South Woodham Ferrers Rugby

First XV

Match reports below

First IV Fixtures 2009/10
Saturday September 12	Upminster	v	SWF I's
Saturday September 19	Canvey Island	v	SWF I's
Saturday September 26	SWF I's	v	Basildon
Saturday October 3	Old Streetonians Snr Vase Cup	v	SWF I's
Saturday October 10	Wanstead	v	SWF I's
Saturday October 17	SWF I's	v	Beccles
Saturday October 24	Billericay	v	SWF I's
Saturday November 7	SWF I's	v	West Norfolk
Saturday November 14	Wisbech	v	SWF I's
Saturday November 28	SWF I's	v	Wymondham
Saturday December 5	Lowestoft & Y	v	SWF I's
Saturday December 12	SWF I's	v	Dagenham
Saturday December 19	SWF I's	v	Canvey Island
Saturday January 9	Basildon	v	SWF I's
Saturday January 16	SWF I's	v	Wanstead
Saturday January 23	Beccles	v	SWF I's
Saturday January 30	SWF I's	v	Billericay
Saturday February 13	West Norfolk	v	SWF I's
Saturday February 20	SWF I's	v	Wisbech
Saturday March 6	Wymondham	v	SWF I's
Saturday March 20	SWF I's	v	Lowestoft & Y
Saturday March 27	Dagenham	v	SWF I's
Saturday April 10	SWF I's	v	Upminster

Top Points Scorers 2009/2010

Name	Trys	Penaltys	Conversions	Drop Goals	Total
Leon Gateson	19	-	-	-	95
Andrew Williams	2	11	13	-	69
Joe Dukelow	9	3	4	-	64
Adam Brown	-	3	17	-	43
Warren Duggan	7	-	-	-	35
David Bull	4	-	-	-	20
Craig Mclellan	2	-	-	-	10
Gareth Hoadley	2	-	-	-	10
Steve Jones	2	-	-	-	10
Adam Jones	1	-	-	-	5
Nick Kilbey	-	2	3	-	12
Chris Bewick	1	-	-	-	5
Jon Murphy	1	-	-	-	5
Pete Brand	1	-	-	-	5
Sam Dudley	1	-	-	-	5
Ben Newman	1				5
David Cramphorn	-	-	1	-	2

28/2/10

SWF 0 - 52 Basildon

You would have to trawl the archives to find the last time Woodham
suffered such a heavy defeat. Having to play in a local park due to
the waterlogged Basildon pitches Woodham found themselves under
pressure from the start. Woodham's young and lightweight team struggled
to contain one of the largest packs they had faced this season. The loss
of prop Micheal Cheyne after 5 mins added to the constant pressure.
Woodham defended bravely keeping the home team at bay for the first
quarter, but with so much possession and territory a score was inevitable.
On a heavy pitch Basildon's forwards started to dominate making easy
ground and went in for two more tries before half time. 0-19.

Woodham started the second half confident they could turn the score
around, but after some initial pressure Basildon regained the upperhand.
Basildon's good ball retention and strong pick and drives reaped its reward
as they crashed over for a couple of tries. Woodham's poor defensive
line allowed a rampant home team to continue on a scoring feast.
Woodham's heads started to drop and Basildon began to score at will and
eventually broke the half century with the last play of the game.
Final score. SWF 0 - 52 Basildon.
Woodham travel to Wymondham next week to a team which are always
strong at home. Hopefully a stronger resolve on a firm ground can
banish this woeful performance.

13/02/10

SWFRFC 15

West Norfolk RFC 24

South Woodham made their longest away trip of the season to West Norfolk on the back of several changes to the squad. Injuries to Williams and talisman Gateson had given chances to the young talents of Gilbert and Rowinski, and Prop Gittos returned after a period on the sideline. Despite the alterations Woodham's youthful back line still carried a huge attacking threat and a pack that was growing in strength and confidence after the win against Wanstead.

Woodham's backs answered any pre match questions after the first five minutes when good interlinking play between forwards and backs released Duggan on a trademark barreling run, breaking through several tackles to catch the home team cold. Dukelow assuming kicking responsibilities this week duly obliged to add the extra two. A few minutes later, further Woodham pressure resulted in the award of a penalty which the pin point Dukelow slotted to give the visitors a 10-0 lead.

Woodham had started the stronger but West Norfolk soon showed why - despite their league position - they are renowned as one of the hardest teams to beat in the league. After some good counter rucking from the home forwards their pacy backline broke free allowing the centre to score under the posts, an easy two points followed and West Norfolk were back in the game.

Just before the break Woodham were hit with two injuries when first winger Russ and then flanker Marshall were forced off the field. Luckily thanks to the strength of Woodham's Colts division, replacements Newman And Berrick stepped into the void. Newman in sensational style when after some good attacking play the debutant scored with his first touch of the game. Although Dukelow missed the conversion Woodham took a healthy 15-7 lead into the break.

This was to prove the last points for Woodham that day as a rejuvenated West Norfolk side took to the field in the second half determined to turn their fortunes around. This attitude soon paid off when the home side were rewarded for their expansive play with the full back the undoubted star man of the West Norfolk side scoring a well worked try. The conversion brought the score to 15-14 with the home side very much in the ascendency.

West Norfolk were beginning to frustrate the visitors and a lack of front line discipline allowed the Norfolk side to take the lead for the first time. The ever reliable kicker slotting the penalty to give his team a two point cushion. Woodham showed some very positive aspects of play late on the game as they pushed for the winning score, However in the dying seconds Woodham's risky play broke down allowing West Norfolk an easy score to finish the game. Final score 24-15.

These two sides share a similar mentality of attacking rugby and both possess some talented young players. This was another close hard fought game between the two with West Norfolk deserving the two points. Woodham will take many positives out of the game. With several key players due back next week the side are eager to get back on track and will be looking for a strong performance against Wiscbech, Saltcoats 2.30ko.

6/02/10

SWF 1st 17-8 Wanstead

Woodham's disruptive season continued with midweek injuries and
last minute withdrawals. Captain Craig Mclellan had to reshape the
backline, giving colt Nick Killbey his league debut at fly half.
Colt Lewis Gilbert moved to centre along side Joe Dukelow and Sam
Dudley moved to an unaccustomed position of fullback.
Wanstead started the brighter of the two teams and were rewarded
with an early penalty. 0-3. On a heavy pitch Woodham slowly started
to take control, keeping the visitors pinned in their own half. Woodham's
constant pressure reaped its reward when after a number of phases
the ball was passed out to David Bull, his clever chip over the on coming
defence fell perfectly to winger Warren Duggan to score in the corner.
Young Killbey's conversion from out wide was good. 7-3. As the pitch
deteriorated so the game turned into a dog fight with neither team able
to control the ball. With half time looming Wanstead moved the ball from
a scrum to their centre on a switch. To the amazement of the spectators
and the player himself he was able to run through an enormous gap in
the home teams defence and pass to his supporting team mate to score
a simple try. The conversion fortunately was missed. 7-8 half time.
This score lifted the visitors spirits and they began to dominate both
possession and territory and had Woodham defending for long periods.
Prop Micheal Cheyne was sinned binned for a professional foul and this
further pressurised the home teams defence.
Woodham needed a spark to get them going and this duly came when
scrum half Murray broke down the blindside linking with No 8 Steve Jones
and skipper Craig Mclellan. From this one penetrating play into Wanstead's
half Woodham reasserted themselves and the balance of play swung to
the hosts. With Woodham now dominating, penalties began to flow. Killbey
missed one penalty before converting a more difficult one from further out.
10-8. Woodham sealed the win when the ball was moved from a good lineout
across the backline to Joe Dukelow who hit a great line to break the defence
and score on a quagmire of a pitch. Killbey's important conversion was good
giving the home team a two score advantage. 17-8. Wanstead did come back,
and with the last play of the game they thought they had scored only for a
foot in touch to rule it out. Final score 17-8.
A good win with such a young team on a poor pitch. A special mention to
second row Paul Morgan who stepped into the breech 15 mins before kick off.

This game was unfortunately abandoned after 25 mins,
when the referee was unable to continue due to an injury.
SWF had to make a number of changes due to a stag week
in the French Alps,but this had little effect on the teams short
performance. Woodham's first of three excellently worked tries
came from quick ball off of a shortened lineout, with dummy runners
causing confusion Leon Gateson was able to break the defence
and offload to full back Joe Dukelow to score a great flowing move. 5-0.
SWF had to call upon Micheal Cheyne and Paul Morgan to bolster
the pack and they proved their worth when from a good scrum
No 9 Andy"Blue" Murray broke blind and delivered a superb reverse
inside ball to the Skipper Craig Mcllellan to score .10-0. Woodham's
final score of the proceedings came after scrum half Murray's great
dummy and break allowed him to release the supporting Dukelow to
score his second, which Brown converted. 17-0. A short time after
the referee went down with a calf injury and although he bravely carried
on for another five minutes it became apparent he could not continue.

