match report Leicester Lions 29 Taunton Titans 21
The Lions boosted their chances of survival with a well earned bonus point win against struggling Taunton who remain bottom of the table. The home side dominated territory in the opening exchanges thanks to some raking kicks from the impressive Luke Boucher and were rewarded on 5 minutes when James Stubbs profited from an inside pass from Joe Brock who had made a line break out wide. The Lions were moving the ball wide and finding space on the edges, and they doubled their lead on 13 minutes when Joey Patrick found himself on the end of another flowing move. The first half rout was completed on 31 minutes when a clever chip from Dan Lewis was collected by Jamel Hamilton to score under the posts. Lewis converted all three scores to give the Lions a commanding 21-0 lead at the break. The only blight on an otherwise excellent first half for the Lions was a late yellow card for back row Simon Johnson, who was sent to the bin for a high tackle following a team warning for the same offence. Taunton came out for the second half on the front foot and scored almost immediately when a kick through took a nasty bounce and was retrieved by scrum half Connor Banks who ran in under the sticks. The Lions quickly regained control of the contest though and a Lewis penalty extended their lead before securing the bonus point try when number 8 Nick Cairns picked from the base of a scrum and crashed over in the corner. Credit has to be given to the visitors though who, at 29-7 down going in to the last quarter, rallied and put the home side under real pressure. Firstly Charlie Wright scored from close range with 10 minutes remaining and then with time up fly half Frankie Dart finished off a line break from Deago Bailey to score a deserved consolation score. Leicester Lions head coach commented after the game: โโObviously it was a huge game for both sides so we are delighted with the win. Off the back of a disappointing display at Rosslyn Park last week it was also a performance we can build on. We showed real maturity for most of the game and we will certainly take the positives in to another massive game at Stortford next week.โโ |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 22 Mar 2024 at 16:55
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https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1009638477501809&set=a.250862006712797" rel="nofollow - Facebook
Strong Lions side at full strength, so should be a great contest
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 05 Apr 2024 at 19:45
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https://www.facebook.com/leicesterlionsrfc/" rel="nofollow - https://www.facebook.com/leicesterlionsrfc/ Quick looking Lions side, not sure the weather will be conducive to fast open rugby though. |
Posted By: fatbear
Date Posted: 05 Apr 2024 at 20:08
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And the Chinnor side ! https://twitter.com/ChinnorRFCThame/status/1776248626596966857/photo/1" rel="nofollow - https://twitter.com/ChinnorRFCThame/status/1776248626596966857/photo/1
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Posted By: fatbear
Date Posted: 06 Apr 2024 at 21:41
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Fatbear's report on today's game https://fatbearssportingdiaries.blogspot.com/2024/04/chinnor-42-12-leicester-lions-att-2700.html" rel="nofollow - https://fatbearssportingdiaries.blogspot.com/2024/04/chinnor-42-12-leicester-lions-att-2700.html
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Posted By: NeverbeentoChinnor
Date Posted: 07 Apr 2024 at 12:14
A few more abstension weekends and perhaps your pen name will need revision .Those final two fixtures will not be easy and it would be just like this league to throw up a surprise in the next round of matches. Is there any word on the street about re-signing of star players and management assuming mission is accomplished by season end? (probably jumping the gun with that question).
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Posted By: fatbear
Date Posted: 07 Apr 2024 at 12:28
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NBTC I just had to make up for it after the game ! I'm not party to any of the club's plans, I just watch the games. They did announce before the match that it was the last home games for Willie Ryan and Mark Darlington as they are both retiring at the end of the season. Ryan will be a huge loss. I suspect the retention and new hires will be something for after the season has ended, and perhaps knowing which league they will be playing in, and set budgets accordingly.
