Heathfield trekked over to Tonbridge without five of their regular players to take on a very capable Juddians squad of 20 on a murky Sunday morning. Heath had won all previous encounters but this would be a stiffer test for the boys.

Today saw a club debut for Toby, a local regular in the school team, at outside centre and with our scrum half missing, Robson took over this role leaving a gap at fly half which was filled by the every improving Ridyard.

Straight from the kick off Heath were under pressure as Juddians, who were suitably psyched up, came charging at Heath through their forwards. Weak tackling ensued and with two big, fast centres taking the ball up the midfield and a try was scored.

With Whitlock sustaining two early knocks and no reserves Heath borrowed a Juddians player to keep it 15 – a –side. More tries for Judds were scored before Heath finally woke up. Some good rucking and driving by the forwards saw Heath venture deep in Juddians half. James, Higgins, Rose and Smith all running hard and direct. Quick ball to Ridyard saw him just short of the line.

Juddians alleviated the pressure by running out of their half, their outside centre proving the most elusive of the backs to score. In fairness, he was their best player.

After a stirring half time team talk Heath went into the second half back to full strength with Whitlock returning however, it wasn’t long before Ridyard sustained an ankle injury and we borrowed another Judds player. Judds scored three un-answered tries but this half was more evenly matched and despite a few furies towards the Judd line Heath were unable to score.

Overall, considering all the disruptions and many players playing out of position, the coaches were delighted with the effort the boys put in. They out rucked their opponents however, the tackles still need to lower and more fierce particularly in the backs. Toby was a real find for us.