A fiercely contested encounter finally saw Heathfield emerge the winner although Crowborough take much credit for their performance and will be looking forward to the return fixture at their ground. A warm sunny day attracted plenty of supporters from both clubs and produced an excellent atmosphere. The match was close and there was little flowing rugby but it never lacked excitement or competition.
Multiple injuries to Heathfield’s three quarters meant that they started with the untried combination of Robert Perry at standoff with Bryn Jones at inside centre. This soon looked to be an inspired selection as Perry showed excellent skill to put Jones away for a try after just six minutes. (5-0)
At this stage Heathfield looked very impressive and seemed to be in complete control. Sam Thewlis and Seb Jones are both playing really well at the moment and made good contributions in both attack and defence. However Crowborough had prepared carefully for this game and gradually their planned rush defence began to become more effective. Overall the home team had more possession but the visitors defence generally coped well.
In a series of attacks on the Crowborough line the green pack were just denied a try on more than one occasion from their favoured catch and drive from a lineout. In one case when a try looked imminent a critical pass was accidentally blocked by the referee.
Bruce Pestell took several Crowborough lineouts but both sides failed to achieve reliable possession from this area. In set scrums the defending side was normally able to pressurise their opponents with Crowborough being especially effective. Simon Wilson at number eight for Heathfield did a fine job tidying up possession whilst in retreat.
Poor first phase possession and stifling defences resulted in little open handling. However in one concerted attack Ross Riley was finally brought down just short of the line and in the resulting ruck Crowborough were perhaps fortunate to receive a penalty that allowed them to clear their lines.
The second half followed a similar pattern with defences dominating. Kobe Tonkin had taken a couple of heavy knocks and was now replaced by Ben Foy whilst Damien Pestell replaced Riley. Perry moved to the wing and this talented player continues to make useful contributions wherever he plays. Pestell moved to his normal position of inside centre and in due course provided the penetration that Heathfield needed. After several phases the ball was moved to the blind side of a ruck and Jones found Pestell on a well-timed run allowing him to cross for the decisive score. (10-0)
Crowborough continued to contest strongly and achieved more possession and therefore pressure in the final period. On several occasions they chose to take quick penalties rather than go for the posts although they did eventually collect three points from a Heathfield infringement at the base of the scrum (10-3).
Crowborough can take much credit for an improved performance compared to their earlier matches this year, especially in defence, while Heathfield will be glad of the win in spite of a moderate performance. They remain on top of London League SE 3 on points difference.
Heathfield have no fixture next week but return to league action on 10th October away to Park House (3pm).
1st XV | Latest News
9/26/2009 6:19:34 PM (GMT Standard Time, UTC+00:00) 
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