28/1109

SWF 48 - 24 Wymondham

After a two week break and with a number of players returning, Woodham were
able to field a near full strength side. Within a minute SWF showed that they were in
fine fig, after Andy Williams handed off a number of tacklers to score out wide.
Williams conversion was good. 7-0. Williams then went from hero to villain when
his long speculative pass was gratefully intercepted by the visitors centre who
ran in unopposed. 7-7. This was the only blip in the half as the home team took
control. Wymondham were unable to stop Woodham at the gain line and with the
home team being able to break tackles at will it was only a matter of time before
the tries began to flow. Leon Gateson scored his first of four tries out wide, after
some good controlled forward play. He then added a second showing great strength
to burst through a number of tackles. 17-7. Williams extended the home teams lead
to 20 with a long range penalty. Fly half Williams then received a yellow card
for a dangerous tackle along with the Wymondham player who retaliated. Joe Dukelow
step into the vacant position and was quickly on the score sheet when he bounced
out of a number of tackles and then sprinted away to score. Dukelow's conversion was
good. Wymondham's problems increased when they received a second yellow card
just before half time for persistent infringements.
Half time 27-7.
Gateson scored his third straight from the restart after he latched onto a poor pass
in the visitors midfield and duly fly hacked through to score.
Dukelow's easy conversion was good. 34-7. With Woodham's forwards producing
quality ball the home teams back line were looking to score at every opportunity.
Dukelow added his second after hitting a superb line from full back and Gateson
rounded off a great performance with his fourth try. Both converted by Williams.
48-7. With twenty minutes left to play the large home crowd thought the flood gates
were about to open,but credit must go to the visitors, who after 60 mins started to
play some structured rugby. As Wymondham's possession increased so did Woodham's
penalty count. A well struck penalty by the visitors was quickly followed up by a
try which was converted. 48-17. As the light began to fade Wymondham continued
to pressurise the home teams line and with Gateson sin binned for killing the ball
the visitors were able to exploit the space out wide for a converted try.
Final score 48-24.
A solid performance which hopefully can be taken on the road next week at
Lowestoft who have a two year unbeaten home record.

14/11/09

SWF 0 - 12 Wisbech

Once again Woodham had to make a large number of changes
for their away game at Wisbech. With a strong constitution SWF
took to the field in atrocious conditions. Woodham started with
the gale force driving rain at their backs and had the best of the early
exchanges. A great break by stand in Captain Steve Jones should have
resulted in a score but for an unfortunate fumble close to the line.
Apart from a long range penalty attempt by David Cramphorn the game
turned into a midfield defensive battle. Woodham's centre partnership
of colts Lewis Gilbert and Ross Rawinsky showed great desire in thwarting
any attacks by their larger opposite numbers and apart from one break
by the home teams winger Wisbech never managed to threaten Woodham's
line.
Half time 0-0.
After such a strong first half Woodham hoped to consolidate, but as often
happens after the restart Woodham fell asleep and for those few minutes
the hosts took advantage and scored two tries. The first came from a
loose ball after a line out. Wisbech reacted first and broke through ,and
after some sloppy tackling the ball was recycled allowing their centre
to crash over. The conversion was good. The second happened straight
from the kick off. Wisbech ran hard into midfield and were stopped by the
impressive open side flanker Marthinus Strydom making his league debut.
Woodham over committed to the ruck allowing Wisbech to flood the blindside.
Sam Dudley playing on the wing along with Dave Cramphorn made some
great cover tackles but to no avail. SWF made changes bringing on second
row colt Will King and Neil Gittos into the pack. Woodham rallied and with
the pack winning a constant flow of good line out ball managed to drive hard
at the hosts line but for all this endeavour Woodham were unable to find the
cutting edge to break through the home teams well marshalled defence.
Final score 0-12.

07/11/09

SWF 26-25 West Norfolk

Those who had been at Billericay a fortnight earlier were disappointed
by the apparent metamorphosis of their team. Woodham started as if
they had been the team who had just spent 3hrs travelling. West Norfolk's
positive and energetic start had Woodham on the back foot and made a
mockery of their lowly league position. Under pressure, Woodham started
to concede penalties and quickly found themselves 6 points in arrears.
Woodham, with a changed team due to long term injuries responded.
A clean line out gave quick ball to the back line which cut through the
visitors defence. From the ensuing ruck the ball was passed along the line
of supporting forwards for teenage hooker John Murphy to squeeze over in
the corner. Andy Williams touch line kick was good. 5-6. Williams moving to
fly half this week extended the lead with a long range penalty from almost
the half way line. 10 -6. West Norfolk's ambition reaped its reward when
from a quick tap penalty, Wests scrum half evaded some weak first up tackles
and put their lock over for a try. The conversion was well taken. 10-13.
Woodham drew level just before half time with another long range penalty
from Williams. Half time 13-13.
With the match in the balance the home team knew they had to raise their
game but with the referee penalising both teams at every break down continuity
of play became a rare commodity. Woodham's defence improved and limited
West Norfolk to only few forays into the home teams 22. Colt, Curtis making
his league debut at centre was noted for leading this defence line.
Lock, Pete Brand crashed over for a try after an explosive run from the base
of a ruck after some good work by the forward pack.
Williams kicked the extra two. 20- 13. Woodham could have further extended
their lead, but with one try adjudged forward and the other for a player in
front of the ball the game ended in a kicking duel between the two precision
accurate fly-halves. Final score 26-25.
It is clear that there are no easy games in this competitive league but with
a strong colt and youth section Woodham's future looks sound.

24/10/09

SWF 50 - 0 Billericay

SWF travelled the short journey to local rivals Billericay for
their LNE3 league encounter. Woodham forwards had a depleted
home team under pressure from the start. Locks Steve Jones
and Pete Brand were not only superb in the line out but also
tenacious in the loose, allowing Woodham to produce good
ball to a full strength back line. Woodham opened the scoring
after some controlled forward phases, gave Leon Gateson a
simple score in the corner. Brown's conversion was good. 0-7.
Brown added a further penalty and with some excellent kicking
pushed the home team back into their corners. From one of these
kicks winger Shaun Russ tackled his opposite number deep in his own
half. Skipper Craig Mclellan was on hand to intuitively flick the ball
back between his legs to the on coming no 8 Bull to score. Brown's
kick bounced off the crossbar for the extra points. 0-17. Billericay
tried to responded with their driving maul but this was thwarted
by a well drilled defence, and when the ball was occasionally
moved wide it was met with crunching tackles by the returning
centre Williams. Woodham seemed quicker in all areas and this
was highlighted when winger Russ took a quick line out in the
home teams 22 to give Gateson an unopposed try. Brown again
converted 0-24. Although Woodham were not having it their own
way in the scrums they showed when they do get a solid platform
how dangerous their back line can be. From a stable scrum, half
back Andy (blue) Murray broke blind, his pass found Duggan. The
hard running winger then delivered a sublime blind pass to the looping
full back Joe Dukelow who out sprinted the covering defenders to
score. Brown missed from out wide.
Half time 0-29
SWF playing up the slope continued where they left off, playing with
pace and control. Any thought of a come back from the hosts
were finished when scrum half Murray's perfectly timed pass put
Gateson in a gap. The centres rich vein of form continued when
he rounded the last defender to score for another hat trick.
Brown's simple conversion was good 0-36. Billericay were punished
again, when from an aimless kick full back Dukelow attacked from
deep, after rounding a number of opposing forwards his pass found
Gateson and with space running out the centres cross field kick found
his partner Williams to collect and score. Brown again converted 0-43.
Woodham's final try summed up the days performance when forwards
and backs linked seamlessly to give the impressive teenage open side flanker
Chris Bewick his first try on his league debut. The extras were good. 0-50.
Woodham brought on stalwart prop Marc Jiggins only to be sin binned
for a mild altercation. Billericay playing for pride had their best spell of
the game. Camped in Woodham's 22, and having numerous scrums and
phases of play the hosts were unable to breech a determined and
aggressive defence. When aerodynamic prop Jiggins returned to
the field, the pack responded and from the resulting clearance on a
defensive scrum Billericay's hopes of a score ended.
Final score 0-50.
A great team performance and with so many young players coming
through the youth system the future bodes well at SWF.

17/10 SWF 23-15 Beccles

SWF welcomed table topping Beccles to Saltcoats park.
And as with previous weeks Woodham had to rearrange their
squad through injuries. Gareth Hoadley moved from hooker
to loose head prop and Sean Slater to tight. Joe Dukelow moved
to scrum half and young Steve Kerslake kept his position at centre
whilst veteran Dan Jones came in at wing.
The game started at a great pace with neither team procrastinating
but willing to move the ball at every opportunity. Beccles open the
scoring with a well worked try from a scrum on the blind side. The
conversion was wide 0-5. Woodham responded but were met by a
well organised defence which limited any space. Beccles extended
their lead with a penalty and could have gone further ahead but for
the referee calling back a certain try for a forward pass. With Woodham's
line out functioning well and the pack playing with far more determination
it was not long before the pressure provided points, duly converted by
Adam Brown, back from his jaunt in the Orient. 3-8. Neither team could
add to the score board before half time even though both teams were
playing a high tempo and expansive game.
Half time 3-8.
SWF started the second half with great passion and began to dominate
both territory and possession and eventually were rewarded 3 points from
the boot of Adam Brown. 6-8. Woodham moved straight back on the attack
and had Beccles defending tenaciously in their own half for long periods.
From one of these sustained attacks a spilt ball in the visitors 22 was fly
hacked up field. Beccles dangerous full back was first to react and with
blistering pace left the chasing backs in his wake. The conversion under
the posts was good. 6-15. Woodham made tactical changes. Dukelow
moved to full back with Ryan Gateson coming on at 9. Neil Gittos moved
into the pack along with Graham Moore. These changes had an immediate
effect with the full back hitting a superb line and then offloaded to Leon Gateson
to score. Brown's kick was wide. 11-15. Woodham were now in the ascendancy
and with winger Duggan making his trade mark bulldozing runs it seemed only
a matter of time before they closed the gap. This arrived after a pressurised
line out on Beccles throw allowed Woodham's forwards to drive to the visitors line,
after a number of phases the ball was moved out Leon Gateson. The centre
this close to the line showed his skill to beat the defenders and score. Brown
missed the kick from out wide. 16-15. Beccles, being promotion contenders
responded and with time running out tried to move the ball out wide. Leon Gateson
reading the move intercepted the pass and sprinted away for his hat trick. Brown
converted. Final score 23-15. A great performance against a good team and with
players returning from injury there is plenty to build on.

