The final game of the season was played in front of one of the largest crowds ever assembled at Cross in Hand. The home club laid on hospitality for their sponsors and vice Presidents before the Greenies completed their league programme with a victory and a 100% record. Most of The clubs sponsors were represented including their main sponsors Wrightsure who have supported them for more than five years. Festivities began at midday with Heathfield`s league winning Boars team entertaining and defeating a reinforced Hellingly side and continued late into the evening after Sussex President elect Roger Edmondson had presented the Sussex Division 1 trophy. It was a day to remember for Heathfield and Waldron RFC.

The Greenies overcame a spirited Seaford side with an efficient display of rugby and yet again their opponents failed to cross the try line. Playing into a strong wind in the first half the home side went onto the attack and scored an early try thorough their top try scorer Rob Lawrence with a well practised catch and drive from a lineout near Seaford’s line. Seaford used the wind to gain some territorial advantage and responded with a penalty. Heathfield returned to the attack with Bryn Jones judging a cross kick to perfection for Matt Skinner to collect and make ground before feeding winger Seb Jones for the try. The wind was making place kicking difficult but Heathfield turned round at half time with a 12-6 lead.

Heathfield opened the scoring in the second half with a pushover try by their number 8 Simon Wilson. This score in effect sealed the win and Heathfield`s 100% record because after resisting the home side for long periods Seaford had a front row injury which resulted in uncontested scrum and then hit the self destruct button by having two players yellow carded inside five minutes. First a Seaford player committed a professional foul to prevent a certain Heathfield try and then the referee correctly gave a second yellow card  for stamping. The match was put out of reach by an interception from George Leney who ran half the length of the field to score under the posts. The score did not really reflect the run of the game because although they did not look like crossing Heathfield`s line , Seaford played much good rugby . While the Greenies were not at their sharpest,  they rewarded their coach and their supporters with a thoroughly competent performance. After the game they received the Sussex Division 1 cup and man of the match Mark “Kiwi” Walker was awarded a Greenies blazer in recognition of his outstanding play and sportsmanship during his two years with the club. All his friends at Heathfield wish him every success when we returns to New Zealand.

Report by Mike de St Croix

Sussex President Elect Roger Edmonson presents the Sussex One League Trophy to Bryn Jones.

Mark 'Kiwi' Walker was presented with a Club blazer after his final game for the Club prior to returning to New Zealand.

Celebrations

More Celebrations...

4/12/2008 1:37:48 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

This local derby match was robustly contested but played in good spirit under the watchful eye of a thoroughly competent referee. Heathfield played all the rugby and proved to a huge crowd exactly why they are Sussex Division 1 champions with a one hundred percent record. They dominated this match from beginning to end scoring four good tries in the process. As has so often been the case this season the Greenies pack were awesome especially at the lineout and in the loose. Uckfield competed well in the tight but the speed and power of the Greenies eight dictated the course of the match. Kiwi Mark Walker, moved to No 6 for this game, was immense in everything he did and with Simon Wilson and Bruce Pestell also in peak form the back row carried forward superbly and continually turned over any ball which Uckfield threatened to win. Lee Vockins had a marvellous tussle with his talented opposite number and put in some crunching tackles. It was his kind of game and he emerged with great credit. His half back partner Bryn Jones controlled the game well putting in some excellent positional kicks and releasing his backs when tries were in the offing. Every Heathfield player performed admirably in what was very much a team performance by a group of players who play for each other and who provide great entertainment for their large group of loyal supporters. No side achieves success without strong and skilful leadership and the Heathfield coach Dave Jones has been the mentor and inspiration behind this result and the successes of the season.

Mercifully the rain which was forecast did not materialise and Uckfield produced an excellent playing surface. After both sides had missed penalty opportunities Heathfield opened the scoring when their forwards produced quick ball for the three quarters to move the ball to Adam Tennant who timed his pass perfectly for full back Will Drinkwater to cross half way out. The wind which troubled the kickers all afternoon  ensured that the Heathfield lead was restricted to five points. Half way through the first period Matt Skinner was successful with a penalty kick and the  Greenies then scored one of their copybook tries when Mark Walker secured lineout ball near the Uckfield line for the Greenies eight to trundle to the try line allowing try scorer extraordinary Rob Lawrence to score another of his many tries this season. Heathfield`s other try machine Adam Tennant nearly stole a march on Lawrence when he seemed certain to score on half time. Alas he dropped the ball just before scoring.

The halftime score was 15-0 to Heathfield but soon after the break Tim Evans won a turnover, Bryn Jones made a break and Tennant jinked his way to the line this time making sure to hang on to the ball. An excellent conversion made the score 22-0 and put the game out of Uckfield`s reach. However Heathfield continued to dominate and with subs Mono Thewlis, Tom Pritchard and Richard Cooley providing fresh legs one of Heath field’s ever presents Tim Evans scored a forwards try which was converted to complete one of Heathfield`s best victories over their local rivals. On a day when Heathfield`s two other teams clinched first place in their league competitions this was indeed a day of triumph for the Greenies.

