Heathfield & Waldron 83 Whitstable 0

Heathfield consolidated their position at the top of London SE3 with a thirteen tries to nil victory over a game but limited Whitstable.  There was little doubt about the result after two tries in the first few minutes. Matt Skinner was involved in both, first following a high kick and pressurising the visiting full back resulting in quick possession for Sam Thewlis to touch down the first of his three tries on the day, and then Skinner scored himself with a clean break in the centre (14-0).  Skinner also collected nine conversions in the match.

The green pack secured majority possession with a dominant scrummage, secure lineout and effective work at the breakdown although the Whitstable blind side flanker was one of their few successes on the day making several turnovers.  Rob Perry at scrum half had an armchair ride behind a dominant pack and set the back line moving well.  Bryn Jones had his first full game back for the first team returning after injury and marshalled affairs excellently to enable the pace and skill of Tom Sheffield and Skinner to overwhelm the visiting defence.  In the current jargon, the backs executed well.

Quick clean possession and fast hands provided two tries for Thewlis, one for Seb Jones and one for Sheffield. All were converted to give the half time score of 42-0.

The outcome of the league could yet depend on points difference so it was important for Heathfield to keep concentration and avoid the temptation of showboating when in a dominant position.  Early on in the second half Perry went close in the left hand corner with some neat footwork but soon after Ollie Smith was more successful with one of his characteristic bullocking runs (47-0).  Sheffield’s pace was causing severe problems for the defence and he soon touched down twice more to give him three on the day (59-0).

Angus Taylor now made his debut appearance for the first team as a blood replacement for Bruce Pestell and then permanently for George Leney, continuing the successful introduction to this level of game of young players from the development squad.  Chris Watton replaced Jim Davies for the last quarter. Davies was penalised twice early on in the scrum although he was well in control. His conversation with the referee continued in the clubhouse later.

Ollie Robertshaw now collected an inside pass from B Jones and brushed several defenders aside on his way to the try line (66-0).  With ten minutes remaining the referee awarded a penalty try following green scrummage pressure on the Whitstable try line.  S Jones then collected his second try on the day and his brother B Jones capped a fine individual performance breaking through several tackles to complete the scoring (83-0).  Whitstable kept trying but with minimal possession and outpaced in the backs they never looked like scoring.  An impressive quietly authoritative referee and two generally well-disciplined sides were reflected in a very low penalty count.

This Saturday (27 Feb 2.30) Heathfield travel to Crowborough for what is likely to be a close encounter.

2/20/2010 10:10:10 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 54 Hastings & Bexhill 0

Heathfield continued their recent good form with a decisive eight tries to none victory over Hastings.  Use of the new pitch has encouraged them to play exciting and pacy rugby with tries coming from all parts of the team but especially on the wing where Sam ‘Mono’ Thewlis again collected three. Nonetheless the last two tries were scored by the back row in support of the backs.

Hastings have had some better form since Christmas but they were clearly second-best on the day.  They managed to exert some pressure on Heathfield at various points but the well-organised green wall are rightly proud of their defensive record and were confident enough to run the ball out from behind the try line at one point. Man of the Match Ben Foy has been increasingly influential recently in the inconspicuous hard work done by the pack in defence and he was outstanding in this match.

Scoring started early as Thewlis squeezed in at the right hand corner and Sam Goatcher converted impressively.  A few minutes later the home pack drove a maul over the line for Tom Pritchard to claim the try (12-0).

The home pack had a distinct edge in the scrummage and at the breakdown although lineouts were more even.  Plentiful possession allowed all of the home three-quarters to show pace and skill which worried the Hastings defence throughout the game.

A well struck penalty by Goatcher was soon followed by a classy solo effort for a try by Matt Skinner who was at scrum-half for the day as Lee Vockins needed to rest a sore knee (22-0).

Pritchard was replaced by Ollie Robertshaw because of injury so Ollie Smith moved to hooker. This did no harm to the scrummaging effectiveness as they immediately took one against the head for Skinner to draw the defence one way and then switch play back for a clear overlap well-finished by Thewlis (27-0).  This tight dominance was continued when Jim Davies replaced an injured Chris Watton.

The second half also started with an early score as Ollie Brown capitalised on a lovely break and pass by Damien Pestell, again converted by Goatcher who soon followed it up with another penalty (34-0).

After twenty minutes Goatcher was replaced by Bryn Jones who was returning from a broken arm and this did nothing to inhibit the home backs who continued to attack from anywhere.  Tom Sheffield had made numerous breaks and one such attack had only been foiled by a late interception.  Now he again sliced through the midfield and this time Thewlis was on hand for his third try, converted by Skinner (44-0).

Sheffield was again the instigator of the next try as Simon Wilson arrived in support on the left wing and had too much power for the defence (49-0).

To their credit Hastings now had an extended period of pressure on the home try line albeit without any reward.

The scoring was completed when another Heathfield backs move was completed as Brown found George Leney in support (54-0).  Brown is highly effective in attack but for the second week running his clinical tackling also caught the eye as he snuffed out attacks by Hastings.

Next Saturday (13th Feb 2.30) Heathfield visit Folkestone where they have had a patchy record recently.

2/6/2010 5:44:05 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 65 Old Gravesendians 0

An emphatic victory by eleven tries to nil kept Heathfield at the top of London SE3 and unofficially christened the club’s new pitch in delightful style.  The main pitch was frozen in parts but the excellent grass cover on the new Cypress field allowed the game to proceed.
The visitors are at the bottom of the league and although they kept plugging on they never threatened the home try line.  The foundation for the result was provided by a dominant scrum where Jim Davies, Tom Pritchard and Richard Cooley had control from the start and a pushover try after six minutes, touched down by Ollie Robertshaw, told the visitors that they were in for a difficult day.  Sam Goatcher converted (7-0).

After fifteen minutes the ball was moved quickly to Sam ‘Mono’ Thewlis on the right wing and he finished well for the first of his three tries on the day (12-0). Bruce Pestell was unfortunate to be yellow-carded for handbags as he was severely provoked but the scrummage remained in control, gaining more than one ball against the head even with a man short.  Most of the game was being played in the visitors’ half and repeated attacks finally produced a second try for Robertshaw just before half time (19-0).

Heathfield played up the slight slope in the second half but any hopes that the visitors may have had that this would help them were dashed as the green scrum took another ball against the head and swift hands moved the ball to Ollie Brown on the left wing for the first of his three tries.  His second followed three minutes later as he had too much pace and skill for his opponents (31-0).

Damien Pestell at full back now received the ball from a clearance kick by the defence and he ran it back to claim a fine try although by now the visitor’s tackling was showing a lack of enthusiasm (36-0). The visitors’ captain, Michael Hodge, at outside centre was one of their few bright points but he struggled with little ball or support.

After nearly fifteen minutes a delightful looped pass by Matt Skinner found Thewlis for his next try (43-0).

Lee Vockins had taken a knock earlier and was replaced with Skinner moving to scrum half and Seb Jones coming on at centre.  However tries continued to come as D Pestell now claimed his second of the day.   Davies was replaced after his impressive performance and this allowed Sam Buckland to make a very decent first team debut – he has earned this through impressive efforts for the development team.

With ten minutes remaining Thewlis collected his third try and from the kickoff Brown collected his third following a break by Skinner as the defence wilted and waited for the final whistle (60-0).

After some interplay on the left wing Jones dived over from a ruck to complete the scoring (65-0) in a match that suggests that the new pitch will suit the home team.  The pitch will be officially opened next Sunday.

This Saturday (6thFeb 2.30) Heathfield entertain Hastings in another league match.

1/30/2010 5:41:28 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Brighton 15 Heathfield 5

Heathfield’s unbeaten run in the league this season came to an end at Brighton in a close game in which the home team were deserved winners albeit helped by some uncharacteristic mistakes and poor options by the league leaders.

This was illustrated from the kickoff as Heathfield allowed the ball to bounce and Brighton were up quickly to snatch possession and take up a position in the 22.  The green defence was hard pressed but successful and gradually began to work upfield and bring the backline into the game.  After ten minutes one attack reached the home half but a scuffle as he was tackled into touch resulted in Seb Jones being yellow-carded.

Brighton duly counter-attacked back into the Heathfield half and although their kicker missed one attempt at goal from a penalty he was successful two minutes later (3-0).

The Heathfield front row (Chris Watton, Tom Pritchard and Richard Cooley) were starting to exert pressure on their opponents and from this platform the team was able to play some decent rugby.  After half an hour a five metre scrum saw the home pack pushed aside for Simon Wilson to claim a try (3-5).

Brighton came back and just before half time a penalty five metres from the green line was successfully exploited by the Brighton pack in a well-drilled move as they drove over the line for an unconverted try (8-5).

At half time Heathfield would have had reasonable hopes of success since they would have the steady breeze in their favour in the second half.  However another poor start saw Brighton run the ball back to the other half.  The Brighton number 8 is not a big man but he made a couple of elusive runs to keep the pressure on.  Eventually this resulted in a pileup on the Heathfield try line from which Wilson was sin-binned.  With the man advantage the Brighton pack were able to muscle their way over for the decisive score (15-5).

However with half an hour left in the game Heathfield kept their belief and even though a man short soon reached the opposition 22 and were awarded a penalty.  The decision to go for a scrum although still a man short rather than take the easy three points puzzled many observers, especially when Brighton then turned the ball over.

For the rest of the match Heathfield just about had the edge with some of their runners in the backs looking very dangerous.  Damien Pestell took over at fly-half and this did no harm to the attacking potential, albeit without success.  The Brighton backs have some pacy individuals but did not look as organised as they had in the earlier match between these two teams.

Coach Dave Jones was disappointed with some of the play around the fringes so this will doubtless be dealt with at training this week.  Heathfield are still four points clear of their nearest rivals in the league and will be looking to correct their mistakes this weekend (30th Jan) at home against Old Gravesendians (2.15 kickoff).

1/23/2010 5:39:41 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 25 Park House 0

Normal service was resumed at Waldron as Heathfield remained unbeaten in the league with a convincing win by five tries to nil.  After a break of nearly a month because of the wintry weather, the pitch at Waldron demonstrated its resilience when most other grounds in the region were still snow covered.  A wet surface meant that running was difficult and sudden changes of direction impossible.

The home team were glad to win the toss and naturally chose to play uphill.  Park House are normally noted for their sizeable if sometimes unsubtle pack and they would have hoped to use the slope in the first half to pressurise the home defence.

However they rarely reached the home 22 as the green pack matched them at close quarters with great commitment from all eight, excellently supported by Lee Vockins at scrum-half. Scrummages and lineouts were even although cold conditions and occasional rain made handling difficult and knock-ons common.

The game benefited hugely from a display of refereeing of the highest quality that we will probably see this season.  David Sainsbury has handled games at a much higher level than this and his sympathetic, quiet yet firm management allowed for a much better game than might have been expected in the conditions.

Heathfield had a distinct edge in the backs and only the wet surface prevented them from collecting many more tries.  Sam Goatcher, Matt Skinner and Tom Sheffield each made incisive breaks and Sam Thewlis as usual baffled defenders with his elusive running.  Several final passes went astray or the ball-carrier slipped over with just one defender to beat.
The first try came after a good break by Sheffield and the move was well finished by Ollie Brown (5-0).  In spite of Heathfield playing uphill a lot of the game was in the Park House half.  Kobe Tonkin collected the second try after a period of sustained pressure on the visitor’s line (10-0).

Turning round Park House now had to play up the hill and it was always going to be difficult for them to come back. Their hopes were soon further dimmed when Seb Jones forced his way over in the left hand corner after some good handling by forwards and backs combined.
Both Park House props were sin-binned at different times leading to uncontested scrums for those periods.  Bruce Pestel was also yellow-carded in one of those incidents for some solid hand-bagging.

Sheffield now finished off another decent move (20-0) but Park House never gave up and for long periods they managed to stay in the top half of the pitch, mainly through their pack.  However they lacked penetration and the green defence was as reliable as ever.  Their right winger was clearly a dangerous runner but they could not get the ball to him as much as they would have liked.

Ollie Smith, Jim Davies and Levi Willis made cameo appearances as replacements with all noted making an impression. Finally Goatcher finished off another decent move with the last try (25-0).

Next week Heathfield travel to Brighton for a critical league and Sussex Cup double header – kickoff 1.45.

1/16/2010 5:37:48 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 10 Charlton Park 3

With half the league programme now completed Heathfield remain unbeaten at the top of the table with a four point cushion over their nearest rivals.  That proud record was severely threatened at Cross-In-Hand when Charlton Park provided the sternest test yet.  Their large pack continually pressured the lighter green eight and it took a performance by the whole team of complete commitment and bloody-minded determination not to lose for the home team to survive and then deliver the decisive blow right at the end of the game.

The pitch was soggy but playable and this probably favoured the visitors more. As usual recently Heathfield started well, going through several phases and looking the settled side that they are.  However the Park pack gradually came into the game, using their big men to run at the home defence.  They also successfully upset much Heathfield ball and thus nullified the home backs who looked to have a distinct edge on the few occasions when they did have possession. The visiting scrum half was very effective around the scrum and their number seven seemed to be on or over the offside line the whole game – a sign of a good flanker as the ref rarely penalised him.

Most of the game consisted of the two packs hammering away at each other and the brisk chilly wind meant that handling was difficult for the backs when they did finally receive the ball.

Chris Watton pulled up with a leg injury and so veteran Jim Davies came on for rather more of the game than he had expected.

Just before half time the visitors were penalised at the breakdown and some incautious backchat resulted in them being marched back ten metres.  This put the posts in range for Sam Goatcher and he duly landed the first points (3-0).

The second half followed a similar pattern and Heathfield rarely escaped from their own half.  Goatcher did have one long range shot at another penalty but was just short.  The visitors’ pack was using the driving maul very effectively and on one occasion this was only stopped illegally by the home team although their kicker missed the resulting penalty attempt.  However he was successful a few minutes later with an impressive kick from the ten metre line, albeit with the assistance of the strengthening wind (3-3).

Bruce Pestell had been having a fine all round game including some useful lineout catches but an exceedingly bloody nose meant that he had to be replaced by Ollie Smith.  As a welcome relief from the forward battle Matt Skinner demonstrated his class with a fine touchline run but the cover defence stifled the attack.

Then with just a few minutes remaining Heathfield managed to reach the opposition twenty two and were pressing for the deciding score.  Unfortunately they conceded a penalty and the chance looked to be gone. However a Park player chose to tap and go when a clearance kick would have seemed more appropriate. Heathfield managed to turn him over and quick hands moved the ball to Seb Jones in the centre.  With men outside him holding the defence he ran a lovely line at pace to touch down for the winning try duly converted by Goatcher (10-3).

On Saturday 19th December Heathfield entertain Hastings 2.15 kickoff.

12/12/2009 5:34:54 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Horsham 0 Heathfield & Waldron 36

Another convincing win for unbeaten league leaders Heathfield puts them four points clear of their nearest rivals. Horsham are having a difficult time at the moment with multiple injuries, especially in the pack, and Heathfield dominated in the scrummage.

From the kickoff Horsham gathered the ball and kicked long where Sam Thewlis ran the ball back into the home 22. Quick ball from the resulting ruck came to Tim Evans who found Thewlis at pace on a good line to pierce the defence for a fine try, converted by Sam Goatcher (0-7). A few minutes later more quick ball from a ruck again saw Thewlis break the defence for his second try (0-14).

Heathfield looked awesome at this point but the home side gradually came back into the match and their three quarters offered a real threat whenever they did have possession. However Heathfield had the majority of possession through their pack which is performing consistently well this year. The three quarters are not quite so effective in attack at the moment but the defence remains as miserly as ever.

With five minutes to go in the half Horsham had managed to reach the visitor’s 22 but lost the ball and Thewlis delivered a delightful pass to Tom Sheffield who used pace and skill in a classic winger’s run scoring a superb try under the posts (0-21).

Horsham gamely came back and on the stroke of half time just missed a penalty kick.

Not long into the second half Thewlis, later named as man of the match, again produced a lovely pass to put Sheffield away and although he crossed the try line the defence managed to prevent him from grounding the ball. However a few minutes later at a five metre scrum the green pack drove the opposition back for Oliver Robertshaw at number 8 to claim a try on his first start this year for the first team (0-26).

Chris Watton was replaced by Jim Davies and Damien Pestell by Oliver Brown. The green scrum continued to dominate but on two occasions attacking scrums right on the home try line ended with a penalty to Horsham, thus wasting good scoring opportunities. A Horsham player was now yellow carded for a serious stamp on Brown who was fortunately able to continue.

Horsham continued to threaten when they did have the ball. One attack on their left wing broke down and the ball bounced around between several players. While Horsham were claiming a knock on by a green shirt, Sheffield gathered the ball and was away. The cover defence just caught him near the line but Brown was on hand to touch down under the posts (0-33).

The last few minutes were played in increasingly murky conditions and with occasional drizzle. Heathfield were awarded a penalty in front of the posts and collected their final points with the last kick of the game (0-36).

This Saturday 12th December Heathfield play Charlton Park at home in another crucial match, 2.15pm kickoff.

12/7/2009 11:37:10 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 17 Medway 5

This critical match produced a fine good-spirited game in soggy conditions watched by a good crowd of cheerfully vocal supporters from both sides. Although Heathfield won by three tries to one, Medway contributed fully and will be a real threat in the return fixture.

Heathfield started with some of their best rugby played this year, attacking across the field with forwards and backs combining well. After just four minutes a tap penalty near the Medway line was taken quickly by Matt Skinner and a looping pass found Bruce Pestell who crashed over in the corner. Sam Goatcher converted impressively. (7-0)

A few minutes later Simon Wilson made some hard yards in midfield and quick ball gave Goatcher the opportunity to step though tackles and touch down near the posts, although he failed to convert this much easier kick.  (12-0)

Skinner was deputising at scrum half, not his normal position, and made a fine job of it keeping his backline moving and making several useful breaks.  Coach Dave Jones picked him as man of the match. Tom Sheffield also caught the eye throughout the game with several speedy runs down the wing which stretched the defence.

The home scrum had a definite edge and the visiting No 8, Roger Ryneheart, had a difficult day tidying up ball on the retreat which he managed well and he had an impressive game overall.

After such a blistering start by Heathfield, Medway might have folded but they are a decent team with a fine set of backs. Their coach felt that they had been standing back in defence initially but they now gradually came back into the game which became a close contest.
After thirty five minutes a five metre scrum on the visitors’ line produced a positive return from the green scrummaging superiority as Wilson collected a pushover try. (17-0)

After half time Medway began to play with more confidence and most of the game was in the home half.  The visiting backs showed their quality and repeatedly stretched the typically reliable home defence. The Medway no 14, Luke Burns, looks a speedy menace.
Ollie Brown, playing his first game for Heathfield first team, had had a decent game thus far but now suffered a calf injury and was replaced by Levi Willis.  Shortly afterwards Jason Holewell came on for Chris Watton.

With ten minutes remaining, Heathfield made one of their rare visits to the Medway twenty two with Willis making two useful contributions as they pressured the visitors’ try line.  However a Medway flanker and their hooker made a try-saving turnover and started an impressive counterattack which ended with a try at the other end as the visiting backs combined well and finally penetrated the green defence. (17-5)

Medway scented the possibility of achieving a remarkable turnaround.  Their scrum now had the upper hand and they had plentiful possession but Heathfield were determined and successfully held out.

This Saturday (5th December 2.15pm) Heathfield visit Horsham as they seek to maintain their unbeaten league record.

11/28/2009 5:26:59 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron RFC 30- Folkestone RFC 8

Heathfield are still the only unbeaten side in their league and the arrival of Folkestone at Cross in hand on Saturday provided them with the incentive to play some of their best rugby of this campaign. The game was played at pace and in the best spirits of the game. Heathfield prevailed in this encounter because they were stronger up front and especially in the all important breakdown area. They were well served by their pack who dominated set pieces and turnover situations. While Bruce Pestell and Simon Wilson in the back row had excellent all round games it is pleasing to report that two young players, both new to the 1stXV this season also had a strong influence on Heathfield`s victory. Tight head prop Ollie Smith had a good game in the tight and carried well in open play while Sam Goatcher was a good link at fly half and produced place kicking of the highest order to ensure that the home side won by a handsome margin.

From the start of the game Heathfield carried deep into their opponents half and were rewarded with an early try by full back  Sam Thewlis cutting into the line to cross half way between the posts and the touchline. Sam Goatcher converted. Almost immediately  the Folkestone Full back who impressed until having to go off injured in the second half put in a strong run from within his own half  running through some poor Heathfield tackling. The home side quelled the danger but conceded a penalty which reduced Heathfield`s lead to four points. Goatcher restored the lead to seven points with a well struck penalty from near half way and then the Greenies enjoyed a good spell of running rugby from backs and forwards which ended with prop Ollie Smith crossing the try line. Unfortunately the referee was unsighted and could not award the try. It did not matter because from the resulting scrum the home eight drove powerfully for Simon Wilson to claim the pushover try. Shortly after this try the ever present Wilson was the grateful recipient of a loose pass by one of the Folkestone backs to intercept for a simple run in. The score at half time was 20 points to three.

Heathfield showed no sign of letting up when the second half began and Goatcher continued to kick well converting a penalty after 15 minutes. With a good supply of ball from their forwards Heathfield kept their opponents on the back foot with  Damien Pestell making inroads in the centre in attempts to create space for the speed merchants outside him. Folkestone defended bravely and never gave up. After a sustained period of pressure on Heathfield`s line they scored a good try. The conversion was missed and soon after the restart Heathfield scored a final try through the individual speed and determination of their outside centre Seb Jones who burst clear from just inside his own half and beat all the cover offered by Folkestone to cross in the corner. It was a  fine effort by the ever improving Jones and Goatcher capped it by converting from the touchline.  The final score was 30-8 in Heathfield`s favour. This match was a delight to watch which was a credit to the players and coaches of both clubs and to a referee who controlled the game well and gained the respect of both players and spectators.

11/10/2009 8:35:19 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Old Gravesendians 17 Heathfield & Waldron 28

Another win and Heathfield are still top of London SEIII on points difference.  Heathfield has not played Old Gravesendians before so the considerable slope on the pitch was a surprise. The home team won the toss and chose to play uphill initially.  However the kickoff was dropped which allowed Heathfield to establish a good position and make repeated attacks from close range.  These soon led to Sam Thewlis touching down on the right wing and Sam Goatcher converting impressively (0-7).  Goatcher was making his first appearance for the first team in a league match and had a generally decent game, especially with his place kicking which was excellent.

Old Gravesendians are not having a good season with just one win to date and they were short of several first choice players.  However they contested fiercely throughout the match and their heads did not drop at this early score.  Indeed they managed several visits to Heathfield’s half, collecting two kickable penalties, converting the second (3-7).  At this point Rob Lawrence had to leave the field with a damaged finger and was replaced by Ollie Smith.  Also Will Drinkwater came on for an injured Damien Pestell thus requiring more reorganisation in the backs.

