Newick I – 7 Heathfield & Waldron II – 20

With just three more matches to go before the end of the season Heathfield took on Newick and reminded spectators why they are top of the league.

The Greenies got off to a flying start with forward Jim Cummings bursting through the shaky Newick defence to score, although the conversion was missed: 0-5.

Scrum half Mike Jaques then kicked a penalty, taking the score to 0-8.

The wind and rain made playing the game considerably difficult, and it was almost impossible to spin the ball out wide. Despite the conditions Heathfield played aggressive rugby and tackled hard when it mattered.

Minutes into the second half the Newick centres seized their chance and intimidated the Heathfield defence to score, converting their try: 8-7.

Newick then stopped a quick tap penalty through illegal play and Heathfield were awarded a penalty try, kicked again by Mike Jaques, taking the score to 15-7.

Towards the end of the game full back Matt Walker seized the ball after spinning the ball out to the backs and scored a brilliantly set up try: 20-7.

Unfortunately Heathfield conceded penalties, but even down to 14 men – due to ill discipline, they were still by far the dominant side. Great tackles and scrummage led by Julian Porter proved far superior and Newick failed to convert their possession into points.

The team faced difficult conditions but produced another high-quality performance. They will need to keep up this standard for a big game against Norfolk Arms tomorrow.

3/20/2010 8:30:01 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron II 13 - Hove III 18

This week proved a difficult one for Heathfield II, at home against Hove III. Heathfield looked to have built a solid platform at the start of the game, but within minutes Hove took the home side by surprise and shot over the line for a try. Heathfield responded with good communication between all players, but possession was largely Hove’s. The visitors worked extremely well with consistent attacks on Heathfield’s defence. Following a successful formula and capitalising on the home side’s lack of structure, Hove scored two more tries long before the half time whistle: 0-15.

This ignited Heathfield in the second half and the forwards worked together, to battle their way over the line for a well worked try: 5-15.

Minutes later fast passing down the line allowed Ross Riley to fly down the wing, touching down in the corner to bring the score to 10-15.

Hove then kicked a penalty: 10-18. However Heathfield kept going, managing to turn the ball over and gain good ground. Will Drinkwater then kicked a penalty, closing the gap to 13-18.

Despite a hard match, the home side only conceded three points in the second half. Josh Mullet and Sam Pearce worked hard all game and scrum half Mike Jaques came on in the second half making a real difference, directing and encouraging more aggressive play. With an eagerly anticipated game against East Grinstead tomorrow though, Heathfield will need to fight hard.

2/20/2010 12:31:50 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron II 13 - Newick 11

This week proved another testing one for Heathfield II, playing at home against Newick.

Heathfield turned the ball over early with great play and consistent pressure. However Newick are a sizeable pack, and halted early breaks by Heathfield.

Dan Bird and Jack Bayley led the forward pack well with numerous turnovers and good ground made. The half looked good for Heathfield until they conceded a penalty, and Newick edged into the lead: 0-3.

Five minutes into the second half Will Drinkwater converted a penalty, and Heathfield were back in the running: 3-3.

However it was a fierce forty minutes. Newick spread the ball wide to their full back, drew the defence and shifted it to their wing who scored a well-worked try. Fortunately for Heathfield the conversion was missed:3-8.

This ignited Heathfield and their backs and they too spread the ball. With great running and a well placed grubber kick from Ross Riley, Drinkwater pounced on the ball and touched down, converting it seconds later: 10-8.

With the score so close both teams fought harder. In one moment Heathfield gave away a penalty and Newick moved one point ahead: 10-11. Heathfield then showed their fighting spirit and won another penalty. Drinkwater converted and Heathfield snatched victory.

The game was a story of Newick’s good defence, but brilliant rubgy from Heathfield. Although at times they failed to convert possession into points, the home side played their best half this season.

12/7/2009 11:28:10 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield II 19 Plumpton 12

The match against Plumpton started aggressively, with Heathfield enjoying the early possession. Heathfield came close to scoring an early try in the bottom corner, but Ross Riley unfortunately fell short and the ball was spilled. Minutes later though, Plumpton conceded a penalty as a result of consistent pressure by Heathfield, and ill discipline at the breakdown. Chris English converted: 3-0.

Moments after the restart, Plumpton stole the ball. The resulting scrum led to an up-and-under kick by Plumpton’s fly-half, allowing their outside centre to weave his way through a broken defence for a try – easily converted from under the posts: 7-3.

Plumpton then gave away two more penalties, allowing Heathfield to bring the score to 9-7 by the end of the half.

Heathfield started the second half brilliantly, with the forwards working together to bring the ball up to the twenty-two. This allowed Will Drinkwater to run a piercing line through the short side of Plumpton’s defence to score a try: 16-7.

However, Plumpton fought back and the right wing jinked his way through a dispersed defence to score a well-worked individual try in the bottom corner, though they failed to convert: 16-12.

Heathfield finished off with another penalty kicked by English. The match was full of character and aggression from both teams, and Heathfield will be looking to stay at the top in tomorrow’s game against Newick.

11/28/2009 5:29:17 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield blow away the opposition

Heathfield & Waldron II 8 - Hove III 5

The game between Heathfield II and Hove III was played in gale force winds and driving rain on Saturday, making the whole game a battle.

Heathfield looked likely to score early on in the first half with a breakaway run by Chris Jaques, who broke between the ten and twelve, but unfortunately the wind and mud knocked the ball on.

The weather dominated the game, taking kicks sideways and ruining lineouts. Hove cracked under Heathfield’s pressure and gave away a penalty in front of the posts, kicked brilliantly by Joe Reilly: 0-3.

Hove made good use of their advantage in the scrums, exerting pressure on Heathfield. This finally took its toll and with good work to keep the ball alive, Hove bundled over for a team try in the corner: 5-3.

In the second half Heathfield played into the wind for another gruelling half. However, the play was creative, and Heathfield learnt from Hove’s first half performance. Props Davies and Porter drove forward into Hove’s twenty-two, providing a solid platform. Heathfield’s chance came ten minutes before the final whistle when the ball spilled and Leon Collen seized the opportunity - spreading the ball to winger substitute Mike Shallcross who touched down in the corner.  Unfortunately it left an almost impossible kick for Reilly: 5-8.

The performance from Heathfield was full of character and determination, and the win was a thoroughly deserved end to the game. With a week off the team can rest, in preparation for the game against Plumpton.

11/17/2009 8:55:46 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron II 3 - Chichester II 12

Heathfield unlucky in the Cup

The rain held off this week for Heathfield II, playing at home in front of a crowd against Chichester II for a Cup game.

The first few minutes provided a great deal of entertainment, with both sides exerting pressure on each other. A handling error by Chichester gave Heathfield a brief advantage, but Chichester worked together well and overcame the backs to score a try in the bottom right corner, although they missed the conversion: 0-5.

Heathfield came together in response, focusing on their discipline and regaining their confidence. Some brilliant runs by Leon Collen and great play by Chris English gave Heathfield a much needed boost, but unfortunately they failed to break through Chichester’s defence.
The second forty minutes saw Heathfield’s scrum half take a big hit, forcing him off with concussion. Even with this blow Heathfield’s scrum proved superior with numerous balls won against the head by hooker Chris Jones.

With pressure mounting, a slip by Chichester allowed Heathfield to pile on the pressure. This earned them a penalty, kicked by English:3-5.

Throughout the game the Heathfield forwards looked dominant but it seemed the Chichester backs had the overall advantage, spreading the ball wide before cutting back inside to score a try near the posts, making it an easy conversion for Chichester’s fly half, with ten minutes remaining: 12-3.

Overall, Heathfield’s discipline has improved and the first half of this match saw them play their best rugby this season. Hopefully this will stand them in good stead for the other forthcoming league games.

Match report By Rebecca White

11/2/2009 8:17:43 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

St.Frances 17 - Heathfield & Waldron II 12

The game between Heathfield and St Francis got under way in wet and windy conditions in Crawley. Aggressive play by St Francis forwards meant that numerous attacks resulted in a try, although they failed to convert. Heathfield then conceded two penalties. To make matters worse, scrum half Mike Jaques took a huge hit and was forced to come off. The score at half time was 11-0 to St Francis, with Heathfield down to 14 men.

Minutes into the second half St Francis scored again, with the forward easily penetrating the Heathfield defence. It was time for Heathfield to come back and playing into a strong head wind, the backs knew it was all or nothing. Heathfield went on the offensive, turning numerous ball over. Brilliant passing created opportunities, which allowed a tight cutting, straight running Joe Reilly to score an outstanding try from the 10 metre line.

Heathfield continued to play the better rugby. In the last few minutes Olly Robertshaw stretched over the line for a try, bringing the score to 17-12 to St Francis.

They may have lost, but Heathfield learnt a great deal about what they can achieve with their backs against the wall. Hopes are high for a win with a cup game against Chichester II next week.