Report by Mike de St Croix

Dan politely gets an Uckfield player back on their side of the ruck...

3/29/2008 8:32:40 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield sealed the Sussex 1 League title on Saturday at the Hardy Roberts Playing Fields at Cross-In-Hand with an authoritative all-round performance scoring eleven tries against a willing but out-classed Pulborough.  Heathfield are now seven points clear of their nearest challenger, East Grinstead, with two league games remaining in the season.

These two teams had met just two weeks previously in the Sussex Shield Final in which Heathfield had eventually clinched a convincing win after an early Pulborough score.  This time Pulborough were short of several first choice players and they rarely threatened to score although they always competed in a good spirit.

The first try came in less than two minutes with Sam Thewlis on the right wing showing excellent individual skill and pace to chip ahead and re-gather the ball as he crashed over in the corner. (5-0) Then Adam Tennant on the other wing finished clinically from a Heathfield scrum near the visitor’s line. (10-0)

Pulborough were endeavouring to attack with what possession they had and in trying too hard they gave Matt Skinner an opportunity to intercept in the centre and touch down under the posts. (17-0)

The home team had a majority of possession with excellent pressure in the scrum and the lineout continuing to function well.  A period of sustained pressure on the Pulborough line eventually saw Bryn Jones step his way through the defence for a coolly taken try (24-0) and then Rob Lawrence was able to continue his Neil Back impersonation with a standard catch and drive from a lineout (29-0).

In the second half Pulborough had the benefit of the stiff chill wind but the game was played almost entirely in their half as Heathfield maintained control. As with the previous game against Hellingly, Heathfield Coach Dave Jones was urging his players to keep calm and patient and tries duly came.  Matt Skinner collected his second of the game using the pace and good lines of running that have often caught the eye this year (34-0).  Then Simon Wilson scored a classic No 8 try from the back of a scrum. (39-0).

Another period of pressure on the Pulborough line saw Bryn Jones score in a very similar manner to his try in the first half (44-0).  Seb Jones had earlier replaced Sam Thewlis (rib injury) and he also finished well in the right hand corner (49-0)

The last two tries were collected by the two top scorers this season.  Rob Lawrence put himself one ahead in this internal battle with an excellent finish beating several opponents (56-0) but then Adam Tennant drew level with another good finish (63-0). 

This contest promises to entertain players and spectators alike in the remaining two matches.  However this should not divert the team from one of their main objectives this season which is to win the league unbeaten.  Their next opponents Uckfield (at Uckfield 29^th March) still have a chance of promotion and will relish the chance to upset the green bandwagon.

Report by Phil Bell

3/8/2008 5:45:56 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield continued their unbeaten Sussex 1 League campaign with a resounding victory over neighbours Hellingly, running in thirteen tries.  The home side was handicapped by injuries and absences but even at full strength they would have had trouble in containing a rampant Heathfield. Pitch conditions were good on a sunny afternoon with a brisk breeze behind the home team in the first half.  The visitors had the majority of possession and with their three quarters having a distinct edge over their opposite numbers in terms of pace and organisation there was little doubt over the result.

The lineout was an early area of success for Hellingly as they secured their own ball well and successfully disrupted some of the opposition ball.  However the referee intervened to prevent some of their activities and thereafter Heathfield dominated that area as well.  Heathfield had an edge in the scrummage although it was not a consistently stable platform.

After ten minutes the visitors were fourteen points up from tries by Damien Pestell and Bryn Jones coming from quick hands and good lines of running which troubled Hellingly all afternoon.  The coach Dave Jones was already urging his players to keep it simple and not to become over-excited at the scoring possibilities.

These directions were now followed immaculately as in a period of ten minutes Heathfield scored three almost identical tries from lineouts near the home line, clean catch and drive and Rob Lawrence with the ball at the back was able to touch down unimpeded. (0-29)

Hellingly were able to collect three points from a penalty conceded by a well-known  Heathfield player who had a senior moment diving on the ball in an offside position.

Just before half-time the inspirational Kiwi captain Mark Walker completed another good sequence of passing to touch down near the posts. (3-36)

In the second half with the wind behind them and the sun in their opponent’s eyes, Heathfield continued to score regularly mainly through their three quarters and Ed Armah was the first to touch down after a regulation move.

However Hellingly showed spirit by counter-attacking down their right wing, hacking ahead and exploiting some hesitancy in defence to collect at least some compensation. (8-41)

That was the end of their good news as Heathfield continued to rack up the points and Matt Skinner and Adam Tennant both collected two tries apiece.   Matt also had a decent day with the boot, collecting five conversions and being very close with several others.  Will Drinkwater went close in the corner but was stripped of the ball as he went over.