Heathfield generally had an edge in the scrum but lineouts were even and the stiff breeze made throwing in a thankless task.

Most of the play was in the home team half and Heathfield were able to build up some momentum in their forward drives with Smith noted making some excellent carries. From a ruck in front of the posts a switch saw Thewlis eluding several defenders and putting Chris Watton, loitering on the wing, in for a try near the left hand corner, again converted by Goatcher (3-14).

The home team again retaliated by climbing the hill but missed a penalty chance and a swift break out ended in a maul in front of the posts at the other end from which Richard Cooley, who had yet another fine all round game, claimed a well-deserved try (3-21).

The clouds had rolled away by half time so Heathfield now had to play up the hill almost directly into the sun.  The home team clearly felt that they were very much in the match and some hard fought exchanges resulted in Bruce Pestell being yellow-carded for some hand-bagging. Old Gs managed to score one converted try while he was off when a Heathfield drive out of defence lost control of the ball (10-21).

However for most of this half the green defence proved adequate and the forwards gained many yards driving up the hill.  On at least two occasions a loss of control allowed an Old G boot to fly hack the ball back down the hill and the process had to start again.

With about ten minutes to go home team pressure resulted in another converted try (17-21) and the result looked in doubt.  However a well-timed pass by Goatcher allowed Seb Jones to break some tackles and his pace produced the definitive score under the posts (17-28).  In spite of his card, Pestell was the man of the match for his huge contribution all over the pitch.

Heathfield are still top of the league but some forthcoming matches look difficult.  Next Saturday they travel to Ellingham and Ringwood in Hampshire for a tricky Senior Vase cup match (2.30pm).

10/24/2009 9:48:37 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron 17 Brighton 10

A game of two halves!

The cliché certainly applies here as in front of a sizeable crowd Brighton played excellent rugby to lead the home team by ten points at half time.  In the second half Heathfield collected three tries by sticking to their strengths and game plan, running out worthy but close winners.  Heathfield may be leading London SEIII on points difference but have only played one of the five clubs just behind them in the table so there are tougher games to come.

Both sides started brightly with ambitious open play. Brighton have an impressive set of three-quarters whose size and pace is complemented by accurate and lengthy passing, creating space out wide.  Heathfield’s normally excellent defence was repeatedly stretched in the first half and some desperate tackling was needed.  One good attack by Brighton was just halted in front of the posts but an infringement at the breakdown allowed them to open the scoring with a penalty (0-3).

After twenty minutes another visitors’ attack looked to be breaking down when they chipped ahead but a wicked bounce wrong-footed the defence and a try under the posts resulted (0-10). 

Brighton were having the better of the lineout, especially through their captain and flanker who looked a high-class player, although Heathfield were putting pressure on the visitors’ scrum – credits to Chris Watton, Rob Lawrence and Richard Cooley. Lawrence and Cooley in particular had excellent all round games.

Reportedly Heathfield coach Dave Jones expressed himself forcefully at half time, reminding the team of the specific style of play rehearsed in training during the week.  The first score in the second half was going to be crucial.  Gradually Heathfield began to impose repeated driving in the forwards, establishing good position in the visitors’ 22 where a secure scrummage allowed Simon Wilson to break the gain line in the midfield. Quick ball saw a mass of green shirts on the blindside and Matt Skinner claimed a morale boosting try. (5-10)

A large Brighton second row had to be replaced though injury and this will not have helped their combating of Heathfield’s forward attacks. A few minutes later continuing pressure in the Brighton half produced a Heathfield penalty which was kicked to the corner where a catch and drive looked a good option.  The defence proved equal to this but from the ensuing breakdown Bryn Jones delivered a well-timed run to bring the scores level (10-10).

With the result very much in the balance Brighton still looked dangerous when they did gain possession but just missed a penalty attempt on one of their relatively rare visits to the Heathfield half.  However most of the game was being played at the other end.  Wilson now capped an imposing second-half performance with a fine try in the right hand corner which also involved a late and high tackle on him by the Brighton No 8 who was yellow-carded (17-10).  Both teams afterwards rated the referee highly.

The last few minutes were tense and Brighton were pressing at the end.  Sadly Jones suffered a broken arm just before full time so reorganisation will be needed for Heathfield’s visit to Old Gravesendians next Saturday (24th October 3pm).

10/17/2009 7:32:46 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron 10 Crowborough 3

A fiercely contested encounter finally saw Heathfield emerge the winner although Crowborough take much credit for their performance and will be looking forward to the return fixture at their ground. A warm sunny day attracted plenty of supporters from both clubs and produced an excellent atmosphere.  The match was close and there was little flowing rugby but it never lacked excitement or competition.

Multiple injuries to Heathfield’s three quarters meant that they started with the untried combination of Robert Perry at standoff with Bryn Jones at inside centre.  This soon looked to be an inspired selection as Perry showed excellent skill to put Jones away for a try after just six minutes. (5-0)

At this stage Heathfield looked very impressive and seemed to be in complete control. Sam Thewlis and Seb Jones are both playing really well at the moment and made good contributions in both attack and defence.  However Crowborough had prepared carefully for this game and gradually their planned rush defence began to become more effective.  Overall the home team had more possession but the visitors defence generally coped well.

In a series of attacks on the Crowborough line the green pack were just denied a try on more than one occasion from their favoured catch and drive from a lineout. In one case when a try looked imminent a critical pass was accidentally blocked by the referee.

Bruce Pestell took several Crowborough lineouts but both sides failed to achieve reliable possession from this area.  In set scrums the defending side was normally able to pressurise their opponents with Crowborough being especially effective. Simon Wilson at number eight for Heathfield did a fine job tidying up possession whilst in retreat.

Poor first phase possession and stifling defences resulted in little open handling.  However in one concerted attack Ross Riley was finally brought down just short of the line and in the resulting ruck Crowborough were perhaps fortunate to receive a penalty that allowed them to clear their lines.

The second half followed a similar pattern with defences dominating.  Kobe Tonkin had taken a couple of heavy knocks and was now replaced by Ben Foy whilst Damien Pestell replaced Riley.  Perry moved to the wing and this talented player continues to make useful contributions wherever he plays. Pestell moved to his normal position of inside centre and in due course provided the penetration that Heathfield needed.  After several phases the ball was moved to the blind side of a ruck and Jones found Pestell on a well-timed run allowing him to cross for the decisive score. (10-0)

Crowborough continued to contest strongly and achieved more possession and therefore pressure in the final period.  On several occasions they chose to take quick penalties rather than go for the posts although they did eventually collect three points from a Heathfield infringement at the base of the scrum (10-3).

Crowborough can take much credit for an improved performance compared to their earlier matches this year, especially in defence, while Heathfield will be glad of the win in spite of a moderate performance.  They remain on top of London League SE 3 on points difference.
Heathfield have no fixture next week but return to league action on 10th October away to Park House (3pm).

9/26/2009 7:19:34 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Hastings 6 Heathfield 52

After two games, both away, this emphatic result with eight tries to none puts Heathfield at the top of the London SE III league table on points difference.  Early days and tough games to come but the season looks promising - all four Heathfield adult teams won on Saturday. 
Hastings had some early pressure and duly picked up the first score from one of rather too many penalties against Heathfield (3-0).  However a few minutes later some good handling allowed Rob Perry to put Lee Vockins in for the first try, and Bryn Jones made the first of his six conversions (3-7).

The home team used their big men to charge at Heathfield throughout the game and a high tackle now resulted in Hastings’ only other score (6-7).

In excellent conditions Heathfield were possibly being over-ambitious and trying to do too much too quickly resulting in moves breaking down. But eventually they put several excellent phases together and a three on one overlap was clinically finished by Perry (6-14).

For the second week in a row a slightly misfiring green first half performance was followed by a distinctly better second half.  Heathfield’s lineout was working well although the referee seemed to be having some difficulty in managing the front rows in the scrummage. Hastings never stopped trying but their limitations and lack of pace were exposed the longer the game went on. Jason Holewell made a serious impression against his old club with some excellent work in critical but often unobserved aspects.

Rob Lawrence showed his kicking skills to put the ball in the corner and from the resulting lineout a set move put Sam Thewlis under the posts (6-21).  A few minutes later a good passage of play, including some smart work by Will Drinkwater down the touchline, resulted in Thewlis claiming his second try of the day (6-28).

Another fine lineout catch by Grant Stewart provided quick ball to the backs where prop Ollie Smith showed impressive pace from over 30 metres out, bursting through tackles to touch down under the posts (6-35).  Three minutes later a driving maul was expertly managed to provide Lawrence with a trademark try (6-40).

Lawrence was replaced by Jim Davies, and Lee Vockins by Ross Riley who went on the wing when Perry moved to scrum half.  Both these replacements showed their value.  After some quick handling Riley demonstrated good finishing skills down the left wing beating covering tacklers (6-47).  Davies scrummaged well as expected but then surprised some with a couple of fine bullocking runs.

The scoring was completed when a scrum against the head and good handling were capped by a determined and well-judged run by Drinkwater to crash over in the left hand corner (6-52).  A yellow card for Tom Pritchard for an infringement at the breakdown encouraged the home team to try for a consolation score, to no avail.

In their first home league match of the season Heathfield next face local rivals Crowborough (26th September 3pm).

9/19/2009 11:18:30 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Haywards Heath 31 Heathfield 12

Pre-season friendlies are not a reliable guide to what happens subsequently but there can be no doubting that Heathfield will be happier than Haywards Heath after this entertaining match.  Sadly London South Africa had decided that they could not face the arduous journey to Sussex and this alternative match had been agreed late on Friday.  Haywards Heath play three divisions above Heathfield so a one-sided affair might have been expected but the green team are definitely on an upward path.

The early exchanges were even but after eight minutes a set piece miss-move brought the home full back into the line and he had the pace to touch down in the corner. Their kicker achieved a one hundred percent record on the day with four conversions and one penalty.
A second home try came from broken play when a chip ahead stood up nicely for their left wing to collect at pace and avoid the defence.  At 14-0 Heathfield might have wilted and accepted their lowly place against the higher-ranked team but there were already signs that this was not going to be a one-sided affair.  The green scrummage was starting to exert pressure and neither side achieved dominance at the break down.

Heathfield now struck back with a well-taken try by Seb Jones following up a precisely weighted chip by his brother Bryn (14-5).  Shortly afterwards Haywards Heath extended their lead with a penalty kick (17-5). The fact that they felt it necessary to take the penalty gives an indication of how concerned they were about the result.

The game was now very much in the balance and Heathfield were looking increasingly competitive.  However a promising green attack broke down when a chip ahead was charged down, the full back pounced on the loose ball and again had too much pace for the wrong-footed defence (24-5).

Just when the home supporters had begun to feel comfortable Heathfield now surged into the opposition 22 and again dominated a scrummage to collect a push-over try that was claimed by Simon Wilson at no 8 although Lee Vockins at scrum-half disputed this – twas ever thus.  Whoever did touch down, the front row of Cooley, Lawrence and Watton take the major credit for a moment that will have given the home management some serious concerns for the season ahead.

At half time Haywards Heath made at least five substitutions (the coaches had previously agreed on unlimited subs as the match was a friendly) while Heathfield initially continued unchanged.

The pattern of the game continued with the Heathfield having the edge in the pack but Haywards Heath looking slightly more dangerous outside.  There were chances at both ends with the defences just proving adequate. The home team made a number of additional replacements during this half and they probably used over 25 players during the match as they justifiably used the match to evaluate their squad so this was not a true reflection of their likely first team.

Finally three minutes from time a well-angled run by a home three quarter cracked the Heathfield defence to touch down under the posts for the only score of the second half and the conversion completed the scoring at 31-12.

Heathfield look a settled organised team for whom Ollie Smith and Jason Holewell made very satisfactory first appearances in a green shirt adding welcome depth to the pack.  They now look forward to their first league match on 12th September away to East Grinstead.  A good standard has been set – now to maintain and improve it.

8/29/2009 11:04:11 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Old Dunstonians 0 Heathfield 40

Heathfield toured South London on Saturday and came away with a very satisfactory win in their second practice match.  Old Dunstonians are in the league above Heathfield but this was not apparent with an emphatic five tries to nil result for the visitors.  At this stage of the season both teams were inevitably short of several key individuals so it would be unwise to read too much into this – however some new faces for Heathfield seized their opportunities to make a strong case for future selection and the established players all looked in good condition and eager for more success.

Playing up the steep slope Heathfield collected an early try from a lineout near the home line, almost inevitably scored by Rob Lawrence (0-5).  It soon became apparent that the home front row was in for a difficult afternoon.  Richard Cooley had his prop in trouble from the start in spite of the usual big difference in size and new recruit Jim Davies had a very solid day on the other side of the scrum.

Another of the new faces, Ben Foy, was making an eye-catching contribution all over the field giving coach Dave Jones some pleasant selection difficulties in the back five in the weeks to come.

Old D’s came back and occasionally reached the Heathfield 22 but the defence proved adequate – just.  They had some sizeable players who looked dangerous coming down the hill but green tackling normally prevented them from doing much damage.  Shortly before half time a standard backs move from a set scrum put Sam Thewlis in under the posts, converted by Bryn Jones (0-12).

After half time Heathfield took immediate advantage of the slope to set up a rolling maul that gained some 20 yards before quick hands put Rob Perry, another new face, over for an impressive try, duly converted (0-19).  Perry later moved to scrum-half, his preferred position, and showed skilful touches and excellent involvement. Then in more open play Lawrence created space for Seb Jones who duly went in at the corner, again converted (0-26).

In the last quarter both teams made a few replacements and Grant Stewart showed his well-being with some pleasing contributions.  Kobe Tonkin muscled his way over for another try, also converted (0-33).  The final score came when Seb Jones pounced on an error near the home try line and Bryn Jones rounded off a very satisfactory performance with yet another conversion (0-40).

Next Saturday (29 August 3pm) Heathfield have a potentially more difficult final practice match against London South Africa.  This should be a very competitive game and will be preceded at 1pm by a match between the visiting team from Forges-Les-Eaux, the French village twinned with Heathfield, and a Heathfield side brimful of experience, banter and skill (not necessarily in that order).

8/22/2009 11:01:06 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Quiz Nite Madness Hits H&WRFC Again!!!

On Friday 17th April The Clubhouse will again be the venue for the next fantastic Quiz Nite.  Hosted by the Junior section of the Club, compared by the Dynamic Duo Helen Goacher and Alison Bending, pencils will need to be sharpened, thinking caps put firmly on and a rallying cry of 'oooohhhh I know this one' at the ready!

Everyone is welcome, the atmosphere is always electric with excitement and anticipation of not being on the bottom of the scoreboard!

To enter your team all you will need is 4-6 players, a silly name, a £20 note, and to notify either your Squad Manager, Helen or Alison.  See Easy!

SEE YOU THERE!!!

3/25/2009 10:18:30 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

East Grinstead 6 Heathfield & Waldron 20

East Grinstead welcomed high flying Heathfield to their splendidly appointed club on a beautiful spring afternoon. Their welcome was warm, their pre-match hospitality splendid and generous and their pitch was in pristine condition. The atmosphere created by a large crowd from both clubs made for an exciting match between two well matched teams and two clubs who hold a healthy respect for each other.

Heathfield showed what a well knit team they are and camped inside the Grinstead half for most of the first half but the home team responded well to some fast and open play by the visitors and were still well in touch at the end of the first half. Heath opened the scoring when the Greenies won quick possession from a ruck on the Grinstead ten metre line. Lee Vockins went to the blind side and the ball was swiftly fed to Damien Pestell who made a powerful run down the touchline. His strength and pace were too much for the defence which was unable to stop the powerful centre. On a brief excursion into Greeny territory East Grinstead were awarded a penalty which was well taken by their fly half. Matt skinner responded almost immediately with a penalty from n ear the ten metre line and the teams crossed over with Heathfield holding a slender five point lead.

As the wind had strengthened during the first half and as Grinstead had a small advantage in the second half there was a feeling from both sets of supporters that the home side might gain the upper hand in the second period. But hard as they tried to regain the initiative Grinstead constantly hit the excellent defensive system that has served Heathfield so well this season. The tackling of Bryn Jones, Skinner and Pestell in midfield was massive and Heathfield`s young flankers George Leney and Tom Pritchard did not miss a tackle all afternoon. Add to this the tackling of Vockins who must be the bravest tackler in the league and it is easy to understand why the hosts made little progress in the second half. Every time they threatened, Heathfield regained the upper hand with well constructed tries.

The lineout had been a fascinating struggle involving a tall jumper on each side but early in the second half the Grinstead tall man tapped down from a lineout on his own ten  metre line for the evergreen Jim Cummings of Heathfield to gather at pace and charge for the line. Grinstead stemmed the danger but Heath won quick ball and moved it left for Jones to run in an excellent try. Grinstead reduced the deficit with another well taken penalty but then the home team hit the self destruct button when their prop forward was yellow carded for an unnecessarily robust infringement. No one disputed the ref`s decision and a number of seasoned observers were most impressed with his firm but sympathetic handling of the game. Referees regrettably often receive unfair criticism but this game, which was played in the best of spirits benefited by a highly competent performance from the official.

Towards the end of the match both sides made sensible substitutions, none more so than the introduction of one of Heathfied`s players of the season Richard Cooley. His arrival stabilised the set scrum for the visitors and helped them to take charge of the scrummage while Grinstead’s experienced loose head was off the field. Heathfield`s final try was a gem. They won quality turnover ball at a ruck deep into Grinstead’s half and moved the ball sweetly to the left where Tom Sheffield, who had enjoyed an outstanding game, ran in the try near to the posts for Skinner to convert.

This victory was an outstanding one with every member of the match squad playing a part. It was heartening to see skipper Kobe Tonkin back in the fray and he formed a fine second row with Grant Stewart who showed what an asset he is to the team. It was a real team effort supported by the loyal group of club members who so enjoy following this very entertaining team. This coming Saturday the club will support a Heathfield team featuring three generations of club members, the Burdetts, before resuming league business against Charlton Park. The League game kicks off at three pm and the match which is attracting Television crews and maybe a celebrity or two starts at 12.15. Supporters should arrive at midday.

The Man of the Match award was given to George Leney and Coach Jones also gave praise to young Phil Gander who had his first taste of 1stXV rugby when he came on as a sub in the 2nd half. It was a just reward for hard work at training said Jones.

Match report by Mike de St.Croix

Photos by Mark Peake

3/9/2009 10:02:05 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron 15 - Tonbridge Juddians 23

Tonbridge Juddians have been unbeaten in league matches this year and Heathfield have not lost at home for nearly two seasons, so one 100% record was bound to be lost at Cross-In-Hand this weekend.   In the event the visitors won in one of the highest quality matches seen at Heathfield for some years in front of an appreciative crowd of over 350.

The pitch was in good condition on an unusually warm day for February.  Judds had only played one match in recent weeks because their pitches had been under water and were perhaps lacking some match fitness.  They certainly became stronger as the game wore on.

The opening exchanges were even with play flowing end-to-end but both defences held firm.  Heathfield eventually broke the deadlock after eighteen minutes with a penalty by Matt Skinner (3-0) and although two minutes later the Judds kicker missed a chance to level the scores, he was finally successful a few minutes after that (3-3).

The good conditions allowed an open game with handling movements by both sides.  The Heathfield scrum had a slight edge and took a couple against the head but the visitors’ lineout was impressive, very secure on their own ball and disrupting some of the home team throw-ins.  As usual a sound defence was critical and Rob Lawrence was noticed with several good hits while Bryn Jones did well against the visiting back row, especially their powerful No 8.  Tom Sheffield on the left wing made some exciting runs that were only just contained.

Just before the half hour an extended sequence of play ended with an excellent Heathfield try.  Lawrence  cross-kicked precisely into the left-hand corner and Sheffield timed his jump to catch and ground the ball despite the attentions of two defenders. (8-3)

Ten minutes after that further green pressure resulted in a lineout near the right hand corner and a well-rehearsed move at the front saw Lee Vockins scramble over for another try.  Skinner converted impressively from wide out. (15-3)

This represented the high water mark for Heathfield.  In the last few minutes of the half Judds collected another penalty (15-6) and then their impressive fly-half used some quick ball to chip ahead and beat the defence to touch down under the posts. (15-13)

This was the first time this season that the visitors had been behind at half time and they started the second half in a determined manner, putting Heathfield under increasing pressure.  This resulted in number 8 Simon Wilson, being yellow-carded for coming round a ruck and hacking the ball away before it was out and Judds took advantage in the next ten minutes.  First their scrum half, a talented but overly vocal individual, dropped a goal (15-16) and then the Judds no 8 scored a fine solo try under the posts from the back of a scrum, duly converted (15-23).  He is a quality player but Heathfield will be disappointed at their tackling on this occasion.

For the rest of the game Judds had a slight edge without ever threatening the green line again.  By contrast Heathfield repeatedly moved the ball to both wings where Ed Armah and Sheffield were causing serious problems for the opposing defence.

On balance Judds were the better side on the day and they duly held on for the win.
Heathfield coach Dave Jones could not choose a man of the match given a fine all round performance.  He and the team relished the support of the large crowd and hopefully the quality of the match will encourage similar turnouts in the future. Sadly Judds did not stay for any refreshment after the match. 

There is no match for the Heathfield first team next week but the week after that (7th Mar) they are looking forward to a challenging league match away to East Grinstead.

2/23/2009 9:19:34 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Horsham 16 Heathfield & Waldron 26

Heathfield defeated an improving Horsham side at Coolhurst in convincing style. Horsham’s fly half kept his team in the game with some fine place kicking and a good all round display but the visitors were ahead throughout the game and the try tally was four to one in Heathfield`s favour. Apart from conceding too many penalties at the breakdown Heathfield treated their supporters to some excellent all round rugby showing exactly why they feature in the top three places in their league.

Matt Skinner opened the scoring for Heathfield with a penalty in the third minute but his side soon conceded a penalty for obstruction allowing Horsham to level the scores after ten minutes. Heathfield were already winning good possession from their forwards which produced two good tries inside the first quarter of the game. The first score came after Tom Pritchard tapped down to Richard Cooley at a line out between the ten metre line and Horsham’s 22. Heathfield`s outstanding prop accelerated through the gap in the lineout and gave a fine impression of a centre three-quarter by way of a deft sidestep and  a perfect pass to his backs who moved the ball swiftly down the line for winger Jo Reilly to score in the corner. Cooley and Reilly were involved in the next try soon after the restart when Cooley stole the ball from Horsham in a maul and Heath’s backs again passed the ball down the line with a missed pass in the centre giving Reilly the space to score again. This was fine rugby and Heathfield were well on top and were dominating all phases of the game.

