Rugby in the rain

I very rarely go to a live football or rugby game, but as Poland were playing rugby against Belgium in the European Nations Cup at the Polonia Stadium in Warsaw on Saturday, a few of us thought we’d go along. The last rugby game I watched live was the Middlesex Sevens in the UK back in the late 90’s and I’d forgotten how good the atmosphere can be. I have to say it was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon, albeit extremely wet.

Poland line-up before the game

Standing water around the pitch

Plenty of devoted fans blocking my view with big red and white towels..

Not quite Wembley, but close enough

The first half of the game was slow as the players adjusted to the slippery conditions and the wet ball. Belgium were giving Poland a run for their money, but Poland managed to keep the lead. In the second half, the game moved faster and Poland pulled ahead to a 14-3 victory. The majority of the game was friendly, however there were some moments when a couple of players from the Polish side became a little aggressive towards their opposition over a suspected ‘infringement’. The somewhat smaller referree was forced to wade in and intervene and use his stack of yellow cards for defence. A brave man indeed.

Poland's second penalty kick

The scrum

This time last year – International Children’s Day in Pole Mokotowskie and Wilanów.