Snails too fast for league old boys

The Silverdale Snails (green strip) outran the Raiders Old Boys in the annual Jock Rudolph Clash of the Codes. Photos, Roger Reid

The Jock Rudolph Clash of the Codes trophy has been handed over to Silverdale Snails for just the third time in around 24 years that it has been contested.

The 50/50 rugby and league match is held annually between the Snails and the Raiders Old Boys, in honour of Jock, a popular player who represented both clubs in his day, but died in a workplace accident.

The team members who play for the trophy are all over 35 years of age – some considerably older than that.

The game took place on Sunday, September 24 at Raiders’ grounds in Stanmore Bay. The first half was played under rugby union rules, followed by the switch to league. A dominant performance by the Snails, including superior pace, saw them outflank the Raiders. At the break, Snails led 8-2 and eventually took the win, 10 tries to 1.

Although the match is always a competitive one, it is known for its great spirit, uniting both codes in a love for the oval ball sports.