Although it looked likely even at this early stage that Heathfield would maintain their lead, Horsham continued to contest every forward phase and their very young scrum half gave showed great promise linking with his outside half who showed touches of real class and kept his side in touch with two sweetly struck long range penalties before half time.

Although Heathfield could not match the quality of the home teams place kicking they did score another fine try before half time which involved hooker Rob Lawrence in some skilful passing down the touchline and it was he who won the touchdown to put his team in the lead by 18 points to nine at the interval.

Sadly the Greenies lost their highly mobile prop Shaun Hammond at half time with a recurrence of a knee injury but such is the depth of coach Jones squad that he was able to bring on another powerful and in form prop in the person of Chris Watton and was also able to introduce speed man Sebastian Jones for Will Drinkwater.It was also really pleasing to see flanker George Leney return to action when Bruce Pestell was taken off with multiple blood injuries to the face. With Heathfield still applying the pressure during the second half Bryn Jones went over from close range and Horsham finally breached the Heathfield defence after good work once again from their  No 10.

Heathfield`s victory was comprehensive and well deserved and they now relish the opportunity to spoil Tonbridge Juddians unbeaten record at Cross in hand this Saturday (kick off 2.30). Every Greeny supporter and member is encouraged to support their club for what should be a thrilling match.

2/16/2009 10:03:37 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Chichester 10 Heathfield 8

Heathfield’s recent winning run came to an end in this Sussex Trophy Semi Final match which was a close, competitive, at times niggly, affair in which the home team survived late serious pressure to progress to the final.

Earlier Chichester had reported the pitch to be frozen and therefore unplayable.  Some metaphorical heat was applied by the Sussex competition organiser and Heathfield eventually arrived in bright sunshine to find an excellent playing surface.

Three of the Heathfield squad had previously played for Chichester and were given a rugged reception by the home players and supporters alike.  Chichester are currently leading the RFU South West League III i.e. a division above Heathfield – so the home side would have been expected to win.  This was not apparent in the opening exchanges and after Chichester missed an early kickable penalty, Heathfield reduced the home supporters to temporary silence as, just in front of them, Eddie Armah secured a Chichester cross-kick, feeding Sam Thewlis who kicked ahead and Matt Skinner beat the defence to put Heathfield ahead 0-5.

Ten minutes later a high tackle gave the visitors a kickable penalty and Skinner gratefully accepted the opportunity (0-8).

The close quarter exchanges were fierce with the large Chichester forwards proving slightly more adept at playing the referee in that phase.  The home side lineout was very effective while Heathfield were handicapped by an injury to second row Grant Stewart in the very first play of the game and he was eventually replaced by Tim Evans at half time.

The Heathfield front row of Richard Cooley, Rob Lawrence and Chris Watton gave the large Chichester props a very uncomfortable afternoon with Cooley in particular outplaying all three of the sizeable individuals who faced him during the game – his superior technique completely nullified their apparent physical advantages.

Just before half time Chichester at last registered on the scoreboard with a penalty (3-8) but they had rarely threatened to cross the green line.  Watton was replaced by Sean Hammond at half time and he continued the good work up front.

However the Chichester coaches appeared to have given their team a serious talking-to at the interval and they restarted in a very focussed and direct manner, with their forwards driving over for a try which was converted, crucially (10-8). Heathfield coach Dave Jones felt that this was a soft try that would normally have been prevented and this lapse in concentration by the visiting defence proved to be the decisive moment.

Another score by Chichester at this point might have put the result beyond doubt. However Heathfield refused to give in and gradually worked their way up-field and had several periods of intense pressure on the home try line without managing that all-important score.  Right wing Armah, one of the ex-Chichester players, gave his old team some nervous moments as he looked very threatening in this period but on several occasions the ball did not bounce kindly for him.

It would be overstating the situation to say that Chichester were hanging on at the end but they never seriously threatened the Heathfield line again after their try.  The last few minutes were tense for both sets of supporters but the home defence proved to be adequate.

Heathfield have now played close matches against two teams from higher leagues in recent weeks – beating Lewes and losing here.  Confidence is building that, if promotion is achieved, the team will be competitive at the next level.  This will only be relevant if they continue to perform in the remaining league matches and next Saturday they have a difficult visit to Horsham (kick off 2.30).
 

2/10/2009 10:13:25 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

COME AND PAMPER YOURSELF AT THE CLUB 13.2.09

Forgotten Valentines Day is round the Corner????  Don't know what to get for your loved one?  Can't be bothered to trawl round the shops for that special gift???

Then luckily Your Club has come to the rescue.  Not only can you buy sexy tasteful lingerie, delightful jewellery and loads of other lovely things - but you can also have a pint (or two), see your mates, and whatever match is on the TV - whilst you buy!! BRILLIANT!(Rumour has it that Ann Summers will also be there!)  So lads come to the pamper evening at the Clubhouse on Friday 13th Feb - where all your Valentine present problems could be solved.........

For the lovely ladies who would like to come along.....  see all of the above plus there will be waxing and nails and even tarrot card readings!

See you there on the 13th February - 7.30pm onwards

2/5/2009 9:49:53 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 12 Bromley 0

Heathfield continued their impressive recent form with a decisive victory over the team one place higher than them in London SE Division 4. All four Heathfield teams won on the day but this was put in context as the games were preceded by a minute’s silence for the tragic death of a young Hastings player last weekend.

Playing with the stiff chill breeze in the first half, Bromley started brightly, putting pressure on the home scrum and, as happened throughout the game, making good ground through their three quarters with pace and skilful running.  However once Heathfield gained possession they counter-attacked effectively and from broken play near the Bromley 22, Grant Stewart  scooped up a loose ball on the run, kicked ahead and out-paced the defence to re-gather and score one of the most impressive individual tries ever seen at Cross-In-Hand. (5-0)

The home team had the majority of possession as the scrum settled down after that first problem and instead was putting pressure on Bromley so that Lee Vockins at scrum-half was often able to disrupt the visiting No8 as he picked up.  The lineout was also a source of solid possession as Bruce Pestell and Stewart generally secured their own ball and often upset the Bromley throw-ins.

For much of the first half Heathfield were able to nullify any advantage that the wind might have given the visitors by denying them the ball with the green back row being especially effective in countering the large Bromley forwards.  There were several periods of sustained pressure on the visitor’s line but their defence proved just adequate.  Sean Hammond, playing at hooker in the absence of Rob Lawrence, was conspicuous throughout the game playing right on the offside line and often making effective runs.

After half an hour Chris Watton was unable to continue due to a calf injury and was replaced by Tim Evans.  Then on a rare foray into the home half, Bromley had a penalty kick at goal but the kicker hooked it wide.

The second half initially continued in much the same pattern.  Heathfield now missed a penalty but after ten minutes the decisive score was made by Sam (Mono) Thewlis.  A Heathfield lineout near the Bromley line was securely won by Stewart and Bryn Jones at fly half ran flat with the centres drifting wide, taking the defence with them, allowing full-back Thewlis to enter the line at pace and touch down under the posts.  Matt Skinner duly converted.  (12-0)

Heathfield continued to pressure the visitors and eventually the referee yellow-carded one of them for impeding a quickly taken penalty.  In spite of being a man short the Bromley defence proved adequate and as the game went on they started to achieve more possession and made a number of dangerous attacks.  However Heathfield’s defence has been a particular strong point throughout this season and there was no further scoring, albeit not without some shaky moments.

Heathfield coach Dave Jones was very pleased with the result and found it difficult to select a man of the match.  Stewart and Hammond shared the honours with the back row of Matt Ryan, Bruce Pestell and Simon Wilson who all had impressive games.

Heathfield’s next league match is on 14th February away to Horsham – 2.30 kickoff. Third place in the league looks very possible and promotion is not impossible.  Before then Heathfield are due to travel to Chichester next Saturday for a semi-final in the Sussex Trophy, 2 pm kickoff, weather permitting.

2/3/2009 10:11:30 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Park House 5 - Heathfield & Waldron RFC 19

Park House has never been a happy hunting ground for Heathfield and although the Greenies recorded a satisfactory win, they were made to defend manfully in the second half and suffered a worrying number of injuries in the process. Bruce Pestell played most of the game with a broken and bloodied nose, Rob Lawrence suffered ligament damage to an ankle and both Chris Watton and new boy Grant Stewart also had to leave the field for treatment. That is the bad news. The good news is that  Park House competed more strongly in the second half and game was superbly refereed by a young official who will surely go on to referee at a higher level.

Heathfield started the game confidently and soon advanced deep into Park House territory. With Rob Lawrence throwing accurately, Greenies soon began to gain quality lineout ball through debutant Grant Stewart who made a good impression from the outset. After about fifteen minutes Stewart won a lineout inside the Park House 22 and the forwards drove for the line with Simon Wilson getting the touchdown. The conversion was missed but after a further spell of good all round play by Heathfield a forward claimed another try which delighted the Heathfield supporters on the touchline. Prop forwards sometimes score tries from forward drives near their opponent’s line but rarely sprint over from twenty yards out. However the powerful Chris Watton who looks fitter every week received a pass near the touchline and ran strongly towards the try line. He was at full throttle when he took the pass and with a powerful hand off and even a hint of a sidestep he beat the cover to score a most impressive try.

Shortly before half time Heathfield scored another brilliant try when Tom Sheffield came off his wing and, picking a perfect line took an inside pass from fly half Bryn Jones to score under the posts. Matt Skinner made this conversion to stretch Heath’s half time lead to 19 points to nil. Sadly just before the break Heathfield`s outstanding Hooker Rob Lawrence had to leave the field with a nasty ankle injury.

Heathfield had dominated the game in the first half but in the second they rarely reached their opponents half of the field. The home team improved their game in every department and Heathfield had to absorb a great deal of pressure. Park House were a different team after the interval. Their forwards set about winning rucks and mauls and their backs attempted to play a fast and open game with their full back giving an almost flawless performance. He had command of the high ball and constantly made yards with his running from deep. Heathfield were disrupted by injuries and by the change of pace shown by their opponents. They did not look like increasing their lead but it was to their credit that they only conceded one score against some spirited play from the home side. The final score was a fair one mainly because Heathfield have such a well organised and robust defensive system.

For Heathfield the flankers Pestell and Tom Pritchard played with great courage and with Wilson at No 8 the back row was always close to the breakdown. The backs with Damien Pestell continuing to make powerful runs in the centre were mainly reduced to defensive kicking and tackling in the second half. They are an exciting three-quarter line but must make more use of the talents of Tom Sheffield on the wing. This was a tough game for the Greenies but they played enough good rugby to suggest that their winning sequence can continue. They play second placed Bromley at Cross in hand on Saturday (kick off 2.15)

1/24/2009 5:33:05 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron RFC 23 - Folkestone RFC 5

Heathfield started their post Christmas league season with a workmanlike victory over a Folkestone XV which had not had a game since the break. The Home team started well and were quicker to the breakdown and better coordinated in all they attempted. The sides were well matched as they were before Christmas but Folkestone, who were short of some key players found the long trip and Heathfield`s desire to climb higher in the league Table too much on a surface made for good rugby.

Heathfield attacked from the start and inside the first five minutes scored a try by Tom Sheffield who pounced on a loose ball which had squirted out of a scrum near the Stone’s line. Before Folkestone had time to recover from their journey and conceding an early score, Heath scored again. This was a much more satisfying try scored by hooker Rob Lawrence after a spell of interpassing by the home team with backs and forwards involved. Neither try was converted and towards the end of the half Folkestone began to exert more pressure. They played some good rugby but Heathfield showed how well organised their defensive system is and they managed to cope with everything that the Stone’s threw at them The half time score was 10-0 to the home side.

Folkestone continued to take the game to the home side as the second half got under way but much of their good work was spoiled by errors while Heathfield played with considerable patience until they rested the initiative from their visitors. Chris Watton who has made a welcome return to the club this season was substituted in the front row by the excellent and versatile Sean Hammond who looked to have regained his early season form after injury. This allowed Richard Cooley to move to the tight head and provided the Greenies with a fresh impetus in the loose. The introduction of Sam Thewlis also added pace and it was good to see Dan Hunter- Evans back in the pack. He is a talented forward and will feature in the club’s forward planning. The home side extended their lead with a Matt Skinner penalty for hands in a ruck and then put the match out of their opponents reach when Damien Pestell, with a surging run from the 22 scored a fine try under the posts to take the margin to 23 points.

Folkestone did not lie down and produced some strong rugby in the last quarter which resulted in a well taken try after a tapped penalty. The final score was a fair reflection on the game which meant that taken on both matches this season honours were even between two very similar and compatible clubs.Heathfield travel to Park House next Saturday in good heart and entertain second placed Bromley the following Saturday. There is much to savour for Greenies supporters in the next few weeks.

1/17/2009 3:01:34 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Sussex Cup Quarter Final

Heathfield & Waldron RFC 13  -  Lewes RFC 8

Heathfield were forced to concede their home draw for this match when the pitch at Cross in Hand was ruled unplayable within an hour of the scheduled kick off. By kind permission of Seaford RFC where the pitches were not frozen the game was transferred to the coast. Unfortunately this meant that two London League sides were obliged to compete on a very small pitch which did not help either side or the quality of the rugby played. However the match was a typical cup encounter played in front of an enthusiastic crowd which ended with the side from London SE 4 gaining a surprise victory over Lewes from one division higher.

Heathfield started the game by competing well against a physically larger team and took the lead through a Matt Skinner penalty after 4 minutes. At this stage Heath looked a more coordinated team holding their own in scrum and lineout and gaining much turnover ball through their faster forwards. Their backs also looked to have the edge behind the scrum. A little against the run of play Lewes took the lead with a good try after one of their props made a break leaving more than one Heathfield tackler in his wake. Shortly before half time Heathfield restored their lead with another Skinner penalty after a high tackle.

Having showed that they could more than compete with Lewes, Heathfield were worth their slender lead. From early in the match Lewes declined to attempt points from penalties given within comfortable distance of their opponents posts. It was clear that they were confident that tries would come and therefore opted to kick for position for most of the match. This played into Heathfield`s hands as they have one of the best defensive records in their division and again proved that they hate having their line crossed.

The game changed dramatically in the second half when Lewes soon gained the ascendancy in scrum and lineout and when Heathfield were shown a yellow card after a succession of attacks by Lewes close to the Heathfield line. The carding was somewhat bizarre because the ref called for the player wearing a number 7 shirt which was not in play at the time. Eventually the courteous and evergreen Tim Evans who was wearing number 17 suggested with considerable courtesy and charm that he was prepared to accept the card. As Evans who must have been the most senior prop on the field by some years had been galloping about the field with his usual energy and had been counter rucking with skill and ferocity, it may be that he felt he could benefit most from a brief period on the sideline. The result of this incident was that the Greenies defence held firm and Lewes again declined a number of kicks at goal which, if converted, would have reduced their deficit.

Having survived the first prolonged period of pressure on their line Heathfield, through Sam Thewlis who had replaced Will Drinkwater, and Bryn Jones kicked their way back into their opponents 22. From a set scrum the Greenies passed to the blindside where Eddie Armah who had come from his right wing position ended some slick passing to cross on the left wing and run round to behind the posts for a superb try which was duly converted.

At this point Lewes began to win lineouts with and against the throw and constantly disrupted the Heathfield scrummage.They also ran with more pace and determination but errors and the referees whistle prevented them from finding the rhythm they needed to break an extremely resolute and brave defence. Lewes could have won this game but because Heathfield got their noses in front and refused to lie down, it was they who achieved a noteworthy victory. In a game which had much to warm the blood on a freezing afternoon both sides competed well at the breakdown and both back rows impressed with Tom Pritchard being named Greenies man of the match for the second week running. Lewes dominated the scrummage and their lineout jumper had a field day but Heathfied`s front five were always up with play and every player in a green shirt tackled heroically to restrict Lewes from scoring a try which would have taken the game into extra time.

Heath are due to play another very strong Sussex side, Chichester in the semi-final at Chichester on Jan17th. 

1/3/2009 3:30:59 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Hastings 3 Heathfield & Waldron RFC 21

Heathfield ended their pre Christmas league programme with a convincing away win at Hastings. On the soggy surface at Hastings this game was never going to be a high scoring affair but having contained their hosts admirably in the first half the Greenies dominated in the second with the wind behind them and scored three excellent tries. Hastings never looked like crossing the Heathfield line and one penalty goal was scant reward for their hard work and robust tackling.

The first half played in the wettest part of the pitch was uneventful and it was no surprise that the teams turned round level having each converted a penalty. Hastings played with commendable determination but could make little impression on one of the tightest defences in the league. Heathfield looked skilful when the ball was moved to their backs but Hastings were up fast and defended as strongly as their opponents.

It was clear early in the second half that Heathfield needed to play the game in their opponents half where the surface was fast and relatively dry. Well served by his forwards and by scrum half Lee Vockins, Bryn Jones kicked accurately and turned the larger Hastings pack time and again. With their speedy wingers putting pressure on the Hastings back three, Heathfield began to dominate. Their first try conceived and scored by hooker Rob Lawrence was a gem. Rob threw short at a lineout on the Hastings 22. Vockins had stood at the front of the lineout and caught the throw and delivered a perfectly weighted pass back to the speedy Greenies hooker who sprinted to the line.

After the restart Heathfield worked their way back into the Hastings half where their admirable forwards turned over Hastings possession and slick and quick passing by Lawrence and Bryn Jones gave Eddie Armah sufficient space to beat his winger on the outside and run clear with a blistering turn of pace to score one of Heathfield`s best tries of the season. The next try which followed soon after was scored by Heathfield`s other flying winger Seb Jones. This try was every bit as good as the Armah try. Again good possession by the forwards allowed skipper Vockins to move the ball into the midfield where Tom Sheffield made a lovely outside break beating his centre by pace before delivering a sumptuous pass to Jones who rounded his winger with ease to score another excellent try.

This try closed out the match which the Greenies thoroughly deserved to win. While their quality backs provided much of the excitement, their pack which lacked their three principal lineout forwards did much of the spadework. The veteran second row of Jim Cummings and Tim Evans worked tirelessly, Matt Skinner playing in an unaccustomed back row position had a wonderful game but the player who epitomised Heathfield`s spirit and courage was, as ever, Tom Pritchard who had another enormously influential game in the back row.

This side has given their supporters much pleasure and deserve their Christmas break before they attempt to give Lewes from one league higher a shock in the Sussex cup on 3rd January at Cross in Hand(kick off 1.30pm).

12/20/2008 1:34:21 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Whitstable RFC 3 Heathfield & Waldron RFC 19

Heathfield travelled to the North Kent coast with a large contingent of supporters but with a much changed team. Due to injuries and absentees only eight of the team who defeated Crow borough were available but such is the strength of  their squad that Heathfield were able to secure their first away win of the season by wearing down a strong and determined Whitstable team.

Although there was surface water on parts of the pitch, the afternoon was bright and dry. Heathfield played up the slope in the first half and spent much of the half in their own territory and were obliged to defend against some driving play by the home side.Whitstable`s strong and experienced pack shoved the lighter Greenies pack back at the first scrum and threatened to exert dominance in the forward exchanges. However the Heathfield forwards dug in and mainly through the admirable Bruce Pestell won a lot of line out ball including a number of steals against their opponents throws. On one of Heathfields excursions into Whitstable’s 22 the Greenies were near to forcing over the home sides line but after a succession of penalties acting skipper Lee Vaccines opted for a kick at goal which Matt Skinner landed to take his side into a slender lead. Whitstable responded immediately with a beautifully struck drop goal from their talented young fly half but Heathfield after some valiant defensive work especially by their young back row crept back into their opponents half for Skinner to kick a second penalty to give the Greenies a 6-3 lead at half time. Throughout the first half Heathfield`s tackling had been excellent and Bryn Jones made some crucial defensive punts which often relieved strong Whitstable pressure. Will Drinkwater at full back also kicked well and the ubiquitous Rob Lawrence also showed some of his kicking skills.

Lee Vokins scores the only try of the game...

Playing down the slope in the second half Heathfield exerted continuous pressure on their hosts who made too many errors to relieve the wave of attacks which the young and fit Heathfield side were making. The defining moment of the match came when Vockins, who led by example all afternoon, scored an excellent try under the posts .His decision to trust himself instead of  spreading the ball wide resulted in a certain seven points for his team and a lead which proved decisive. Once again the Heathfield line was not crossed and two additional penalty kicks by Skinner sealed a hard earned victory. The win, in view of the number of changes forced on Coach Dave Jones, was one of his sides best of the season to date. Every player stood up to give of their best none more so than Vockins and tight head prop Richard Cooley who propped both sides of the scrum during the game and continued to achieve a fantastic work rate in the loose. This Heathfield side and the army of supporters will remember their first visit to a club who has a great deal in common with Heathfield.

This Saturday kick off in the cup game at Cross in Hand against Lewes will be at 1.45.
A large crowd is anticipated.

12/8/2008 11:40:07 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron 20 - Crowborough 6

This local Derby between clubs who play the same style of Rugby turned out to be as good a match as it had always promised to be. The match was played in an excellent spirit and was well and sympathetically refereed. On a wet surface with fog always threatening visibility the large crowd from both clubs enjoyed a fast and keenly contested match. The speedy Crowborough backs looked dangerous when they received good ball but the home team won the day through having slightly the better of the forward exchanges and through their ability to make yardage through their ball carrying forwards and their more powerful and direct backs. The point’s difference was a fair reflection on the game.

With the game only a minute old Heathfield made ground deep into their visitors half and their forwards gave notice of the style in which the Greenies have been playing this season by handling skilfully with hooker Rob Lawrence making a fine break. Crowborough covered back but could not prevent scrum half Lee Vockins crawling over near the left corner flag to open the scoring. Heathfield with their noses in front continued to put pressure on their opponents who seemed a trifle surprised by the speed and power of the home pack. The pressure told and after conceding penalties near their line, Crowborough went further behind from a well controlled pushover try from Heathfield`s no 8 Simon Wilson. Crowborough responded well and their pack began to get on terms. Both side’s back rows had excellent games. Crowborough opened their account with a penalty and turned round 3 points to ten down.

Heathfield had been obliged to replace their very mobile prop Tim Evans, who aggravated a rib injury, with Shaun Hammond and at half time made a positional switch with Damien Pestell swapping the fly half berth with Matt Skinner. These two players normally occupy the centre positions but the change seemed to help the home side and the style they needed to adopt in the conditions.

Crowborough came back strongly in the second half running the ball whenever they had an opportunity. In drier conditions they might have engineered a try  but Heathfield`s excellent defence held out and eventually it was Heathfield through Damien Pestell who scored the only try of the second half when he powered through Crowborough`s defence ,spinning out of attempted tackles to score by the posts.