Rob Lawrence scored his fourth on the day from a familiar move at the front of the lineout and the final score was deservedly collected by George Leney who made his usual dynamic impact in the rucks and mauls.

Hellingly had competed throughout the game but there had been some signs of frustration and the referee Graeme Pratt, who had a decent and typically undemonstrative game, finally sin-binned a Hellingly player for a bad late tackle.

All three Heathfield adult teams won their matches this weekend and remain at the top of their respective leagues.  Heathfield continue their Sussex 1 League campaign next Saturday March 8th at home to Pulborough, kick off 3pm.

Report by Phil Bell

3/1/2008 3:04:37 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield turned on a powerful display of all round excellence to overcome a spirited Pulborough team in front of a large crowd at Crawley last Sunday. They deserved to retain the Sussex Shield and in doing so proved why they are enjoying such a marvellous season.

Heathfield started slowly and against the early run of play Pulborough charged down a kick by Bryn Jones and followed up with speed to score half way out. The conversion was made and Pulborough were the first team to score a try against the Greenies since before Christmas. It was to be the only blemish on Heathfield defence in the match. The East Sussex side then rolled up their sleeves and began the process of achieving domination and putting together a number of good moves and tries. However their opponents competed strongly at the breakdown and gave an excellent display in the lineout where Walker and Tonkin struggled to gain the ascendancy. Sadly Andy Bates, the Pulborough hooker suffered a nasty eye injury early on and the black and whites lost a key and very experienced player. It was looking as though Heathfield might not overtake their opponents lead in the first half when the irrepressible Rob Lawrence put the Greenies on the score sheet when he drove over the line after some splendid driving play from the forwards. Soon after Matt Skinner broke strongly through a crowded mid field, fought off some robust challenges and ran to the right feeding Simon Wilson with a scoring pass. Regrettably Matt had been struck by a high and dangerous tackle in the process which resulted in a yellow card for Pulborough and a broken nose for Matt. However Matt recovered composure to make the conversion and put Heath ahead by 12-7 at half time.

There was inevitability about the way Heathfield overpowered their opponents in the second half scoring two further goals and two tries. The Greenies were stronger in all departments and importantly were a fitter team than their opponents. Their style of Rugby was very much to the pattern that has been put in place by their excellent coach Dave Jones over the past two seasons. Their very mobile pack was much quicker to the breakdown than their opponents who found difficulty in coping with the ball carrying skills of the front five as well as the loose forwards. Having set up rucks and mauls the Greenies were able to launch their speedy backs. The team play a fluid and entertaining brand of rugby and every member of the team and the squad rewarded their coach with a continual flow of attacking rugby. Two tries were scored by backs in the second half and two were scored by forwards. Damien Pestell used his power and strength to score soon after the restart and Sam Thewlis capped a sound and cultured display at full back by cutting through the heart of the Pulborough defence to put the result of the match beyond doubt at 33-7. Earlier the popular Mark Walker who had another splendid game had run in under the posts from around the 22 metre line. Appropriately Heathfields veteran prop Tim Evans sealed the victory for Heathfield by scoring a try in the corner after showing a turn of speed which would have delighted a teenager.

Heathfield thoroughly deserved their victory and the score line did not flatter them. Simon Wilson was deservedly named man of the match but this was a team victory and every member of the squad deserves huge credit.

The Greenies continue their quest for the league and cup double when they visit near neighbours Hellingly next Saturday, kick off at 2.30

Report by Mike de St Croix

Kobe Tonkin and Mark Walker

The Squad and the Shield

2/24/2008 11:06:45 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

For the second successive week Heath field won a convincing victory without conceding any points. On a firm pitch which was in ideal for running rugby the Greenies overwhelmed a moderate Crawley side completing a hat trick of wins against a team who had no answer to Heath fields powerful style of all round rugby.

By half time Heath field were 24 points in the lead from two converted and two unconverted tries. After ten minutes Adam Tennant drove over in the corner after pressure from forwards and backs. Matt skinner converted from far out and also converted an excellent try by Sam Thewlis after a fine break from Damien Pestell who had been involved in some sparkling moves early on. The excellent Heath field back with Simon Green enjoying a promising debut at No 8 was again dominating all phases of forward play and were consequently providing a sound platform for their backs. Two of the Greenies forwards combined for the third try with the ever improving Kobe Tonkin accepting a pass from hooker Rob Lawrence to score in the left corner. Just before half time the Heath field hooker added to his tally of tries this season by picking up a loose ball and using his speed and strength to cross the try line.