10/24/2009 8:45:27 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron II 29 - Shoreham I 26

The game was played at Waldron in excellent conditions and Shoreham had first use of the slope. Initially Heathfield made some handling errors but fought successfully to reach Shoreham’s twenty-two. However the visitors counterattacked and scored after seven minutes. Heathfield promptly responded with effective handling along the line, and Davies slammed down a try, converted by Goatcher.

Heathfield needed to stamp authority on the game, but attempted tries were blocked and the half-time score remained at 7-5 to Heathfield. 

In the second half with the benefit of the hill Heathfield forwards kept possession for numerous phases, soon allowing Tim Evans to score another five points.

Levi Willis then received the ball, offloading to the backs and seizing the ball again for a well worked try. Shoreham responded with a try and conversion, bringing the score to 17-12.

Willis soon struck again with another try converted by Goatcher. Shoreham battled hard but the Heathfield forwards were away and Davies demolished the defence to score minutes before the final whistle.

At 29-12 Heathfield looked victorious, but Shoreham spotted an opening, scoring and converting two tries.  In the nail biting final seconds Heathfield were only three points clear but they held on for a hard fought and difficult result.

10/17/2009 6:33:51 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

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)     

Heathfield & Waldron II 17 Eastbourne II 5

Heathfield 2nds travelled to Eastbourne for this league game.

At the start of the season playing at home Heathfield lost to Eastbourne, but hopes were high that the improved Heathfield performances of late would put them in a strong position to win this game.

Eastbourne made a strong start and spent most of the first tem minutes in the Heathfield half. However it was Heathfield that struck first when Sam Goacher received the ball from a breakdown in the Heathfield half, produced some silky running, weaving his way through the entire Eastbourne side to score under the posts, and of course converted his own try.

The second, try in this close game was scored by Eastbourne from a well worked move by there forwards to score in the bottom corner of this sloping pitch.

Sam Goacher was in fine kicking form as he showed when he kicked a penalty from forty metres out. This gave a half time score of 10 - 5 to Heathfield.

Heathfield had the advantage of the slope in the second half, also the very strong Eastbourne pack that had been in control of the scrums during the first half, began to tire. Add to this the addition of the powerful Furry Evans as prop, and this resulted in taking control of the set piece, often winning balls against the head, but always producing good ball for the backs, or powerfully driving moves for the forwards, more often than not led by No 8 and Captain Levi Willis.

It was after a period of five minutes of being camped on the Eastbourne try line that the power of the Heathfield scrum came to the for front when Eastbourne were given a scrum which Heathfield won against the head and produced a good old fashioned push over try, which was scored by Levi Willis, although it was all eight forwards that made it. This was converted by Sam Goacher giving a final score of Eastbourne 5 - Heathfield 17.

This was a timely win not only for the league but as the two teams meet again in two weeks time for the Sussex Bowl semi final, it also helps to boost confidence for this upcoming game.

3/8/2009 10:06:05 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield II reach Sussex Bowl Semi Final

Heathfield 2nds were at home for this Quarter Final game of the Sussex Bowl knock out competition.

The strong Lewes side which contained a number of colts players took full advantage of the drier conditions with some fine open running play. Heathfield were also up for this game showing huge commitment at the breakdown area, keeping possession which a few weeks earlier may well have been turnover ball.

Both sides matched each other during the first twenty minutes with Lewes finally breaking the stalemate with a penalty conversion, this was followed within five minutes, with a penalty converted by Sam Goacher to bring the scores level. 30 minutes in to the game possession was won by the forwards and then passed out wide, quick ball was won at the break down and scrum half Simon Jackson scampered over to score in the corner converted by Sam.

Half time score, Heathfield 10,  Lewes 3.

It was only fitting that the first score in the second half was by a back row player, Jack Bayley, because the work rate of all three, Jack, Phil Gander and Captain Levi Willis, who was named as man of the match, was producing lots of ball from the break down area, allowing the backs to string together many attacks which were only halted by some equally impressive Lewes defence.

Half way through the second half Lewes kicked a penalty and ten minutes later they scored a try, which they had been threatening to do for a while. This led to a nail biting last ten minutes, the scrum which Heathfield had controlled for most of the game kept most of the possession on the Heathfield side and after a number of rucks the forwards crossed the try line, but as the referee was unsited the try was not given.

Heathfield held there nerve and ran out winners, Heathfield 15, Lewes 13. Booking themselves a place in the semi final against Eastbourne 2nds.

3/3/2009 6:51:44 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield II 10 - Worthing III 43

Heathfield hosted Worthing 3rds for this top of the table clash. The last encounter early in the season at the start of October resulted in an overwhelming victory for a very impressive Worthing.

Before the game had even started flanker Jack Bayley injured his back in the pre match warm up enforcing changes to the starting line up.  This game started in a similar way to the last encounter as Worthing ran in a try within the first three minutes.There well drilled and strong set of backs always looked threatening every time they gained position of the ball. But Heathfield showed that they new how to counter attack as outside centre Chris English scored a breakaway try, which was converted by Sam Goacher.

Worthing managed to run in five further tries during the remainder of the first half, and Heathfield converted one penalty.

This game was not all doom and gloom, the Heathfield forwards played a major role by winning most of the set pieces, captain Levi Willis having a particularly strong game, never taking a backward step. The backs improved there defensive line and began to cut down the space that Worthing had, this pressure began to produce more mistakes from there very slick backs. During the second half the hard work and character of all the Heathfield team, proved that they could match Worthing by not allowing them to score a single point.

So the final score was the same as the half time score.

2/16/2009 10:07:51 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 & Waldron II vs Barns Green

This away match against Barns Green was played at Horsham RFC due to an unplayable pitch at Barns Green.

The game started at a furious pace with Barns Green attacking down the slope and putting the Heathfield defence to an immediate test. Heathfield were up to the challenge and denied Barns Green from collecting any points. The first score came just on the ten minute mark Heathfield had a penalty, ten metres out, in front of the posts, instead of a safe three points a quick thinking Greg Kneller tapped the ball and just managed scramble over the line to score, conversion by Sam Goacher.

In this league Heathfield have learnt that they can't relax for a minute because when they do the opposition can strike, which is what Barns Green proved as they ran the ball from there own ten metre line, ran through most of the Heathfield team to score. This wake up call focused Heathfield to reply with three quick tries, the first was a backs move with centre Chris English making good ground and popping the ball to wing Mike Hole to run in and score.The second was a lovely team try involving forwards and backs, which was finished off by the forwards as prop Greg Kneller popped the ball to flanker Jack Bayley to outrun the defence with a two metre sprint and score. Just on half time captain, Levi Willis who was having a very strong game, scored one of his typical tries powering through the Barns Green defence and scoring. This gave a half time score of 26 - 5 to Heathfield.

The second half fell a little flat and although always in complete control Heathfield did not stamp there authority on the game and always gave Barns Green a chance to make a come back. The deadlock was broken as Greg Kneller scored his second try of the game after 15 minutes. Undaunted Barns Green who had not given up managed to run in another try helped by a little complacency in the tackling department.

Towards the end of the game Barns Green began to tire and holes began to appear in there defence. The Heathfield backs took advantage and put together some lovely moves and ran in two tries, one by full back Ross Riley, and one by wing Mike Shalcross.

Final score  Heathfield & Waldron 43,  Barns Green 10

2/3/2009 12:37:52 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron II v's Norfolk Arms

Heathfield played at home for this tough fixture against Norfolk Arms who were currently second in the league.

The wet ground conditions were not ideal for running rugby, but the Heathfield backs, marshaled by stand off Sam Goacher took no notice of the conditions and played some open running rugby which included some technical backs moves,which didn't always come off, but when they did produced some lovely flowing rugby which sliced through the Norfolk Arms defence. Scores were only prevented by some strong last ditch Norfolk Arms defence. The Heathfield forwards once again were dominant in the scrums with hooker Chris Jones winning a number of balls against the head and scrum half Simon Jackson making full use of any ball that came his way.

The first half was a low scoring affair with one penalty conversion score for each side.

The second half started in the best way possible. Virtually from the kick off the ball was won back from the Norfolk Arms forwards and with some fine interplay between Ross Riley, Josh Mullet, and Sam Goacher, Sam crossed the line for the first try of the game. The second Heathfield try came half way through the second half. From a scrum a pre planned backs move cut the Norfolk Arms defence in half allowing inside centre Nick Seddon to power through to score, this was converted by Sam Goacher.

By this time Heathfield were looking to take control of the game with both strong forward play and flamboyant backs play.

The final try of the game was scored by prop Greg Kneller, He had tactically moved out to the wing, to have a rest, and ended up being on the receiving end of a backs move just five metres from the line, a distance that he was able to sprint and score.

All in all a good performance by Heathfield who are slowly but surely moving up the league table.

Final score,  Heathfield  20 - Norfolk Arms  6.

1/24/2009 5:35:57 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron 12 v's Shoreham 7

Heathfield seconds are finding that there are no easy games in the Sussex Intermediate League. Having now played every side in the league we found our selves near the bottom of this closely contested league. The other side close to the bottom was today's opponents Shoreham, so there was more at stake for both sides than usual.

