The “Expandables” veterans’ tournament in Boitfort

A most positive result overall, with lots of fun for players and supporters! That was the impression felt by the EPXV team at the “The Expandables” veterans’ tournament, superbly organised by the hosts, RC Boitsfort. Ten teams from Belgium and France took part in this one-day event, where 10-a-side teams competed on a half-pitch field. To kick off the “on-field confrontations,” the EPXV faced ASUB—old acquaintances who had put our fledgling team to the sword on their home turf last year. This time, our more experienced and better-prepared team prevailed over our nemesis, clearly demonstrating the progress EPXV has made in a little over a year.

This exceptional start was followed by another victory against a local team, before things got somewhat more complicated. First came Sèvre-Chaville, a team from the Paris suburbs, then the Salgones, who had travelled all the way from Lyon. Both managed to beat our team, thanks in particular to their much larger benches. An early lesson from the tournament: EPXV must have more than one replacement on the bench! Two victories in four matches ensured that EPXV finished 3rd in Pool B, earning the chance to play a classification match against the 3rd-placed team in Pool A—ultimately ending the day in 5th place.

To say “mission accomplished” would be an understatement. Determined to finish on a high, our players brought the necessary intensity to their tackling, taking control of the final match. The tone was soon set, and a feast of tries ensued—six in total, with none conceded. This spoke volumes about the grit and determination of our team, all while embracing the spirit and friendliness of the event. The 5th place finish was celebrated with a few well-deserved beers and the feeling that our ambitions had been fulfilled.

Two years earlier, our fledgling team—still in full construction—secured two victories in five matches, including a victory of esteem against our gracious hosts, Boitsfort. This time, with three wins in five matches, and a memorable defensive and offensive festival as the final flourish, EPXV was able to showcase its significant progress during a tournament as convivial and well organised as ever by our hosts from Boitsfort. Special thanks to them, and to Milan Jaron, who transferred from La Hulpe to join our team— and well done to the tournament winners!