Crawley started the second half strongly and forced their way into their visitors 22. Heath field appeared to have settled into a quiet spell by their standards but however well their opposition pressure their line the Greenies hate having their line crossed. Their defence is one of their strengths and Crawley simply could not find a way through. After a somewhat abrasive period of play two Heath field players were shown yellow cards and just when Crawley were encamped on the try line Heath field were obliged to play with thirteen men. This predicament stirred the league leaders into action and their pack proceeded to march their opponents from one end of the field to the other with some fantastic forward drives. A premiership side would have been proud of the strength and technique of the limited Heath field pack. Fortunately when a set scrum was called they had Richard Cooley, one of Heath fields successes this season, to come on to replace Dan Hunter Evans who himself had had an outstanding game. Having planted themselves in their opponents 22 instead of their own, Heath field launched their backs for Eddie Armah to break through midfield at pace to score a splendid try under the posts. Crawley were now broken and skipper Bryn Jones who had played his usual steady and powerful game broke to the open side and scored a solo try in the corner.

This was another splendid win for Heath field who travel To St Francis club in Crawley for the final of the Sussex Shield against Pulborough on Sunday. Coach Dave Jones expects to travel with a full squad and supporters should contact the club to check on travel arrangements. Kick Off is likely to be at 2pm.

Report by Mike de St Croix

2/16/2008 12:22:42 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield put on a superb display of all round attacking rugby on a difficult sticky surface at Burgess Hill. The Greenies had experienced problems with beating Burgess Hill in their first league encounter but as far as this game was concerned there was only one side in contention from first whistle to last. Many complimentary things have rightfully been written about this Heath field side but in this match the team hit a peak as a unit and showed how they have reached this stage of the season with an unbeaten record.

The structure of Heathfield`s performance was well nigh perfect. Their forwards quickly achieved supremacy in the set pieces and were frequently first to the breakdown where the back row took charge often winning turnover ball. Both Simon Wilson and George Leney are enjoying outstanding seasons and once again they were the instigators of many of Heathfield`s moves. Joining them in the back row Lee Vokins did not suffer in comparison and made a thorough nuisance of himself to the Burgess Hill half backs. Mark Walker, Kobe Tonkin and Wilson were dominant in the lineout and won a lot of possession from their opponents throws in. The front row simply took charge as always and veteran prop Tim Evans had possibly his best game in a Heath field shirt. His speed in the loose and his handling skills were a revelation and his fitness was certainly on a par with his younger colleagues. Hooker Rob Lawrence had another splendid game and added to his tally of tries this season.

Having established forward supremacy the Greenies went to work on their opposition with a stunning exhibition of fast and powerful running. Will Christian distributed well and made some good runs close to his pack. Skipper Bryn Jones chose his options skilfully and drove Burgess Hill on to the defence with some probing kicks. Damien Pestell and Matt Skinner had their best game of the season as a centre combination and the speedy wingers capitalised on the all round teamwork  with Ed Armah scoring three tries and Adam Tennant always in the action. Behind the three quarters Will Drinkwater was a model of consistency at full back and “Mono” Thewlis looked full of class when he replaced Armah shortly before the end of the game.

First half scores came from Armah(2) flying down the wing and Simon Wilson, capitalising from a line out steal by “Kiwi” Walker and hooker rob Lawrence taking an excellent pass from prop Evans. In the second half the ubiquitous Evans delivered another lovely pass for Ed Armah to continue his tryfest  and the centre pairing scored a try a piece with Matt Skinner converting both.

Coach David Jones was delighted with his team’s performance which will give them great confidence for their remaining games. This Saturday they travel to Crawley for a league match and the following Sunday the Greenies supporters will follow them to St Francis ground in Crawley where they will defend the Sussex Shield against Pulborough.

Report by Mike de St Croix

2/9/2008 3:05:46 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield cruised into their second successive final of the Sussex Shield Competition with a sound all-round performance at Cross-In-Hand.  Having beaten Crawley earlier in the season by 27 points, this was an almost identical performance based on the home side controlling the set pieces, playing their effective driving game and then finishing well.

Crawley played with the brisk chill breeze in the first half but handicapped themselves by catching the referee’s eye far too often, mainly for fringing, with a total penalty count of 14-3 against Crawley.  This excellent discipline by Heathfield is a distinct improvement from earlier in the season.

Against the wind Heathfield still managed to play a large part of the first half in the visitors’ territory and this pressure was rewarded with a penalty by Matt Skinner. Heathfield played some fine rugby with their now familiar well-supported driving and good handling.  This was supplemented by one eye-catching run with a kick ahead and retrieving catch by Matt Skinner.

Crawley did manage to reach the Heathfield 22 on a few occasions but failed to come away with any points. Then Heathfield again drove up the field and Eddie Armah finished a fine passage of play in the left-hand corner.  This was his first game back after an extended break for injury and on several occasions he showed the pace and skill that will trouble many more defences.  The half-time score of 8-0 was generally considered satisfactory by the home supporters given the conditions.