The game started at breakneck speed with both sides probing for any weaknesses. The Heathfield forwards were having a dominant time at the scrums and line outs, making full use of the older heads like Ian Jenkins, Chris Jones  and an old face from the past playing his first game for four years, Tony Flint.

Fifteen minutes into the game, Heathfield had camped on the Shoreham try line for over five minutes, being prevented from crossing the try line by some heroic last ditch defence. Both the Heathfield forwards and backs made several attempts to cross the line and finally made it from a scrum and driving maul with centre Nick Seddon powering over for the try. The conversion was missed by stand in kicker Mike Shallcross. During the remainder of the first half a number of try scoring opportunities were missed mainly due to the defensive skills of Shoreham. During the last minute of the first half a momentary laps of concentration let in the Shoreham backs for a try and conversion. Half time score Heathfield 5 Shoreham 7.

The second half began with some good open rugby despite the sticky ground conditions, and some excellent backs moves showed that the young backs will have much to offer in the future. Scrum half Rob Perry and fly half Joe Salmon, both back from college had particularly good games. It was from one of these backs moves that wing, Chris English scored the second try for Heathfield and was converted by Mike Shallcross. The game was a very close contest right up to the very end and any lack of effort by either side could have made the result go either way.

Full time Heathfield 12,  Shoreham 7.

12/20/2008 1:37:56 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

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 4:59:49 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield Dev XV 15 - Eastbourne 2nds 24

The first home League game for the Dev XV, was always going to be a hard fought battle against Eastbourne 2nds who last season were in the higher Reserve league.

In this much changed side, Oli Robertshaw and Bob Togher were welcomed back for their first game of the season.

Although Heathfield started well, being dominant in both the scrums and line out, they found it difficult to break down the Eastbourne defence despite hard running aggressive play from both centres Nick Seddon and Levi Willis.

Eastbourne were first to score, quickly followed by a second, both tries were of the breakaway type and did not represent how close the game was. Scrum half Mike Jaques, playing his last game for a while, as he is back to University, playing his usual terrier like game, was first to score for Heathfield finishing off a try that was engineered by the forwards who turned the ball over from a break down in play.

The second half was even closer with both sides scoring two tries. The first try was by Captain Levi Willis, who broke the strong tackling Eastbourne defence to reach out and just reach the goal line. A forwards try was scored by Oli Robertshaw after a series of rucks and mauls from which Heathfield managed to retain possession and Oli finally crossing the line. Hard working prop Chris Ambrosino almost put Joe Reilly away for a clear try, but the pass was judged forward by the referee, which should have made it a closer score line.

The standard of play has improved this season by the seconds, but we still have to raise our game a little more to be challenging for the top of the league at the end of the season.

9/22/2008 1:57:39 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield Dev XV 48, - Plumpton 24

New Season, new league, new challenges.
This is what faced the Dev XV, as they travelled away to Plumpton.

This very young side, if you take Chris Jones out of the pack, the average age is 19. They have just played three warm up games and once again came up against a much stronger and more experienced set of forwards. However enthusiastic and talented youth eventually overcame the heaver Plumpton forwards.

Heathfield opened the score with some fine handling by the backs which was run in by wing Josh Mullet and converted by Sam Goacher. Plumpton quickly replied with a forwards try.
The Heathfield backs continued to show some flowing rugby with full back Ross Riley and an ever supporting No8 Sam Barrow, both running in tries to round off the first half, Heathfield 19 – 5 Plumpton.

The second half began in fine fashion with captain Levi Willis, playing centre this week, collecting the ball on his own 22, running over and around most of the opposition to score a great individual try. This was a wakeup call for Plumpton, who raised their game and due to Heathfield lowering their intensity, Plumpton scored three tries in quick succession, to draw level 24 all.

Heathfield showed that they are not in this league to make up the numbers and overcame a now buoyant Plumpton, firstly with a penalty kick from Sam Goacher, then a try from scrum half Mike Jaques, followed by a second for Ross Riley and a second for Sam Barrow.
All in all this was a fine performance for such a young side.

9/13/2008 12:33:37 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

2008/2009 Season

9/1/2008 3:40:42 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 2nd's 67 Hove 3rd's 3

With still 2 more league games to go this victory saw Heathfield guaranteed promotion.   Hove arrived unable to field a front row which meant the game would have uncontested scrums as well as being played in torrential downpours and gusting winds.

Despite the conditions Heathfield tried from the outset to play open, entertaining rugby, unfortunately they weren’t quite precise enough and too many moves were squandered with poor handling or failing to pass the ball.  However after 20 minutes Heathfield pressure began to tell and a flowing backs move was halted just in front of the try line, as the Hove scrum half tried to clear, it was charged down and Simon Green gathered and went over for the first score.  Hove came straight back at Heath and were rewarded with 2 penalties, one of which was converted.   Heathfield eventually started to put phases of play together and Ed Skinner made a break from the halfway line but just couldn’t make it over the line, the maul that followed saw Levi Willis squeeze over for a try, Goatcher converted.  There followed a solo run from the captain Jim Cummings who scored under the posts, Goatcher converted and Heathfield went in at halftime 19-3 up.

With the wind behind them Heathfield were able to turn the screws in the second half and with quick ball provided by the forwards they played with pace and power.   Despite not being able to secure line out ball the backs were moving the ball quickly along the line, good play resulted in a further try from Levi Willis, a typical Jack Bayley support play try, also Nick Evans rolled over from 2 yards out for his try, Goatcher converted.   As the half went on Olli Robertshaw grabbed a brace of tries from excellent support play, Warren Wright got one and Jim Cummings got his second.  There was a feeling of jug avoidance with 3 players scoring 2 tries and a possible deliberate knock on by Jones with 70 yards to go and no opposition in front of him.  All in all in terrible conditions Heathfields’ quality showed through, with 2 league games to go Heathfield can look forward to a tougher challenge in the League above next season.

Report by Shaun Hipgrave

Pictures from Wayne Pritchard

3/8/2008 5:09:15 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Development XV picture

Here is a picture of the Development Team prior to a fixture earlier in the season.

2/1/2008 6:35:35 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Newick 2nds 3 0 v Heathfield and Waldron 2nds 48

The second league game of 2008 saw Heathfield still sitting pretty at the top of the league table, however an away trip to Newick could have proved tricky.  The game started with Heath playing into a strong wind and having to run everything, something that both the Heathfield wingers took full advantage of.

In the first couple of minutes a strong run by Levi Willis on the right wing saw him put Heathfield in the lead with a touchdown in the corner.  Both sets of forward were contesting a hard fought game, but Heath knew if they could move the ball quickly their backs would capitalise.  Dave Groom on the left wing scored two quick tries first with good ball passed down the backline, then from a quick tap penalty by Jack Bayley who offloaded to Dave in the tackle.

Imbetween the tries Newick scored a penalty, and the half ended with Heathfield 20-3 up.  The second half saw Heathfield pick the pace up with the forwards making some excellent runs especially from the skipper Jim Cummings and back row Simon Green.  The pressure told and there was a typical Jack Bayley try, picking up a loose ball and running half the length of the pitch to score and a Jim Cummings try from a quick tap penalty running half a yard to score.  Sam Goatcher converted both tries.  There continued more pressure on the Newick line and the fitness of the Heath pack was taking its toll on Newick who conceded a penalty try after persistent infringement, Goatcher converted.

With 15 minutes to go it was good to see a familiar face introduced from the replacements bench, Joe Reilly started his first game back after a long injury lay off.  He was quickly into the action and then a flowing forwards and backs move saw quick ball go out to Goatcher who threw an outrageous dummy and cut inside the defence to score under the posts, he converted to take the score to 48-3.  The score line was flattering and Newick made it a hard fought game, however another W sees the development team stay top of the league.

Match Report by Shaun Hipgrave

1/26/2008 5:44:21 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)     

Hastings and Bexhill 2nds 0 v Heathfield and Waldron 2nds 13

The final league game of the season saw the Heathfield Development team still at the top of the table but facing one of their toughest fixtures so far against a strong Hastings side.  Hastings set their stall out early in the game and despite concerted Heathfield pressure the Hastings’ defence was well organised and robust.  In fact despite sustained Heathfield pressure with 35 minutes of the first half gone they only had 2 missed penalty kicks to show for it.  However by then the continued pressure from the Heathfield forwards and repeated drives towards the Hastings line took its toll.  Hastings conceded another 5-yard scrum and after good driving work, a break off by the back row then Jack Bayley and Mike Jacques, wriggled over for a score.  Both had hold of the ball at the time, so I suppose the try should go down to Jacques Bayley.  Sam Goatcher got the all-important conversion.

The second half was an even more competitive affair with the match getting niggly and Hastings conceding penalty after penalty, but Heathfield could never quite get it together to make them pay.  The backs never really got the space to make their pace tell and the forwards despite excellent ball carries by Nick Evans and Ollie Robertshaw couldn’t totally dominate Hastings.  Heathfield were not able to cross the try line again although they came close, though Goatcher did get 2 more penalties to put some distance between the sides.  Danny Basen made an excellent try saving tackle on one of Hastings few forays into the Heath half and overall this was a well-deserved hard fought victory.  Man of the match was Jack Bayley who defended stoutly and popped up all over the pitch constantly putting Hastings under pressure.  Next game is the 5th Jan, this sees the second team signing off the year top of the table. 

