Tunbridge Wells V Heath

A drab Sunday morning, but a trip out of the county to play unknown opposition at Tunbridge Wells was enough to wet the boys’ appetites and lift their spirits. It was also useful to experience a rare game away after a run of home games.

As this was a friendly, it was agreed to play the game in three halves which allowed the coaches to play boys in various positions and ensure they all got decent game time.

Starting with virtually the same side that has played the last couple of games and playing at a fairly noticeable incline, the first period was a very even affair with Heath having to defend resolutely for the first ten or so minutes. However, Heath then gradually began to shake the car journey out of their legs and to enjoy some dominance and territory, which ultimately led to Kai Jutson crossing for the first score, which was converted by William Goodwin.

Tunbridge Wells were quick to respond with a score, through the middle, courtesy of some apparent mis-communication going into the break. This left two evenly matched sides level at 7-7 after an entertaining first period.

The second period allowed the coaches to make a number of changes, with Heath now playing down hill. This period was one of almost total dominance for Heath with much better line speed in defence and more aggressive rucking. Heath were the beneficiaries of four tries during this period with the first score going to Mitchell Day, followed by one for Oliver Owens and two for Thomas Wharton. The pick of these came from Oli, normally a flanker and having a rare outing in the centres, who showed great skill, power and speed to run a try in from around the half way line. And so the period finished with Heath leading 27-7.

The final period saw more changes and Heath playing up the hill again which initially didn’t appear to cause Heath any issues as they immediately went on the offensive. However, a number of opportunities were wasted and it took some time before Heath were able to score again, courtesy of Thomas Wharton completing his hat trick. William Goodwin's conversion was successful which took the score out to 34-7 with only about 5 minutes remaining. Unfortunately, thinking the game was won, Heath seemed to switch off and allowed Tunbridge Wells to score two quick tries. The first of these was a soft one up the middle but the second was an excellent score from their diminutive scrum half who showed excellent pace to run in from almost two thirds of the pitch. With one of these tries converted, this left the result at 34-19, which was probably a better reflection of the two teams.

This was an excellent performance and result for the boys against strong opposition and away from home. It was good to see the likes of Oliver Owens and Tom Foat playing in the backs and Mat Cains playing in the forwards. It’s given the coaches the comfort of knowing that they have good depth and options throughout the team. Training next week will allow the coaches to work on areas that still require improvement and then the boys finish the year with two league games.