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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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!!!

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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...

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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

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

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)

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.

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!

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

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

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