Some of the rugby played in this game was as good as anything produced by Heathfield this season. One of the most noticeable aspects of their success is the contribution made by their forwards in supporting a very talented set of backs. The Pack are not huge men but the props are mobile and are fine technicians in the tight, the locks together with Simon Wilson and Bruce Pestell manage much good lineout possession , often against the throw in and any eight which turns out tackles fearlessly and is strong in the contact area.
With forwards in this mould coach Dave Jones is able to play the fast and fluid 15 man game he has been working on since he took charge.

This Saturday the Greenies travel to Whitstable and on 13th December they entertain Lewes at Cross in hand in the quarter final of the Sussex Trophy. Providing the Greenies can stay reasonably injury free they have every chance of continuing their run of success. 

11/29/2008 3:58:23 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield Overwhelm Local Rivals

H&W RFC 53   HASTINGS 0

Heathfield extended their unbeaten run of home league matches to five when they overwhelmed their local rivals by more than fifty points including nine excellent tries. The game was open and the home side played some fast and direct rugby with much passing between backs and forwards which left Hastings often clutching at straws and wondering how they were going to restrict the margin of defeat. To their credit they tightened their game in the final quarter and prevented Heathfield from adding to their tally in that period. Heathfield`s ball carrying and handling throughout was of the highest order with forwards Koby Tonkin, who had an excellent game as captain, Simon Wilson, Rob Lawrence and Bruce Pestell running and handling like threequarters.

The home side began the game at a cracking pace when Wilson and Lawrence carried towards the Hastings line to link with the backs who created an opening for veteran prop Tim Evans to score. This try was followed by further crisp handling for another of Heathfield veterans Levi Willis to score wide out on the right. Not content with this try which was converted by Matt Skinner, Willis used his power to complete another move by the backs and score again towards the right hand touchline. Matt Skinner added the points as he did to the Greenie`s next try when Damien Pestell made a break from the Hastings ten metre line and ran a superb line between the Hastings centres to touch down under the posts. Matt Skinner was kicking and running well and it was appropriate that he should score and convert the final try of the first half.

The first fifteen minutes of the second half was similar to the first half with Heathfield scoring four more tries after impressive running and handling from the whole team. Tom Pritchard replaced Tim Evans after Evans appeared to have bruised a rib. Rob Lawrence took over propping duties and Pritchard hooked. The Greeny front row remained secure and Pritchard showed his versatility by extending his run of tries by scoring twice.

The first try of the half came when fly half Bryn Jones slipped a beautifully timed pop pass to full back Sam Thewlis and between Pritchard’s tries Tom Sheffield showed blistering pace when he completed a good handling movement to beat the cover defence from 30 yards out.
It was clear that the players in green enjoyed the game and they certainly played in the style that their coach has developed with them over the past two seasons. In terms of the league table they are the most successful of the Sussex teams in the division and they have the ability to topple some of the Kent high flyers when they visit Cross in Hand. Before that they play their old rivals Crowborough at home on 29th November and then travel to Whitstable on 5th December.

11/18/2008 6:52:34 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Folkestone v's Heathfield & Waldron

Folkestone 15   Heathfield & Waldron 5

Wet and windy weather followed the Greenies down to Folkestone where the home side played the conditions well and made fewer mistakes than their visitors. The referee who had  a good game surprised many onlookers by allowing both sides to play in the same colour and as both clubs set out to play a similar style of rugby it was sometimes difficult to identify  which team was going forward. It was a well contested and clean game played in a good spirit which meant that the large crowd were treated to enjoyable rugby on a miserable afternoon. Folkestone deserved their win and the margin was fair.

With the elements in their favour Folkestone exerted early pressure on Heath and were rewarded after about ten minutes with a penalty off one of the upright posts. Folkestone wasted little time in forcing their way back into their opponents 22 when Heath attempted to run the ball out of defence down their narrow side. They conceded a turnover and the Stone’s half backs sensibly moved the ball to the open side where Heath had little cover. The conversion was missed but Folkestone had started well and were not allowing Heath into the game.

The Greenies came back again with some spirited running but too often their usually safe handling let them down and Folkestone were able to regain the initiative. From a turnover on halfway the speedy home backs moved the ball left and with a beautifully timed pass after a miss move the left winger rounded the Heath defence with ease to score under the posts.

 
Heathfield responded by contesting every loose ball and they again showed well in the set pieces. They made occasional sorties into their opponents 22 and were near to scoring when No 8 Simon Wilson made a surging run near to the left touchline. Heath again came close to scoring a try through their forwards which would have put a different perspective on the game but the home defence was secure and the score at half time was 15-0 to the home side.

Heathfield improved their game in the second half with the wind in their favour but the home side defended their lead with commendable commitment and with good tackling were able to blunt most of the Greenie`s attacks. The Folkestone fly half controlled the game skilfully and often kicked intelligently to relieve dangerous situations. Heath made too many mistakes to achieve any consistent rhythm but the scored the try of the match which was loudly and graciously applauded by the home spectators as well as the Heath faithful. Sam (Mono) Thewlis who is having a marvellous season at full back made ground just inside his sides ten metre line, jinked both ways and then raced up the right hand touchline leaving the home defence flat footed before chipping over the Folkestone full back.Mono duly won the race for the touchdown and grounded the ball skilfully just in play but very close to the touch in goal line.

Not even this wonderful try could rescue the day for Heathfield but they again gave notice that they are going to win a number more games in this league especially in drier playing conditions. The team gave of their best but were on the day fairly defeated. As always with this team all fifteen players contributed but apart from the silky running skills of Thewlis two excellent club men deserve mention. Both these players Tom Pritchard and Jack Bailey are utility players who are capable of playing in different positions if it helps their club. Neither is physically massive but both are fearless and will give everything for their team. Tom has played at wing forward and hooker during this season and in fact scored an excellent try against Park House which was incorrectly attributed to his fellow Tom, Sheffield .He again played admirably in both positions on Saturday while Jack, more often a flanker, had a very solid game on the wing often running well out of defence. The Heath coaches are fortunate to have players with such versatile skills at their disposal.

This Saturday Heathfield entertain Hastings at Cross in Hand. Kick off is at 2.30

11/10/2008 6:21:23 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron v's Park House

Heathfield & Waldron 19    PARK HOUSE 10

Although this league game was played throughout in the most atrocious weather conditions both sides played some excellent rugby which went some way to cheer a very cold and wet gathering of spectators. The match was, in effect won by the home team in the opening quarter when they scored two fine tries both of which were converted by  Joe Reilly. Park House never recovered from the early onslaught and although they scored a superb try in the closing minutes, Heathfield dominated play from first whistle to last.

Heathfield coach Dave Jones was able to select an almost full strength side for the first time for a month and his players responded by once again showing that they are capable of climbing further up the league table. Their two early tries by winger Tom Sheffield and full back Sam Thewlis came from clean possession from the forwards and safe handling in the wet by the threequarters.The opening try came after dropped a pass in the Park House in goal area. Heath won the resulting scrum and moved the ball wide to Sheffield who had no difficulty in scoring.

Having taken such a convincing early lead the Greenies played with great confidence in spite of the driving rain and icy wind. The ball was frequently run out of defence and moved down the line with commendable dexterity. The handling and running of both backs and forwards was thrilling to watch and would have resulted in more tries on a dry day. Park house responded by defending stoically and kicking the ball out of hand to clear their lines. Their outstanding scrum half never received quality ball but nevertheless had a fine game and made a wonderful break to set up his side’s only try at the end of the game.

For Heathfield every player went well, none better than skipper Kobe Tonkin who led from the front and ran like a centre with ball in hand. With Simon Wilson returning to the fray to add his power and experience and Heath’s athletic front row again outclassing their opponents, the Greenies had the platform to dominate which they did with style.
Scrum half Lee Vockins continues to improve with every game and his half back partner Bryn Jones also had a good game scoring a try in the second half when he powered his way to the line from outside his opponents 22. Sadly Heathfield lost Joe Reilly with what looked like a painful rib injury shortly before half time.

While mentioning a few individuals in a very united and motivated team, it is difficult to overstate the qualities that the Pestell brothers give to their team. Damien at inside centre brings pace and strength to the midfield where he, Jones and Matt Skinner make a formidable trio, and Bruce on the flank is one of the Greenies ball carriers and simply loves the hard work that forwards have to do these days.

If Coach Jones can keep the squad together for the visit to Folkestone this Saturday, Heathfield could break the Stone’s sequence of a hat trick of league wins.

11/1/2008 6:12:00 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

25/10/08 Bromley 22 - Heathfield &Waldron 11

Bromley maintained their unbeaten record but failed to impress against a Heathfield side who lacked their usual confidence and fluency. The weather was good, the pitch was in perfect condition for fast running rugby but the players on both sides were unable to understand the frequent exhortations from the referee not to kill the ball in the contact area and consequently the game was of poor quality and the result was disappointing for the large contingent of loyal supporters who travelled from Heathfield.

Playing down a marked slope and with a breeze at their backs Heath failed to impose themselves on a strangely hesitant Bromley side in the first half. All Heathfield could manage was two penalties while Bromley scored the only try of the half when their competent fly half cross kicked on his own 22 line for their right wing to gather and score a well executed try in the corner. Heath could and should have scored more points in this period. Once again the front row of Richard Cooley. Rob Lawrence and Tim Evans dominated a larger trio and won possession with and against the head. Mark Walker was outstanding in the middle of the lineout but the back line never looked like penetrating a sound Bromley defence.

The Greenies played with more urgency against the elements in the second half and managed one try through the excellent Jim Cummings after Heathfield won a lineout near their opponent’s line half. They held a one point lead for a short time but Bromley responded with a good try and the referee decided to yellow card a Heathfield player for off side when he had been warning both sides for persistent infringing for most of the game. Soon after a Bromley prop was also sent to the sin bin for not retiring ten metres. The ref had tried to be consistent with his interpretations of the new laws but sadly empathy between him and the players was very limited. In the dieing minute Bromley’s excellent NO 8 who had been a thorn in Heathfield`s side all afternoon scored a try to secure his team a deserved win by 22-11.

Heathfield did not do themselves justice in this game and will be looking for far more flair and fluency when they entertain Park House in their next league game at Cross in Hand this weekend (kick off 2.30).

10/28/2008 1:16:03 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

EDF Cup - Charlton Park 21 H&W FRC 10

Both clubs’s fielded below strength teams in the second round of the EDF national    competition which tends to indicate that league programmes are now so cluttered that many clubs feel unable to field their leading players for cup games. The Charlton Park “A” side won this match largely because their defence was tighter and because they capitalised on an excess of sloppy play by Heathfield.

Although a number of key players were absent it was good to see two highly promising young men included in the Heathfield squad. The experience will have done them nothing but good. It was also excellent to see Mark Walker back He won much good lineout ball and played with his usual zest and skill around the park.

Heath started well and looked as though they would exact revenge for an earlier league defeat at Kidbrooke.They scored the first try after prop Richard Cooley dived on a loose ball and surprised the home defence who were unable to prevent scrum half Lee Vockins from leaving the defence flat footed to score half way out. At this point Tom Pritchard had to leave the field with an injury to be replaced by the evergreen Levi Willis who took up an unaccustomed position in the back row. As is his wont he did not let his team down.

Heath had enjoyed some good possession early on but towards the end of the first half Charlton Park scored twice. First Heathfield failed to deal with a high kick and suffered the consequences and then, just before half time, a Charlton Park lock picked up a loose ball on the Greenies 22 and succeeded in running unopposed to score under the posts. Heathfield looked shell-shocked and reached half time trailing by 5 points to 17.

The second half was evenly matched with Heathfield trying everything they knew to close the point’s difference and gain a victory which was always within their grasp. They mounted a number of attacks on their opponents line but Charlton Park`s tackling and defensive play was always sound and Heath’s efforts were repelled time and again. However with ten minutes of play remaining Rob Lawrence broke clear in the opposition’s 22 and delivered a fine pass for Sam Thewlis to score. The conversion was missed but still Heath looked as though they could still win. However in the closing moments Park kicked ahead, Heath failed to tidy up and secure the ball and the Home side scored under the posts. Park`s winning score of 21-10 flattered a trifle but their win was nevertheless deserved.

Heathfield travel to Bromley for a challenging fixture against the League joint leaders Bromley this Saturday. 

10/20/2008 10:40:12 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Development XV 21 Barns Green 10

After a big loss last week to Worthing the Development XV were determined to get back into winning ways this week. Barns Green was last encountered at the end of last season when we met in a tournament in Warsaw Poland!

Once more there was a number of changes to the development XV from the previous week which included a number of ex Robertsbridge players including Julian, who added much needed bulk to the front row.

Barns green opened the scoring with a try that was manufactured by there strong forwards, this was scored out wide and the conversion was missed. Heathfield replied with a penalty kick by fly half Sam Goacher. This sequence was repeated later on in the first half, a Barns Green try and a Sam Goacher penalty, giving a half time score of 10 - 6 to Barns green.

Unlike the past few weeks where a lack of concentration and periods of ill discipline undermined the teams performance, a new found determination helped to raise our game and during the second half the Dev XV were clearly the team that had the game under control. The first try of the second half was scored by No 8 Oli Robertshaw, who had a dominate game at the base of the scrum often helping out new scrum half Nick Seddon at the set piece, he powered over to score a well deserved try. Sam Goacher who was in fine kicking form missed the difficult conversion but kicked another penalty with in a few minutes. Heathfield was now showing some of the skills that is pleasing to the eye, with fine tactical kicking from San Goacher, elusive runs from fullback Chris English, and centres Stuart Buckland and Leon running set moves. The second try for Heathfield was scored by one of the more mature players, hooker Chris Jones, who belied his years to collect the ball from a breakdown and dash ten metres diving over the line for the decisive score of the game. Converted by Sam Goacher.

All in all a more rounded performance by the entire team.

10/13/2008 5:59:49 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron RFC 17 Horsham 7

Heathfield continued their promising start to the season by defeating Horsham in a close and keenly contested match at Cross in Hand. Both sides were short of key players but Heath used the home advantage to good effect especially in the first half when their speed of thought and action looked like putting the result beyond doubt before half time. Horsham had other ideas and put in a storming second half to restrict the home team to a ten point winning margin.

After a scrappy start Greenies settled down to play in the manner that they and their supporters enjoy. Heathfield achieved parity in scrum and line out and the speed of their forwards to the breakdown created quick ball for backs and forwards to develop sustained movement from one end of the field to the other. The visitors found adjusting to this tempo difficult which allowed the home team to play some fast and attractive football. Towards the end of the first quarter Heathfield secured lineout ball through Bruce Pestell and ever improving scrum half Lee Vockins made a clean break to feed No 8 Simon Wilson who ran in from outside the Horsham 22 to score near the posts. Joe Reilly converted to take Heath into a 7-0 lead. The Greenies continued to play fast  and entertaining rugby and were rewarded with a second try after a good passage of play when Bryn Jones timed a pass superbly for Heathfield full back Sam Thewlis to run at pace through the visitors defence. Again Reilly converted to give Heathfield a 14-0 lead at half time.

Horsham were a different team in the second half and dominated the game for long periods. Their forwards gained parity in all departments up front and their backs looked threatening whenever they ran the ball. By contrast the home team were unusually restrained in the second half and were relieved to be awarded a penalty in the dying minutes to secure a fair but unconvincing victory. Horsham’s only reward for an excellent second half was one converted try.

Heathfield played well as a team in the first half of this game and a few players put in outstanding performances over the full eighty minutes. Simon Wilson was constantly involved and worked really well with Vockins at scrum half and with his back row colleagues. Bruce Pestell had a storming game, winning valuable possession at the lineout and making a number of surging runs. Brother Damien was, as ever a powerhouse in the centre and Sam Thewlis gave a polished performance at full back.

This was a valuable win against a team who never gave up. Heathfield continue their challenge in the EDF cup competition on Saturday when they visit Charlton Park for the second time this season. Kick off in south east London will be at 2.30.         

10/13/2008 5:28:16 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

TONBRIDGE JUDDIANS RFC 26 H&W RFC O

The talented and well organised home team won this game by a comfortable margin and never looked like losing their unbeaten record. Heathfield however gave the TJs a thorough examination and competed well for long stretches of the game giving notice once again that they could feature in the top half of the table this season. From their outstanding performance TJs indicated that they are likely to top the league and gave evidence that any side who defeats them this season will have to be on the top of their game.

With Heathfield playing into the wind in the first half and defending courageously neither side was able to penetrate two strong defences. Just when it seemed likely that Heathfield would escape with a six point deficit at half-time Heathfield scrum half Lee Vockins was shown a yellow card for killing the ball in a ruck and almost immediately the home side’s skilful backs created an opportunity for their powerful no 8 to run in a good try. TJs led by two penalties and an unconverted try at half time.

The home side started strongly in the second half with some surging runs by their impressive back row plus some intelligent kicking by their half backs. Still with only 14 players on the field Heathfield conceded a second try from the TJ captain and open side wing forward. No sooner had Vockins returned to the fray than the Greenies were down to 14 again with Rob Lawrence being harshly yellow carded for foul play when the referee had ignored the first offence by TJs.

Heathfield responded to being a player down by driving purposefully into the TJs defence but then hit the post with a penalty attempt in front of the post. Once again the highly competent home side took advantage of the extra man and scored a further try this time by their other flank forward.

The home team had a vice-like grip on the game but still the Greenies fought back and mounted a sustained rearguard action camping inside TJs 22 for at least ten minutes. Time and again Greenies drove for the line with their experienced no 8 David Cook in the van but TJs held out with some tenacious defending and Heathfield were denied the try they deserved. After their period of excellent defending TJs proved their class by a series of tactical kicks and fluent running to score a final try and to gain a victory by 26 points to nil.

This was a match for the connoisseur between two sides who set out to play fast attacking football. Both sides had excellent back rows, TJs were stronger at the line out and Heathfield`s front row acquitted themselves admirably. Alongside the excellent Cook in the back row Heathfields young flankers Bruce Pestell and George Leney lost nothing in comparison with TJs outstanding breakaway trio. Skipper Bryn Jones led his line well and Damien Pestell and Tom Sheffield broke the TJ midfield defence on several occasions. Sheffield showed what an asset he is to the Heathfield squad this season. Heathfield will have learned much from this encounter and if they can tighten up on their discipline and cut down the yellow cards they concede they could run TJs close later in the season.

Heathfield continue their league programme at home to Horsham on Saturday, kick off at 3pm.

10/7/2008 11:12:21 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield &Waldron RFC 40 East Grinstead RFC 18

A large crowd at Cross in Hand witnessed some outstanding rugby in a match which was sadly tainted by some ugly scenes after the referee had blown the whistle for full time. There had been some incidents both on and off the ball during the game itself but the behaviour and actions of some of the players involved in the final skirmishes did no credit either to the splendid attacking rugby played by the home side or to the game of Rugby itself.

Barely five minutes into the game the first “off the ball” incident occurred when Heathfield flanker Pritchard received a boot in his face which caused profuse bleeding and damage to his nose. Fortunately for the visitors the referee was following the ball and did not see the offence. East Grinstead was therefore able to continue the game with a full compliment while Pritchard was substituted for running repairs.

The Greenies forwards dominated all phases from the start and the first try resulted from the first of a number of heels against the head by their outstanding front row. Number 8 Wilson returning for injury made ground before skipper Jones carried well and delivered the scoring pass to centre Damien Pestell who burst through a number of tackles to open the scoring. The second try was even more exhilarating for the Heathfield faithful. The Greenies turned over ball inside their own 22 for hooker Lawrence and lock Tonkin to run powerfully close to the touchline to find the effervescent and evergreen Jim Cummings on hand to score. The feast continued. Vockins, who had another fine game at scrum half took a quick tap penalty inside the opposition half. The ball was passed through forwards and backs before Lawrence showed his speed to run clear from the ten metre line to score by the posts. The two teams exchanged penalties before Heathfield won another scrum against the head for their half backs to move the ball to the narrow side for left winger Sebastian Jones to show his speed to make the score which allowed Heathfield to go into half time with a 25-3 lead.

Heathfield sealed their victory soon after the restart when they scored try which saw both props handling like centres for Cummings to score his second try of the match out wide on the left touchline. The home side continued to dominate, the visitors showed signs of frustration and Pritchard, whose face was still bleeding, was substituted for the last time. Heathfield scored a final try through Tonkin, East Grinstead managed two consolation tries and then the darker side of Rugby had its say right at the end when veteran Ian Jenkins who had come on as a late substitute was lucky to escape with just concussion as a result of the unsavoury ill discipline which concluded the afternoon’s entertainment.

For sixty minutes of the match Heathfield played wonderful rugby with backs and forwards handling and running superbly. They face a tough challenge next Saturday at highly fancied Tonbridge Juddians. They will start as underdogs but on the evidence of this match they have a very good chance. A full turnout from Heathfield supporters will be needed. 

9/29/2008 9:57:22 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Charlton Park 11 Heathfield &Waldron 10

A match lacking in quality rugby for the duration of normal time was brought to a thrilling and controversial climax by the referee’s decision to play over ten minutes of time added. Heathfield conceded a try in the very last minute of a match which they had looked like winning and Charlton Park, for the second consecutive week defeated a Sussex side by a single point.

Heathfield travelled to Charlton Park’s magnificent ground and started strongly converting a penalty in the first few minutes. Park’s normally reliable kicker missed a penalty from close range and with both sides fancied as leading contenders in the league a rather scrappy and nervy game developed. The early exchanges of the front rows were somewhat abrasive and words and minor nudges were exchanged between Sean Hammond and his heavyweight opposite number. Hammond recovered from a bloodied nose to have another outstanding game for his new club. Having settled more quickly than their hosts Heathfield gave notice that they were a force to be reckoned with when inside the first quarter their captain Bryn Jones rounded off some slick passing by forwards and backs inside the Park 22 to force his way over the try line in front of the posts. Matt Skinner converted and the Greenies led by ten points.

Heathfield held this lead until late in the game when Park reduced the deficit with a well taken penalty. Neither side were able to impose any kind of fluency in their play and both defended well throughout. There was much good spoiling work by both back rows as well as a certain amount of confusion with the interpretation of the laws at the breakdown. When Heathfield’s excellent mid field trio of Jones, Pestell and Skinner did receive some ball they made dents in the Park defence but the possession was slow and there were few opportunities for either side to use the pace of their wingers.

Just when the loyal band of supporters from Heathfield thought that their side had held onto their slender lead for a hard earned away win the referee issued yellow card to a Heathfield player and the Greenies, for the first time in the match lost their composure and conceded three penalties near to the Park line. From the final penalty the home side moved the ball quickly to one of their speedy wingers who gratefully crossed for the try that had eluded Park for the majority of the game. These two sides are due to meet twice more this season and both will hope to improve on the standard of rugby played on this occasion.

