H&D 12 Clacton 36

H&D welcomed Clacton to the Low Road for this Counites 2 Essex fixture. Both teams were looking for a win after a poor run of form, with a busy side-line gathering on a blustery afternoon.

Both teams started well, and the contest was physical from the get-go. With the wind behind them H&D had the better spells during the 1st half. Kicks from Tom Kite and Lewis Williams pinning the visitors in their own twenty-two. Twenty minutes in H&D broke the deadlock, with Andrew Sterry crossing the line, Williams converting the kick. 7-0.

Clacton were strong in the lineout, disrupting H&D ball and slowing the home side’s attack. H&D only extending their lead before half time. Sterry again the scorer, outpacing the chasing defence to dot down after a well-executed kick from Williams. 12 - 0 at half time.
Clacton started the second half with more attacking intent and started to play a more expansive game. The visitors’ pack working hard to draw in the H&D defence, allowing their backline space to attack. And after fifty minutes Clacton found themselves level. 12 - 12.
The next period of the match was critical, Clacton were reduced to 14 men. Whilst H&D were reduced to 13 after injuries to Campbell, Brunning, Leeks and Cowley throughout the match. Both teams continued to work tirelessly and were desperate for the win, leading to a great competition for the spectators.

With twenty minutes left of the clock Clacton took full advantage of the extra men. H&D were on the ropes and the players out on their feet. Credit must go to Clacton, who were clinical during this final period, going on the score four tries and deservedly secure the win. Final score 12 - 36.

Although a loss, this was a much-improved performance from H&D. Who will be looking to build on the desire to compete and work rate shown during this match. Man of the Match was awarded to scrum half Tom Kite. Special mention to Andrew Sterry, taking his try tally to ten for the season.

H&D 1st XV now have a two-week break, before resuming Counites 2 Essex league fixtures on February 4th. The H&D 2nd XV will be in action against Ipswich YM 2nd XV at home, 2pm Kick Off on January 21st.