The Heathfield lineout had probably its best game this season with consistent catches at impressive height providing quick and secure ball.  Crawley have a sizeable front row but Tim Evans, Rob Lawrence and Dan Hunter-Evans more than matched them and came away with several strikes against the head.  Dan in particular had a massive day in dominating his prop and providing critically solid lifting in the lineout.

Crawley competed well throughout the game, particularly in the pack and their back row were effective at keeping pressure on Heathfield who had the majority of possession.

Not long into the second half Matt Skinner collected another penalty (11-0) while Crawley missed one.  A sustained period of pressure by Heathfield now resulted in another well-taken try by Ed Armah who was put away by a classy pass from Rob Lawrence. (16-0)

The cold wind and dropping temperature made handling increasingly difficult.  There was little doubt about the result by now and the rest of the game was marked by frequent substitutions as both sides used all of the seven replacements available to them.  One of these was Kobe Tonkin who now scored a try from close range after repeated Heathfield attacks. (21-0)

Victory was sealed with a try by veteran Rob Streeter who dived over near the posts to a noisy reception from the home supporters, converted by Matt Skinner.

These two sides meet again in two weeks time in a Sussex 1 League game at Crawley but before then Heathfield travel to Burgess Hill for another league game (9^th Feb 2.30pm kick off).  Given the closeness of the game between these two sides recently Heathfield will need at least to maintain the standard of play shown this week.

Report by Phil Bell

2/2/2008 6:21:50 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

After getting to three cup finals last year, it looks like Heathfield & Waldron RFC may be trying to go one better. We are proud to point out that after last weeks league games, Heathfield & Waldron RFC are now top of all three of their respective Sussex divisions.

Check out the league tables below; well done to the whole club, not only players but also coaches, all the people who help run the club on a day to day basis and of course the supporters who turn up every week to watch all three teams play...

The First team are clear by 5 points...

The Seconds are clear by 3 points and have a game in hand against their nearest rivals...

and the Boars are also 3 points clear

There is still a lot of rugby left to be played in Sussex this year but lets keep our fingers crossed all three teams can keep on playing as well as they have been...

1/23/2008 1:22:46 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Although this game did not produce a fast flowing rugby or many tries it was one of the closest and best games seen at Cross in Hand this season. Neither side was able to play much running rugby but the match was keenly contested by two powerful sets of forwards and two very solid defences. Heath field rarely concede more than the odd try in any of their matches and they thoroughly deserved this victory because they had marginally the better of the forward scrap and their magnificent defence denied Brighton the opportunity to score more than a solitary penalty goal.

It took a long time for either side to open the scoring but it was Brighton who did so late in the first half. By this time Brighton had set out their store with some good rucking and mauling.Heathfield were again superior in the tight thanks to their excellent front row with Richard Cooley on the tight head combining splendidly with hooker Rob Lawrence to take a number of scrums against the head. Simon Wilson’s return to the side at number 8 stabilised the greenies channelling and with George Leney having another excellent game the back row created may openings close to the breakdown. Soon after half time the Heath field forwards drove powerfully to the Brighton line for Rob Lawrence to score a try which was converted by Matt Skinner.Heathfield remained on top and mid way through the half scrum half Will Christian made a sniping run from good turnover possession. Shaking off a number of tackles he found big second row forward Kobe Tonkin in support and delivered a fine pass for Kobe to score an excellent try. The conversion was not made but Heath field had put themselves in a strong position and, hard as Brighton tried they were unable to threaten the home sides lead.

This was a fine game of tough and unrelenting rugby. Every side who play the league leaders are keen to be the ones to take their unbeaten record and Brighton looked one of the stronger sides in the league. However, well as they played, a solitary penalty was insufficient to match two well taken tries.

Heathfield continue their campaign when they play Crawley at home in the Semi-Final of the Sussex shield on 2^nd of February. They are therefore still in serious contention for a league and cup double but will receive a number of challenges from some good sides in the next few weeks.

Report by Mike de St Croix.

1/19/2008 12:07:53 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

The side propping up the Sussex 1 League table visited the unbeaten league leaders on Saturday and gave Heath field a rude shock. The venue for the game was changed because the pitches at Burgess Hill were waterlogged. In spite of an excellent playing surface the game was a scrappy affair and a determined BH team gave their fancied opponents a severe examination.

Burgess Hill went close to scoring right at the end of the game at a time when full time should have been called and consequently Heath field only just escaped from the scrap with their record intact. Burgess Hill set out to stop the home side from getting into their stride and deserves every credit for so nearly achieving their aims. For their part Heath field allowed themselves to be disrupted and were frequently penalised for a range of unnecessary offences. They suffered two yellow cards whereas the majority of Burgess Hill offences escaped similar punishment.