9/22/2008 9:02:04 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield 27 Beccehamians 3

The first London SE Four League Match of the season brought a comfortable victory for the home team over Beccehamians by five tries to none.  A slightly changed team from the previous week still demonstrated a style and quality of rugby that will make them very competitive in this league.

Playing towards the clubhouse initially the home side was captained by Kobe Tonkin from No 8 and he was especially effective in this role in the first half.  Matt Skinner was fly half for the day: he took a knock to the head early on but stayed on for the whole game and had a generally sound game.

After an early penalty miss, Heathfield were dominating play and Damien Pestell completed some good handling with a nicely taken try.  The referee was having trouble with both teams at the breakdown and there were too many penalties for the game to flow as much as the excellent conditions and pitch suggested was possible.

A penalty near the Beccehamian line allowed Matt Skinner to display quick reactions by grabbing the ball and running through the retreating opposition to claim a try in the clubhouse corner.

The scrummage was unsettled all day with both sides occasionally disrupting the opposition but Rob Lawrence still managed several strikes against the head.  Sean Hammond had another lively day in the loose with frequent appearances in the fly half position.

The visitors continued to attract the referee’s attention at the breakdown and after repeated penalties and warnings he was left with little choice but to sin-bin the visiting no 5 for another offence on the floor.  However Heathfield failed to capitalise on the situation and the half time score of 10-0 barely did justice to the green domination.

Seven minutes into the second half the home team made the game safe with the best move of the match.  Attacking into the right hand corner with an excellent break by Tom Sheffield in his first competitive match for the club, quickly recycled ball was switched back to the left hand corner where Rob Lawrence marshalled affairs and allowed Matt Skinner to dive over for his second try of the game and who then converted his own try.  (17-0)

The visitors now had their best period of the match with a couple of effective pick-and-drives.  However the home defence proved more than adequate and the try line was never seriously threatened.

Following coach Dave Jones’ policy of occasionally mixing experience with the generally youthful team Ian Jenkins now made a welcome reappearance in place of Dan Hunter-Evans and caught the eye with a number of fine tackles and drives.   Matt Skinner then had a rest in the sin bin for ten minutes after being adjudged to have made a dangerous tackle.  The visitors collected their only points of the day from the ensuing penalty.

After twenty minutes of the second half a good break by Damien Pestell created a try for Tom Sheffield. (22-3) The visitors were offering little in attack although still defending stoutly.  Another good passage of play was completed by an outrageous Rob Lawrence break and who then put Sebastian Jones in for the final home score.  There should have been yet another when Heathfield had overwhelming numbers in the left hand corner and George Leney was in the process of touching down when the referee decided that some obstruction had taken place.

Next Saturday Heathfield travel to Charlton Park (3pm kickoff) for what is expected to be a sterner test of this still developing team.

9/14/2008 3:20:12 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield 32 Gosport & Fareham 10

Heathfield won their first competitive game of the new season with a convincing defeat in the EDF Energy Senior Vase of Gosport and Fareham RFC who play their league rugby at the same level as Heathfield but in the South West region. 

Heathfield started the game with a pace and level of skill that pleased coach Dave Jones and reflected the hard work in pre-season training.  Gosport had only arrived 45 minutes before the match started and it looked as though some of them were mentally still on the coach.  Slick inter passing combined with supporting players arriving at pace had the visitors struggling to defend and it was no surprise when Kobe Tonkin crashed over after a sustained period of play.  Gosport hardly had their hands on the ball and failed to make use of the conditions when they did, only kicking long with the helpful breeze on three occasions in the first half.

After twenty five minutes continued pressure ended in Kobe Tonkin rolling out of a tackle to collect his second try (10-0).  Five minutes later Sean Hammond, making his first competitive appearance for Heathfield, scored his first try for the club, illustrating the impressive mobility that he brings along with highly effective scrummaging at loose head.  Byrn Jones converted on a day when place kicking was very difficult (17-0) The home pack were generally aggressive and mobile, scrapping for the ball and often winning fifty-fifty situations against a Gosport pack that appeared much heavier.

A moment of poor discipline and confusion allowed Gosport to score a try from a quickly taken tap penalty (17-5).  However almost immediately Heathfield responded after another extended sequence of handling with a well-taken try by Damien Pestell (22-5).

Facing the wind in the second half Gosport started in a more combative mode and Heathfield had to defend more than previously.  However once this surge had been contained Bryn Jones started to make many yards with excellent kicking out of hand.  Adam Tennant completed a good handling move to open the scoring in the half (27-5).  Gosport were being more effective around rucks and mauls, pushing the offside line and disrupting otherwise good green possession but by now it was clear that Heathfield were going to win as long as they did not relax.

Simon Wilson had made excellent ground throughout the game and he now completed Heathfield’s scoring with a decent try (32-5).   Kobe Tonkin was then replaced by the new stream-lined Dan Hunter-Evans.  As well as his two tries Kobe had been effective in the loose and made some fine middle lineout catches on a difficult day so it was no surprise when he was picked as man of the match.

Following some more good handling Damien Pestell unselfishly passed with the line at his mercy but Gosport managed to prevent the try.  Indeed the visitors finished the stronger of the two sides and they now counter-attacked well.  Their speedy left wing Pat Mulholland who had looked threatening whenever he had the ball scored a fine try to complete the scoring (32-10).

Next Saturday (13th September 3pm) Heathfield entertain Beccehamians in the first London SE 4 League game of the season.   The standard of play demonstrated by Heathfield, especially in the first half of this match, bodes well for the coming campaign.

9/10/2008 10:05:22 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

2008/2009 Season

9/1/2008 4:40:42 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield 17 Seaford 6

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)     

Heathfield 29 Uckfield 0

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 63 Pulborough 0

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)     

Hellingly 8 Heathfield 75

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 retain Sussex Shield - Heathfield 38 Pulborough 7

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)     

Crawley 0 Heathfield 36

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)     

Burgess Hill 0 Heathfield 54

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 & Waldron 28 Crawley 0

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)     

Heathfield Flying High!

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)     

Heathfield 12 Brighton 3

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)     

Heathfield 1st's 12 Burgess Hill 1st's 6

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)     

East Grinstead 5 Heathfield & Waldron 44

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)     

Heathfield 17 - Uckfield 11

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)     

Seaford 6 Heathfield 32

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)     

Heathfield 23 East Grinstead 16

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)     

Brighton 1st's 3 Heathfield & Waldron 1st's 29

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.

After the break Heathfield were galvanised into more stirring action and immediately took a slender lead through Rob Lawrence after an excellent rolling maul by the forwards. The domination of the game that followed later was delayed by the sin binning of lock Kobe Tonkin for persistent infringement at the breakdown. With only seven forwards to play against Brighton mounted attack after attack but Heath fields’ strength and determination arrested the Home side’s efforts and in effect broke their resolve to overcome their visitors. This was a heroic period of defensive play by the Greenies with all fourteen players tackling like dervishes and with skipper Jones making some telling clearing kicks. With one of their lineout forwards off the field Heath produced some of their best lineout play by throwing short to the impressive Mark Walker and then shoving the Brighton eight back yards with Rob Lawrence organising the rolling maul. These two talented young forwards had wonderful games for the Greenies.

Once Kobe returned from the sin bin the whole game turned and Heathfield delighted their large band of travelling supporters with an invigorating display of attacking rugby. The feast of scoring began with man of the match Matt Skinner racing in to the corner for a fine individual try created by the pack gaining quick ball from the loose. Soon after this Rob Lawrence pounced on the ball which squirted out of the side of a ruck near the Brighton line. He was as surprised as anyone, especially the Brighton side by his good fortune and looked like a cheeky schoolboy as he gleefully accepted his chance and ran in unopposed.

Heath field were now in their stride with their forwards in charge and with Will Christian throwing out some good passes to Bryn Jones who was now showing what a class act he can be at outside half. A half break by Jones and some excellent running and passing in the centre led to Adam Tennant finishing with clinical efficiency. Heathfield had eased into a 24-3 lead. An even better try completed the afternoon’s entertainment when Bryn Jones again received good ball and made a scything break from the Heathfield ten metre line to put his talented centres clear with Matt Skinner touching down for his second try.

Heath field have a tough two weeks ahead with a cup and league double header against unbeaten East Grinstead with both games to be played at Cross in Hand. A large crowd is anticipated for both games (17^th & 24^th Nov) and a feast of rugby will be in the offing.  

Report by Mike de St Croix

11/9/2007 3:42:24 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Park House 1sts 21 Heathfield 1sts 0

The chapter of disasters in the saga of the first round match in this seasons Powergen Junior Vase continued when Heath field travelled with a large band of supporters to Hayes in Kent for the rearranged fixture. Both fixtures will be remembered as much for the refereeing or lack of it as the rugby. Due to a misunderstanding there was no referee appointed for the original game and for the second meeting the refereeing was to put it mildly somewhat loose. That said Heath field were well beaten by a faster and more vigorous side and the loyal group of supporters while disappointed by the lack of control of the referee could not grumble with the result and gave credit to the home side’s performance on the day.

Heath field have combined well as a unit this season but there was little evidence of teamwork in this disjointed performance. Not helped by some strange interpretation of the laws Heath were badly beaten to the breakdown, conceded turnover ball regularly and whenever an individual made ground there was insufficient support to create scoring opportunities. Making his debut for Heath field at scrum half, Will Christian showed glimpses of class but received little protection from either the referee or his own players. The stark facts are that Park House scored the only two tries of the match and Heath field lost three players injured while a number of others were struggling with minor injuries by the final whistle. With a number of key league fixtures approaching this loss may serve as a wake-up call to a side who had been shaping so well before until this reversal.

Report by Mike de St Croix

10/27/2007 10:05:21 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield 36 Hellingly 17

Conditions were perfect for this Sussex Division I match between near-neighbours.  There was little wind, some cloud, no rain and the pitch at Cross-In-Hand is now in magnificent condition.

Hellingly were promoted from Sussex Division II last year and on the basis of this match they look likely to be competitive at this level.  However they were immediately handicapped by the loss of their tight-head prop in the first scrum with a jarred neck and were under steady pressure from the home side with successive attacks on both wings.  On three occasions within a few minutes a Heathfield player crossed the line only to be recalled for a forward pass.

At such moments frustration can begin to upset concentration but eventually Bruce Pestell and then Matt Skinner scored fine tries after good handling moves and it began to look as though a comfortable win was likely. 

Possibly the key moment in the game now occurred as a Hellingly centre was binned for ten minutes.  Bryn Jones converted the ensuing penalty and thereafter Heathfield continued to spread their good possession wide with more home tries looking imminent.  However scores came at the other end as Hellingly seized on two perhaps telegraphed passes to score interception tries, one of which was converted, even though they were still a man short at the time.

With the score at 15-12 Hellingly now had their best period of the game as they spent long periods in the home team half.  Just before half time the visitors missed an easy penalty which would have tied the scores and the home supporters were looking uneasy.

Initially in the second half it looked as though Hellingly would continue to threaten but gradually the home team took control again.  Rob Lawrence stretched an arm out over the line but was adjudged to have made a second movement.  However Will Drinkwater soon scored an excellent try under the posts. Lee Vockins was now replaced by Nick Cherry and Richard Cooley gave way to the veteran and much appreciated Rob Streeter.

The home lineout and scrum had a good day generally and Heathfield had plentiful possession.  The best try of the day was now initiated by Eddie Armah who floated a delightful pass to Adam Tennant who made useful ground before putting Bryn Jones in. Then Damien Pestell matched his brother’s try following a quick tap and break by Nick Cherry and with Bryn Jones converting four out of the five tries the score was now a healthy 36-12.

Just as the home supporters were anticipating even more points Hellingly again burgled an interception and collected their third try.  Few observers could remember three interception tries in one game. However Heathfield were in no mood for further upsets and that was the final score in the game.

Report by Phil Bell

9/29/2007 11:21:31 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Pulborough 1sts 0 Heathfield 1sts 37

Ghosts from last season were well and truly laid to rest when a highly competent and well motivated Heath field team dominated their opponents from first whistle to last. The score line should have been more impressive as only one of Heath field’s six tries was converted. The Greenies dominated up front with some excellent work in the lineout from Mark Walker and Paul Flood and won all the ball at the turnover through the strength and skill of their loose forward trio. Simon Wilson and the indefatigable Flood were outstanding as was George Leney who has returned to the club after coming down from University. Credit must also be given to two Heath field players who have returned to the first XV after long recovery periods from injury. Centre Matt Skinner was influential in a number of Heath field’s tries and tackled superbly. He is a talented player and will strengthen the squad. Richard Cooley is technically the best prop in the club and it is really good to see him back in action after some unlucky injuries over the past few years.

Heath field started the game with some fast and direct running using their powerful forwards with Rob Lawrence in the van to drive deep into Pulborough territory. The home side defended bravely but could not resist the all round power and skill of the visitors. After sustained pressure inside the Pulborough territory Heathfields backs created space on the right for new man Adam Tennant to cross for the first of his three tries. Adam has made an impressive start for his new club and showed touches of skill throughout the game. Fellow newcomer Ed Armah was also most impressive on the other wing. Both players will score a number of tries during the coming season.

Splendid work by Heath field’s forwards in the line out resulted in Mark Walker sniffling a Pulborough throw to feed Rob Lawrence to score. Adam Tennant then crossed again to give the Greenies a deserved 15-0 half time lead.

One of the strengths of Heath field this season is the overall strength of their squad which showed with coach Dave Jones choice of substitutes in the second half. After an excellent showing Richard Cooley was replaced by the formidable Dan Hunter-Evans and Seb Jones came on for Will Drinkwater. The chariot rolled on and Heath showed what a force they will be this season. The forwards drove forward providing much good ball for an excellent set of backs. The Greenies tackling was ferocious and Pulborough were simply not allowed into the match. Further tries came from Tennant, Armah and skipper Bryn Jones who charged down a clearance kick to score. This was a fine team effort which delighted the usual enthusiastic team of supporters who travelled to Pulborough.

Heath field play Hellingly in their next league fixture on 29^th September  

Report by Mike de St Croix

9/15/2007 5:46:47 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield 1sts 17 Uckfield 1sts 0

On a day more suited to cricket than rugby, Heathfield entertained Uckfield at Cross-In-Hand in a first round match in the Sussex Shield competition.  As the first competitive game in the new season it was a chance to assess how the teams will fare over the winter and on this basis Heathfield have bright prospects but Uckfield may struggle.

The home side enjoyed a large proportion of possession thanks to a solid scrummage and impressive lineout – a testimony to the pre-season training.  They generally looked the better drilled side while Uckfield looked to be short of some key players and enough practise. Heathfield struggled to score at least partly because the visitors tackled doggedly – matches between these two teams have never lacked for competitive spirit.

After twenty minutes continuous pressure led to a messy situation on the Uckfield line just in front of the crowd on the well-filled clubhouse patio and Simon Wilson was thought to have scored.  However the ref had seen some obstruction and Uckfield were able to clear their lines.  Shortly afterwards however Bruce Pestell was able to crash over from another scrambling piece of play.

Then the home side managed to work the ball to new recruit Eddie Armah on the left wing and he evaded several tacklers to score under the posts for his first try at home for the club.  He looks likely to score many more as he becomes more integrated into the team.

Both previous conversions had been missed but Bryn Jones was now on target to convert a well-worked try by Seb Jones.

After half time the pattern was repeated as Heathfield had most of the possession but struggled to finish. Coach Dave Jones then substituted several players.  George Leney had made an impressive, combative first start for the team and was replaced by the ultimate utility player Levi Willis.  Seb Jones was replaced by Mike Hole and Richard Cooley made a welcome reappearance to allow Danny Hunter-Evans a rest from tormenting his opposite number.

However just after sixty minutes Heathfield were again pressuring the visitor’s line when Phil Rowlands, the experienced Uckfield player, suffered a broken collar-bone.  An ambulance had to be called and given the state of the game Uckfield conceded.  The game will not have to be replayed.  Phil’s injury was especially sad since he had only just returned to playing after recovery from the same type of injury.

Next Saturday 15^th September Heathfield travel to Pulborough for the first league match of the season. They will need no reminder of the slip-up in the same match last year.

Report by Phil Bell

9/8/2007 5:28:44 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Senior Training

Senior training begins Monday 9th July at 7.30pm sharp. Bring your trainers!

Prior to this there is a players meeting on Saturday 7th July at 1pm at the Club. All 1st and Development Team Players should attend.

The Club will be open at 10.30am to watch Australia vs. South Africa beforehand.

7/2/2007 9:36:46 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Call for an EGM

3/26/2007 11:29:45 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Sussex Knockout Shield - Heathfield 1st's 23 Burgess Hill 1st's 7

Heath field & Waldron arrived at Crawley RFC for this county final as firm favourites having achieved two League victories earlier in the season against their opponents in the final. The Greenies did not disappoint their large and enthusiastic group of supporters and ran out comfortable winners after a fine game played in the best of spirit by both clubs. The score line was a fair reflection of Hatfield’s overall superiority and showed just how much they have developed and improved over the season. Coach Dave Jones and his management and coaching staff deserve great credit and on the day his players were well motivated and superbly efficient in gaining the Club’s first ever County Trophy.

They survived an early shock inside five minutes of the kick off when the Burgess Hill left wing intercepted a loose Heath pass in mid field to run in unopposed from half way to take an early 7—0 lead. At this point Heath field settled early nerves and began to impose their style of rugby on their opponents. The tight five forwards gained control in the tight and showed how mobile they are in loose play. Mark Walker and Kobe Tonkin performed admirably in the lineout against much taller jumpers and the back row proved why they are rated the outstanding unit in the Sussex league. Time and again Simon Wilson broke tackles and put in powerful runs creating havoc in the Burgess Hill defence and Paul Flood and Tom Pritchard were fearless in the tackle area and won valuable turnover ball almost at will. Heathfield`s three quarters were tigers in defence and Sam Thewlis again put in an outstanding display at full back.

After conceding the early score Bryn Jones pulled the lead back to a single point with two well struck penalties and Simon Wilson gave notice of things to come using his speed and power to score wide out. At this point Heath field led by 11—7. So fluently were they playing with forwards and backs combining and winning most of the fifty- fifty ball that the confidence in the Heath field side was evident and much to the delight of their supporters they scored a further two quality tries before half time. Sam Thewlis scored a try wide out after a jinking run from outside the Burgess Hill 22 and Seb Jones completed an excellent three-quarter try with a number of players handling down the narrow side. This was another beautifully finished try because Sib had to pin back his ears and travel at real speed to score in the corner. It was one of his best tries of the season. A huge roar from the Greenie fans went up when brother Bryn converted with a sumptuous kick from the touchline. Heath field were ahead by 23—7 at halftime.

Heath field had played with the wind in the first half and were justified in expecting something of a revival from their opponents in the second half and Burgess Hill attacked in Heaths half for much of the second period. But Heath fields tackling and overall defence was both brave and secure with all fifteen players tackling fiercely and flatly refusing to concede another score to the Blacks. Having survived a tense period defending their line Heath field broke away and nearly added to their own tally. Towards the end Simon Wilson took a knock on the head so one of Heath fields match winners had to go off. But cometh the hour…. The evergreen Rob Streeter came on to replace Simon which was thoroughly fitting for a man who has served the club so well and was one of their players in the first match the club played.

Final impressions of this excellent final were that both sides looked better than Sussex 1 standard and that the better all-round performance won the day with both sides tailing off a little in the second half.

Report by Mike de St Croix

Captain Bryn Jones receives the Shield.

Paul Flood, Coach Dave Jones and Mark Walker.

3/25/2007 10:09:50 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield 1st's 47 Pulborough 1st's 6

Heath field had a score to settle with Pulborough having lost to them in the opening match of the season and having scraped past them last Saturday after extra time. Pulborough are one of the few sides in the league apart from Heath field who believe in playing fast and open rugby and they always compete ferociously and run powerfully from deep. They usually save their best performances for Heath field.

The first half was very much a continuation of last weeks cup game with both sides making numerous handling errors and with nerves from players and the referee preventing any real flow to the game. Pulborough took the lead with a penalty, Heath replied with a try by Simon Wilson and Pulborough converted another penalty to lead 6-5 at half time. Some well chosen words from their excellent coach at half time aroused an unusually somnolent Greenies team and they obligingly changed the tempo of the match to score five goals and a try in the second half to punish a rapidly tiring Pulborough side.

The backs outscored their forward colleagues only because one of the forwards Bruce Pastel was playing in the backs. After settling into his unaccustomed position at outside centre he benefited from the powerful play of his brother at inside centre and scored twice. All the home sides’ points resulted from backs and forwards linking and running powerfully at their opponents. This is the style of rugby they enjoy and it is a joy to watch.Heathfield may lack weight up front but they have outstanding runners amongst the forwards and all eight showed their colours in this game. Simon Wilson at No 8 scored again and the ever present Rob Lawrence continued his ability to cross the line with another well taken try. A try each from the Pestell brothers completed the scoring and skipper Bryn Jones converted all the tries in the second half.

This Sunday the Heathfield club have two teams competing in Sussex Finals. The development XV play Haywards Heath 3rd XV at 12.45 and the 1stXV take on Burgess Hill at 3pm.Both games are being played at Crawley RFC and it is hoped that a huge contingent of supporters will travel to Crawley.There will be transport laid on and details are available at the Clubhouse. The Club’s achievement in reaching the finals of the Sussex Shield and the Sussex Vase is a wonderful testimonial to the players, Coaches and administrators of a club which is flying high at all levels.

Report by Mike de St Croix

3/17/2007 8:33:30 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Pub Tournament Saturday May 12th 2007

Possible entries?...

Gay Cavaliers

Highlights

Dieppe  

The White Hart   

Blackboys                                                                                            

Half Moon            

Woody

Prince of Wales

George Bugle

Squirrel

Crown   

Please contact Phil Bell ASAP if you are going to put in a team. The first entry has already been received from The Cock (somewhere in Kent) – apparently they played in the tournament a few years ago.  Any pub is welcome to put in a team (£25 per team in advance) but we want to make sure that it is a fairly competitive tournament without too many ringers and will penalise anyone who tries that.

We are considering using Burgess’s field as well as the main pitch – this would mean we could increase the number of teams to 12.  If we cannot do so then we will only accept entries from the first 9 applications – early booking recommended!

Contact Philip Bell  07949 574 588  or bell_philip@yahoo.com

3/16/2007 2:32:50 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Pulborough 1sts 14 Heathfield 1sts's 20

Heath field’s young side were mentally and physically exhausted at the end of a pulsating period of extra time in their Sussex Shield semi-final at Pulborough on Saturday. Having achieved a tremendous win at Horsham the week before, the depleted squad rose to the occasion against a Pulborough side who had beaten them once this year and were highly motivated to achieve a double.