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 07 Apr 2024 at 20:43
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Lions match report Chinnor 42 Leicester Lions 12
It was always going to be a tough task, away at a side who hadn't lost at home this term and had scored 80 points in both their last two outings there. To add to the challenge the Lions were without Oliver Taylor who sustained an injury against Bishop's Stortford, and without another registered hooker available, Isaac Thompson had to step in to an unfamiliar position for him. It must be said that he, and the rest of the team, did an incredible job of competing with Chinnor's firepower, but the league leaders deservedly took the spoils. In very blustery conditions Chinnor kicked off against the wind and immediately won the first loose ball as the Lions failed to claim the hanging kick. A powerful carry from the Chinnor prop, Hardwick, led to their number 8, Ryan, crashing over for an early lead. Fly-half Worboys converted for a very early 7-0 lead. The Lions responded well though, moving the ball wide in very difficult conditions, and had a couple of scoring opportunities from lineouts, but a lack of accuracy let them down. On the other hand, the Chinnor set piece was functioning very well and the Lions pack were struggling to deal with big pack's driving game, and on 19 minutes the pressure told when a clever front peel move led to a try for Chinnor's scrum half, Carter. Again the score was converted by Worboys for 14-0. The Lions struck back 5 minutes later though after some really neat interplay from the back line released Malelli Satala to score in the corner. Dan Lewis added the very difficult conversion from out wide to half the deficit to 14-7. With the wind at their backs, the Lions were the dominant force in the game, but their lack of accuracy denied them a number of other scoring opportunities. Chinnor were proving very clinical though, and when a turnover led to a break, the impressive centre Passman hit a hard line and raced away to score, just as he had done at Westleigh Park in the first fixture between these two sides. Worboys added the easy extras for a 21-7 half time lead. The Lions were always going to struggle in the second half, now playing against the strong wind and the slope, and predictably it was the home side who got on the scoreboard first, on 50 minutes, when Goss crossed to secure the try bonus point. 5 minutes later the contest was certainly ended when the very impressive Worboys ran clear following another effective catch and drive. Worboys converted both for an unassailable 35-7 lead. To the young Lions' credit they continued to attack with pace and creativity, and it took some excellent and determined scrambling defence from the home side to keep them out. The Lions were eventually rewarded for their efforts on 65 minutes when Isaac Thompson crashed over from close range after a period of exerted pressure. (35-14). Just had been the case towards the end of the first half, the Lions were dominating the ball and field position, but as they chased a try-bonus point, it was the efficient Chinnor who gained the final score when their captain Willie Ryan crashed over for his second. Worboys completed a flawless afternoon off the tee for a 42-12 victory. Head coach Gareth Collins commented: โIt was always going to be a tough task, especially with the injuries we experienced this week. Our aim was to come here and score 4 tries and I actually felt our performance deserved that. Chinnor are a really powerful side, and are top of the league for a reason, so there was a lot of positives from our performance that we can take in to the two huge games that we now have.โ Chinnor- Feeney, Hughes, Passman, Bourton, Goss, Worboys, Carter, Ryan, Clementson, Stokes, Brocksmidt, Curry, Hardwick, Walker, Lines. Replacements- Woodward, Darlington, Clarke, Clifford, Chamberlain. Lions- Patrick, Satala, Hamilton, Bouchier, Davies, Lewis, Stubbs, Williams, Thompson, Dawson, Godefroy, Ward, Koroiyadi, Johnson, Cairns. Replacements- Roberts, Crane, Coulson, Veebel, Ogden. |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 10 Apr 2024 at 10:56
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https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1021919309607059&set=pcb.1021920489606941" rel="nofollow - Facebook
Lions juniors travelled to Chinnor to play their opposite numbers, the game looks to be in good hands with so many youngsters playing and enjoying themselves.
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 12 Apr 2024 at 13:32
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The Lions are boosted by the return of vice captain Olly Taylor and returnees from England under 20's and under 19's internationals duty in Toby Cousins and Charlie Myall on the bench.
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1023853999413590&set=a.250862006712797" rel="nofollow - (1) Facebook
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 13 Apr 2024 at 09:44
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Todays digital program for the visit of DMP to Westleigh Park. https://publuu.com/flip-book/228604/1046167" rel="nofollow - DMP Programme (publuu.com)
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 14 Apr 2024 at 22:01
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Leicester Lions 43 - 10 Darlington Mowden Park Lions moved one step closer to safety with a convincing bonus point victory over Mowden Park. The visitors dominated the early exchanges but resolute Lions defence held them out and it was the home side who scored first when a driving maul was finished off by Oliver Taylor on 18 minutes. The game remained in the balance though and Mowden levelled ten minutes later when centre Ben Frankland crossed following a nice line in midfield. The Lions scored a crucial try with the last play of the first half when the impressive Nick Cairns crashed over in the corner and Dan Lewis converted for a deserved 12-5 lead at the break. Now playing with the wind at their backs, the Lions were dominating territory, and were rewarded with three unanswered tries from Joey Patrick, England Under 20 starlet Toby Cousins, and finally Jamel Hamilton who profited from an interception to give the home side a commanding 29-5 lead. The Lions scrum was proving too strong for Mowden, and with two players in the sin bin for the visitors, Lewis scored under the posts and then duly converted his own score to move the home side in to an unassailable 36-5 lead. Darlington scored a consolation try with 5 minutes to go when replacement winger Nathan Greenwood outstripped the covering defence to cross in the corner but deservedly the Lions got the last score when Dan Lewis intercepted and ran in from distance. He converted again to take his personal haul to 18 points for the day. The Lions now sit one point behind Bishop's Stortford, two points ahead of Taunton and four points ahead of Cinderford, with one game to play. Two of the four sides will be relegated following the last round of fixtures on 27th April. Cinderford host Bishop's Stortford, Taunton travel to Blackheath and the Lions will be visiting Sale. Head coach Gareth Collins commented; ''Obviously there was a lot of pressure on us today so I'm delighted with how well the group dealt with that and performed the way they did. DMP are a really dangerous side and they threw the ball around just as we expected them to. We had to work hard defensively for the opening quarter, so to come out of that without conceding was really pleasing and I thought our attack was excellent. Whatever happens next week we can be really proud of what we've achieved this season, however we'll be going to Sale desperate to stay up and will give it everything we've got to try and make that happen.''๏ปฟ Leicester Lions (15-9, 1-8): Patrick, Cousins, Hamilton, Bouchier, Davies, Lewis, Stubbs, Williams (c), Taylor, Thompson, Godefroy, Ward, Koroiyadi, Johnson, Cairns. Reps; Roberts, Dawson, Crane, Myall, Ogden. Darlington Mowden Park (15-9, 1-8): Ree, McTurk, Mackenzie, Frankland, Hadfield, Law, Pascoe, Baron, Kyle-Clay, Harrison, Usher, Craggs, Smith, Fantini, Hodgson. Reps: Fraine, Guest, Vaioleti, Rickard, Greenwood.