10/10/09

SWF 23- 25 Wanstead

Once again Woodham had to re-shuffle the team to cope with
injuries and unavailability's, but with new signing Gareth Hoadley
at hooker and Ryan Marshall returning from Southend to bolster
the pack Woodham started the brighter of the teams. With Woodham's
line out producing good ball for the back line, it was not long before
the visitors had Wanstead under pressure. SWF opened the scoring
after some good link play between forwards and backs, which allowed
Joe Dukelow moving to fly half this week, to burst through a gap and
score. His conversion was wide 0-5.
After this confident start Woodham then gave the initiative back to
Wanstead. Numerous amounts of unforced handling errors allowed
the hosts to capitalise and build pressure, eventually resulting in a
a try after a number of pick and drives from a 5m line out. The kick
from out wide was short. 5-5. Wanstead then went further ahead after
Woodham fell foul of the referee at the offside line giving the hosts an
easy 3 points. 8-3. The game then became very fragmented as both teams
were penalised at the breakdown. This hindered Woodham as they were
unable to hold onto the ball for any length of time and build any continuity.
Wanstead continually pushed Woodham back with their kicking tactics
and were rewarded with a try in the corner to the disappointment of the
visiting pack who thought it was held up. The extra points were missed.
13-5.

As half time loomed a ball off the top of a good lineout was swept out wide
to Leon Gateson. When most players would have cleared their lines the
centre backed himself and stepped the advancing defenders and sprinted
the length of the pitch. His final pass to Shaun Russ making his league debut
at full back was deliberately slapped down giving Dukelow an easy penalty kick.
Half time 13-8.
SWF started the second half well and with the breeze behind them started
to win both possession and territory. From sustained forward pressure a perpendicular
pass across the back line found Gateson, his step and fend gave him space to score.
Dukelow's conversion was just wide. 13- 13.
Woodham were now in the ascendancy and shortly after Dukelow's speed split the
defence with a show and go. His timely pass inside before the cover tackle gave
Gateson his brace. Dukelow's kick was good. 13-20.
Woodham went further ahead from a Dukelow penalty after the hosts were again
penalised for going off their feet at the ruck. 13 -23.
As the game moved into the final stages Woodham's poor decision making and
unforced errors again proved a life line for the home team when a bouncing ball
fell kindly into their centres hands after another cross field kick. 18 -23.
Disaster struck for the visitors when from a dropped ball at a restart Wanstead
regathered the ball and moved it quickly through their back line, with a combination
of poor tackling and good exchanges of passing Wanstead's winger managed to
break free and score under the posts to the delight of the home crowd. 25-23.
Straight from the restart Woodham threw everything at the home teams line and
were rewarded with a penalty 10m out in front of the posts. Amazingly one of
Woodham's forwards decided to take a quick tap only to knock on. From the resulting
scrum Wanstead kick the ball out and sealed the win with the last play of the game.
25-23. A special mention must go to seventeen year old Lewis Gilbert who showed
great promise playing out of position on the wing. A disappointing loss but a good
effort especially from the non regulars.

19/09/09

SWF 21 - 33 Canvey

Straight from the kick off Canvey managed to put the visitors under pressure.
The home team's aggressive forward play and their tactics of starving Woodham's
back line of any space paid dividends. Canvey opened the scoring with a simple
penalty and added a try from rolling maul which was the prelude of what was to
come. 10-0. Woodham's set piece again was not functioning well, but from a scrappy
line out in their own half Woodham's three-quarters showed what talent they posses.
The ball was moved swiftly across the line to Duggan. The powerful winger made good
ground and fed Williams inside, his break was stopped just short but Duggan was on
hand to finish off the move. Brown converted 10-7. SWF lost influence captain Mclellan
with a shoulder injury and Canvey again showed how to execute a perfect rolling maul
from 10m out to score. 15-7 half time.
The second half continued where the first left off with Canvey's forwards keeping the
ball tight ,forcing Woodham to concede penalties. Two of which were converted. 21-7.
With the game slipping away Woodham then had a purple patch. From one of the few
secure scrums the ball was moved out to the backs where a simple pivot and loop by
fly half Brown gave space for Duggan to score his second. Brown's conversion out wide
was well taken. 21-14. The hosts went down ten men when their scrum half was sin binned
for persistent chat to the referee. With a scrum on half way and Canvey's defence concentrating
on Williams at centre. Bull seized his opportunity from base of the scrum and broke free.
The ageing no8 then found the supporting Gateson, with his speed he was able to allude
the two remaining defenders and score under the posts. Brown's kick the extras. 21-21.
Amazingly Woodham had managed draw level when the games statistics showed that
they should have been dead and buried. With all to play for Woodham then gave the
initiative back to the home team by trying to run the ball rather than clearing their lines.
From one of these forays Canvey were awarded a penalty. The predictable but well
constructed rolling maul again reaped its reward for another try. 26 -21.
Canvey continued to press and when they were awarded yet another penalty the resulting
line out produced the obvious outcome from the driving maul. Final score 33-21.
A disappointing performance all round but one that can be rectified. The big issue will
be how the team combats the rolling maul and larger forwards it will face.

12/09/09

Upminster 17 -19 SWF

SWF 1st XV started their league season with an away trip to Upminster.
On a glorious sunny day and a rock hard pitch both teams started
at a furious pace. It was Upminster who opened the scoring with a
simple penalty in front of the posts. Straight from the re-start Woodham's
forwards turned over ball at the ruck, a short pass found Leon Gateson
on the burst, with speed and guile the centre rounded the last defender for the
visitors opening score. Brown's conversion fell short 3-5.
SWF's commitment and aggression at the breakdown brought its reward again
when the ball was moved quickly out to the back line, where full back Joe Dukelow's
line break gave him space to find winger Adam Jones to score. Brown converted
3-12. Although Upminster had plenty of possession they could find no way through
the outstanding midfield defence of Andy Williams ably supported by debutants
Steve Jones, Jamie Read and Pete Brand. From another stolen ball by no 8 Bull
at the breakdown Woodham turned defence into attack. The ball was moved
to Woodham's exciting three-quarter line, with some slick passing by Williams,
Dukelow and Duggan space appeared for Gateson. The centre then completely
mesmerised the last two defenders with his foot work and scored under the posts
for a try which started deep in Woodham's half. Brown converted.

Half time 3- 19.

Upminster started the second half well using their steep pitch to good affect and
pinned the visitors back. SWF lack of clean ball at the line out and scrum allowed
Upminster vast amounts of possession, and only Woodham's collective desire in defence
stopped the hosts from adding to their total. SWF did manage a spell of exerted
pressure on Upminster line but wasted two gilt-edged chances, which would have
sealed the win. As the game moved into the last ten minutes Upminster pressed
hard for a score and this duly came when Upminster's scrum half dived in from a
quick tap penalty 5m out. The conversion was well taken 10-19.
Roared on by the large home support Upminster again pressurised the visitors line
and managed score their second try with the last play of the game. The extra points
from out wide was good, making the score for the home side far more respectable.
Final score 17-19.
Well done chaps but lots for head coach Tony Woods to work on come training.