Heath field opened the scoring after fifteen minutes when Bryn Jones received an inside pass on the Burgess Hill 22. He burst through several tackles and remaining on his feet used his considerable strength to force his way over for the first try of the match. Matt Skinner delighted himself and his skipper by converting sweetly from half way out.

The only other try of the match came after Heath field took a quick penalty after BH fell offside from a well executed cross kick. The backs handled well but Damien Pestell needed his power to finish the move and cross the try line. This try was not converted. Shortly before half time Burgess hill converted a penalty from almost in front of the posts to make the half time score 12-3 in favour of the home side.

Burgess Hill started the second half at a furious pace and put the Greenies to the sword in lineout and loose.Heathfield however were superior in the tight throughout the game and took a number of strikes against the head. By fair means or foul the Burgess Hill back row and particularly their scrum half disrupted any good ball won by Heath field and the home side’s distribution was as poor in this game as it had been good the week before. But great credit must go to Burgess Hill and with tremendous spirit they were in the game right until the final whistle.

This result will interest the sides who are due to play the leaders in the next few weeks, not least Brighton who will be at Cross in hand this Saturday, Kick off 2.15.

Report by Mike de St. Croix

1/12/2008 4:37:34 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heath field travelled to East Grinstead last Saturday trailing their closest rivals by two points and having an inferior point’s difference. They returned to Cross in Hand as outright league leaders with a superior points difference. This reversal came about because the Greenies struck a rich vein of form and quite simply demolished a good East Grinstead side with a display of scintillating rugby.

The foundations for this victory were laid by the Heath field forwards. The front row of Cooley, Lawrence and the ever youthful Evans dominated their opposition from the first scrum and also played superbly in the loose. Behind them Rob Streeter had another blistering game alongside the rapidly improving Kobe Tonkin and the back row trio of Wilson, Leney and Pestell proved that they have no superiors as a unit in the county. The amount of ball they turned over and their tackle count was prodigious.Rob Fiford maintained the excellence of the trio when he joined the fray. 

The game began well for Heath field with Mike Hole making a powerful run down the right wing from far out for his wing partner Adam Tennant to receive the scoring pass for the first of his haul of five tries. At this point the home side responded energetically and Heath field had to defend bravely for a long period. Having survived the early pressure Heath field broke clear again and quick passing down the line saw Tennant scoring again in the corner. Realising this was his day Adam, who has been an ever present for the Greenies in his first season at the club, capitalised on a heal against the head by the front row to complete his hat trick before half time. Heath field turned round 15-0 ahead and the writing was on the wall. Bruce Pestell was in discomfort from a back injury and was replaced at half time by the promising Rob Fiford.

Having moved comfortably ahead at half time the excellent Heath field XV hit top form from the start of the second half and maintained the pressure on their opponents until the final whistle. It was superb fifteen man rugby with every player including the bench replacements playing at the top of their game. The large Heath field group of supporters were treated to possibly the best all round performance by their side since they entered league rugby. Before Adam Tennant added his fourth try the Heath field forwards decided to score a strictly forwards try with one of the sides leading point scorers Rob Lawrence claiming the touchdown. Seb Jones had replaced Mike Hole and the formidable Dan Hunter Evans replaced Richard Cooley for the final ten minutes. These two young props are playing superbly and some of Richard Cooley’s defensive work was outstanding.

The all round domination resulted in the  Heath field backs running in their tries with two and three man overlaps ceated by strong running and good handling by the half backs and centres. Will Christian had a good game against another talented scrum half and Heath`s powerful midfield trio of  Bryn Jones, Damien Pestell and Matt Skinner overwhelmed their highly rated opposite numbers. Adam Tennant however crowned his afternoon by scoring a solo try from the ten metre line before Rob Fiford added the final try to take Heath field past the 40 point mark. Clearly East Grinstead had “a bad day at the office” but Heath field deserve every accolade for a wonderful performance and the game was well refereed and was played in good spirit by all the players. In conclusion this performance proved how well this Heath field side is coached by Dave Jones and what a happy and motivated squad he has developed.

Report by Mike de St. Croix.

1/5/2008 12:48:39 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Although the weather was bitterly cold the annual Christmas derby between these closely linked clubs capped a splendid occasion at Cross in Hand last Saturday. The Heath field Vice Presidents with their guests from Uckfield enjoyed a sumptuous Christmas meal before the Club’s principal Sponsor WRIGHTSURE INSURANCE received their new pitch side banners from Heathfield President Mike de St Croix.

The game was as always keenly contested and the young Uckfield side not only shocked their opponents who remain unbeaten in the league but came away with great credit having defended bravely and having played some spirited rugby. They only needed one goal to snatch a victory which would have spoiled the carnival atmosphere for their hosts.