Heath field were prevented from playing their usual open and free flowing game by a side who attacked boldly from deep on a pitch which always favoured the team playing down the slope and with the strong breeze. Both teams made a number of errors but Heath won the game because of their belief in themselves and because of their remarkable determination. Both sides deserve much credit for their skill and their desire to play an open and attractive game. The home side proved much sterner opposition for the Greenies than sides placed higher in the league table. As the teams are due to meet again in a return league match at Cross in Hand this Saturday, Spectators should prepare for a feast of open running rugby.

Heath field held Pulborough for most of the first half against the elements and in fact scored the first try running up the hill thanks to a fine run on the burst from Rob Lawrence playing in the unaccustomed position of inside centre. Seb Jones took the scoring pass and ran in near enough the posts for Bryn Jones to convert. Pulborough were stung into action by conceding the first score and put their visitors under constant pressure for the remainder of the half, scoring two converted tries in the process. The half time score was 14-7 to Pulborough.

The Heath field faithful on the touch lines expected a relaxed second period with Heath field playing down the slope and with the wind. But it was not to be as Pulborough played some bold and fast rugby attacking Heath field with direct and powerful running whenever they had possession. After a great deal of pressure near the Pulborough line, the Greenies, in the person of the powerful Lawrence, forced their way over twice from close range for two unconverted tries and with only three minutes of normal time to play, Heath field appeared to have won the game by three points. However Pulborough came storming back and dead on the full time whistle they were awarded a penalty which their excellent scrum half converted to take the game into extra time at 17 points all.

The first period of extra time passed with the scores at 17 all and Heath field held the advantage of playing downhill in the final ten minutes. Still neither side would give ground and as Heath had scored Three tries to two it appeared that they simply had to hold on to win this epic match. With just one minute remaining Heathfield were awarded a kickable penalty and to the huge relief of players and supporters alike Bryn Jones struck the ball high between the posts. The Final score was 20-17 and another nail biter between the two clubs had run its roller coaster course.

No praise would be too high for the players of both sides. They gave their all for their respective clubs and frankly neither really deserved to lose. The tiny difference was Heath fields self confidence and dogged refusal to accept defeat. This result means that Heathfield and Waldron RFC will be contesting two finals at Crawley on Sunday March 25^th. The second or Development XV will play against Haywards Heath thirds for the Sussex Vase and the 1^st XV will play against Burgess Hill in the final of the Shield.

Report by Mike de St Croix

3/10/2007 6:02:34 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Horsham 10 1sts Heathfield 12 1sts

Heath field travelled to Horsham expecting to face the Sussex division 1 leaders on their new and flat pitch. Having played a game against a select county back in September this beautiful new surface has hardly been touched. Sadly the recent weather put paid to te original plan so the game was played on the old first XV pitch with its steep gradient. Heath field however were really up for the game and, playing down the slope in the first half, put Horsham under constant pressure. Although Heath fielded a lighter pack than their opponents, they more than held their own in set pieces which allowed the forwards and in particular Rob Lawrence and Simon Wilson to carry the ball at pace and with great determination deep into Horsham’s somewhat fragile defence. While enjoying the advantage of the slope Heath field created a number of scoring chances but too often passes were spilled near the line and Horsham managed to keep their line in tact with some fine last ditch tackles. The Heath field supporters were fearful that the excellent start and fierce commitment shown by an inspired Greenies team would go unrewarded as half time approached. However late in the half the Heathfield forwards won good ball and moved the ball to the left inside the Horsham 22. As the move developed it became clear that Heath’s powerful prop Dan hunter Evans was positioned in the outside centre position and once the ball was secured in his safe hands it was clear that no defence was going to stop him and he scored his maiden try for Heathfield. This score lifted his team and inspired him to play his best game yet for his club.

Heathfield`s slender half tome lead of 5-0 did not seem anyway near enough and most people watching the hard fought contest expected the Home team and league leaders to dominate their opponents once they had the slope in their favour. Heathfield however had different ideas and playing up the steep hill tore into their larger opponents with controlled ferocity. Early in the half scrum half Lee Vokins was given a yellow card for picking the ballup in a ruck.While the referee’s decision was technically correct it seemed a little harsh as there were so many infringements from both sides throughout the game. However the match was a very clean one and played in good spirit by both sides and the ref generally kept good control. Within ten minutes Horsham capitalised on the advantage of the slope and a good supply of possession to level the scores with a well taken try. A short while later they scored another good try but to Heathfied`s relief they failed with both conversions. Just when it seemed the game was approaching the anticipated conclusion Heathfield raised their game and proved what a fit and gutsy unit they are.

Their pack held their own held in the tight with Hunter Evans Lawrence and Douglas performing heroic deeds of strength against a heavy scrum pushing downhill in the muddiest parts of the pitch. Whereas Lawrence’s throwing into the lineout was exemplary, Horsham’s Hooker frequently threw crooked and handed the initiative back to Heathfield.The greenies played the game at pace and continued to use their talented Backs. Whenever Horsham attempted to run the ball they were toppled by a well organised and courageous defence. As the game entered its final phase Heathfield players and supporters realised that, in spite of being one score adrift, they were in control of the game and insight of a memorable victory. Their opponents had little left to offer. At this point Heathfield scored one of their tries of the season which delighted their coach and their club. Forwards won a turnover, backs worked the ball into space, the excellent and elusive “Mono” Thewlis sidestepped through the mud and delivered to the outstanding Rob Lawrence who sprinted uphill to score under the posts. He wasted no time in placing the ball and converting himself. Heathfield were two points in the lead but there were some 12 minutes still to play and Horsham were still favourites to steal what had been a pulsating game. Almost immediately Heathfield were down to 14 men again when another yellow card was issued to Damien Pestell, one of the teams most robust and reliable defenders. But still Heath field tackled their hearts out and hung on until the ref blew the whistle just a tad early. Justice had been done, the best side on the day won and Heathfield`s revival gathers momentum. The coach and the entire squad deserve the highest praise. It was a day to remember For H&W RFC.

Report by Mike de St Croix

3/3/2007 9:50:16 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 1sts 25 East Grinstead 1sts 8

In one of the closest and most exciting Sussex Division 1 league matches of the season, Heath field defeated a strong East Grinstead side who had been near to toppling league leaders Horsham the previous weekend. Having lost by only three points at East Grinstead at the beginning of the season, Heath field took the game to their opponents from the first whistle and scored after only four minutes with a typical three-quarter move involving fly half Bryn Jones, inside centre Damien Pest ell and finally the rapid and elusive Sam Thewlis who touched down. Bryn Jones converted.

East Grinstead then set to work to repair the damage and their large pack and very skilful Colts scrum half created major problems for the home side. East Grinstead with a strong front row and a six foot eight inch tall lock proceeded to win a monopoly of set piece possession, especially in the lineout. Heath field had problems at the base of the scrum where the visitors managed to escape punishment from the referee and consequently succeeded in spoiling much of Heath field’s possession from the set scrum. Although they were starved of quality possession for long periods the Heath field pack tackled ferociously, contested every break down situation and manufactured some sensational turnovers which kept their talented three quarters interested. Not for the first time this season the Greenies were up against a powerful pack but they enjoyed dominating a  three-quarter line which was bereft of pace and skill.

East Grinstead scored a try after forward pressure on fifteen minutes and extended their lead to a point with a penalty goal just before half time.

At the beginning of the second half Heathfield replaced the injured Tom Pritchard with Paul Flood and brought the powerful Levi Willis into the fray in place of Will Drink water. Neither Levi nor Flood are shrinking violets and both had an early impact on Heath field’s play in the second half with a number of muscular runs into the heart of the opposition defence. Soon after an incursion into the East Grinstead 22 by Flood the ball was fed to Damien Pest ell on the burst for him to stretch Heathfields lead by five points. East Grinstead continued to provide extremely stern opposition but thanks to the home sides fitness and determination were unable to add to their points tally whereas Heath field scored another penalty before the Pest ell brothers who have been a vital part of Heath fields success this season scored a try apiece to close out the game at 25points to eight.

Although the admirable and courageous Greenies pack did amazingly well against physically larger opponents, this was a day when the exciting Heath backs made the difference on a pitch which, inspite of many hours of rain was in excellent condition for running rugby. It was a day when Heathfield showed they have one of the best pitches in Sussex as well as one of the most exciting teams.

Report by Mike de St Croix.

2/24/2007 8:33:03 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Plumpton 0 Heathfield 1sts 48

Heathfield recorded a comfortable win at Plump tons delightful racecourse ground last Saturday. The home side, who have been up against it in Sussex Division 1 played with great spirit and had a territorial supremacy for much of the second half. By this stage however Heath fields speed and fitness had ensured victory in a game which was entertaining for the spectators and which was played at a brisk pace and in the best spirits of the game. Players and spectators alike had a most enjoyable afternoon.

As befits a team in form who are currently scoring a lot of tries, Heath field started at a furious pace and only over complication and some spilled passes prevented really heavy scoring in the first half when the visitors were playing down the slope. Damien Pestell scored the first try cutting inside and threading through the Plump ton forwards. The back row then high jacked the scoring with fine tries by Paul Flood, Simon Wilson and Bruce Pestell. Just before half time skipper Bryn Jones decided that the backs should get involved with scoring again and scored a try which he converted himself to add to two earlier conversions. The half time score was 31-0 which reflected the domination by the visitors.

The ubiquitous Tom Pritchard had a fine first half standing in again for Rob Lawrence at Hooker and Andre Douglas proved his full recovery from fractured ribs by holding his own against a very ample front row. Both were substituted at half time and Rob Lawrence and Matt Ryan enjoyed themselves in tight and loose in a second half which was more sternly contested by Plump ton. Although Plump ton had much more of the game playing with the slope, Heath field’s style of play settled the result with three excellent tries from the speed merchants Seb Jones, Sam Thewlis and Mike Hole. This was yet another good team performance by a side who are enjoying their rugby. There are some big games ahead but the Greenies look as though they are capable of rising to the challenges which face them. One of the gratifying aspects of their play is the fact that the younger players like Seb Jones, Mark Walker, Dan Hunter-Evans and Tom Pritchard are improving with every game and are making very positive contributions to the success of the team.

Report by Mike de St Croix

2/17/2007 8:29:57 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 1st's 24 Crawley 1st's 5

Having convinced the league administrators that a replay of the game played between the two clubs two weeks earlier was both necessary and within the rules, Crawley travelled to Cross in Hand with a stronger side and were duly defeated  by a wider margin than in the original encounter between the two Sussex Division 1 sides. Most of the home teams loyal supporters were mystified that the match was being replayed but they enjoyed watching a gutsy and skilful display by their team. This time the outcome of the match was not questioned.

Heath field kicked off, won possession deep into the Crawley 22 and Bryn Jones ran powerfully to score an unconverted try .If Crawley were wondering whether the home side were up for the rematch they discovered the answer almost immediately when the home thee quarters with the evergreen Guy Woods prominent moved the ball wide for Mike Hole to score a fine try in the corner which Jones converted from the touchline. Heath field were ahead by twelve points with only five minutes played.

After their excellent opening the home team were dominated for much of the half by a powerful Crawley pack who came close to scoring on a number of occasions. But Heath fields tackling was brave and efficient and wave after wave of Crawley attacks close to the scrum were repelled by a superbly organised defence. During this period Heath conceded a number of penalties and Kobe Tonkin was sin binned for consistent infringing. Although Heath fields seven men pack struggled manfully with veteran Rob Streeter and the experienced Paul Flood to the fore, Crawleys efforts were eventually rewarded by a single try from a forward drive.

Any hopes of getting back into the game which the visiting side may have built up had was knocked out of them by their three quarters inability to contribute in any way to their performance and also by another Heath field try through Will Drinkwater.The visitor’s misery was compounded by Heath field adding another try by the excellent Flood after a strong drive by the home forwards. This try was converted and the score at half time was 24 -5.

The second half produced some good play by both sides but hard as Crawley tried to reduce the Greenies lead they could not make any impression on the fit and very focused home team. The referee became frustrated with Heath field killing the ball too often after tackles and issued another Yellow card, this time to Paul Flood. But Heathfield`s fitness told and they concluded their hat trick of victories against Crawley in fine style.

This was another splendid team performance with the forwards defending stoically and winning some valuable turnover ball. The lineouts went well with Mark Walker again winning most of Heath fields throws. The game was well controlled at half back by the talented Welsh duo of Nick Cherry and Bryn Jones but the outstanding performances were by two  Heath field veterans who were selected by coach Dave Jones to ”do a job”. Both Rolo Streeter in the pack and Guy Woods at inside centre had magnificent games, tackling for their lives and carrying the ball powerfully whenever they had the opportunity.Streeter played the full 80 minutes and was still fresh at the final whistle.Guy suffered a recurrence of a neck injury and will require physiotherapy before he is required for another key match.They were the toast of the club after a thoroughly workmanlike job well accomplished

Report by Mike de St Croix

2/10/2007 6:54:28 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 1sts 22 Crawley 1sts 6

Heath field continued their run of comfortable victories in a game which suffered from two front row injuries to the home side. The reorganisation involved prevented the Greenies from running in their usual flow of tries in the second half. Crawley, as anticipated, competed well up front but never gave any indication that they could match the fluency and skill of the home teams three quarters. Heathfield always looked the likely winners and duly completed a well earned double against Crawley.

After a positive start Heath field scored twice in the opening quarter. Koby Tonkin secured excellent lineout ball and scrum half Vokins passed to hooker Lawrence on the blind side who drove over the line with half the Crawley pack trying to stop him. Bryn Jones converted from the touchline and the greenies were into their stride. Within five minutes Heath field scored one of their now customary text book tries. They won a lineout on the Crawley 22, Vokins fed his fly half, and Bryn Jones ran a good line before feeding Damien Pestell who made a lovely inside break to score to the left of the posts. The conversion was missed but Heath field continued to play some thrilling rugby with Nick Cherry having a number of thrusting runs from full back. However Crawley defended stoutly and a few final passes from Heath went astray. Crawley hardly ever threatened but managed two penalties before half time to bring the score to 12-6 at the break.

From the kick off to start the second half the inspirational Heath field Hooker, Rob Lawrence, sustained a knee injury and had to leave the field .Heathfield`s front row sub Tom Pritchard moved from flanker to hooker. Lee Vokins moved to the back row, Nick Cherry to scrum half and Will Drinkwater to full back. These changes clearly affected the rhythm of Heath fields game although the eventual result of the match was never in any doubt.Crawley`s determined and physical pack tried to put their side back into contention but Heath field always had too much class and some excellent passing by Drink water and Cherry sent the skipper Jones over for a try wide out to make the score 17-6. At this point Jones closed down the game with some superb kicking which in effect guaranteed another victory for the Greenies.

Sadly Heathfield`s excellent young prop Andre Douglas had to go off with a rib injury with some twenty minutes remaining which resulted in uncontested scrums because the home side had already used their front row replacement. The Crawley forwards attempted to stage a recovery but in fact it was Heathfield`s outstanding player on the day, Damien Pestell, who ran onto a pass from Nick Cherry to close out the match with his second fine try.

For Heath field the whole side played with great heart and tackled splendidly. The back row was, as ever, outstanding in attack and defence and Nick Cherry proved what a talented player he is whether at scrum half or full back. This was not Heath field at their flowing best but it was nevertheless a good and hard earned victory.

Report by Mike de St Croix

1/27/2007 11:59:49 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 1sts 57 Norfolk Arms 0

Heathfield entertained opposition from a lower league in a Sussex Shield quarter final on Saturday and overpowered them from kick off to the final whistle. Norfolk Arms never gave up but the home side had too much pace, power and skill to allow their opposition even the semblance of a look in. The Greenies however were not on song with place kicking and only one of their eleven tries was converted. Although a good proportion of their tries were scored by forwards all resulted from powerful breaks, some from deep positions, and featured strong running and good handling.

Many of Heathfields best moments came from their reserve contingent with some surging runs from their athletic forwards and a gutsy and thoroughly competent performance from an ex mini Ed Harrison who came on at scrum half when Mark Walker injured an ankle. Bruce Pestell moved to second row, Lee Vokins to flanker and Harrison to the base of the scrum. He gave a lively performance with his tackling particularly catching the eye.

The Heathfield front row were in storming form with Rob Lawrence making a number of exquisite breaks and the massive Hunter-Evans running around the park like a spring lamb. The happy trio was completed by Andre Douglas having his first full game for some weeks. Andre has been playing superbly as a very fit impact player but he proved in this match what a good all-round forward he is.

The Home side gave ample evidence of how rugby is improving at Heath field and it is worth noting that the club did not concede a point on Saturday and that the top three sides have a real chance of winning a county trophy each. Next week it is down to earth again with a home league match against Crawley.

Report by Mike de St Croix 

1/20/2007 9:00:53 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Burgess Hill 1st's 10 Heathfield 1st's 31

Heathfield continued their run of wins with another excellent all round performance at Burgess Hill on Saturday. They had to overcome a sticky surface and strong opponents to run out winners by five tries to two. This was one of Heaths most testing games of the season and Burgess Hill often enjoyed superiority up front from their large pack who were particularly strong in the lineout and the driving maul. Heathfield however dominated the loose ball and their experienced No 8 Simon Wilson had one of his finest games for his club inspiring his younger colleagues in the back row to terrific deeds in snuffling out their opponent’s possession and winning fifty- fifty ball on the ground. With four quite outstanding back row forwards to choose from Heathfield are excelling in that area of play every week. That said the pack is susceptible to rolling mauls and only drew clear of their opponents in the final fifteen minutes of a very well contested game.

Heath won the toss and chose to play into a strong wind. And Burgess Hill scored early with a good try out wide after a deft kick ahead by their scrum half. Heathfield defended stoutly against the elements and were rewarded by two good tries, one by the rapidly improving Kobe Tonkin who completed a good handling movement on the left, and the other by Mike Hole again after good handling by the backs. Heath  changed ends in the lead by one try but conceded ground early in the second half when Burgess Hill used the strength of their forwards to  cross Heathfield`s line after a series of five metre scrums and lineouts .The next quarter of the game was a tense affair with neither side being able to force an advantage. The tackling on both sides was superb and each side had opportunities to take the lead.

Heathfield remained patient and kept their discipline with skipper Bryn Jones putting in some telling kicks so that his side played the final quarter of the game encamped in their opponents 22. Tries inevitably followed from Damien Pestell after a surging run through the Burgess Hill defence, an excellent pick up and drive run from the base of the scrum by Simon Wilson and finally a gem from the skipper himself running a beautiful line from twenty metres out and scoring near the posts.

Report by Mike de St Croix.

1/13/2007 9:06:30 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 1st XV 36 Seaford 0

This home win was every bit as comprehensive as the scoreline suggests.On a day when many matches were postponed because of waterlogged pitches, Heathfield`s   superbly drained ground  and an outstanding performance from one of Sussex`s best and most experienced referees allowed both teams to overcome dreadful conditions and  the home side to give a remarkable display of fast and skilful rugby to the delight of a large and enthusiastic crowd.

Although they defended bravely in the first half, Seaford failed to get into their opponents 22 for much of the game. The Heathfield forwards, for whom Tom Pritchard had a fine game on his return to the side, dominated in all phases often pushing Seaford off the ball in the tight and frequently winning turnovers on the ground. The whole pack played superbly and supplied their backs with a monopoly of possession. For much of the first half Heathfield attempted to score tries through their superior forward strength but Seaford, to their credit kept the score sheet clean. However as soon as The Greenies decided to attack from deep and use the skill of their outsides the flood gates opened. With ten minutes of the break Bryn Jones received good ball from second phase and set up Damien Pestell for a powerful run into the Seaford 22. Pestell delivered a beautifully timed pass to Sam Thewlis playing at outside centre who completed the move to open the scoring. Within minutes the same players set up Mike Hole to score his first try which was converted to put Heathfield ahead 12-0 at half time.

The second half began with Joe Reilly off the field with a knee injury and with Seaford reduced to 14 men as a result of a red card given to one of their forwards after an indiscretion in full view of the referee. Aided by the loss of a Seaford player the home team stepped up a gear and exposed their opponents weaknesses with clinical efficiency. Coach Dave Jones moved Will Drinkwater, who is equally capable in either half back position or at full back, to no 15 which allowed him to bring on debutant Nick Cherry at no 9. Nick settled in well and quickly, linking well with his backs and snapping at the heels of his forwards. He chose his options well and impressed with his speed of thought and distribution. He capped a most promising debut with a well taken try.

Heath field played quite superbly against the elements in the second half keeping the ball in hand and running excellent lines. The try scorers were Sam Thewlis with his second, the ebullient Rob Lawrence who continues to be an inspiring player for Heath field, and Mike Hole who rounded off a splendid afternoon by running in from the 10 metre line.

Heathfield`s was a performance to delight their coach and their supporters. The pack was at its most commanding thus far and the talented backs played with great panache, clearly enjoying the possession they received throughout the game.

Report by Mike de St Croix

1/6/2007 5:47:46 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Hastings & Bexhill 13 1st's Heathfield & Waldron 5 1st's

This key Sussex division 1 league game was, as expected, a fiercely contested affair with the Home side running out unconvincing winners by a goal and two penalty goals to an unconverted try. The Hastings pitch was a mud bath and neither side nor the referee ever came to terms with the dreadful conditions. As is often the case with Heathfields young and fit team they struggled in the first half against Hastings powerful pack but played far the better rugby in the second half and should have overhauled the home team.

The rugby played by Hastings was based on crash ball running by the forwards and by the backs who invariably cut back inside to face a wall of rock solid defence by the visitors. Hastings had a monopoly of possession and should have scored many more than six points from two penalties in the first half. Hastings one dimensional tactics prevented Heathfield from gaining good possession but the rugby they played was ineffective. On one of the very few occasions the Greenies won second phase ball Bryn Jones spread the ball wide for full back Sam Thewlis to side step the defence and score a fine try. At half time Hastings were just in front by 6 points to 5.

The second half saw the fitter Heathfield pack winning more possession and in fact they created enough opportunities to win the game. But it was now the home team’s turn to defend heroically to ensure their win and some valuable league points. When they eventually passed the ball down the line they scored a good try to clinch victory. Hastings players and officials were mightily relieved to have won while Heathfield were left wondering about what might have been and looking forward to the return fixture in March.

The whole Heathfield side defended quite magnificently in this game, none more so than their captain Bryn Jones and their pack leader Paul Flood. Both these players have made a huge contribution to the success of the team in the pre Christmas matches and coach Dave Jones is building a fine and happy squad. They will feature near the top of the table by the end of the season and will continue to give great pleasure to the army of faithful supporters who watch all their games.

Report by Mike de St Croix

12/16/2006 8:36:04 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 1st's 24 Uckfield 1st's 7

This local Derby was keenly anticipated by a large crowd. Both sides are featuring near the top of the Sussex 1 league total and both clubs always regard this fixture as one of their key games of the season. The match did not disappoint. It was very much a game of two halves but in the end Heathfield scored four tries to Uckfield’s one and thoroughly deserved to win. Coach Dave Jones was delighted with his team and stated that the performance was the best all round effort of the season to date.

