As expected, the game was physically contested throughout, with both teams putting their bodies on the line. This resulted in a great game for the spectators and one which saw the score line always within six points.

H&D were quick out of the blocks and were soon deep in the Clacton twenty-two. Dominant forward play set the platform for Second Row, Simon Pitham to cross the line from close range. 5-0

Clacton then took hold of possession and scored their first try of the match, after several strong phases from their pack. 5-5

From the restart Clacton went straight back on the attack and looked as though they were about to breach the H&D defence once more. But against the run of play, H&D turned over possession in their own twenty-two. Adam Eldridge then kicked deep down field. With no covering defence, speedster Andrew Sterry dribbled the ball over the try line, to put H&D back in front before half time. 10-5

The match continued to be closely contested during the second half. And five minutes after half time Clacton took the lead for the first time in the match. 10-12.

A Lewis Williams penalty kick put H&D back in front midway through the second half. 13-12. Before Adam Eldridge extended the home side’s lead to six points, after crossing the try line in the corner. 18-12

With just over ten minutes remaining, Clacton took the lead following a converted try. 18-19

Now late in the match, it looked as though Clacton had earnt themselves the victory. However, this wasn’t to be. H&D kicked a penalty to touch, resulting in a lineout ten yards out from the Clacton try line. Hooker, Jack Dallen combined well with Adam Eldridge to gather the ball. Before the H&D pack powered over the try line, for Josh Leeks to score the match winning try.

Final score Harwich & Dovercourt 23 - Clacton 19.

Hats off to both teams for providing a great game of rugby, which was fiercely contested until the final whistle. Man of the Match for H&D was awarded to flanker, Nemani Ledua.

H&D now have two weeks without a fixture, before playing Writtle Wanderers at home on 21st October, 3pm Kick Off.