12/17/2007 3:59:46 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Robertsbridge 8 v Heathfield and Waldron 2nds 38

Going into this league game the Heathfield Development team were sitting pretty on top of Sussex League 2. However as Heathfield found out Robertsbridge’s lowly league position misrepresented their standard of play. This was not to be an easy game and as expected no quarter was given and none was asked. On what was a bitterly cold day the pace and intensity of this game, especially both packs kept the temperature high.

From the start both sides were looking for good position and Heathfield pack seemed to be quicker to the ball and able to gain good territory, their early possession was rewarded with a try by Matt Cooke who was filling in at fullback, Mike Shallcross converted. As the half progressed the pattern for the game was beginning to set, the Heathfield pack were dominating the forward exchanges and driving deep into the opposition half. Heathfield grabbed 2 tries from Rob Streeter and Jack Bayley from quick tap penalties in the Robertsbridge 22, Shallcross converted one.

There then followed the best try of the game, Roberstbridge kicked deep into the Heathfield half, collected by Cooke at fullback, then a series of runs and drives with excellent support play and interlinking between forwards and backs saw Shallcross score in the left corner. The half ended 24-0 to Heathfield.

No one expected Roberstbridge to lay down in this game, they started the second half on the front foot and were able to take a well deserved penalty in front of the posts. Eventually the Heathfield forwards took control again and from some strong forward runs lead by the evergreen Rob Streeter a ruck was formed 20 metres out. Mike Jacques at scrum half took full advantage of the gaps left in defence and his darting run resulting in a try under the posts, Shallcross converting.

Robertsbridge came storming back sensing Heathfield were sitting back on their lead, they soon punished them for conceding too many penalties and scored in the corner. The game finished on a high note for Heathfield with a superb second try by Mike Shallcross, the ball got moved quickly from right to left on the halfway line and Shallcross took an excellent direct line from the centres, then showed his pace to beat 2 defenders and score under the posts, he converted his own try.

This was a well deserved hard fought victory in this league game, man of the match was difficult to choose with such a good team performance, Shallcross scoring 18 points including 2 excellent tries. However it was the performance of the pack that set this victory up and although Jack Bayley pushed him close it was Rob Streeter just pipped him. Next weekend sees Heathfield entertain Haywards Heath 4ths at home in the league.

11/24/2007 8:23:52 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield and Waldron 2nds 39 v Crowborough 2nds 7

This week’s opposition were due to be an altogether tougher nut to crack than recent league games.  Crowborough arrived with a strong and physical looking team and Heathfield were looking for a positive start to the game.   Well they couldn’t have been happier when just 5 minutes into the game they turned over Crowborough possession moved the ball out to the backs and Stuart Packham showed his pace racing in from inside his own half to score the first try.   Heathfield continued to pile on the pressure and only a few minutes later the forwards had driven deep into the opposition half, Levi Willis broke down the right wing and provided a soft inside pass for Simon Green to go in for his first try.  Just after this Crowborough had to go to uncontested scrums after losing their prop, which, under league rules means they automatically give Heathfield 10 points.

This appeared to disrupt Heathfield and there were no further scores before half time.  The game stayed quite scrappy in the first 20 minutes of the second half, however Heathfield managed to get more points on the board when Mikey Brown still rolling back the years took a quick tap penalty squeezed through some ineffective tackling and laid the ball off for Mike Jacques to score under the posts.  Sam Goatcher converted.   Heathfield had to work hard though and Crowborough managed to gain momentum by a series of good forward play and Heathfields indiscipline in conceding penalty after penalty.   Ultimately the pressure told and they scored under the posts, the try was converted. 

This appeared to be a wake up call to Heathfield and the final 20 minutes saw them play some of the best rugby of the game.  The forwards direct running put them over the gain line and fine handling and support play especially from Chris Ambrosino, Simon Green, Jack Bayley and Jim Cummings began to take toll of the Crowborough defence.  After an excellent return from a Crowborough kick by the Heathfield backs Simon Green provided excellent support and a powerful run to score his second try.  Just after that Nick Evans managed to squirm over from about 2 feet out for the final try of the game, Goatcher converted.  

An excellent result, this sees the development teams third league win on the run.   Man of the match goes to someone whose powerful defence play and immense work rate earned him 2 tries today, Simon Green.   

Report by Shaun Hipgrave

11/10/2007 4:10:25 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield and Waldron 2nds 85 v Newick 2nds 5

The home crowd were treated to a scintillating performance by Heathfields’ development team on Saturday.   The team is beginning to gel and the mixture of youth, pace and experience were simply too much for Newick.   It didn’t auger well for Newick when from the kick off the Heath collected the ball, set up a ruck, then Jack Bayley broke left down the blindside both starting and finishing the move with Sam Goatcher converting.  The game was hard fought for 10 minutes then Simon Green scored from a powerful run from the 22.  Just after this Goatcher who was having an excellent game at fly half took a pass from Riley who had broken down the blind side to score under the posts, he converted his own try.  Newick then managed to scramble a try from a charged down clearance to get their first and only points on the board. Goatcher snatched his second try with a break from his fly half position, again converting.   The forwards had completely dominated play by now and the distribution by the Heath half backs allowed Stuart Packham and Nick Sindon in for further scores, both being converted.  At Half time Heath went in 40-5 up.

You could understand if the pace in the second half dropped, not a chance with this team, they maintained their shape and kept the pressure on Newick.  Bayley got the first score after a storming run from his own half from collecting a misplaced Newick kick, this was converted.  There then followed excellent forwards and backs play, Packham got his second and Riley got showed his pace in scoring under the posts, again it was converted.  Mike Jacques kept his impressive performance up by getting a try which was converted.  By now Heathfield were able to ring the changes and Charlie Jones bagged 2 tries and Matt Cooke another with Goatcher converting 2.

All in all it was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon for the home crowd, the tries came thick and fast and competition for places in this team is going to be tight in the future.  Man of the Match award was a close run thing with Jack Bayley just being pipped by Sam Goatcher who scored 30 points in all and distributed out to his backs excellently. 

11/6/2007 11:41:36 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield and Waldron 2nds 34 v East Grinstead 2nds 5

In Heathfields’ development team latest game of the league campaign they were due a good performance after some recent disappointing results.   Being able to select from a strong pool of players who had made themselves available ensured Heathfield were up to full strength.   Right from the kick off Heathfield played with commitment and pace, several times the forwards drove deep into the opposition half releasing the backs to get held up just short of the line.   After 10 minutes though Will Drinkwater broke down the blind side of a ruck in the opposition 22, he managed to release the ball around the back of a defender to Chris English on the wing who went over for the first try.  Within 5 minutes Jack Bayley managed to squeeze over from a ruck on the try line, with Drinkwater converting Heathfield were cruising at 12 – 0.   East Grinstead then showed they weren’t here just to make up numbers,  they upped their game and after concerted pressure in Heaths half managed to score from a charged down clearance.  There were no more scores in the first half but Heathfield were unlucky to lose their hooker Marchant with a badly injured hand.  

The second half needed Heath to show patience, East Grinstead were making all their tackles and competing at the set piece.  Drinkwater added a penalty then after some excellent forward pressure Mike Brown was able pounce on a loose ball on the opposition try line, Sam Goatcher who had come on at fly half for Drinkwater got the conversion.   By the last 10 minutes of the game East Grinstead were tiring and Heathfield took full advantage with Jim Cummings scoring to tries, one of them being converted by Goatcher. 

Overall this was a much improved performance, Levi Willis gets credit for just being stopped short of the try line on 4 occasions but the man of the match award goes to scrum half Mike Jacques who provided quick ball for the backs, constantly harassed his opposition scrum half and kept the pack moving forward throughout the whole game.  The development team hope this is the springboard for a run of good results in the league, with the next 2 games also home fixtures competition for places will be especially tight.

Report by Shaun Hipgrave

10/27/2007 5:02:58 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

CHICHESTER 3rds 13 HEATHFIELD 2nds 10

Due to availability of players, a much changed Heathfield side travelled to Chichester for the 1st round of the Sussex Vase Competition.

 
Chichester began well and after 5 minutes were deep into the Heathfield 22 and produced their best forward move of the game, with a 10 metre driving maul which ended with a try and was converted.
 

From this point on, the Heathfield forwards took control and dominated all the set scrums and the vast majority of rucks and mauls. A fine performance by all the front eight was the highlight of the game.

A penalty kick by Sam Goatcher gave a 7 - 3 half time score.

 
Chichester struck first again in the second half with a penalty. Heathfield replied with a dominate period of pressure which resulted in a 5 metre scrum, this was driven over and No 8 Warren Wright touching down. Sam Goatcher converted. At 10 all, with 15 minutes to go, the game hung in the balance. A Heathfield infringement gave Chichester a penalty opportunity that gave them the 3 points that won the game for Chichester.

