When it comes to rugby journeys, Joshua Ree's trek from Christchurch in New Zealand's South Island to joining Darlington Mowden Park in Darlington, County Durham, in National One this season stands as one of the most extraordinary.
Ree, a talented fly-half, once honed his skills in the Crusaders' academy alongside stars such as All Blacks Tamati Williams and Fletcher Newell.
Today, Ree is making waves at the Darlington Arena and last Saturday, in one of the most dramatic finishes to a game in memory, Ree scored a winning length-of-the-field try after Cinderford missed a kick to win the game.
Ree remains modest about his contributions to the team.
He said: “Scoring the game-winning try going coast to coast was a surreal feeling. It felt like we had escaped a tricky situation. To be honest, it was quite unusual. Their kicker had been accurate throughout the game, but fortunately for us, he missed the crucial last kick. We spotted an opportunity and seized it.”
Ree acknowledged that Darlington were fortunate to secure the win in a close match. They now sit in mid-table after three games, having bounced back from defeat to Chinnor with victories against Sale FC and Cinderford.
He said: “It was a seesaw contest. We played pretty well in the firsthalf, but we didn't quite convert. Second half, they got themselves back in it. They're a decent side with a big forward pack and they were able to use it. We struggled to combat that in the second half. Both teams had chances to win it. We were quite lucky to come away from it in the end.”
He added: “We're happy with where we're trending, but we've still got quite a bit to work on going forward. Blackheath down at home will be tough this week. We're looking at improving again and seeing if we can push on.”
Ree praised the standard of rugby in England, acknowledging the differences from the style he was accustomed to in New Zealand.
He said: “I've been very impressed by the standard.
“It's different kind of rugby to what I'm used to. It's a very forward-dominated game here. It's a very high standard and it's enjoyable. Every game is a tough game.”
Darlington Mowden Park have recruited heavily and are targeting an ambitious top-six finish this season.
Ree is enjoying his time at the club and is optimistic about the team's prospects.
He noted: “We know we're a young side and 50 per cent of the squad is new this year.
“We're aiming for the top six. We know it will be tough, but it's definitely do-able. My goals are to just play the best rugby I can personally, help out the team in every way that I can and just enjoy rugby.
“I'm absolutely loving it here. They're a great bunch of fellas. They're very inclusive and very easy to get along with.”