Name	Tries	Pens	Cons	Dg	Total
Adam Brown	8	21	47		197
Warren Duggan	15				75
Leon Gateson	14				70
Joe Dukelow	9		1		47
Adam Jones	7				35
Dave Bull	6				30
Lee Guess	5				25
Andy Williams	2		3		16
Craig McLellan	3				15
Marc Jiggins	3				15
Stephen Kerslake	2				10
Neil Gittos	1				5
Marcel Van Rensburg	1				5
James Wilson	1				5
Ryan Marshall	1				5
Steve Jones	1				5
Sean Slater	1				5

4/4/09
SWF 16 - 22 West Norfolk

Woodham's hopes of promotion finished after their
long trip to Kings Lynn. Woodham had to reshuffle
the pack with the loss of second row Paul Morgan and
this was further compounded when influential
open side flanker Lee Guess limped off after 5 minutes
with an ankle injury. West Norfolk had the better of
the early exchanges but it was Woodham who opened
the scoring with Adam Brown slotting two long range
penalties. 6-0. Things got even better when number 8
David Bull took a quick tap penalty on the half way line
and released young Neil Gittos playing this week at
second row, his well weighted pass put seventeen year
old debut winger Ben Mustoe away, his pass out of the
tackle to Joe Dukelow allowed the supporting scrum half
to sprint away and score under the posts.
Brown converted. 13-0.
Cheered on by a large vocal crowd on the balcony West
responded. A good drive from a line out gave the hosts a
score in the corner. The extra points were well taken from
the touch line. 13-7. Brown extended the visitors lead with
a simple penalty in front of the post just before half time.
16-7. The second half started badly for Woodham and were
unable to control any set ball. From yet another turn over
ball wheeled at a scrum, West Norfolk attacked wide. The ball
squirting out the side of the ensuing ruck, allowed the
home teams winger to score unopposed. The conversion from
the touch line was again excellently taken. 16-14. Woodham,
being constantly penalised at the break down were unable to
build any phases and any thus quality ball to their back line dried up.
West took the lead from yet another penalty.16-17. As the clock
started to run down Woodham became desperate and chances
were missed, where in previous weeks they were executed with ease.
With only a minute left Woodham were awarded a penalty just inside
West's half. Brown's long range effort into the wind fell agonisingly
short. West Norfolks clearance kick up field was collected and returned
but an interception in midfield allowed West to score with the final play
of the game to the delight of the sixteen Norfolk men. 16-22.

28/03/08

SWF 22 - 6 Colchester

After an emphatic win over bottom club Crusaders a week
earlier, it was the turn of champions elect Colchester to
visit Saltcoats. Colchester started well showing why they
are top of the league, moving the ball through phases and
with some degree of structure and were rewarded with a
well taken penalty. 0-3. Woodham, needing a win to keep
their promotion hopes alive, responded brilliantly. From a
22 drop out after Brown's penalty miss the ball was returned
by Duggan, his well timed pass released open side
flanker Guess who beat the last defender in the narrowest of
space to score. Brown's conversion was short. 5-3.
Woodham raised their intensity knocking the visitors back in
all areas of the contact area disrupting any continuity they
tried to build. Colchester moved quick ball from a good
line out to a massed back line, only to be met by a ferocious
midfield defence ably supported by a tireless back row which
turned over ball allowing a counter attack. Good passing
released winger Jones who rounded his opposite number before
going under the posts to the delight of the home crowd.
Brown converted. 12 - 3. A shocked Colchester responded but
never looked as if they would break through the home teams
defence and for their effort all they could achieve before half time
was solitary 3 points.
Half time 12-6.
Woodham's forwards continued to disrupt scrums, line outs and
battle at every breakdown forcing the visitors into errors.
Colchester's structure began to break down as well as their
discipline giving Brown 3 points from a reversed penalty. 15 -6.
Playing into a squally wind and Colchester's backs unable to make
any ground against the home teams blitz defence, the visitors forwards
resulted to picking and driving. A turn over ball at one of these
drives by Woodham's well marshalled front five allowed Woodham
to what they do best, turn defence into attack. Full back Mathews
break was stopped short but after a number of controlled forward
phases the ball was spun out to fly half Brown who squeezed over.
Brown converted 22-6. Woodham had a number of chances to
extended their lead but where thwarted by some excellent cover
tackles. Final score 22-6.
An awesome display by the whole of the Woodham team!

21st March 2009

SWF 81 - 19 Norwich Crusaders

On a glorious spring day Woodham hosted bottom team
Norwich Crusaders at Saltcoats. Conditions were perfect
and with the ground hardening expectations were high
for a fast flowing game. Yet it was the visitors who opened
the scoring when a mistake from a Woodham scrum in their
own 22 by Dukelow and Bull gave, Crusaders a try
which was well converted. Woodham responded immediately
when Gateson burst through the defence to score. Brown
converted 7-7. Woodham started to take control and two
further penalties by Brown eased any early nerves. Any thoughts
of an upset were soon dispelled. With Woodham's line out and
scrum producing good ball for the backs, scores started to flow.
Williams try came after the ball was moved effectively from one
side of the pitch to the other allowing plenty of gaps in the visitors
defence. Brown converted 20-7.
Scrum half Dukelow made amends for his earlier mistake when he
spotted a gap from a ruck and sprinted 60m beating the last defender
to score under the posts. Brown converted 27 - 7. Crusaders started
to wilt and just before half time Adam Jones scored out wide after
some great passing and support play by the back line. Brown again
converted from the touch line.
Half time 34 -7.
SWF started the second half the way they finished the first. Winger
Duggan went over in the corner after some delightful passing by the
teenage front row of Gittos and Murphy. Guess scored after selling
his trade mark dummy to the last defender and captain McLellan
touched down after the visitors scrum was demolished allowing
no8 Bull to pick up and pass in side to the skipper. 53-7.
Woodham were now running riot. The next try was probably the pick
of the bunch although every try was a joy to watch. Straight from
the restart, the ball was collected by stalwart prop Jiggins his hard
yards set up a ruck. The ball was then moved quickly through a
number of silky forwards hands to the back line coming at pace.
Precision passing found Jones who rounded his opposite number to
score under the posts. Brown converted 60-7. Gateson scored his
second of the day after Woodham pack once again turned over the
visitors scrum giving good ball to the back line. Brown made it 8 out
of 9 . Crusaders crossed the line twice giving some joy for the visitor
after Woodham fell asleep in the sun for five minutes. After some sharp
words by skipper Mcllellan Woodham finished on a high. Firstly fly half
Brown went over after some excellent forward drives. Brown conversion
giving him a personal tally of 31 points for the day. And finally no 8
David Bull crossed the line after centre Andy Williams showed enormous
strength holding off a number of tacklers before offloading.
Final score 81-19.
A brilliant display of fast flowing rugby by both forwards and backs
lets hope it can be replicated next week when SWF entertain top
the table team Colchester at Saltcoats on Saturday 28th March.

14/03/09

SWF 14 - 33 Upminster

Woodham travelled to Upminster on a bright but windy day. Upminster won the toss and choose to play against the elements and up their notorious slope. Woodham once again started slowly but did manage to get an early score when Leon Gateson out foxed the Upminster winger with a sublime piece of skill that allowed him to sore in the corner. Brown's conversion from the touch line was good. 7-0.
Upminster's large team responded, and with their game plan of route one rugby made significant ground, helped on occasions by a few first time tackles being missed.
Although Woodham had the slope, Upminster's scrum seemed to win the early exchanges, making it hard for the visiting
team to give any sort of good ball to their exciting back line.
From a solid Upminster scrum on Woodham's line, the home teams strong no8 broke free and offloaded out of the tackle to a supporting forward to crash over, much to the delight of the vociferous home supporters. Upminster increased their lead before half time with a well struck penalty. Half time 7-10.

Woodham knew they had to up there work rate in the second half but with the home teams forwards constantly off their feet at the breakdown securing the ball at each phase it was only a matter of time before the inevitable score.
This duly came when after a number of drives the ball was shipped to the home teams tank like fly half to crash over from close range.
The conversion was good 7-17. Woodham, sensing the game slipping away, upped the tempo. Running the ball, offloading and moving the ball through forwards and backs, Woodham began to stretch the home teams defence, but this good pressure was lost when Woodham were deemed to be guilty of an offence at every breakdown. Frustration began to set in as three of these penalties were converted. 7-26.
Woodham threw caution to the wind and started to run the ball at very opportunity, this however back fired when a pass was intercepted by the winger who then sprinted the length of the pitch to score.
The conversion from the touch line was good 7 -33.
SWF finished on a high when from a rare penalty they ran from their own 22,the ball passing through numerous hands eventually finding second row Steve Jones who sprinted away giving a dummy to the last defender before scoring under the posts. Brown converted.

Final score 14-33.

7/03/2009

SWF 21 - 5 Dagenham

On a bright but windy day SWF hosted Dagenham
at Saltcoats keen to carry on their push for promotion.
Dagenham started well controlling the ball and making
good ground with their strong running centre. Woodham's
general lack of urgency allowed Dagenham vast amounts
of possession but, as it was with last weeks game, the home
teams strategy of a strong defence coupled with a counter
attack on turn over ball paid dividends, when from one of
these turnovers prop Duncan Grewcock broke free from
Woodham's 22 and released then ever impressive Lee Guess
to sprint away and score out wide. Brown's excellent kick
was good 7-0. This settled the home team and they began
to move the ball with invention but final passes were dropped
or thrown forward at crucial times squandering scoring opportunities.
Woodham did managed to get on the score sheet again when
from a good lineout drive the forwards made ground into the
visitors 22. From two further quick rucks the ball was shipped
wide. Winger Duggan cutting back inside was stopped just short.
Fortunately for him Adam Brown was on hand to dot down.
Brown's conversion was again good 14-0.
Dagenham responded well managing to exert pressure on Woodham's
line culminating in a yellow card for SWF skipper McLellan. Dagenham
sensing a score on half time opted for a scrum rather than the points,
but Woodham's tenacious defence held firm. Half time 14-0.
Dagenham continued applying the pressure in the second half and
managed to score an unconverted try. From a scrum on the
home teams 5m line the ball was moved blind to Dagenham's useful
centre to step out of the tackle and score out wide. 14-5
SWF bolstered the pack bringing Sean Slater into prop and new signing
Steve Jones to the second row. Woodham's offloading and support
play began to cut through the visitors defence and it was Woodham
who finished the stronger. A stolen line out by Jones on Dagenham's
22 gave a good platform for the home teams forwards to drive to
the line. After a number of controlled phases Woodham's number 8
was on hand to crash over down the narrow side. Brown's conversion
from the touch line was good. Final score 21-5.
Woodham travel to Upminster next week, which will be a tough match
on their infamous sloping pitch.