10/15/2007 10:24:47 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 2nd XV 74 Lewes 3rd XV 0

In Heathfields’ development team 2^nd game of the league campaign they had to return from a disappointing defeat from the first game, and oh how they did it.  Lewes arrived with just 14 players and were provided with a Heathfield player midway through the first half when it was realised a cricket score was in the offing.  Heathfield fielded a strong mixture of youth and experience in their team and the blend of experience, pace and organisation was just too much for the under strength Lewes team.

Right from the start the sniping runs and pacey breaks of Mike Jacques at scrum half worried Lewes, he squeezed over for a try in the first 3 minutes, then set up Sam Goatcher for a try after breaking from his own half several minutes later, Goatcher duly converted his own try.  There followed concentrated pressure by Heathfield with Ross Reilly going over for his first try from a move he started at fullback after collecting a wayward kick and Levi Willis bagging a hat trick of tries before half time.  Goatcher converted 2 of the tries.   As the half time whistle blew Heathfield were 41 – 0 up with Jim Cummings going over for his first try just before the break.

The second half continued on in much the same fashion with Jim Cummings and Ross Reilly getting another 2 tries each to make their hat tricks, Levi Willis another to make it 4 for the day and Mike Brown squirming under the posts for the final try of the match.  An assorted group of players made 4 conversions and the match finished with Heathfield scoring another 33 unanswered points.  Even though this was a game against an under strength side there’s no doubt the talent in this development team are going to be pushing for places in the first team in the Future. No Man of the match was awarded because of the excellent all round team performance.  With no game next week, the team look forward to a tough cup game in 2 weekends time against Chichester.

Report by Shaun Hipgrave

9/29/2007 4:45:06 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

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 8:36:46 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield and Waldron 2nds 65 v Robertsbridge 15

Because of other commitments this was the last game of the season for the Heath 2^nd team.  Although Heathfield had a good start to the season we unfortunately trailed off in the latter part so will end up mid table at the end of the season.

So it was good to finish the season with a resounding win.  Heathfield were short of several regulars and were ably supported by several colts this week, which was much appreciated by our regular over ‘40s’club due to the hard pitch, and hot day.

Roberstbridge came requiring 1 point to guarantee safety in the league so it could have turned into a tight game, however due to the much pacier Heathfield backs and Jack Bayley playing at hooker covering every yard of the pitch the games was practically settled by half time

It started in the first 5 minutes when Matt Skinner followed up a huge kick from his own 22, that the Roberstbridge full back misjudged, Matt re-gathered the ball on the opponents’ 10-yard line and ran in the first try of the day, he ably converted.

There then followed a steady flow of tries, 11 in all with 5 conversions, the impetus was interrupted by three Roberstbridge tries, one of them being a penalty try, a quick 10 minute yellow card break for Brad Stowe.

Matt Skinner who also won man of the match got 4 tries (5 if you include the penalty try he gave away), Jack Bayley got 3, Dave Groom 2 and Levi Willis got but dropped a sitter.  Matt managed 4 conversions and Sam Goatcher got 1.

It was a fitting end to what on the whole has been a successful season for the rebuilding of the 2^nd team under the new management team Hipgrave and Jenkins.

With the introduction of some promising colts, the experience of current players and the general growth of the club, it all looks promising for next season.

Report by Shaun Hipgrave.

4/28/2007 10:06:18 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield and Waldron 2nds 65 v Robertsbridge 15

Because of other commitments this was the last game of the season for the Heath 2nd team.  Although Heathfield had a good start to the season we unfortunately trailed off in the latter part so will end up mid table at the end of the season.

So it was good to finish the season with a resounding win.  Heathfield were short of several regulars and were ably supported by several colts this week, which was much appreciated by our regular over ‘40s’club due to the hard pitch, and hot day.

Roberstbridge came requiring 1 point to guarantee safety in the league so it could have turned into a tight game, however due to the much pacier Heathfield backs and Jack Bayley playing at hooker covering every yard of the pitch the games was practically settled by half time.

It started in the first 5 minutes when Matt Skinner followed up a huge kick from his own 22, that the Roberstbridge full back misjudged, Matt re-gathered the ball on the opponents’ 10-yard line and ran in the first try of the day, he ably converted.

There then followed a steady flow of tries, 11 in all with 5 conversions, the impetus was interrupted by three Roberstbridge tries, one of them being a penalty try, a quick 10 minute yellow card break for Brad Stowe.

Matt Skinner who also won man of the match got 4 tries (5 if you include the penalty try he gave away), Jack Bayley got 3, Dave Groom 2 and Levi Willis got but dropped a sitter.  Matt managed 4 conversions and Sam Goatcher got 1.

It was a fitting end to what on the whole has been a successful season for the rebuilding of the 2nd team under the new management team Hipgrave and Jenkins.

With the introduction of some promising colts, the experience of current players and the general growth of the club, it all looks promising for next season

4/28/2007 9:18:35 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Call for an EGM

3/26/2007 10:29:45 AM (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)     

Heathfield 2nds v Uckfield 2nds at Uckfield

Sat 24th Feb 2007

This game was played in excellent spirits on a pitch which in places would have been better suited to mud wrestling rather than a game of rugby.

After 10 minutes it was difficult to tell one team from another which at times caused confusion in defence. More about that later.

Heathfield started off the stronger with good passing and linking up between forwards and backs. It wasn’t long before Ian Schleider with the help of the pack touched down from a driving maul. The conversion was missed 0-5

Soon after the re-start Uckfield returned the favour. Following a missed tackle in mid-field Uckfield found themselves camped on Heathfields try line and following some tenacious driving around the fringes and some dubious tackling they crashed over for an unconverted try 5-5

From the re-start Heathfield applied the pressure again and Peter Phillipou, recently returned from University, intercepted a pass from Centre to Centre and scored under the posts. The conversion was missed 5 – 10 and only 12 minutes had elapsed.

16 minutes passed whilst everyone just got a bit muddier and then Uckfield with some good barn storming runs and some missed Heathfield tackles scored under the posts. Again the conversion was missed, in fact during all the conversion attempts the touch judges were more in danger of being decapitated than any points being scored. 10 – 10

Half time came and went and for the next 20 minutes Heathfield tried and tried again to cross the Uckfield try line without success. Uckfield managed to relieve the pressure just the once with a kick to the Heathfield 22. From the lineout Heathfield won the ball. This is where it all got a bit confusing.

A player emerged from the side of the maul and ran across the pitch. From the stands, due to the thick coating of mud, no one could tell if it was an Uckfield or Heathfield player. The big clue was when the player turned and started running towards the Heathfield posts. The Heathfield players were slow to react still obviously confused and missed at least 5 tackles allowing the now exposed Uckfield player to score to the left of the posts. Yes..the conversion was missed 15 – 10

Heathfield never give up, and again they camped on the Uckfield line. With seconds to go all appeared lost but from a lineout the ball went through several phases before a driving maul again saw Ian Schleider score to the left of the posts 15 – 15

Chris English stepped up to take the kick, the last play of the game. With a swing of his right boot the ball rose up towards the posts and….. hit the cross bar and bounced out. Final score 15 – 15

“A fair result” was the feeling around the bar afterwards.

Heathfield: Nick Evans, Chris Jones (Capt), Bob Togher, Ben O’Neil, Tony Rose, Sean Dorril, Ian Schleider, Ollie Robertshaw, Christian, Chris English, Ross Riley, Peter Phillipou, Ben Woods, Dave Groom, Jack Bailey, Charlie Jones (40)

2/26/2007 7:57:23 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 2nds 33 Hastings 2nds 0

This match saw Heathfield attempting to have 2 junior sides in Sussex County finals, with the Boars playing their final next Sunday at Burgess Hill.  Heath were able to field a strong side with all the 2^nd team regulars being available, however reports of a strong Hastings team from their easy victory in the quarters, meant Heathfield would have to be on top form.

 

This was a game with no quarter asked and none given, the first 15 minutes was a full-bloodied affair with both packs almost cancelling each other out.  With only a penalty to show from the boot of Jaimie Marchant after some determined drives onto the Hastings half, Heathfield were guilty of too much passion and too little rugby.  This was emphasised on the 20^th minute mark when Chris Jones was found to be too over-exuberant in his rucking style and was given a yellow card.   The following 10 minutes with 14 players  tested the Heath defence but not only were they up to the task but also managed to take the game to Hastings.

 

With Jones back on after his sin bin, Heathfield started to play rugby. The power of the Heath forwards gallantly lead by skipper Ian Jenkins began to take it’s toll on Hastings and a drive up the left side of the field was stopped just short.  But the ball was whipped out to the fly half English who drifted inside his defender and managed the deftest of passes for full back Barry Slay, timing his run to perfection to crash through under the posts, Marchant converted the penalty

 

Going in at Half-time 13-0 up, Heathfield felt they had the measure of the Hastings side and their pack really began to dominate.  Hastings had no answer to the powerful driving mauls and the front five were making the hard yards with several impressive ball carry’s.  Hastings resorted to conceding penalties, 2 of which were converted by Marchant.  The cry from the Hastings supporters was to keep it away from the Heath forwards and play loose, this tactic was punished when Heathfield 2nds top try scorer Matt Skinner collected a loose kick on his own 10m line. His long mazy run, breaking through some ineffectual tackling, saw him score in the corner.