The game started with Heathfield losing prop Chris Watton in the first few minutes with a rib injury. The Heath forwards started strongly and only excellent defence by Uckfield prevented them from opening the scoring.Uckfield recovered from a shaky start to play some solid rugby and they were rewarded with the opening score, a well taken try from their influential No 8. This try was converted but well as Uckfield played in the first half, they could not subdue the powerful Heathfield pack especially in the rucks and mauls. The strong men of the Greenies back row Simon Wilson and Paul Flood had outstanding games and props Rory Burchett, who looked more mobile than in past seasons and Andre Douglas did a fine job in the tight often wheeling the Uckfield scrum to regain the put in. Young Mark Walker was majestic in the line out and as always made a telling contribution in the loose. Bruce Pestell continued his splendid run of form and Kobe Tonkin had his best game of the season. With another quality performance by Rob Lawrence and a vigorous cameo from Tom Pritchard when he came on for Bruce Pestell the Heathfield forwards were magnificent especially in the second half when they took the game by the scruff of the neck and set up Heathfield`s best win so far this season.

Shortly before half time Heathfield penetrated the Uckfield defence and good handling and passing by the backs saw Sam Thewlis scoring near the posts for Bryn Jones to make the conversion. At half time the scores were level at 7 points each.

The second half speaks for itself.Heathfield dominated all phases and in spite of some brave defending by Uckfield and good performances from their fly half and No 8 outscored their opponents by three tries to none. The tries by Bryn Jones, Sebastian Jones and Mike Hole were all scored as a result of good ball from the forwards and excellent finishing by a speedy and talented three-quarter line in which Sam Thewlis at full back showed what a huge asset he is to his side. He caught every kick put up to him; he handled a wet ball beautifully, scored a try and crossed the gain line with every run he made. It would be easy to heap further praise on the Heathfield players. The simple truth is they played well from 1 to 15, they played for each other and they followed the plan and instructions of a first class coach. With further improvements they could give the top two sides in the league a shock.

Report by Mike de St Croix

12/2/2006 9:02:33 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Seaford 1st's 6 Heathfield 1st's 18

On a day when the rest of the UK is enjoying a day of still calm, you can still expect a steady breeze on the front at Seaford.  So a forecast of near-gale force winds made Heathfield regard their visit to Seaford for a Sussex Division 1 match with some trepidation.

Playing into the 30 mph wind for the first half, Heathfield pleased coach Dave Jones by played according to plan.  The forwards rucked and mauled effectively with only rare wider movements.  Seaford are normally known for their strong pack but on this occasion the younger and lighter Heathfield eight took the game to their opponents and frequently made many yards.  Given the conditions the lineout was always going to be difficult and the Seaford ball was often disrupted.  However Mark Walker had a complete monopoly of the ball at the front on the Heathfield throw-in to the extent that Seaford gave up trying to oppose him.  Heathfield were thus able to set up their driving maul to great effect.

Additionally the green scrummage was the most solid so far this season and achieved three strikes against the head so for a change first phase possession was secure.  In spite of the conditions most of the first half was spent in the Seaford half.

Nonetheless the first score came from Seaford after several penalties against the visitors at the breakdown, to the considerable irritation of the Heathfield coach who had wanted his team to reduce their errors in this area.  The Seaford kicker showed his familiarity with using the wind and made no mistake from the ten metre line. (3-0)

Heathfield drove back upfield and after a period of pressure were just denied in the right hand corner.  Strangely Seaford, instead of using the wind, tried a short 22 drop-out which did not work, Heathfield regained possession and some good handling saw Jo Reilly finish well in the left-hand corner. Bryn Jones’ conversion into the gale was only just wide. (3-5)

Seaford replied with another excellent long-range penalty from just inside their own half (6-5) but this just spurred the visiting pack to even greater efforts and they finally worked Bruce Pestell over for another unconverted try. (6-10) 

Seaford missed another penalty opportunity shortly before half-time at which point it seemed that Heathfield had done the hard work and that, using the conditions, they could control the game and build a good score.   However a combination of handling errors by Heathfield and the fighting determination of the home team meant that this did not happen.   On two occasions, kicks by Heathfield from their own half ended up over the opposition dead-ball line resulting in a scrum back.

Simon Wilson made any number of good breaks and gained many yards throughout the game so he deserved his try that followed another good lineout catch and drive. (6-15)

The game became scrappier as the Seaford pack became more effective and their fly-half made several good breaks.  However the green line was not seriously threatened apart from one occasion when the referee erroneously blew his whistle just as Seaford looked likely to score in the corner following a Heathfield fumble.  The referee, who otherwise had a decent game, was unfortunately unsighted in respect of one regrettable incident that could have seen the home side reduced to 14 men for at least ten minutes.

In the last few minutes a period of sustained pressure near the Seaford line resulted in a drop-goal for Bryn Jones (6-18) and although the home team kept trying throughout considerable stoppage time the result was no longer in doubt.

Next Saturday (2^nd December 2.15pm) Heathfield entertain Uckfield in what is always a keenly contested game irrespective of the relative league positions.  However this year the game could have a major impact on the top half of the table so ‘viewing is strongly recommended.’

Report by Phil Bell

Heathfield:Drinkwater, Reilly, Hole (sub Matt Walker), Damien Pestell, Willis, Jones, Vockins, Burchett, Lawrence, Douglas, Mark Walker, Tonkin, Flood (sub Pritchard), Bruce Pestell, Wilson.  

11/25/2006 11:33:19 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 16 Burgess Hill 12

For the second successive weekend, all three Heathfield adult teams won – and on Sunday the club hosted more than 500 people in a mini-tournament plus matches for the U14 and Colts.  The clubhouse is being packed out with lots of happy people.
The Sussex League 1 match against Burgess Hill followed the current pattern of being decided by a single score.  This looked very unlikely in the first few minutes when the visitors made a faultless start with a clean catch and drive from a lineout near the Heathfield line giving them an impressive, although unconverted, try.  With the Heathfield scrum also under pressure it looked like a difficult afternoon for the home team, especially with late changes to the team due to illness.  Burgess Hill had first use of a variable but fresh breeze.

The shortage of first phase possession meant that good defense and making effective use of turnover ball were crucial for Heathfield and they steadily came back into the game.  The scores were levelled through a move at the front of a lineout 30 yards out which saw Rob Lawrence score his first try for the club in competitive games.
The rest of the first half became increasingly scrappy and the ref felt it necessary to send first a Burgess Hill centre and then Heathfield’s fly-half and captain Bryn Jones to the sin-bin.  The half ended with Burgess Hill pressing the green line but somehow the defence held up.  Having had use of the wind, they would have been disappointed with the 5-5 scoreline.

The second half was similar in character.  Although having the majority of possession Burgess Hill rarely created any chances as Heathfield’s defence proved very effective with Paul Flood and Simon Wilson prominent.  The Heathfield scrum was securing some possession, albeit awkward, thanks to some sterling work by the front five and by Andre Douglas in particular.

With the wind behind them, Heathfield spent long periods in the opposition half although they missed two penalties at this stage.  Then good handling in loose play set up Bryn Jones for a try under the posts although he contrived to miss the conversion (10-5).

At this point it looked as though Heathfield were in control but they failed to capitalise.   Burgess Hill kept competing well and again used their strength from the lineout to score another forwards try which was converted (10-12).
The game was still scrappy with most of the action in the Burgess Hill half and eventually the visitors had another player yellow-carded for dangerous play.  Bryn Jones now kicked two penalties, the first a long range effort from near the halfway line(16-12).  Kobe Tonkin and Paul Flood bravely stayed on although collecting painful injuries.

As is now customary, the last few minutes had the home supporters nervously studying their watches as Burgess Hill vainly tried to snatch a late win.

Heathfield coach Dave Jones was generally pleased with the performance, especially given the late disruption to the team.  This is a young team with several new faces (and more to come?) and it has taken time to come up to speed.  The first three league games were lost but now three have been won in a row.  With the lower teams all doing well, the season looks increasingly interesting.

11/11/2006 4:03:06 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Crawley 1sts 23 Heathfield 1sts 25

Report by Mike de St Croix

11/4/2006 10:08:53 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Powergen Vase - H&WRFC 25 Park House 27 (after extra time)

Report by Mike de St Croix

Heathfield return to half-way following Paul Flood's (8) 2nd try

10/31/2006 11:19:25 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 1st XV 50 Plumpton 1st XV 5

Having lost their first three league matches by narrow margins, Heathfield hit top gear in front of a full house at Cross in Hand and played some scintillating rugby in windy conditions to defeat newly promoted Plumpton . Heath’s problem in their early games had been a lack of power up front which resulted in their fast and skilful backs lacking a platform to show their considerable talents. With the inclusion of extra weight in the front and second rows the Greenies backs, brilliantly led by skipper Bryn Jones, received good possession and ran in some superb tries. The three wingers used, Joe Riley, Levi Willis and Seb Jones scored two tries each and Bryn Jones scored one and kicked five conversions. Only the first try was scored by a forward which gives an indication of what a fast and open game the home side played.

Heathfield opened the scoring after just five minutes when Bruce Pestell broke loose inside Plumpton`s half. After one of his characteristic surges he received support from Jim Cumming who used his speed and strength to cross the try line. Before the crowd had time to catch their breath the forwards broke away again with Rob Lawrence linking with Dan Hunter-Evans who showed excellent running and handling skills before delivering a scoring pass to winger Joe Riley. Joe scored again a few minutes later after Damien Pestel made an opening to feed Sam Thewlis coming into the line. Once again the try hungry Riley finished with clinical precision.

Such is the strength of the Heathfield squad that Coach Dave Jones was able to introduce fresh players in the second half. The forwards continued to dominate their opponents and outplayed them at the breakdown and in the loose. Lee Vockins was an excellent link at scrum half and Bryn Jones was quite outstanding at No 10. His kicking was of the highest quality and, as is becoming customary, he scored another fine try. Seb Jones showed his speed and finishing capability by running in two tries under the posts and Levi Willis, who did not touch the ball in the first half delighted his considerable fan club by demolishing his opposite number to open his scoring account. The lead up to this score came from the backs, with Guy Woods and Damien Pestell prominent, moving the ball down the line in the sure knowledge that if Levi has only one man to brush aside a score is a formality.

Although the backs gave a splendid display of running and handling it is worth recording that two of the heavier Greeny forwards showed impressive power and skill in their ball carrying. Big Jim Cumming has delighted the Heathfield faithful for some years now and he had a fine match. But one of the most encouraging features of the afternoon was the performance of Dan Hunter-Evans who is learning the special skills of propping rapidly while showing us what a talented player he can be in open play. His running and handling skills for a big man are exceptional and there is no doubt that these two big fellows along with their forward colleagues contributed heartily to what was a terrific team performance. Providing Heathfield can win sufficient good ball in all phases there is no reason why they cannot feature amongst the leaders in Sussex 1.On Saturday they entertain old rivals Park House, one of the top teams in Kent Div 1 in the Powergen Vase. The kick off will be at2.30 at Cross in Hand.

Heathfield: Hunter-Evans, Lawrence, Burchett (Douglas), Cumming, Tonkin, Pritchard, B Pestell, Flood (Streeter), Vockins, B Jones, Willis, Woods, D Pestell, Riley (S Jones), Thewlis

Report by Mike de St Croix

10/21/2006 2:02:18 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

East Grinstead 1st XV 8 Heathfield & Waldron 1st XV 7

A missed opportunity.

On a dry, fine day with a variable breeze, both teams started this game without a win in the league this year and both demonstrated a lack of confidence in their play.

Unusually the first half was scoreless and it was during this period that Heathfield should have scored several times.  East Grinstead were only able to break out of their own half for one short passage of play following a big kick out of defence.  For the rest of the time Heathfield were camped in the right part of the pitch and they had several opportunities but always came up just short of the line or, on the most glaring occasion, managed to spurn a three man overlap.  While giving credit to East Grinstead for their defensive qualities, Heathfield are suffering from what some describe as ‘tryline fever’.

Initially lineouts were relatively even: quick short ball at the front worked well for Heathfield with Rob Lawrence being caught close to the line on one occasion.  The scrummage was under some pressure and Paul Flood did remarkably well in tidying up difficult situations at the base of the scrum as well as having an excellent combative game in the loose.  Jim Cumming, Rob Lawrence and Damien Pestell all caught the eye making good ground.

The second half started brightly again for Heathfield with Seb Jones being bundled into touch in the corner.  However a few minutes later the East Grinstead three-quarters worked a move in the centre and scored in the left-hand corner, although missing the conversion.  This allowed East Grinstead to build in confidence: they had a period of pressure without really threatening the line and gradually Heathfield worked their way back down the pitch for Bryn Jones to work a bit of individual magic and score by the posts.  For some reason the kicking tee could not be found but Jo Reilly coolly dropped the goal (this is the same Jo Riley from previous reports – apologies for the earlier mis-spelling) to make it 5-7.

With twenty minutes to go it was anyone’s game and neither set of supporters could feel confident.  The Heathfield lineout was misfiring and the scrummage was under more pressure but in the loose the green shirts were still doing well.  The ref now had to speak to the captains to cool tempers but it was not a dirty game generally.  Mike Hole came for Guy Woods in the centre and made a couple of excellent tackles.  Birthday boy Levi Willis also made a cameo appearance in the second-row.

In the last few minutes Heathfield could have played more conservatively in order to run down the clock.  Neither side was looking very likely to score when well into stoppage time Heathfield conceded a penalty some thirty yards out.   This was the only penalty kicked at goal all day but the East Grinstead kicker made no mistake with the last kick of the game.  The home team and supporters were delighted and relieved while Heathfield could only rue the missed opportunity.

Report by: Phil Bell

10/14/2006 1:15:56 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron 1st XV 13 Horsham 1st XV 20

For the second successive Saturday Heath field lost narrowly to a side who were stronger on the day. The match at Cross in Hand attracted a large crowd of loyal supporters but  unfortunately the visiting team dominated much of the game through a powerful pack and a good three-quarter line served by a very competent pair of half backs. The game was disappointing as a spectacle because it was punctuated throughout by stoppages and a string of penalties some for rather petty offences. Sadly it appeared there was little empathy between the referee and the players and so periods of good and flowing rugby were rare. Players and spectators left the match with puzzled expressions.

Horsham were well worth their win. Their forwards excelled at the rolling maul and never allowed the talented Heathfield backs to get into their stride. The ball which the home side did win was slow and poorly controlled. Apart from an improved lineout in which Mark Walker excelled, the Heathfied pack was outplayed. However they never stopped trying to match their opponents and defended manfully especially at the breakdown where Bruce Pestel and Paul Flood gave strong performances. The Heath field backs always looked as though they might steal the game and Guy Woods, playing his first game of the season, tackled in his usual robust manner and showed what an asset he will be when he remains to full fitness.

Horsham scored first through a penalty after sustained pressure in the opening minutes. Heath field responded immediately with a brilliant solo try from their skipper Bryn Jones.

After a tap penalty Bryn broke to the blind side, put in a perfectly weighted chip kick which he caught and then he used his speed and strength to go over for a superb try. Heath field continued to apply pressure and were rewarded by a Joe Riley penalty. Almost immediately Horsham regained the lead with a good try by their back line when the home tackling was found wanting. At half time Heath field were only just in arrears at 8-10 but Horsham scored again early in the second half and continued to use their powerful forwards to maintain territorial advantage over their hosts.Heathfield did manage another score through their forwards when the pack drove Paul Flood over for a try which gave the home side a chance to snatch victory late in the match. However the whistle and more stoppages and penalties enabled Horsham to hang onto their narrow advantage.

This was a disappointing game for the Greenies. They will need to bolster their forward play and make sure not to concede so many penalties if they are to challenge for a high spot in the league.

Report by Mike de St Croix

9/30/2006 5:02:11 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Pulborough 1st XV 25 Heathfield & Waldron 1st XV 20

Heathfield and their supporters received a stirring welcome when they travelled to Pulborough’s magnificent new ground on the Parham estate on Saturday. The greeting from the Pulborough club was warm and much appreciated but the welcome on the pitch was far from expected and knocked the Greenies out of their stride from the opening seconds of the game. The home side, clearly proud of their wonderful new facilities were highly motivated and produced a first half of fast open rugby which kept Heath on the back foot until after half time.

Pulborough deserve great credit for the fast and daring rugby they played. Their pack provided adequate ball to a very young and speedy threequarter line and all their tries were scored out wide, two by their wingers and one by their full back after a lamentable lack of tackling by the Greenies.

Heath coach Dave Jones made some changes at half time and Simon Wilson making a welcome return to 1st XV rugby added power and experience to the shell-shocked Heath field side. With Wilson in the van the Heath forwards tore into Pulborough and the backs responded by scoring excellent tries through Mike Hole, Bryn Jones and Joe Riley. Riley kicked two conversions to add to a penalty he converted in the opening minutes.

Having recovered to 20 points a piece, Heath had the game for the taking but Pulborough finished stronger in the final minutes to win the game and record their first win over Heathfield for many years. It was a great start to their league campaign and a perfect way to launch their new ground. Heathfield were beaten by a better and more motivated team but will recover and will be a threat to all the other sides in their division. 

Report by: Mike de St Croix

9/23/2006 9:03:56 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron 1st XV 12 Worthing 2nd's 17

Heathfield continued their build up to their league programme with an outstanding performance against a most impressive Worthing side containing many of their 1st XV squad and a number of their up and coming stars. Worthing deservedly won the match with an unconverted try in the closing seconds but the Greenies delighted their supporters with two superb tries and some excellent all round play.

After Worthing had monopolised a lot of set piece possession, especially in the lineout and taken the lead with an unconverted try, Heath hit back and attacked deep into their opponents half winning a flow of second phase possession. Having won a scrum in the Worthing 22 Jack Bailey seized on a loose ball and fed Damien Pestell who feinted inside then out before selling a dummy and crossing near the posts. This converted try was sufficient to secure Heath a narrow lead at half time.

The second half started badly for Heath with their lineout failing to function and with the mush taller and heavier Worthing forwards gaining more and more ball and threatening to swamp the physically smaller home forwards. A penalty try was conceded and it appeared that Worthing would run out easy winners. But Heath field are a tough and very determined unit and in spite of limited set piece possession they hit back, holding their own in the tight, tackling like tigers and winning the lose ball time and again. Jack Bayley made a welcome return to the team and with his back row colleagues did much good work on the floor and in the close exchanges. Both props, new boy Andre and veteran Mike Fellows held a large Worthing front row admirably and Mark Walker continued to show what an asset he is becoming in the pack.

Heaths second try was taken superbly by Rob Lawrence who had an outstanding game. Heath took a short penalty some twenty yards out from the Worthing goal line and Rob burst through the entire Worthing pack in a display of speed and strength to score another excellent try for his side.

Heath field start their league programme at Pulborough on Saturday. It will be the home side’s first league match on their new ground in the Parham Estate (kick off 3.00 pm)

Report by: Mike de St Croix

9/16/2006 10:10:30 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Sandown & Shanklin 1st XV 17 Heathfield & Waldron 1st XV 19

A visit to the Isle of Wight to play last seasons Hampshire Division one champions represented a major challenge to Heathfield's exciting young side.

The Greenies were well up for the game and camped near the home side’s line for most of the first quarter of the match. Robust play by Heathfield’s small but mobile pack created a number of scoring opportunities which were not converted into points.

A penalty near the posts was missed but just before the end of the first period Greenies won good second phase ball and their backs moved the ball swiftly down the line before Damien Pestell passed inside for his brother Bruce to open the scoring.

A strong wind and a very dry ground made conditions difficult and both sides found the going hard on a very warm September afternoon. In the second quarter with the wind behind them the Hurricanes soon kicked skillfully to the corners and were soon rewarded with a try by one of their powerful flankers. Having tackled ferociously up to this point Heath let themselves down with some sloppy tackling and this try should have been prevented.

However Heathfield soon hit back with what may turn out to be one of the tries of the season. Bryn Jones produced the perfect restart kick whichhanged in the air against the wind, Bruce Pestell following the kick at speed plucked the ball out of the air and charged forward at speed. His speed and the timing of his catch allowed him to pass some would be tacklers and he reached the opposition 22 still on his feet and in possession. To his great credit  he then took the decision that he did not need to share his moment of glory with any of his colleagues and continued his forward charge barging a few of his remaining adversaries out of his way. He reached the try line looking as though he could have managed a few extra yards! It was a sensational try, much appreciated by his teammates and the posse of Heathfield supporters on the touchline.

Sandown again responded by scoring two good tries. Their powerful pack started to dominate and only a brave and skilful display by man of the match Paul Flood at no 8 for Heathfield prevented the home side from overwhelming the Greenies eight. At the start of the final quarter Sandown let 17 points to twelve. But Heath were probably the fitter and more resilient side and to their great credit they managed a try in the dieing seconds which Joe Riley converted with great aplomb from halfway out and against the strong wind.

Heathfield deserved their two point win against a very competent and motivated side from a higher division. They won because they played as a team with great commitment. Every player from newboy and recent colt Sam Pearce to skipper Bryn Jones played their part. The two debutant forwards who know their way around the pitch Rob Lawrence and Mark Walker played their hearts out for Heathfield and were immense in everything they did as were the back row and all the threequarters. It was a great away day on the Island and a splendid start to the season.

Report by: Mike de St Croix

9/12/2006 10:15:23 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Senior pre-season latest

Thanks to everyone who has been training so hard over the last few weeks. It is especially pleasing to see a number of our former Colts players at the sessions.

For those of you who haven't been seen yet you are missing out on some hard but enjoyable training.  We are looking to have 40 players at every session and that remains my target; we had 31 on Monday so we are almost there!

The Isle of Wight trip is still going ahead on Saturday 9th September where we are visiting Sandown & Shanklin RFC. We are leaving at 8am on Saturday and will be returning on Sunday afternoon. We are hoping to take 40 players on the trip as we are playing their two sides.

Please support what will be a fantastic bonding event.

Cost at present is £50 to include a Heathfield & Waldron RFC tie. There are a number of social events going on with the aim of reducing the cost further so please support these.

Dave Jones

Senior Coach

davestalkback@yahoo.co.uk

07917 063990

8/18/2006 12:19:21 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Senior pre-season latest

8/4/2006 2:59:43 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Pre-season training

Senior pre-season training is at the Club on Mondays and Thursdays starting at 7pm

We are going for promotion this season and therefore require an even more committed approach than last year. All serious senior players are expected to train regularly in an aim to get fitter than ever before. The response so far has been great and even in last nights heat we had 22 players training hard which is a great start.

We have a full pre-season planned including three progressively harder warm up games in the weeks immiediately prior to our first league match on 23rd September. Details will be announced soon.