As is their custom Heathfield started slowly and conceded early penalties which were gratefully converted by Uckfield. With mistakes being made by both sides it seemed likely that Uckfield could hold their slender 6-0 lead until half time. But then as the final quarter of the half approached Heathfield struck twice with excellent tries. First Bryn Jones the Greenies inspirational skipper burst strongly through some flimsy Uckfiel tackling to score near the posts from some way out. The conversion was missed but soon after the Heathfield backs played some of the rugby that has marked their success this season and full back Thewlis completed a move from the three quarters to add a second try which Jones converted. These two tries turned out to be crucial and gave the home side a half time lead of 17-6.

Heathfeld`s supporters expected the score line to be doubled in the second half in their sides favour  Uckfield had other ideas and their smaller forwards competed ferociously while their backs always looked dangerous. Far from Heathfield drawing further ahead Uckfield scored the only try in the second half when their tight head prop found himself on the wing where he completed an excellent spell of play by his side to score a fine try. This try lifted the Uckfield team who continued to make life difficult for the favourites until the final minutes.

While the score in this match, which was played in the best of spirits, was a fair reflection on the game it must be said that Heathfield will need to tidy up aspects of their game after Christmas if they are going to take the Sussex League 1 title outright. An analysis of their games would show that they start slowly and concede too many penalties especially early in the game. They need to improve their place kicking and they need to be more ruthless when they are dominating. On Saturday they spent the majority of the second half in their opponents 22 without scoring and lost the ball in the act of scoring more than once. But no one is perfect and this is a very good and happy side, superbly coached and marvellously supported. They have already played some wonderful rugby and will continue to do so in 2008.

Report by Mike de St Croix

12/15/2007 12:07:20 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

For the third week in a row Heathfield came from behind to maintain their unbeaten record in Sussex Division I with a fine disciplined performance.  With all three teams again winning on Saturday and all three at the top of their respective leagues, Heathfield is in excellent fettle at present.

Rugby at Seaford at this time of year is never a soft option and conditions were as bad as many experienced watchers could remember.  The day was dominated by the conditions and the home team had the benefit of the wind in the first half.  Their kicker was naturally familiar with these circumstances and his kicking style for penalties illustrated this knowledge, putting the ball high and letting the wind do the work.  His first effort from halfway was considered good by both touch-judges but the referee decided otherwise.  Seaford had five kickable penalties in this period but only succeeded with two.

As the first half evolved the Heathfield pack began to establish the required pattern of play, eschewing long passes and risky kicks.  The pack retained control of the ball for long periods, picking and driving forward.  On several occasions the visitors managed to work into the sea-end half of the pitch but each time a turnover resulted in a simple kick driving them back fifty or more yards.  The discipline and control displayed by the green pack in this period was impressive, reflecting the hard work in training.  One very impressive and extensive drive was spoiled near the Seaford try line by a moment of indiscipline by a green shirt.  Otherwise every member of the pack had a magnificent day and a similar standard of play in good conditions will pose problems for very good sides. One key factor was that scrum-half Will Christian  had his best game yet for Heathfield with a combative and creative performance.

There was little open play since handling was very difficult with a wet cold ball in a strong breeze with occasional heavy showers.  This meant that the breakdown, rucks and mauls were critical and inevitably the referee had a contentious day.   Heathfield have had their problems with referees but on this occasion it was probably the home team that coped less well since they received one yellow card in the first half and three in the second.  This was a reflection of the pressure that Heathfield were applying.

The score of 6-0 in favour of the home side at half time was generally considered satisfactory by the damp visiting supporters.  As expected, from the start of the second half most of the play was in the Seaford half but the home side never lacked in commitment and effort so there was no further score for nearly fifteen minutes.  At this point because of injury Mark Walker was replaced by Bob Fiford who made an impressive debut in a competitive match.  The loss of such a major player could have unsettled the team but instead pressure finally told and Matt Skinner scored a fine try after one of the few handling movements in the match.  The conversion by Bryn Jones put Heathfield ahead 6-7 and there were few further doubts about the result.

Given the yellow cards that were now handicapping the home team it was little surprise when Sam Thewlis touched down and then a penalty in front of the posts allowed Bryn Jones to establish a 6-15 scoreline.

The fly-half had been acting as an extension of the back row, making many hard yards around the breakdown with the centres Damien Pestell and Matt Skinner also closely involved and now Matt ripped the ball from a maul near the Seaford line to score his second in the match (6-20)

To their credit Seaford continued to contest fiercely and occasionally managed to break out to the windward end.  But Heathfield were now well on top and inevitably green counter-attacks led to tries by Dan Hunter-Evans (with an assist from Rob Lawrence) and Adam Tennant, one of which was converted (6-32).