28/02/09

SWF 24-3 Canvey

SWF had the perfect start when straight from the kick off the ball was returned with pace and guile
and moved through numerous sets of hands to Joe Dukelow coming in the line from full back. Drawing
the last defender, he released winger Duggan to score under the posts. Brown converted 7-0.
Canvey responded well and showed why they are the inform team with a seven game unbeaten run. Canvey's
forwards started to keep the ball and enjoyed a good spell of possession resulting in a number of penalties.
Fortunately for the home team only one was converted out of the four. From a pressurised Canvey scrum on their
own 22 fly half Adam Brown was able to charge down his opposite numbers kick. Quickly gathering the ball he
scored under the posts. Brown converted half time 14-3.

The second half started similar to the first with Canvey having possession but unable to make any head way against
an impregnable defence. Canvey started to run out of ideas and with Woodham looking to turn over ball and counter attack
at every opportunity it was only a matter of time before Woodham's youthful back line would get its chance. This duly came when from a crunching tackle in midfield the ball was spilt. Leon Gateson reacted first and sprinted away down the blind side to score.
Brown's conversion was wide 19-3. Canvey's frustration started to show and had two players yellow carded ending any hope of any come back. Woodham's final try probably exemplified how defence can be a form of attack. Warren Duggan's tackle on his winger and then presence of mind to hack through and chase his own kick allowed him to score a great individual try. Brown kick was just short.

Final score 24 -3.

This game was won with a fantastic collective, defensive effort and puts SWF back in with a chance of promotion.

WYMONDHAM RFC Match Report – 31^st January 2009

WYMONDHAM RFC 18pts (Tries: Richard Dodd, Sam Clover, Dave Sillett. Pen: Thomas Wilson)

SOUTH WOODHAM FERRERS RUFC 24pts (Tries: Wayne Duggan, Craig McClellan, Leon Gateson, Ryan Marshall. Conv: Andrew Williams 2)

It has been said that the game of Rugby is won and lost by inches and Wymondham lost those inches on Saturday, they were forced to fight every inch for their three tries but then they sold their own cheaply allowing South Woodham Ferrers to score four tries, three of which were relatively soft and preventable and with other results not going their way slipped back into the relegation zone.

Once again Wymondham were hit with setbacks pre-match as three backs pulled out through injury prior to the game, so whilst the pack remained unchanged from last week the back line was completely reshuffled. However, it was Wymondham who dominated the majority of the first half taking the lead after just under fifteen minutes when quickly recycled ball was slickly handled by Neil Harris, Tom Wilson and then Richard Dodd who scored in the corner.

At the other end South Woodham squandered two kickable penalties in going for touch with neither succeeding, the absence of kicker, Adam Brown, looked likely to be costly for the Essex side when Wymondham’s Wilson converted a similar opportunity in front of the Woodham posts. Wymondham continued to play on the front foot but, worryingly they were conceding too many penalties and the SWF counter attack was always a threat.

Unfortunately things turned pear shaped for the home side in the 35^th minute with a well worked try from Woodham’s Ryan Marshall who was on the end of a sustained pick and drive routine down the short side. It was a stunned Wymondham who suddenly who then went behind as straight from the restart they failed to make a single tackle as SWF to burst through with former England U16 centre Leon Gateson touching down under the posts, Andrew Williams gave the visitors a four point lead at half time leaving the home side bemused and shell shocked having dominated much of the half but conceding 10 penalties to 2 and trailing 8-12.

Wymondham’s plight deepened at the start off the second half when SWF winger, Wayne Duggan, scored in the corner to extend the visitors lead. Lee Summers then gave way to Dave Sillett as the 41 year old made his home debut off the bench and the prop was an instant hit scoring a debut try as Wymondham started to drive into the visitors with some purposeful forward play and now with the gap down to four it looked like the home side might just wrap it up by continuing to dominate up front.

Wymondham went in search of another score but were constantly denied by a tenacious defence but went down to fourteen when Neil Harris was shown a yellow card which was soon to be compounded as SWF skipper Craig McClellen scored a fine counterattack try. Wymondham had been desperate to score but they lost the ball inside the SWF twenty-two. Duggan broke out but was brought down short by Wilson however McClellan was in support to score, Williams’s conversion gave SWF an eleven-point lead.

Whilst still down to fourteen men Wymondham though continued to fight back and managed to claw one score back. Prop Aaron Swanborough conjured something out the top drawer his deft chip ahead giving Sam Clover the opportunity to score in the corner. Restored to fifteen Neil Harris was lucky to stay on the field after a rash challenge but even he was unable to create the additional impetus that would allow Wymondham to win the game and once again it was a case of too little too late.

Squad: - 15 Richard Dodd, 14 Sam Clover, 13 Mark Buckham, 12 Pat Reed, 11 Alex Brugger, 10 Tom Wilson, 9 Jonny Payne, 1 Lee Summers (Dave Sillett), 2 Neil Harris, 3 Aaron Swanborough, 4 John Morfoot, 5 Tom Elias, 6 Shane Hickey (Adam Harris), 7 Marc Shortt, 8 Tom Coller.

17-01-09

SWF 12- 34 Basildon

After an extended Christmas period due to frozen
pitches Woodham welcomed Basildon to Saltcoats.
SWF were full of confidence having beaten Basildon
away earlier in the season.
Basildon started the stronger and were awarded an
early penalty which was converted.
From a good line out off the top the ball was moved
inventively through the back line. Winger Adam Jones
superb running line allowed him to break the defence and
score under the posts. Brown's conversion was good. 7-3.
SWF finished last year in excellent form and with this score
the home crowd thought this was to be a happy new year.
The visitors hit straight back with a long range penalty to
close the gap to one. Basildon's strong rucking gave quick
ball to their hard running forwards coming from depth to
make inroads into Woodham's defence. From one of these
charges Basildon managed to break free and offload out of
the tackle to their number 8 who sprinted away and around
Duggan on the wing to score out wide. The conversion was
good 7-13. Basildon buoyed by the score seemed to be quicker
to the breakdown, stronger in the tackle area and have more
desire for the ball. It was not long before Basildon scored again,
after a number of controlled phases the home teams normally
organised defence was sucked in giving an easy score out wide.
Conversion was good. 7-20.
SWF responded before half time with concerted pressure on the
visitors line but were thwarted by some cynical play at the ruck
which lead to a number of penalties but no yellow cards.
Brown's only attempt at goal was wide.
Half time 7-20.
SWF started the second period with a determination to get back
into the game, but disaster struck when from a normally clinical
back division a loose pass was given straight to the opposition
winger who gratefully sprinted away 60m to score. Once again
the conversion out wide was good. 7-27. In desperation Woodham
tried to chase the game but unforced errors compounded a lacklustre
performance. Basildon finally killed the game off when after a number
of phases in the home teams 22. A grubber kick by their fly half
fortuitously rebounded back into his hands to score. Conversion was
good. 7-34. SWF responded in the final 10 mins and last started to
play with passion and conviction an were rewarded with a consolation
try by Leon Gateson. Final score 12-34.
Although this was Woodham's worst performance of the season all credit
must go to Basildon whose performance is the best seen at Saltcoats
from an away team. Woodham need to bounce back next week against
a hard Canvey team if want to keep their promotion hopes alive.