 

From the kick off Jenkins collected and drove through the Hastings pack allowing English to the kick deep into the Hastings half. Good harassing saw Heath gain some good possession in the corner and the Heath winger cut a fine angle to go in under the posts, Marchant again converted to take his tally to 13points.

 

At 26- 0 up Heathfield were able to ring the changes with all the replacements coming on.  This didn’t diminish the dominance of the Heathfield side, with both forwards and backs putting in a strong contribution right up to the final whistle.  It was just such play that saw a fine try in the corner from scrumhalf replacement Ed Youngson in the corner.  This sealed one of the best performances of the season for the 2^nd team and puts them through to the final on the 25^th March.

 

After an overall excellent team performance it was difficult to identify one man of the match, an unfortunate Jaimie Marchant was just pipped by the skipper Ian Jenkins whose collections from the restarts, powerful driving runs and uncompromising defence deservedly saw him awarded it.

 

Report by Shaun Hipgrave

 

2/3/2007 5:46:04 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 2nds 36 Horsham 3rds 0

This cup quarter final saw a much changed Heathfield 2^nd team, with a variety of the regulars having other commitments.  However this gave opportunities to some new faces who grasped it with both hands.  Horsham arrived confidently having convincingly knocked Heathfield Boars out in the last round.  Yet from the off, Heathfield magnificently lead by skipper for the day the replacement Chris Jones managed to dominate the game.  Sticking to the game plan of moving the ball around, maintaining a high pace and keeping the ball away from Horsham’s big forwards, Heathfields pressure had to count.  And it did! After 10 minutes when Matt Skinner broke through in the centres to run in under the posts from the halfway line, this was converted by Will Drinkwater. 

There followed a typical Jack Bayley try, playing at openside in a backrow unit that performed excellently throughout the game and created the platform for most of Heath’s successful attacking moves.  From broken play he seized the ball and managed to run in from the 22 metre line with Drinkwater again making the conversion.  Just 5 minutes later after excellent drives from the Heath forwards on the right, the ball was swept along the backline to Rob Such on the wing who beat two tacklers for an superb try in the corner.

Heath’s forwards continued to drive into Horsham, with all the front 5 putting strong combative performances in.  Just before half time after some excellent ground gained by Evans and Jones the backs broke out on the left, Drinkwater ran a wide arc then put a delicate kick through for his backs to chase.  Debutant Miles Hearsey managed some fancy footwork himself dribbling the ball over the try line for a fine score.  Heathfield ended the first half 24 – 0 up.

It was always going to be tough playing into the wind in the second half and it took a while for Heathfield to take control of the game.  However, Shaun Dorrell a colt in his debut senior game playing at no 8, started to impose himself on the game.  He made some excellent individual breaks setting up great field positions.  It was from a ruck on the halfway lane he managed to peel off, slip several tackles and his pace took him through on towards the try line.  He was tackled just short, but managed to stay on his feet and release a pop pass to Matt Skinner who went over for his second try of the day, Drinkwater converted.

Throughout the match Heath’s backrow pressurised the Horsham breakdown and tackled them into submission.  It was from some of this harassing play that Heath turned the ball over in their own half, then, with 2 carries from Matt Skinner and Levi Willis saw them put Drinkwater in for a try in the corner and take his tally for the game to 11 points.

Overall, it was an excellent team performance that sees Heathfield through to the semi-final in 2 weeks time at home.  It was difficult to single out a man of the match after such a good team performance, however as part of an excellent backrow and in his best performance of the season Ian Schleider took the award.

Report by Shaun Hipgrave

1/20/2007 6:24:28 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 2nds 10 Haywards Heath 3rds 17

Heathfield 2nds have been riding the crest of a wave this season. With only one loss and 12 wins in all competitions they felt confident they could pull off a surprise win against the powerful and quick Haywards Heath 3rds.

Again the main pitch at Cross in Hand was in superb condition and the table was set for an afternoon of free flowing rugby.

Haywards Heath kicked off with Heathfield choosing the advantage of the wind behind in the first half. It was then at least a minute and a half before the first stoppage. Both teams had come to play.

Heathfield applied excellent pressure on the visitors forcing a number of penalties. The temptation was go for goal but the confidence was high and the decision was made to turn up the pressure. A quick tap and go resulted in Jim Cummings driving through several tackles to score. The kick was missed. 5 – 0

This rattled the visitors cage. It was their turn to apply the pressure. After 10 minutes camped in their own 22, Heathfield’s scrum half Jamie Marchant was sin Binned for handling on the ground beneath the posts and from the resulting penalty Haywards Heath captain and no 8 (Dan) crashed over for a converted try. 5 – 7

The next 15 minutes was the best rugby Heathfield 2nds have played all year. Excellent ball retention and phase work combining forwards and backs created an opportunity for Chris English, Guy Woods and Matt Skinner to show what they can do with a little bit of space. Some excellent passing and lines of running resulted in an unconverted try for Matt Skinner. 10 – 7 at the break.

For the second half Mike Fellows who had played very well in the first half, made way for Bob Togher (who had travelled all the way from Chelmsford – that’s commitment) to take over at loose head. Luke Sanders replaced Chris Ambrosino at hooker.

With the wind behind them Haywards Heath pitched up in Heathfields 22 and decided to stay there. The visitors kept bashing and Heathfield kept boshing. There was no way through for 30 minutes.

The last 10 minutes decided the match. The Heathfield forwards were tiring. The visitors fitness was beginning to tell and eventually they were able to break down the defence and score two unconverted tries. 10 – 17

Heahfield had one and a half minutes to score a converted try for a draw. The last minute and a half mirrored the first with no stoppages. Heathfield pressed closer and closer to the visitors try line. Then final whistle sounded with Heathfield 2 yards out. Final score 10 - 17

An excellent game of rugby, enjoyed by players and spectators alike.

Nick Evans, Chris Ambrosino, Mike Fellows , Jim Cummings, Dan Hunter Evans, Mike Brown, Rob Streeter, Ian Jenkins (Capt), Jamie Marchant , Chris English, Guy Woods, Matt Skinner, Levis Willis, Paul Jarvis, Barry Slay, Bob Togher (40), Ed Jones, (50), Luke Sanders (40)

Report by Ian Jenkins

1/13/2007 5:46:06 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 2nd's 27 Hove 3rd's 0

Having narrowly defeated Hove 3rds in the cup last week, Heath entertained them again in the league this week.  Again there was a problem with them turning out a full team and the game started 14 for Heath against 13 (with a borrowed Heathfield player).  However Heathfield were soon left under no illusion that this would be a pushover as the extremely competitive and robust Hove pack took the game to Heathfield.

However Heathfield were able to make their extra man tell and early on Barry Slay scored in the corner after the forwards stretched Hove from one side of the pitch to the other and slick passing in the backs put Barry in.  Shortly after this Hove’s extra players arrived and it was then 15 for Heath against 14.  Some good work in the forwards, especially in the line out by hooker Luke Sanders provided ample ball, however the Heathfield players were trying to do to much and possession was either lost or broken down not least by gritty defence by Hove.

A good try by Ben Wood put Heath 10-0 up at half time, not nearly as much as expected.

In the second half as would be expected Heath got the lions share of the ball and despite some excellent breaks and good lines of running from Dave Groom in the centres Hove were able to hold out.  Eventually though the veteran back row of Jenkins, Streeter and Brown were able to start creating good phased play, and Jack Bayley standing in at scrum half got to the pace of the game and began providing quick release ball.  There followed an excellent sweeping move which resulted in Barry Slay running half the length of the pitch, beating the full back with a lovely body swerve and scoring under the posts, Chris English duly converted.

For the final quarter of the game there was intense pressure by Heath, however it didn’t turn in to the big score we expected, mainly due to the dogged determination of Hove, but Heath were able to add to more scores, Ben Wood getting his second and Matt Skinner popping up in the corner to make it 27-0.

This was a fine result going into the Xmas break, played 8,L 1, W 7 is an indication of how the 2nds have developed this year, finally despite being run close by Luke Sanders the man of the match award went to Dave Groom, one of his best performances in a Heath shirt, not however replicated in the bar afterwards apparently.

Report by Shaun Hipgrave

12/16/2006 10:19:58 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Sussex Vase Fixture: Heathfield 2nd's 13 Hove 3rd's 3

In a warm up match for the league game next weekend Heath faced a very strong and determined Hove 3rds in the Sussex Vase (neither Hove 1^sts or 2nds had a game).   Heathfield soon found out they had a real game on their hands with some tough tackling and strong forward play by the visitors.