Next Saturday (8^th December) Heathfield entertain East Grinstead in a Sussex Shield quarter final, kick off 1.45.  Given the closeness of the game between these two sides two weeks ago this could be a suitably seasonal cracker.

Report by Phil Bell.

Comment from Mike de St Croix, H&W President

This was one of Heathfield`s best performances since I have been at the club. Both sides and the referee deserve huge credit for playing the game at all in quite horrible conditions but the fact that Heathfield only conceded 6 points against the elements was an indication of their superiority.Their tactical play was superb and their ability to expand their game playing with the wind resulted in some powerful attacking rugby. This side is now looking as competent as the one who won Sussex League I with an unbeaten record almost ten years ago. They have some tough games ahead but if they maintain the concentration level they showed against Seaford they will continue to delight their supporters.

12/1/2007 8:55:27 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

The two previously unbeaten clubs in Sussex Division 1 fought out this competitive and entertaining game at Cross-In-Hand with the home team emerging victorious after scoring three tries to one.  Plentiful supporters from both clubs enjoyed probably the best game of the season so far, played in an excellent spirit.

Playing into a steady, chill wind in the first half Heathfield were hit by three penalties within 25 minutes, one from the halfway line by the impressive Grinstead kicker.  The visiting three-quarter line was looking fast and dangerous but the home defence was coping and the try line was rarely threatened although most of the play was in the Heathfield half.

The home lineout was an especially strong feature in the first half with Mark Walker outstanding in securing his own ball and frequently disrupting the opposition. Throwing-in was difficult in the conditions but Rob Lawrence was hitting his target consistently and the whole unit was working well.

Heathfield occasionally managed to work their way out of their own half as the pack began to achieve some control and on one of these occasions a penalty near the Grinstead 22 gave Bryn Jones a straightforward three points (3-9).  Entertainingly a couple of the visitors tried to charge down the kick which merely resulted in a Heathfield penalty at the restart on halfway.  The scrummage had been a fair contest but now a strike against the head by the green front row provided a good attacking opportunity although the half ended without any more points.

George Leney was  replaced by Paul Flood who was to make his usual impact on the opposition. Cognoscenti in the crowd, and a few who know about the game, considered that being six points down after playing into the wind was a promising situation.  However shortly after the restart East Grinstead had a lineout in the home 22.  A resulting free kick caught the Heathfield players losing concentration so a Grinstead flanker was able to cross for a try almost untouched.  Inevitably the try was converted so Heath were now 13 points down and a home win looking less likely.

However the home pack was now playing well and some fine positional kicks by Bryn Jones utilising the wind gained many yards.  Much of the play was in the Grinstead 22 and eventually Adam Tennant completed a good passage of play with a finely taken try beating several opponents.

The referee had been consistent all day in penalising both sides for going over the top and other offences at the breakdown: many of these were against Heathfield which often disrupted the increasing pressure on the visitor’s line.  However a period of forward control finally gave Rob Lawrence a chance to wrestle his way over and for Bryn Jones to convert for the 15-16 score-line.

Dan Hunter-Evans now replaced Richard Cooley and Mike Hole came on for Ross Riley who had been making his debut for the first team.  This is the second week in a row that a product of the Heathfield youth teams has been newly selected for the top team.  Heath have so far used 29 players in the seven competitive matches this season of which just one has been lost, demonstrating the increased strength in depth.

A few minutes later the green hooker appeared on the right wing after more sustained pressure to collect his second try of the day.  He was reported to have twinged his Achilles during the pre-match warm-up but the sight of the try line can have a remarkable healing effect. 

Although now behind 20-16 East Grinstead continued to pose a considerable threat through their three-quarters.  Then with ten minutes remaining a penalty gave Bryn Jones another kick in front of the posts (23-16).  Needing a converted try to draw the match, the visitors were having to attack from their own 22 but the green defence held firm through the remaining time, not without a few nervous moments for the home supporters.  To come back to win from 3-16 was an impressive performance from this young and developing team.

The fixture between these two sides in two weeks time in the Sussex Vase competition promises another competitive afternoon but before then Heathfield travel to Seaford next Saturday for another Sussex 1 League match – kickoff 2.15pm.

Report by Phil Bell

11/24/2007 7:05:37 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Although Heathfield won this Sussex League I match convincingly enough a young Brighton side competed courageously until the final quarter when the powerful Heath field side overwhelmed them with some scintillating rugby. The winning margin would have looked more impressive had the visitors converted their tries and penalty opportunities.

Playing against the elements in the first half Heath were prevented from imposing themselves by a lively and motivated home side and the stronger visitors were forced into making a number of basic errors. Their lineout ball was insecure, passes frequently went astray and they lost ball on the ground to the smaller Brighton loose forwards. However the Heathfield defence was solid and Brighton failed to capitalise on the good work put in by their pack. They led by a solitary penalty at half time.