20/12/08

SWF 37 - 13 Billericay

SWF visited local rivals Billericay for their final game of 2008.
Woodham opted to play up the slope and were immediately
penned back with some good driving play by the home teams
larger pack. A well taken penalty by Billericay galvanised a
young Woodham side into action. Woodham started to make
inroads into the home teams half through some excellent handling
between forwards and backs. Several quick rucks allowed the
ball to be passed across the pitch for left winger Kerslake to score
on his opposite wing. 5-3. Billericay responded but were halted by
the centre field defence and some tireless work by the back row.
Although Billericay regained the lead by another penalty, it was
the visitors who looked the more inventive with ball in hand.
Billericay's option to kick with the aid of the slope to an attack
minded Woodham back line soon proved disastrous when the ball
was collected by the pocket battleship Duggan. The wingers decision
to run paid dividends as he pinballed his way through numerous tackles
to score a great individual try. Brown converted 12-6.
Woodham further extended their lead
with well struck penalty after some good forward phases caught the home
team offside. Billericay gave themselves a lifeline just before halftime
when they managed to wheel a scrum on Woodham's line and allow their
number 8 to score from close range.
Half time 15-13.
Turning around with a 2 point lead and the slope SWF knew it was imperative
not to let the home team back in the game. Woodham's makeshift front row
of Dieter Parry and debutant Duncan Grewcock moving to tight head prop,
managed to put some pressure on a Billericay scrum. A loose pass by the
home teams no8 was seized upon by Woodham's swift scrum half Joe Dukelow.
His kick bounced kindly into his arms and was placed down for a try in all one
movement. Brown converted 22-13. SWF started to take control and from
a quick break from the base of the scrum Captain McLellan released Dukelow
who linked with Williams. The centre was stopped just short, and the home
team were penalised for killing the ball. Brown duly converted 25-13.
Shortly afterwards due to a serious injury to a Billericay player the game was
moved to an adjacent pitch. (SWF's best wishes go to the young man and hope
he makes a speedy recovery) After the short delay Woodham picked up where
they left off. A pressurised defensive kick on Billericay's line failed to make
touch and was gratefully received by Woodham's commanding fullback Alan
Mathews his perfectly timed pass found replacement winger Jones to score.
Brown's difficult conversion was good 32-13. Billericay rallied and went through
numerous phases but were unable to breach a dominate defence. From one
of these phases a loose pass was pounced upon by 19 year old flanker Lee Guess
on his own 22m line. The impressive no7 broke free and sold an outrageous dummy
to the last defender, with the covering defence closing in he offloaded to Craig McLellan.
Running out of space the skipper passed back inside to the supporting 19 year old
replacement 2nd row James Wilson to score. Final score 37-13.
A great squad performance which caps off a marvellous year. Well done all!

13/12/08

SWF 0 - 7 Beccles

SWF travelled to Beccles with a depleted squad through injury
and unavailability and had to call upon quadragenrians Dieter Parry
Darren Laing and Andy Collins to bolster the team. Woodham decided
to play with the arctic wind and rain behind them. It was obvious that
the conditions, coupled with a quagmire of a pitch ,it was not going
be conducive to Woodham's fast flowing game. Beccles had the better
start ,controlling the early exchanges with their big ball carrying forwards and
making hard yards against the elements. SWF inability to put boot to ball
and play percentage rugby allowed the home team to put the visitors under
pressure. On the few occasions Woodham did move the ball, they where
halted by a well organised rush defence. As half time loomed, the visitors
tried to run the ball from their own 22. The spilt ball at the break down gave
Beccles an attacking scrum in front of the posts. Beccles secure scrum gave
good ball for a simple backs move to break a normally tight defence. The
conversion was well taken.
Half time 0-7
Playing into the sub-zero driving rain, Woodham had their best period of play
having Beccles camped on their own line with a number of scrums. However, a lack
of good decision making at crucial times allowed the home team to escape.
The game became a centre field battle of attrition with both sets of forwards
refusing to give any quarter but with the conditions contriving to so many
mistakes it was inevitable the game turned into a stalemate. With the light
failing and time running out, Woodham tried to run the ball from deep. But with
a frozen back line the ball was uncharactisicly dropped on every occasion.
Final score 0-7.
After Woodham's first defeat in 8 games, the squad need to raise their commitment
before next week's away game at Bllericay on their infamous heavy sloping pitch.

6/12/08
SWF 36 - 10 West Norfolk

SWF had the perfect start when a loose ball was collected
by Lee guess, his well timed pass found the supporting scrum half
Joe Dukelow to score. The long journey seemed to have an effect
on the visitors as Woodham started to dominate the game in all areas.
From a scrum won against the head the ball was moved down the blind
and the recycled ball was popped to Sean Slater who drove to the line,
quick ball from the ruck allowed fellow prop Jiggins to crash over under
the posts. Brown converted 12-0. West Norfolk did keep the ball well
picking and driving into Woodham's half but the home team's organised
defence snuffed out any threat. On the few occasions the visitors did
move the ball wider Woodham's back line read their plays. From one such
move centre Leon Gateson anticipation gave him an interception on the
half way line where he ran in to score under the posts. 19-0. SWF moved
the ball well pulling West Norfolk's defence out of position. After Duggan
had linked with his opposite winger Charlie Clark the ball was moved quickly
across the line for prop Jiggins to turn up as a centre to score. Brown kick
was good 26-0. The home team were in complete control and from a penalty
Woodham opted for a scrum 10 metres out. Guess moving to no8 picked up
and went, from the quick ruck ball a long pass was well received by Brown
who wrong footed his opposite number to score and then convert 33-0.
Just before half time a number of chances went astray when simple passing
would have allowed captain Mcllean to score a hat-trick
Half time 33-0
West Norfolk's team talk at half time had the desired affect. The visitors
were a completely different team after the break and with their game plan
of keeping the ball close and playing nine man rugby they frustrated the
home team. SWF were unable to get hold of the ball and this resulted in a number of
penalties and eventually a yellow card for no 6 Marshall. This was turning
into a game of two halves, with West Norfolk having all the territory and possession
they were finally rewarded with a try in the corner following some good passing
along their back line. 33-5. The visitors buoyed up by their score continued
in the same vein and with some good controlled short driving manage to score
a second. 33 -10. Marc Jiggins was rightly yellow carded for inappropriate language
after an altercation. SWF only meaningful attack came from a good line out.
The ball was moved swiftly in the backs with Duggan coming off his wing to
join the line and stopped just short. The ball was killed and a yellow card was
shown to the visitors. Brown duly converted 36-10.
Final score 36 -10.

22/11/08

SWF 27 -24 Upminster

On a bright, but bitterly cold day, Woodham's 1st XV travelled to
Upminster for an Essex cup game. SWF started the brighter and
opened the scoring by winger Duggan after 6mins. Upminster came
straight back and playing up the slope and into the biting wind made
good ground. Upminster levelled the score by their strong centre who
crashed through the middle with some meek tackling. Brown regained
the lead from a penalty which was short lived as the home team converted
two long range penalties. SWF "lack-luster" performance was further compounded
when the home team's powerfull no8 bulldozed his way over for a try. 8-16.
Promising young prop Neil Gittos was replaced due to a back problem by stalwart
Marc Jiggins. With the absence of captain Mclellan and some other regulars,
the veteran prop took control. From a good platform in midfield Brown's kick
found Lee Guess who gathered the bouncing ball to score. The conversion
was just short. On the stroke of half time Upminster converted another penalty
to make the half time score 13 - 19. Playing into the elements, SWF began the
second half with more purpose. Scrum half Murray organised his forwards and
with good direction got them driving forward making inroads up the slope into
the home team's 22. A good recycled ball found Marc Jiggins 5 metres out and his
long arm managed to touch down for a try. Brown converted 20 -19. Woodham
had to reshuffle their pack with the loss of flanker Marshall. Eighteen year old
Murphy went to hooker and looked every bit the part. From a solid midfield
scrum Woodham executed a good move where no8 Bull passed wide to Brown
he in turn found Williams inside who then linked with Dave Bull to score. Brown
converted 27-19. Upminster rallied and from a quick tap penalty in their own
half moved the ball excellently through their back line to score out wide. The
conversion was missed. Final score 27-24.
Although the score suggests that this was a good game, it was evident that
both team's lacked any zeal or desire. SWF need to return to the intensity they had
the previous week for the league game away at Beccles.

15/11/08

SWF 28 - 5 Billericay

SWF 1st XV entertained Billericay at Saltcoats park hoping to keep their 5 game
unbeaten run going. Woodham set the tone of the game straight from the start
dominating the large Billericay pack in the tight as well as the loose. Billericay were
under constant pressure but their resolute defence kept the home team at bay.
The visitors defensive line was finally broken when from a quick free kick the ball
was moved back inside to Lee Guess. The no7 then offloaded out of the tackle for
the supporting Williams to score. Brown converted 7-0.
SWF forwards started to produce a constant flow of ball to the backs but Woodham's
young back line seemed intent on only wanting to score the perfect try and as a result
opportunities went astray. The game reached half time with the crowd wondering how
with 90% of territory and 75% possession the home team were only 7 points to the good.
The second half started in the same vein as the first with Woodham moving the ball
superbly between forwards and backs. Fly half Adam Brown marshalling his back line
excellently released Andy Williams his dancing feet off balanced the defence, his pass
found centre partner Gateson coming back on the angle allowing him to out pace the
covering defenders to score. Brown converted 14-0. Billericay went to uncontested
scrums after one of their players was yellow carded for an attempted trip on Gateson
in the act of scoring. Going to uncontested allowed the visitors good clean ball for their
back line, but were unable to breach an aggressive defensive line. From another good lineout
the ball was moved inventively across the back line. From the ruck, the recycled ball was moved seamlessly
through backs and forwards with Gallic flair, the final inside flick pass from Bull found Brown to
score. Brown converted his try 21-0. Billericay never gave up and from a number of quick free
kicks and penalties made ground into Woodham's half. A penalty kick into SWF corner gave
the visitors an attacking lineout. Billericay's trade mark forward catch and drive reaped its
reward with a consolation score in the corner. SWF made changes bringing on their replacements
and raised the tempo. The pack led by Captain McClellan turned over ball allowing replacement
scrum half Murray to give quick ball to Williams on the blindside he found Joe Dukelow who had
moved to fullback his electric pace cut the defence and passed to Duggan to score. Brown
converted . Final score 28-5.
This excellent performance puts SWF third in the league.