The Heathfield pack worked hard to provide good ball for the enterprising backs and they just weren’t able to get the final pass away.  However mid way through the first half on his re-appearance in the 2nds after being unavailable for a month Barry Slay cut a clean line through the Hove backs from the full back position, he made an incisive 30 yard break all the way to the visitors try line and just as we thought he’d been tackled short he put us all out of our misery and plonked the ball down for a try, Chris English was unable to convert the score.

A further series of Heath pressure valiantly lead by the skipper and 2^nd row Jenks maintained pressure on Hove who gave away a penalty under the posts, Chris English duly converted it into 3 points.

As the halftime approached only determined last gasp tackling by the Heath backs and a defend at all costs on the Heathfield try line effort kept the score at 8-3.

Going into the second half 3 changes were made in the pack and a revitalised Heathfield took the game to Hove.  Appearing on his debut in the 2nds at scrumhalf was Ed Youngson a former mini and junior who had a storming game.  His quick release of the ball and sniping breaks always kept the Hove forwards guessing.  Other mentions for Dave Groom and Ben Woods who both had good breaks from the wing, one of which set up a try in the corner for Heathfields’ no 8, the unstoppable and greatly experienced Mikey Brown.

This just about broke the back of Hove and the rest of the game was played in their half with Heathfield dominating.

The 2nds go through to the quarterfinals against Horsham 3rds; revenge is required as they beat the Boars to qualify.

Report by Shaun Hipgrave 

12/9/2006 6:06:34 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Newick 1st's 3 Heathfield Development XV 12

Having seen the rain tip down all week, and with the stories from the Boars of a less than firm pitch at Newick the previous week, the 2nds turned up worried that conditions would inhibit their open running style of play.  Their fears were confirmed; the pitch was a heap of mud that went from bad to worse.   However despite some late changes the 2nds put out a strong side.

Initially Newick pressed the Heath line and were awarded a simple penalty under the posts which they converted.  From then on skipper Jenks lead his heavier (and more mature) pack onto dominate the home side.  It wasn’t a day for fancy dan rugby and after a clean break by Chris English at fly half and a good mix of forward and backs ball retention Jim Cummings rolled forced himself over the try line for the first score.  Will Drinkwater ably covering at scrumhalf converted from wide out.

The second half turned into a war of attrition with the wet muddy conditions prevailing.  Some good breaks in the backs by Ben Woods and Dave Groom were never able to be finished off at one point as Brady Burdett burst through into the line we all thought the second try was on the cards, unfortunately his pass didn’t go to hand.

Ultimately it was Heathfields ability to adapt to the conditions, keeping possession, with the forwards, especially Chris Ambrosino, Bob Togher and the ever-youthful Rolo providing some tackle breaking runs that paid off.   After continuous pressure on the Newick line in the last quarter of the game Man of the Match Jim Cummings flopped over for his second try.  With 7 games played, 6 wins and one loss in the League the 2nds continue to bring home some impressive results.  Later in the evening Jenks also went on to lead a mainly 2^nd team to Gold Medal at the Beer Olympics, well done all round.

Report by Shaun Hipgrave

12/2/2006 9:41:11 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Worthing 4ths 7 v Heathfield 2nds 15, 11th November

With a side showing many new faces, a long trip to Worthing and experienced and well drilled opposition Heath had a tough task on Saturday.  Kicking off with the wind meant we had to pile on the points before half time, easier said than done, only hard work in the forwards and some gritty tackling in the backs especially from Matt Skinner allowed us to turn around with a 10 nil lead.  This was achieved by an excellent try by Matt Skinner under the posts after his usual mazy run from the halfway line; inexplicably Chris English did not convert (probably nothing to do with the confident way he declined the use of the kicking tee, dropped kicked it and watched it slide off towards the corner flag).  Chris Jones also dropped in for a try in the corner, the argument raged long into the night, was it half a yard? Or was it three quarters of a yard he made for his try.

Turning around against the wind tested the determination and steel of all Heaths players, all three replacements came on and contributed to a hard fought out win.  Despite Worthing scoring a try and conversion and just missing a penalty under the posts and dominating many periods of the second half, Heath battled valiantly and were rewarded with a breakaway try in the final minutes by Matt Skinner.  All in all it was an excellent result grounded out by teamwork, some mentions should go to Chris Ambrosino who propped throughout, Jack Bayley at scrum half (not as easy as you think) and Duncan Hesketh who put some crunching tackles in the centre.  However man of the match went to Matt Skinner whose 2 tries, tackling and all round performance contributed to our victory.

Next game is at home to Uckfield 2nds on the 25th Nov with a well-earned rest weekend this Saturday.

11/11/2006 8:59:53 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield 2nds 43 v East Grinstead 2nds 7, 4th November

On what turned out to be a glorious day for rugby in front of a packed home crowd (well one man and his dog, oh and Sleeders mum) Heath continued there run of good results in the league.

In all Heath ran in 7 tries, Jim Cummings started it off in the corner and also bagged another on in the second half, Matt Skinner also bagged his usual brace as well as 2 conversions.  Jack Bayley and Ben Woods also got a try each, this being the first of many we hope for young Ben in the league, oh and Julian managed a stroll under the posts in the second half [I'll gladly tell you all about this try in the bar if any of you are interseted!].

During a lack of concentration Heath conceded a try a conversion but all in all dominated possession throughout the game and played attractive running rugby.  The new policy of rotating the kicking duties (this is based on who is closest to the ball after each try) also resulted in conversions for Chris English and Jaimie Marchant.  After an excellent display in the tight and the loose with 2 excellent tries from sweeping attacking moves Jim Cummings was given man of the match.

Great report Shaun, whatever anyone else thinks I think it was well worth the wait!

11/5/2006 8:58:25 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

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 11:19:21 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Senior pre-season latest

8/4/2006 1:59:43 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

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 3:04:18 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

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 2:23:21 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

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 8:31:50 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

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 2:30:36 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

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 5:11:49 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Hove ?'s 10 Heathfield & Waldron Development XV 48

If anybody has match details of this game, try scorers etc please send through to nick.green@hwrfc.co.uk for inclusion.

4/8/2006 11:42:38 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

East Grinstead 3rd's 10 Heathfield & Waldron Development XV 5

3/11/2006 8:41:10 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron Development XV 0 Haywards Heath 3rd's 15

Saturday saw Heathfield’s development team face top of the table Haywards Heath.  The last encounter was not a pleasant experience when Heathfield played at Haywards Heath, and again Haywards Heath 2^nd team where not playing and the odd ringer was drafted in.

Saying that Heathfield had a good warm up and spirits where high, straight from the start both the pack and the backs knew they where in for a tough long match.  Tackling was excellent from all the players and the pack drove the scrum, this proved a lifting point for the team and everyone rose their game.  Hard, strong tackles followed and midway through the 1^st half Heathfield where matching Haywards Heath in all departments.

This rattled the young Haywards Heath side and they continued to drop the ball in there backs and along with a very tight defence by Heathfield the half time score remained at 0-0

The 2^nd half started off with a bang, Heathfield broke into the Haywards Heath half and from a set play passed the ball down the line in style and looked like a certain try only to drop the ball inside the Haywards Heath 22.

This did not deter the pack to continue to dominate the scrum, rucks and mauls, the only area we failed to control was the line out which Haywards Heath kept kicking the ball out as they knew they where dominating.  Again Haywards Heath won a line out on the halfway line only to drop the ball by there centres which Heathfield where first to the loose ball, great play by Paul Flood and Mike Brown in securing the ball and setting up the backs for another counter attack into the Haywards Heath half.  The ball passed down the line to Peter Philippou who stepped inside and off loaded to Adam Farrell who managed to bounce off 3 of there players into their 22, yet again the forward where there but a knock on meant Haywards Heath managed to clear for another line out.

With 20 minutes to the Heathfield team where slowly getting tired and this is when Haywards Heath managed to break a solid defence for the 1^st time and score there 1^st of 2 tries in the corner of the pitch.  Shortly after the kick off out pack was penalised and Haywards Heath converted a penalty in front of the posts, making the score 10-0

With a couple of minutes to go and yet another line out lost on our 5 meter line Haywards Heath managed a push over try and the score ended 15-0 to Haywards Heath.

Man of the match – very hard to call as everyone put in 110% but a special thank-you to the pack who dominated most of the game.

Team: Powderly, Ambrosino, Fellows, Everett, Hunter-Evans, Brown [Schlieder], Bryant, Flood, Drinkwater, English, Woods, Hesketh (Capt.), Philippou [C Jones], Groom [Gardiner], Farrell.

Report by: Adam Farrell

3/4/2006 6:39:25 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Developing Boars of Heathfield 19 Hove Beefeaters 14

What do you call a squad made up of Boars forwards and Development team backs? Surely it must be the "Developing Boars". Whatever the name it was a 'combined team' that faced the Hove Beefeaters on a sunny afternoon that offered the promise of perfect conditions for running rugby.

