HHRFC Under 14’s versus Heathfield

Heath U14’s had a first chance to test themselves after a great summer's preparation against a Heathfield side keen to grab a high profile scalp.

This was Heath’s first ‘Waterfall’ league game of the new season after Chichester were unable to field a full side against them the previous week. It was also the first chance for a number of new players to make their mark for the club.

There was added poignancy to the match which began with a minute's silence for Lynette Hildreth, mother of Heath player George Hildreth who sadly passed away this week. With George very bravely playing an integral part of the team, Heath were defending a very long unbeaten run in Sussex rugby extending nearly 7 years and the boys were in no mood to break the winning habit.

In sunny conditions and on a good playing surface away at Heathfield, it took only four minutes for Heath to get on the score sheet with a well worked try from loose forward Sam Harwicke, successfully converted by excellent new signing Josh Abrahams. This early success set the tone for the first half as Heath proceeded to execute their game plan with precision and passion. Now playing the full 15 aside game for the first time Heath began to thrive against an energetic Heathfield side who were struggling to win the ball. Further tries were scored by Josh Mann (2) and Toby Vander with Abrahams adding a try for himself as well as a two further conversions before half time. Heath ended the half 24 points to nil up.

Buoyed by fresh legs from the six substitutes across both forwards and backs Heath began the second half with renewed vigour. Another new signing Charlie Bennett provided extra solidity in the scrum whilst new boy back rower Jack Hewer impressed with his energy and ferocity in the tackle and this helped produce a platform from which further scores came quickly. Vander, Mann and Abrahams all added tries to the growing score. Abraham was clearly enjoying himself and his pace out wide saw him reach his hatrick quickly before adding a fourth to cap a great debut performance. Heath had now broken the half century mark and at 57 points without reply the game was well out of Heathfield's reach. Samuel Walker was last on the score sheet for Heath with Will Galbraith-Gibbons successfully taking over kicking duties from Abrahams. At 64 points to nil Heath allowed one small lapse in concentration to allow Heathfield a converted try. Final score 64-7.

Whilst an impressive score, more gratifying was the way Heath delivered a mature performance, reflecting their growing skill and cohesion which, if maintained, will serve them well for the matches to come.