London 4 North East

8th November South Woodham 21 - 0 Basildon

SWF travelled to local rivals Basildon, with confidence high
after some intensive midweek training from Newport Dragons
prop Adam Black. It was Basildon with the wind who started
the brighter and had Woodham on the back foot for the opening
10 mins, but could not break a well organised defence. SWF started
to dominate the scrums and with some good ball carrying by Paul Morgan
SWF began to take control. Brown's early penalty settled Woodham
and from some good driving play by the forwards the ball was released to
fly half Adam Brown, his deft kick was collected by Joe Dukelow. His long pass
found Warren Duggan out wide where he out paced his opposite number to
score. 8-0. A fired up home team returned to SWF half but their constant
indiscretions at the ruck area allowed Woodham to relieve the pressure.
From one such penalty a missed kick to touch was caught by the hard
chasing no7 Lee Guess. He offloaded to winger Duggan who scored his second
try of the day. A well struck penalty gave SWF a comfortable 16 point half time lead.
SWF began the second period with the elements in their favour and had Basildon
under constant pressure. However dropped balls and some close forward passes denied
any scoring opportunities. These spurned chances lifted the home team and from
a number of quick tap penalties Basildon made inroads into Woodham's 22. Basildon
now had their best spell of the game but where repelled repeatedly on SWF try line
by some determined tackling. The visitors weathered this short storm and took control
of the game again. With time running out, Basildon started to run the ball from deep
and with some excellent tackling in midfield Woodham managed to turn over ball by
no6 Ryan Marshall. This allowed some quick passing by scrum half Murray to put
away captain McLellan to score on his return to his previous club. Brown's conversion
was just wide. Final score 21-0.
SWF ladies kept their unbeaten run going. Well done girls!

01/11/08

SWF 12 - 0 Canvey

SWF 1st xv travelled the short journey down the A 130 to Canvey Island.
The game was played in the most atrocious conditions. SWF started with
monsoon rain and gale on their backs and had Canvey camped for 40 mins
in their own half. The conditions suited the home team style of play, keeping
the ball close and driving well but never making any headway against the
horizontal rain and SWF's organised defence. The conditions dominated the game,
with both teams unable to pass or hold onto the ball for any length of time,
the game becoming a continual set of scrums. For all SWF's dominance they
were unable to translate, territory into points until on the stroke of half time
a quick tap penalty from SWF's scrum half released Ryan Marshall who then put
Leon Gateson into a gap. His break was stopped just short. From the recycled
ball, no8, Bull was on hand to score. Adam Brown's conversion was wide.
half time 5-0.
The weather conditions worsened if that was possible and SWF knew the second
half would be a reversal of the first. SWF forwards worked tirelessly moving the
ball close and clearing their lines, only for Canvey's kicking tactics to return them
from whence they came. The pivotal part of the game came when Canvey, who
had numerous attacking scrums on SWF's line, where unable to breach a determined
and resilient defence. As the clock ticked away, the home team started to throw the
ball wider, desperate for a winning score. This allowed SWF's hypothermic back division
to pressurise a knock on in midfield, the ball subsequently kicked through. Gateson
showed great soccer skills to cross the line and score. Brown's conversion was good.
Final score 12-0.
The win in these conditions was far more rewarding than any 40 point victory. The
squad's commitment to each other was exemplary.

25/10/08

SWF 27 - 17 Wymondham

Straight from the start SWF let their intentions be known as
they ran with pace and ambition, only some resolute defending
and some loose passes stopping any scoring opportunities.
Wymondham responded and matched SWF's high tempo and it was
they who opened the scoring with a well struck penalty.
The first try came from a long lineout throw where David Bull
attacked finding Joe Dukelow on his inside shoulder
with a sublime reverse pass which split the defence. The scrum
half chipped the full back and collected the ball to score. 5-3.
The lead was short-lived as the visitors regained the lead with
another penalty. SWF were playing some of their best rugby of
the season, with forwards and backs combining with skill and pace.
Disaster struck, however, when, from a long clearance kick, the ball was
fumbled and in the confusion Wymondham hacked through to score
a converted try. Half Time 5-13.
Wymondham started the second half confident that a first away
win of the season could be in sight. This was certainly raised when
from a lineout they produced two quick phases of quick ruck ball, which
gave space for their winger back on the blind to score a well rehearsed
try. 5-18. SWF now with a 13 point deficit, it was vital for the home
team to score next and this duly came when from a midfield mix up
the ball moved with excellent hands through the forwards for Bull to score.
Conversion just wide from Brown. SWF now hit a 20 minute purple patch
of excellent rugby which turned the game. From a solid scrum midfield,
SWF backs, who had looked dangerous all afternoon, executed a well worked
move for Warren Duggan to score out wide. Dukelow converted. 17 -18.
SWF moved into the ascendency and from a pressurised scrum on the
visitors 5m a poor clearance kick was returned . Leon Gateson managed
to spin out of the tackle and score under the posts. Dukelow's easy
conversion hit the post. SWF;s ambition was exemplified when from a scrum
on their own 5m line and with no space no 8 Bull broke down the blind
and released Duggan. His long kick over the full back was retrieved, only to
be tackled from Gateson and Lee Guess, the ball then being taken over the
line for an attacking 5m scrum. Credit must go to the front five. From the
strong scrum, the ball was shipped out wide for Duggan to squeeze in the
corner. Williams conversion fell short. Wymondham responded excellently
and managed to camp on SWF line for last 5 minutes of the game but
where unable to breach SWF committed defence. Final score 27 - 18.

11/10/08

SWF 29 - 8 Norwich Crusaders

SWF 1st XV travelled to Norwich Crusaders in their LNE 4 league game.
SWF started poorly and were under constant early pressure mainly due
to their desire to run the ball from deep rather than clearing their lines.
Fortunately, two easy penalties were missed before a third was converted
to give Norwich a 3-0 lead.
Norwich won a scrum against the head. With SWF asleep, a quick move down
the blind gave the home team a score in the corner. The only highlights for SWF
in the first half was Ryan Marshall's tackling and some breaks by Williams and Dukelow.

Half time 0-8

Captain McLellan's strong half time team talk seemed to do the trick. SWF came out
with much more purpose. Crusaders prop was strangely yellow carded and this heaped
even more pressure on the home team. A solid scrum on the half way allowed a backs' move
which gave Leon Gateson his trade mark line break where he dummied the fullback to score.
Brown converted. 7-8.
Shortly after, Warren Duggan cleared up a loose ball in his own 22, and with great strength he
broke free and linked with forwards and backs. Joe Dukelow received the final pass to score.
Brown converted .14-8.
The referee levelled the card score when SWF prop Slater was also strangely sin binned.
SWF seven man pack galvanised and turned over a scrum. From a good recycled ball 5m out,
Neil Gittos delivered a switch move for winger Duggan to score. Brown's conversion rebounded.
SWF returned to full strength and from a good line out on Norwich's 22 Andy Fry's strong run
was stopped just short but Sean Slater on his return picked up and swallow dived over to score.
A quickly taken tap penalty in the dying minutes allowed the ball to be moved through the forwards
where Marshall's long pass found winger Duggan to score in the corner for his brace. Brown's conversion
was just wide.
Final score 29 - 8.
Captain Craig McLellan said, "The first half was poor but I'm pleased how the boys raised their game in
the second. We still have a lot to improve on."

4/10/08
SWF 16-19 IPSWICH

In a gale force wind SWF entertained Ipswich RFC in N.E. 4 league game.
SWF started positively taking the large visiting pack on up front. The well
organised Ipswich team kept the ball close and drove hard into the midfield
with their strong running flankers and centres, but the forwards were guilty
of constantly going off their feet at the breakdown, resulting in a stream of
penalties for SWF. Adam Brown converted two long, wind assisted penalties
to the frustration of the travelling supporters.
Ipswich's game plan did yield a converted try when some good phase play
allowed the winger to step out of a missed tackle to score under the posts.
Score 6-7. SWF stole a great line out on their own 5m line, only to relax and
allow Ipswich to counter ruck and leave a large hole for their prop to score.
The conversion was good into a strong wind. Straight from the re-start Ipswich
once again were penalised at the ruck. Brown converted to close the score.
Half time 9-14

Ipswich started the second half strongly controlling the ball well. From a good line
out the visiting backs executed a set move for their 15 to finish. Score 9-19.
SWF reshuffled their backs and moved Joe Dukelow to scrum half. Immediately
from a line out he cut through the defence, chipped the last defender and seemed
to be illegally tackled to everyone bar the man who counted. This now spurred the
home team on. From a solid scrum on Woodham's 22, a lightning break by Dukelow
set Brown away who delivered a well timed pass to Andy Williams who stepped
his opposite number and gave a perfect scissors move for Kurslake to score the
best play of the match. Brown converted to put Woodham 3 points behind.
With time slipping away, SWF moved the ball at every opportunity. With Williams'
great foot work and breaks, the pressure began to tell in the final minutes. SWF
were awarded yet another penalty. Brown's attempt into the gale fell just short.
Final score SWF 16 - 19 Ipswich.
A special mention to Pete Bell and young Charlie Clarke on their 1st xv debuts, well done.
SWF travel to Norwich Crusaders for their next league game

27/09/08

Dagenham 34-15 SWF

On a glorious autumn day SWF travelled to Dagenham RFC. With sixteen of
the 1st team squad away on a stag weekend abroad, captain and coaches
once again had to re-shuffle the team.