For more information please contact Dave Jones (coach) on davestalkback@yahoo.co.uk or 07917 063990

Dave Jones

7/4/2006 4:04:18 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

2005/2006 Club awards

The following awards were announced at the recent Club dinner held in Eastbourne.

Congratulations to all those concerned.

1st XV player of the year - Bryn Jones

Development XV player of the year - Chris English

Boars player of the year - Kenny Lewis

Players player of the year - Bruce Pestell

Most Improved player - Joe Reilly

Young player of the year - Peter Philippou

Clubman of the year - Levi Willis

Presidents Trophy - Dave Jones

Pat Russell Blazer - Lee Vockins

6/30/2006 3:23:21 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Pre-season training

Pre-season training schedule starts Saturday 1st July 11.45 am.

All senior players should be there.

FUN AGENDA as follows..

12.00 Players/coaches meeting

1.00 pm Fun training session

2.30 pm BBQ and Beer

4.00 pm England football match on TV

6.30 pm Finish

Look forward to seeing you all there.  Please pass this message on to all players, new and old. For more information contact Dave Jones via the contacts page of this website.

Dave Jones

6/20/2006 9:31:50 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Club Dinner Dance 24/06/2006

The annual dinner dance is being held this year on Saturday 24^th June 2006 at the Cavendish Hotel, Eastbourne and we hope that you will join us in supporting this event.

Cost per person for the evening is £38.00 and tables will be set for 10, but if you need 12, let me know and we will get this sorted. 

The evening will begin at 7.30pm for 8.00pm with dancing until 1.00am when a C&S carriage will arrive to take you home in style (although some of you won’t notice if it was stylish or not!) with the dress code, as in previous years, being black tie. 

We have reserved a limited number of rooms at the hotel which can be reserved by contacting the hotel directly on 01323 410222.  Please let them know that you are with the HWRFC as we have a discounted price for the rooms.

Paid up Club members and VP’s should have received a letter with all the details by now but if you haven’t and you need a menu or more details please contact Amanda Collins or Ron Powell on 01435 869006 (Mon-Fri daytime).

All completed forms for the meal/wine/coach MUST be returned by Friday 9^th June as we have to advise the hotel of our requirements by the 10^th.

Amanda Collins

5/8/2006 3:30:36 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Uckfield Sevens report

A talented squad of Heathfield players reached the semi-finals of the Uckfield sevens on Sunday.  Under the banner of the Blackboys Inn but unmistakable in their Greenies shirts Dave Jones’s team won their group comfortably beating a Haywards Heath 2nd team in the process.  In the quarter final they overwhelmed a Hellingly team with a stunning display of sevens, scoring ten or more tries.  Their run was halted in the semis by a fit and experienced Haywards Heath 1st 7 masquerading as the Road Runners.

Coach Jones deserves huge credit for teaching our Heathfield lads the art and tactics of sevens and they provided excellent entertainment for the large number of Heathfield supporters.  The players all contributed splendidly and all scored a handful of tries.  Bryn Jones and the Pestell brothers clearly enjoyed the openings offered by sevens and the young flyers provided the speed to finish movements.  Sadly one of the speedsters, Joe Riley, was injured in the pool games and could not take part in the latter stages of the competition.

The highlight of the afternoon for your correspondent was the Willis side step which involves eliminating the marker altogether before leaving him in a heap and then crossing the tryline.  Levi and big Jim Cumming provided the power and bulk to the squad but both showed good turns of speed and along with their colleagues seemed to thoroughly enjoy the day.  Thank you Dave and thanks to the Squad. You did the club and the pub proud. 

Squad: Bryn Jones, Matt Walker, Damian Pestell, Bruce Pestell, Seb Jones, Lee Vockins, Kobe Tonkin, Jim Cumming, Levi Willis, Peter Philippou, Joe Riley, Charlie Jones

Report by: Mike de St Croix

5/2/2006 11:48:41 AM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

7's Training

The first Senior 7's training session takes place next week at the Club, Monday 17th April, at 7pm.

If you would like to play 7's for the Club this year please attend; further sessions are likely to take place leading up to the Uckfield 7's on 30th April.

For more info about playing 7's please contact Dave Jones via the contacts page.

4/11/2006 6:11:49 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron 1st XV 27 Uckfield 1st XV 0

Heathfield convincing winners in local derby

This local derby match was charged with nostalgia and tension before the game and there was a wonderful festival atmosphere at Cross in Hand for the final League match of the season.  The occasion was blessed with fine weather and supporters of both clubs turned out in force to support their clubs.

For Heathfield their veteran skipper Rob Streeter was leading the Greenies for the last time and popular prop forward Lewis Marshall was also playing his last game before hanging up his boots. Strong running winger Levi Willis is also likely to have played his last 1^st XV league game for Heathfield whose supporters will remember his countless trademark big hits in defence as well as numerous important tries over the years. Uckfield were celebrating their first ever trophy victory,The Sussex Shield, and the start of their 40th birthday campaign.  The Rugby lived up to the occasion especially as far as Heathfield was concerned and the loyal home fans were treated to the side’s best display of the season.

After surviving early pressure on their own line Heathfield gained good ball and Bryn Jones cleared upfield with a huge wind aided punt.  Having established themselves in the Uckfield half Heath were rewarded with a penalty in mid field. Quick thinking by the excellent Lee Vockins from a tapped penalty saw the ball switched to big Jim Cumming who pinned back his ears and charged at great speed like an enraged Rhino in the direction of the try line.  His determination was clear as was the fact that none could or wanted to stop him.  His early try was crucial for his team and put Heathfield 5-0 ahead after 10 minutes. 

Heathfield had started at a furious pace with forwards and backs combining and the pack having by far its best game of the season.  Needless to say skipper Streeter was in the thick of all the action, leading by example and looking more like a skittish twenty year old than a founder club member playing his last game.

The Greenies continued to dominate in every phase and another evergreen youngster Lewis Marshall picked up near the Uckfield line and forced his way over near the posts. His team mates were delighted. Lewis is a great team and club man, quiet and gentle off the field but dynamic on it. He has served Heathfield superbly in the front row and he will be greatly missed.  Surprisingly Bryn Jones missed the conversation but did convert another excellent forwards try by Bruce Pestell a few minutes later. Jones put Heathfield further ahead and into a twenty point lead with a well struck penalty just before half time.

As often happens the superior side on the day also enjoyed a fair degree of luck. Having enjoyed the wind behind them in the first half, Heath were delighted to notice a mellowing of the elements as the teams turned round so that they only faced a light breeze compared with the gale Uckfield had to counter in the first half.

Heathfield brought on their subs at half time and continued to tear into their opponents immediately after the restart.  The Greenies were playing for their skipper, their coach and the pride of their club and there was never any doubt that they were going to win and win well. As Rugby people would say “on the day they wanted it more than their opponents".

Against some spirited defence by Uckfield the home side had to be patient to wait for the try that finally clinched Victory.  When it did come it illustrated just how much Heathfield have improved in the past few weeks under the skilled and patient coaching of Dave Jones.  Good fast second and third phase possession was secured by Heaths splendid pack and the ball was passed down the line.  Unable to burst through the centre to create an overlap ,Guy Woods placed a deft and sweetly struck grubber kick right into the left hand corner, all Sam Thewlis had to do was follow up at speed and fall on the ball to seal a well deserved victory.

Heathfield’s best win of the season was very much a team performance with the entire squad shining on the day.  The tackling was outstanding and the amount of turnover ball achieved was testament to the courage and fitness of Dave Jones’s squad.  The play of younger players like Tom Pritchard and Matt Walker shows great promise for next season while Lee Vockins had his best all round performance for the club at scrum half.  Damien Pestell and Bryn Jones again showed what powerful and skilful three-quarters they are while the experienced Guy Woods proved what a difference he makes to the side when he is injury free. 

Two players stand out as players of the season. Both are back row forwards by choice.  One is ending his 1st XV career and the other should be shining for the club for many years to come .Congratulations to Rob Streeter, who has given so much to Heathfield, and to Bruce Pestell who has played superbly in every league match.  Congratulations also to Coach Dave Jones and to Director of Rugby Mark Hassall.  This was a great day for the Greenies.

Heathfield; Marshall, Burchett (Marchant 40), Evans, Cumming, Streeter, B Pestell, Pritchard, Tonkin, Vockins, Jones, Willis (Walker 40), Woods, D Pestell, Hole (Riley 40), Thewlis

Report by: Mike de St Croix

Hopefully this one went over the Uckfield jumper!

2nd row Jim Cumming and centre Guy Woods come off the pitch.

Club Captain Ian Jenkins congratulates Rob Streeter on the victory.

Bruce Pestell, Rob and Bryn Jones

Rob, Guy and Bryn.

Lewis Marshall and Rob Streeter...

"We're too old for all this..."

Thanks to Debbie Green for the photos

4/8/2006 12:45:04 PM (GMT Daylight Time, UTC+01:00)     

Hastings & Bexhill 1st XV 16 Heathfield & Waldron 1st XV 0

So bad were the conditions that this Sussex 1 match could be described as either a "Mist" fixture or a “virtual event”.  A heavy sea fret came down just before kick off and the full pitch was rarely visible to spectators or players. In the circumstances both sides and the referee are to be commended for both starting and completing the match.

The details of the game are that Hastings with a heavy pack and sound half backs exerted pressure from the start and were rewarded with an early score after a driving maul.  They added to their lead with a penalty in front of the posts after 8 minutes.  Heathfield missed one scoring opportunity in the first half after Matt Walker was given space out wide after a fine passing movement involving all the backs and featuring a good running line and well timed pass by Will Drinkwater who was making a rare but very welcome appearance for the Greenies.  Heath competed well and defended stoutly against a strong Hastings performance and deserved to still be in touch at half time.

The second half saw the home side double their score with a well worked try out wide, completed by their competent scrum half and another penalty under the posts. 

Your correspondent saw enough of the play to be able to confirm that the Heathfield revival is on the roll.  Against a stronger team their defence was impressive and they competed in every phase especially at the breakdown. 

It was not the day for picking out individuals but experience shone through with Skipper Streeter leading by example and Guy Woods showing his all round skills throughout. Time and again Hastings were thwarted by the hits of Guy and Bryn Jones working in harmony.  The Pestell brothers had their customary good games and Lee Vockins showed what a valuable player he is against tough opposition.  Overall it was another encouraging display.

Report by: Mike de St Croix

3/25/2006 9:52:48 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron 1st XV 22 Seaford 1st XV 12

Heathfield & Waldron’s 1^st XV gained another victory in the latest match of their Sussex One campaign.  As has been mentioned in previous weeks the rugby produced by the side continues to improve with in particular the running and creativity shown by the backs being unrecognisable from that displayed earlier in the season.  Although there was lots of good play little mistakes let the side down on occasions, often after a difficult break had been made, only for the final pass to be put behind the supporting player or indeed to no one at all.

Heathfield’s first try came from outside centre Mike Hole who continues to be a dangerous and lively presence with his darting runs.  His centre partner Damien Pestell added the sides second after the ball had been passed well down the line for him to score in the corner with the conversion being added by fly-half Bryn Jones to make the half-time score 12-5.

Guy Woods made a welcome return to the 1^st XV and he was a reassuring figure at fullback with his typical powerful runs and solid defence.  Woods made the score 17-5 in the second half as he entered the line at pace in the Seaford 22 with again the conversion unfortunately not being added.

Damien Pestell scored his second try to make the final score 22-12 to Heathfield who have two remaining league fixtures to fulfil this season, against Uckfield and Hastings.

Notable performances in the backs came from Bryn Jones, Damien Pestell and Mike Hole while in the forwards Bruce Pestell again impressed with countless tackles. Rob Streeter was his typical self in the lineout which was solid throughout with good throwing by Chris Jones.

Heathfield: Marshall, C Jones, Evans, Cumming, Streeter, B Pestell, Pritchard (Burchett), Tonkin, Walker, B Jones, Bayley, D Pestell, Hole, Willis (Slay) Woods, Sub unused: Marchant

Report by: Nick Green

3/11/2006 2:37:41 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Hellingly 1st XV 10 Heathfield & Waldron 1st XV 22

One of those games in which despite a lot of things being done very well, it will be remembered more for the numerous handling errors and silly mistakes.

Let me say first, Heathfield 1^st XV continue to improve game by game. The overall pattern of play, the organisation, communication and the technical execution is far and away improved upon since the early part of the season.

Typically Hellingly were going to make us work hard for our win; a dogged display from them on a soft sticky pitch it was always going to turn out harder than it should.  From the kick-off Heathfield looked the better team and within minutes a series of won phases ended with the backs moving the ball wide only for one of Hellingly’s  defenders to intercept our final pass and race away to our own 22 before being tackled.  From the resulting play Hellingly managed to run in for a try totally against the run of play in the opening minutes.  They missed with the conversion, score 5 – 0.

Our line out display was greatly improved and returning Captain,  Rob Streeter was superb in this area, securing our own ball and often pinching theirs too providing a much improved  foundation for creating a platform from which to launch attacks.  It wasn’t long before the ever-marauding Bruce Pestell got the equalising touch down from a series of forward drives close to the opposition line. Bryn Jones converted, score 5 – 7.

Despite the better supply of ball, the backs had one of those days! Despite continuing to improve by running some very exciting lines at great pace, the actual handling let us down.  On any other day the chances being created would have cut even better opposition apart.  Before half-time, however, Heathfield managed a further two tries as a result of some well organised and dogged phase play by our forwards providing some good ball for the backs to carry on.  First Damian Pestell burst a couple of tackles on a great line to score left of the posts and not long afterwards the ever-green Levi Willis got himself involved in some close forward driving before finishing with the try. Neither of these two scores were converted leaving the tally at half time 5 – 17.

The message at half time was to up the tempo but take more care in securing the ball, look to clean up round the fringes more and take our chances more clinically.

The second half was much the same as the first. We won a fairly decent supply of ball and our backs launched numerous fast and creative attacks but our overall handling didn’t improve resulting in a frustrating afternoon.  Hellingly to their credit, continued to cause us difficulties often managing to spoil some of our good possession and put us under some enormous pressure in our own 22 for long periods of the second half. Our defence was hard and well organised though some tired legs led to some missed first up tackles which eventually allowed Hellingly to score fairly wide out on the right. Again the conversion missed leaving the score at 10 – 17.

This was a rallying call that Heathfield needed at this point of the game. The tempo increased visibly and we began to reverse the pressure spending longer periods in the opposition half.

Close to this point we lost the ever- improving Joe Riley at full back with a nasty looking broken nose. Barry Slay came off the bench to have a fine last fifteen minutes as did Jim Cummings who also joined the fray at this point with Rory Burchett having to leave the field.  With about ten minutes to go, Kobe Tonkin finished off some good handling by forwards and backs to score wide on the left. With the conversion again being missed the score was now 10 – 22 and remained so until the end.

Both teams continued to battle it out for the last few minutes and there were some very tired legs from the heavy ground. Credit to both sides who gave it their all on a difficult pitch but played the game in a great spirit.

My thanks and appreciation to Jamie Marchant who happily took his place on the bench this week and remained positive and supportive all day despite not getting on.

I am confident that as we move through the season, we are improving all the time. If we can continue to get winning results even if on days like this one where areas of the game didn’t go well then it looks good for the future. We are playing a different more exciting style but it takes time to develop.  I am delighted with the attitude of the players who are starting to develop a strong squad attitude and spirit which will make us even harder to beat.

Congratulations to Lewis Marshall who had a superb game and very deservedly got voted Man of the Match.

On behalf of the team, I pass on our sincerest best wishes to Mike de St. Croix, hoping he makes a very speedy and full recovery to good health. Mike we miss your cheery face being around doing the things you do not least of which is writing these match reports!

Heathfield Squad: Burchett, C Jones, Marshall, Evans, Streeter, B Pestell, Pritchard, Tonkin, Walker, B Jones, Bayley, D Pestell, Hole, Willis, Riley, Cumming, Marchant, Slay

Report by: Dave Jones

3/4/2006 12:18:36 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron 1st XV 27 Pulborough 1st XV 19

This game was played in wet and thoroughly unpleasant conditions but all the players and the referee provided one of the most entertaining matches seen at Cross in Hand for a long time. This was a splendid advertisement for club rugby and both clubs and the excellent ref deserve huge credit.

There were many handling mistakes but both teams attempted to play attacking rugby and although the tackling was fierce the game was played in the best spirits of the game.  Heathfield deserved to win because although they were under pressure for long periods they played the most constructive rugby and their young backs always threatened when presented with good ball.  Under their patient and skilful coach Dave Jones the Greenies are gaining in confidence and are developing into a well drilled unit. 

All bar one of their tries was scored by backs, the exception being a superb solo effort by the ever dependable lock Jim Cumming who jigged and side-stepped his way through the Pulborough side from outside their 22 to secure the match winning try.  It was just reward as Jim had previously crossed for a try after a catch and drive from Bruce Pestell.  Unfortunately the ref was unsighted.

Pulborough won all the early possession but as soon as the home backs started running some good ball Seb Jones, last seasons Colts captain, finished an excellent move to score a try on his 1^st XV debut.  After a slow start Heath kept up the pressure and soon after Cumming’s disallowed try Bruce Pestell, who was outstanding in a much improved pack, won a line out inside the Pulborough 22 for skipper Bryn Jones to cut inside, sell a dummy and score a  try under the posts.

The Jones brother’s monopoly on the score sheet was broken when another of Heathfield’s fast improving backs Joe Riley sprinted down the wing from halfway to score in the corner after collecting his own kick ahead.  Pulborough replied with a well taken try and the teams changed ends with Heath ahead by 17-5.

The second half produced some robust but always clean rugby with Jack Bailey and Kobe Tonkin always in the thick of things and the evergreen Tim Evans making a number of charging runs.  New boy Tom Pritchard standing in at scrum half after an injury to Lee Vockins also showed what an asset he will be to the Greenies.  Returning to the scoring it was back to man of the match Bryn Jones to score another try after good work by Damien Pestell who continues to impress now that he is near to top form after injury. Pulborough never flagged and their two converted tries were just reward for a wholehearted performance.

The corner has turned for this Heathfield side.  On the evidence of this performance they will be a pleasure to watch and will continue to improve on their position in Sussex Division 1.

Heathfield: Fellows, Marchant (C Jones), Burchett (Everett), Evans, Cumming, B Pestell, Bayley, Tonkin, Vockins (Pritchard), B Jones, Willis, D Pestell, Hole, S Jones, J Riley

Report by: Mike de St Croix

2/18/2006 9:07:07 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron 1st XV 10 Crowborough 1st XV 13

Squad: R Burchett, J Marchant, L Marshall, T Evans, J Cumming, B Pestell, T Pritchard, K Tonkin, L Vockins, B Jones, J Riley, D Pestell, M Hole, L Willis, S Thewlis, C Jones, J Bayley, M Walker

Report by Mike de St Croix

2/11/2006 9:07:37 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron 1st XV 24 Burgess Hill 1st XV 21

Heathfield look to attack a Burgess Hill scrum with the VP's looking on from the veranda as Damien Pestell oversees proceedings from the centre!

Heathfield scrum-half Matt Walker looks to pressure his opposite number.

Lee Vockins rises high in the lineout

Team: Fellows, Marchant, Burchett, Evans, Hunter-Evans, Vockins, B Pestell, Tonkin, Walker, Jones, Riley, D Pestell, Hole, Willis, Bayley

Posted by: Nick Green

1/21/2006 5:13:46 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Going forward

The season has been a difficult one so far for all Senior teams. Plagued by injuries to key players, the loss of a few others to university etc and a general shortage of front rows has provided a testing time for all concerned. Add to that yet another change in coaching structure and personnel and you get a fairly healthy recipe for some poor results!

That said, I know all teams have adapted well to the difficulties, shown great commitment on match days, rallied to the call and achieved a mixed bag of results. We have found one or two new 'pearls' among our playing staff both from new arrivals and from a few of last years Colts coming through which is fantastic.

Senior training is every Monday night from 7pm and alternate Thursdays by arrangement. The sessions are busy and reasonably hard but equally fun and informative. The drills are varied and effective and players are not left standing around in the cold twiddling their thumbs. Why then I ask are the numbers turning up so poor?

Between the 1st and Development squads, we should be getting at least 20 players every week but preferably 30 plus. We need backs and forwards from all teams. I need to be able to coach those players who will be taking the field on a Saturday. Everyone needs to practice and improve the areas of weakness highlighted in the previous weeks match. It’s not rocket science, if we want to improve as a club and individuals, then we need to make the commitment to train at least once a week… We are not in a position to issue the old ultimatum “No train No play” but its only fair that those players making the effort should get the opportunities. If, as I believe, most people want to get in the 1st XV, then what better way to get noticed than at training!

We are in a rebuilding stage. Many of the old stalwarts for various reasons are no longer available for selection. Opportunities exist and positions are up for grabs. It is an exciting time, time to introduce younger players who are keen, fit and willing to learn but I want players to train. I want to see Development players pushing for 1st XV recognition. I want the team selected for the match on Saturday to turn up prepared and familiar with their team mates, the style of play and the moves and strategies practiced. I want every player to reach a level of skill and understanding beyond where they are now, a level of fitness higher than they’ve reached before and a level of want, desire and pride in playing for Heathfield beyond anything experienced previously.

Up and coming players should be mad keen to get out and train to improve and impress. To carve a niche for themselves within the Club and to benefit from mixing and playing with die-hard Heathfield favourites like 1st team Captain Rob Streeter (Rollo) who continues to train and play today harder than anyone in the Club.

There is a great deal of potential within the playing ranks of H&W RFC. Loads of talent waiting to develop and take us forward as a Club but it doesn’t happen without commitment. It will not happen if players do not train together and push each other for selection. ONE NIGHT A WEEK – TWO HOURS OF YOUR TIME. Nag each other to train. Look at your team mates on match day and if you see someone that wasn’t at training on Monday ask them why. Coerce them, guilt trip them, bully or bribe them but get them to train!

Each and every player should be nagging to be selected not the other way round where Captains, Managers and coaches are having to nag players to train and play. If you want it, show it and that starts at training.

In the Ist XV over the last few weeks, I have seen a definite improvement. Training has been good, the spirit has improved and playing performances, though not necessarily the results, have improved too. We need to keep building on that and keep going forward.

My thanks to all those players who have trained regularly but please help me to get more to turn up.

I’m committed to improving our playing standards and to increase the level of competition for places and pride within the Club. Please help us to achieve that and start by training every week.

There is training on Monday 19th December at 7pm. BE THERE and then you can have two weeks off for Christmas and New Year.

May I take this opportunity to wish everybody at Heathfield and Waldron RFC a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Thanks to everyone for your support.

Posted by: Dave Jones [Head Coach]

12/20/2005 11:41:28 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)