The game started with Hove taking the early initiative by attacking repeatedly through their large pack. Early set pieces suggested that it might be a long afternoon for Heathfield's forwards if they could not retain the ball on their own put in. It took Heathfield about 10 minutes to sort themselves out and counter the forward strength of Hove with quick ball to the backs. This tactic paid off when Barry Slay came into the line from fullback and danced past two defenders in a 22-metre dash to the line. Will Drinkwater accepted an easy conversion to take the score to 7-0.

More hard work in the forwards (the tight 5 working hard in set pieces with superb work from the back row in the loose) gave the Heathfield backs enough ball to ensure good territorial advantage. From a maul on the 22 metre line Mike Brown produced an excellent break before being hauled down on the 5-metre line. Mike Brown did superbly to retain the ball and was (to everyone's surprise) supported by props Macleod and Lester who made room for Andy Sutton to pick up and crash over the line for a score once again converted by Will Drinkwater.

If Heathfield thought that this might cause their opponents to drop their heads and open the floodgates Hove were to prove them wrong. Yard by yard the Hove forwards drove up the hill and were rewarded for their efforts by a well worked converted try. The Hove forwards bludgeoned the defence forcing the Heathfield defenders to commit too many bodies before spinning the ball wide to score in the right hand corner.

Heathfield then went back to work and got what was to prove the decisive score 5 minutes before half time. A Brady Burdett break was well supported by Mike Brown and Tom Faulkner-Bryant finished off with a pick up and drive when Brown was hauled down just short of the line. Will Drinkwater hit the post with a difficult conversion attempt leaving the half time score at 19-7.

The second half was much more difficult for Heathfield as they had to play up the slope and the heavier Hove forwards ensured that the game was mostly played in the Heathfield half. Heathfield had a brief respite when Hove had a man sin-binned for failure to retreat at a penalty but failed to take advantage of the extra man.

When Hove were restored to a full compliment Heathfield had to defend for a long spell as Hove won 'put in' at a series of scrums and applied serious pressure.  After several drives from the base of the scrum Hove were awarded a penalty try as the Heathfield back row broke their binding too early in search of an early tackle. The try was converted to take the score to 19-14 and the outcome of the game was back in the balance.

The rest of the match was generally evenly fought with both side threatening. But the game went to Heathfield after a tackle by Walker and MacLeod denied Hove when they kept the ball from being grounded over the try line during Hove's most threatening attack.

Squad - M. MacLeod, J. La Roche, S. Lester, A. Sutton (P. Hookway - 40 mins), S. Walker, K. Lewis, Tom Faulkner-Bryant (D. Wythe - 40 mins), M. Brown, W. Drinkwater, B. Burdett, D. Hesketh (C. Jones - 40 mins), A. Farrell, P. Phillipou, O. Hearsey (W. Harris - 40), B. Slay

Report by Mike MacLeod

2/11/2006 9:11:12 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Heathfield & Waldron Development XV 60 Uckfield 2nd's 10

On a very cold Saturday afternoon the Development XV played against Uckfield 2’s in a local derby at Heathfield.

There was a strong northerly wind coming across the pitch and during warm it was decided to play phased rugby through the scrum and for the backline to take the ball back into the pack to create sufficient space for the wings to run.

Uckfield came with a young and mobile pack and decided to play with the wind in their favour for the first half. From kick off we pressed hard and with excellent defence and rolling mauls created our first try. Uckfield however responded with a well worked move and charged down a kick on our try line to set up their opening try.

The pack then dominated all aspects of forward play with the front row setting the platform for our scrum to not only win our ball but pushing Uckfield back off theirs and creating turn over ball on a regular occasion. Mike Brown, Tom Pritchard and Chris Jones worked well as a unit and continuously crossed the advantage line with pick up and drives and running the ball at Uckfield’s fly half. Tony Rose worked hard in the line outs and caused chaos for Uckfield on their ball by taking it from them.

This allowed the backline to use crash balls back to Uckfield’s fly half and inside centre and with quick ball enabled our mobile back row to run off passes from Shaun Hipgrave.

There was some good positional kicking from Chris English who placed the ball behind Uckfield’s backline and allowed our dominating pack to catch and drive the ball from the lineout. A clever kick from the scrum half Shaun Hipgrave to a vacant left wing position allowed Peter Phillipou who was chasing in attack to time his run to perfection by catching the ball on the bounce and score a well worked try in the corner.

Uckfield used the possession they had to try and crash the ball from their inside centre through the middle however from excellent pressure in defence was tackled on every occasion and often he lost the ball in the tackle which allowed our pack to lay the platform for yet another surge in attack.

There were ten tries scored by Heathfield and even though Uckfield did respond with two of their own they were outclassed and out muscled in an all round  performance which has been the best of the season.

As there were ten tries scored I cannot remember who was responsible for all so apologies to those who did and are not mentioned (Too young to be an age thing!!) but congratulations to the whole team

Tries: M. Brown (2), A. Farrell (1), P. Phillipou (1), M. Gardener (1), P. Watton (1), J. Cummings – Yes a 50m run (1)

Conversions: C.English (5)

Team: M. Powderly (Rep – M. Fellows), C. Ambrosino, P. Watton ( Rep – C. Watton), T. Rose (K. Tonkin), J. Cummings, C. Jones, T. Pritchard, M. Brown, S. Hipgrave, C. English, D. Hesketh, A. Farrell, P. Phillipou, M. Gardener (Rep – D. Groom), B. Slay

Report by Duncan Hesketh

1/28/2006 3:00:51 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)     

Newick 1st XV 19 Heathfield & Waldron Development XV 11

Team: Watton, Ambrosino, Powderly, Rose, Everett, Brown, Jones, Schlieder, Hipgrave, Drinkwater, Philippou, Farrell, Hesketh, Gardiner, Slay

Posted by Adam Farrell

1/21/2006 12:04:26 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)     

Bognor 3rd XV 24 - Heathfield & Waldron Development XV 5

Cup matches offer the hope of glory and it was in this spirit that the Second team set off from one of the most Easterly clubs in Sussex to play one of the most Westerly. The journey there was uneventful and relaxing for most players which turned out to be a critical factor as Heathfield arrived later than expected and were given 15 minutes to get changed and ready to play. The warm up was short and inadequate and minds were clearly not focused enough when the whistle blew.

This inadequacy was laid bare and exploited by early aggression from Bognor. Their line up included a large and quick back row and a big centre all with a liking for direct running at the defence. For the first 15 minutes of the game Heathfield did not get to grips with this modest ploy and the forwards in particular were guilty of missing tackles. Two tries were conceded during this period (one out wide and one under the posts) without any threat being posed to the opposition. The Heathfield forwards struggled to win any clean ball for a potent looking Heathfield back line with a misfiring lineout and a scrum looking under pressure. When scraps were won Moss looked lively in his last game for the club before returning home to New Zealand.

The threat of a rout was there when a Bognor player carried the ball 30 yards through 3 or 4 weak tackles to score. A response was demanded and slowly Heathfield raised their game. Bob Toghe and Jim Cummings raised the level of performance in the forwards with more aggressive running and tackles started to fell opponents. Heathfield were coming alive at last. With the exception of the set pieces the rest of the half was pretty even and the half ended with the score at 17-0.

'Captain for the day' Duncan Hesketh was talked out of taking himself off but reorganised the scrum to try and win better set piece ball.

Heathfield received the restart kick and immediately produced a tight and focused rolling maul that gained 15 metres and raised spirits. The ensuing scrum showed that the changes had worked and from that point on the game was very competitive. Jim Cummings matched the Bognor no. 8 break for break and found the support with him something that had been lacking in the first half. This created time and space for the backs to thrive and show their skills.

With quicker ball (thank you to the excellent Mike Jaques) Heathfield began to menace the Bognor line. Oli Hearsey being bundled into touch only a metre short from the try line on the right side, Pete Phillipou held up short in the centre and the hardworking Moss tackled close to the line on the left. This was more like it and surely Heathfield would claw their way back into the game.

It was not all one-way traffic and Bognor used a powerful boot to clear lines to good effect on more than one occasion. They also battered away with ball in hand and Jack Bailey produced a great try saving tackle when all looked lost on one occasion.

All the Heathfield good work was undone mid way through the half when a 5-metre scrum was poorly defended and the Bognor No 8 crashed over for a converted try. Heathfield seemed to accept that this might mean that the victory was gone but refused to accept that they would go home with Nil Points.

Renewed determination drove Heathfield into the opposition half for most of the last 15 minutes and Bognor stood strong and repelled all boarders. All until Moss latched onto the end of a move, started on the other side of the pitch, drove past 3 defenders to score in the left-hand corner. This was no less than Heathfield deserved but any hopes of more evaporated when the missed conversion attempt signalled the end of the match.

The return journey was quite sombre and low key with more than one player pondering the benefits of arriving early at venues.

Squad: M. MacLeod, J. Marchant, M. Powderley, B. Toghe (R. Burchett 40), R. Everett, J. Cummings, J. Bailey, B. Stow, M. Jaques, B. Burdett (D. Groome 40), D. Hesketh, M. Oss, O. Hearsey, P. Phillipou, C. English

Posted by: Mike MacLeod

12/20/2005 11:22:29 AM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00)