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 17 Apr 2024 at 18:43
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Trylights from Lions last game https://www.facebook.com/leicesterlionsrfc/videos/738049861864690" rel="nofollow - Facebook
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Posted By: Kimbo
Date Posted: 17 Apr 2024 at 18:52
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Is Dan Lewis leaving Lions at the end of the season? He's certainly leaving his Media Manager post at Cov for a position in F1.
------------- Our Club |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 17 Apr 2024 at 19:08
Dunno Kimbo, he has certainly been an asset for the Lions this season.
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Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 28 Apr 2024 at 15:15
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Lions under 10's won the county final at the Tigers Welford Road ground before the Premiership game yesterday https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1034853668313623&set=a.250862006712797" rel="nofollow - (3) Facebook
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Posted By: FHLH
Date Posted: 29 Apr 2024 at 05:48
...... and thus is born the future of the game, including the Premiership, thanks to selfless volunteers, rather than RFU funded development schemes------------- "My father told me big men fall just as quick as little ones, if you put a sword through their hearts." |
Posted By: tigerburnie
Date Posted: 02 May 2024 at 21:40
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Sale FC 14 Leicester Lions 23 The Lions travelled to Sale on the final day of the season knowing that a win would secure their National 1 status but a loss would most likely result in relegation. The home side started strongly but the Lions defence held firm and secured the first points of the game when Dan Lewis kicked a straightforward penalty from directly in front of the posts following the Lions' first visit to their opponents 22. He then added a second on 18 minutes to give the Lions a 0-6 lead. Both sides had plenty of attacking opportunities but it was the Lions who struck first when the impressive Joey Patrick kicked in to space from half way and then won the race for the ball to touch down in the corner. Lewis was on target again with the extras. 0-13 It had been an even contest for the first half and Sale deservedly got on the scoreboard just before half time when centre Connor Doherty crashed over from close range following a period of exerted pressure from the home side. James Robins converted to reduce the arrears. HT 7-13 The second half started much as the first half did, with both sides having periods of territory. This time it was Sale who struck first though as winger Tom Walsh finished off the back of a long pass. Robins converted again to give the hosts a narrow lead. 14-13 With time ebbing away, and news that Taunton were winning at Blackheath, the Lions were really up against it. They did come close following an Ethan Godefroy break but a turnover close to to the Sale line was picked up by Tom Walsh for what looked like an easy run-in for the pacy winger. However, in what was to be a game defining moment, Toby Cousins turned and caught the flying winger and proceeded to turn the ball over. The Lions then worked their way up the pitch and earned a penalty which Luke Bouchier dispatched from 35 metres to give the Lions a narrow lead with just 5 minutes to play. 14-16 With just a couple of minutes left to play the Lions' safety was guaranteed when they moved the ball at pace in the backs to release Patrick who beat a number of covering defenders to score his second of the game. Bouchier converting again. 14-23 All that was left to do was claim the kick off and kick the ball out, which the Lions did, and in doing so secured another historic victory and a place in National 1 for next season. Head coach Gareth Collins commented: '' Today was a pretty good reflection of the season really. We started well but then found ourselves in a hole, despite playing well. However we continued to work hard and found a way to come back. Once again the character of the side to dig ourselves out of that hole was unreal. You would never chose to be in that situation to be down with minutes to go but then win it at the death to stay up is pretty special.'' He added: ''It means everything to us to have survived. The group has worked so hard and stuck together all year. It was always going to take time to find our feet at this level but our form in the second half of the season has proved that we are a Nat 1 side.''
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