The game started well with SWF forwards competing and not giving Dagenham
any quarter, but this aggressive response at the breakdown gave Dagenham the
opening 3 points from a penalty infringement in front of the posts.

Dagenham's first try came from a Woodham overthrow at the line out the Dagenham
backs penetrated into SWF 22, where from the ruck Woodham`s defensive line was
sucked in, allowing Dagenham to score with numbers. The second Dagenham
score was almost a carbon copy of the first with SWF committing too many numbers to
the breakdown. Dagenham recycled and moved the ball to score out wide.

At 15 nil down, SWF rose to the challenge and came storming back with some great
breaks by Gateson, Jones and Powell showing Dagenham that this game was far from over.
From a solid scrum, a slick back's move allowed Adam Jones to hit the line from full back where
he outpaced the two covering defenders to score in the far corner. Brown's conversion was
just wide. Bouyed up by this score, SWF attacked from a centre field scrum where the ever
impressive Marcel van Rensburg broke away from a back row move then passed inside to the
supporting prop Darren Laing who was illegally tackled from behind with the try line and glory
only feet away. Brown converted the penalty.

Half time 8-15

SWF started the second half confidently but this was short lived as Dagenham scored from a
good line out move 5m out. Dagenham now started to play and run with confidence. With the
home side pressing for another score, a misplaced pass was pounced on by Gateson who
then outsprinted the defence for a 60m score under the posts. Brown converted. 15-22.
As the game moved into the last 15 mins, SWF started to wilt in the heat and with missed kicks
to touch Dagenham counter-attacked and as with the first half SWF committed too many numbers
to the tackle area allowing superior numbers to score out wide. In the final throws of the game,
the SWF forwards, who never gave up all game, were pressurising the Dagenham line. From a
dubious turnover, Dagenham managed to clear their line well into SWF 22. From the resulting poor
kick Dagenham re-gathered the ball to score under the posts.

Final score 15-34

Although this was a loss ,the players must be congratulated on their team spirit and commitment,
especially as most are not 1st team regulars. This proves that SWF are just not one team but a club.

20/00/08

SWF 12-7 Upminster

SWF entertained Upminster in their first home league with expectation high.
The game started well with SWF attacking from all areas,with some excellent
breaks by Guess, Bull and Duggan, but alas they all came to nothing when the final pass
was uncharacteristically dropped or thrown away when the try line was beckoning.
Eventually SWF got on the score sheet when from a good line out drive the ball was
spun out to the backs where Leon Gateson broke the centre defence and offloaded
to the supporting fullback Marcel van Rensburg to score. Brown converted off the post.
This score should have shown SWF that if they played controlled, structured rugby the points
would flow, but this was not to be as the team seemed to want to play with individual gay
abandon, resulting in dropped ball and poor decision making. With SWF's silly mistakes mounting
Upminster managed to put some pressure on SWF line with the away team forwards continually
picking and driving from rucks but fortunately being held up on the line.

half time 7-0

Five minutes into the second half good ball from an attacking line out on Upminster's 22 allowed
Leon Gateson to cut a superb line, step the last defender and score an excellent try. Brown conversion
was surprisingly missed. Upminster then rallied and scored almost immediately, with some woeful
tackling the Upminster number 10 scored easily under the posts and converted the extra 2.
Score 12-7. SWF then lost their influential fly half Adam Brown to injury and had to reshape their back
line this only compounded the afternoon as SWF seemed intent on self destruction as they carried on
in the same vein as the first with a number of scoring opportunities going begging, players trying to run
the ball when percentage rugby should have been the order of the day.
At the final whistle SWF were glad to secure their first two points of the season. On a positive note SWF's
scrum was far more secure than the previous week and the team will be happy with the win, knowing that
they are far far better than this performance.

A great saturday for SWF rugby club as all three teams won and a special mention to SWF ladies team who
beat Basildon 7-6 on friday night, well done!

13/09/08

Woodham 10 - 14 Colchester

Woodham travelled to Colchester on a lovely sunny day with a number of players injured
or unavailable due to wedding commitments. Woodham re-shuffled players to different positions
and gave 1st team debuts to Joe Storey at second row and Ashley Powell on the wing both just
18.
Although Woodham started confidently it was Colchester who took control of the set pieces. Woodham
were under constant pressure in the scrums and unable to secure any sort of a platform for their backs.
Colchester constantly ran the ball from penalties, but were thwarted on every occasion by the back row
and the solid midfield defence of Brown, Williams and Gateson, with Colchester's possession and Woodham
defence scoring opportunities were limited .The only opportunity for Colchester came from Woodhams
penalty mistakes at the breakdown. Colchester missed 3 long range efforts before converting a penalty to open
the scoring on 30 minutes. The next 10 minutes were the best, for Woodham manage to camp in
Colchester's half and create some half breaks but with no end result this was compounded when in Colchester
22 every attacking scrum was disrupted.

half time 0-3

With the introduction of veteran prop Marc Jiggins the scrum became much more stable allowing better ball
at the base, when Woodham kept the ball alive they put the home team under
constant pressure, resulting in two long penalties which were both missed. A good break by Colchester's loose
head prop who caused problems in the open as well as the tight was superbly tackled Gateson from the next
phase Dukelow playing at full back charged down the kick, recovered the ball and sprinted 60 yards down the
blind to score causing dismay to the vocal Colchester supporters on the balcony. Brown converted the extra
two points well. 7-3 to Woodham.
Colchester stepped up the pace and moved the ball well from one side of the pitch to the other with Woodham
defending heroically they began to run out of numbers allowing the winger to score in the corner.
Straight from the restart captain Craig Mclellan who led from the front all game reclaimed the drop out this allowed
good ball for Murray (blue) at scrum half also making his 1st team debut to give fast ball to his backs where
Williams, Gateson and Dukelow coming in the line managed to cut through the Colchester defence only to be stopped
5m out and the ball killed denying the try. Brown converted the penalty putting Woodham back into the lead.
Time now running out the home team threw everything at Woodham and inevitably the infringements around the
ruck area began to build and
from one of these Colchester took the penalty kick which hit the post and rebounded over.
In last few seconds Colchester were awarded a penalty in front of the posts sealing the victory 14-10.
A great effort by all the team especially the new lads, this will give some selection problems when the
regulars return.
Woodham face Upminster in the league at Saltcoats Saturday 3pm.

30/08/08

SWF 52 V 0 Writtle

SWF 1st XV entertained Writtle on a hot afternoon in front of a large crowd.
Woodham started slowly conceding penalties and making mistakes by forcing the game.
It took Woodham quite a while to secure good ball and start to play their fast offloading game
but when they did achieve this, the final pass was rushed and dropped.
Woodham's first try came from a line out drive quickly spreading through the backs for Duggan to barge
his way over. This settled Woodham and the second try arrived with good forward rucking and recycling
to allow prop Gittos to crash over from no more than a yard. Brown converted.
Writtle fought back well and had Woodham camped on their own line for some time but could not
penetrate a solid and committed defence, eventually having the ball turned over and lost.
Good ball off the line out allowed fly half Adam Brown to cut through the midfield defence offloading
out of the tackle for the impressive Lee Guess to score. Brown coverted.

Half time 19-0

With a talking to by coaches Simon Halford and Tony Woods, Woodham started the second half at a much
faster pace. Woodham's forwards started to dominate the set plays and from a secure scrum the ball was clinically
moved along the back line for full back Adam Jones to score on his debut.
In the heat Woodham's fitness began to shine and from a centre field scrum won against the head no 8
Craig Mclellan fed Brown who dummied and ghosted through the defence to score under the posts. Brown coverted.
From a quick line out on their own line, Woodham counterattacked with Marcel Van Rensburg putting winger Duggan
away with a beautifully timed pass. Duggan's kick allowed Writtle's fullback to collect. However he was swiftly tackled and
turned over by Woodham's back row to allow scrum half, Joe Dukelow, to sprint away and score. Brown converted.
Woodham's forwards set up a number of great driving plays and were awarded a five metre scrum from which a set move
allowed Dukelow to loop Brown and break the defence and score. Williams converted. Straight from the restart Woodham's forwards
and backs linked brilliantly offloading to allow Gateson to score a great flowing move.

Final score 52-0

Captain Craig Mclellan said: 'The first half was scrappy which is understandable being the first game but I'm more than pleased
with the fitness and the seamless interchanging of the subs. Lots to work on in training but a good start.'

South Woodham Ferrers 1^st team hosted Norfolk club Beccles at the weekend in their latest London 4 NE league encounter at Saltcoats Park.

On a bitterly cold afternoon the home side who turned on the heat from the very start with a prolonged onslaught of the Beccles defence which saw them open the scores with 3 points from the boot of fly half Adam Brown. Srum half Joe Dukelow was the first try scorer for Woodham when he finished off a set move from the scrum which saw the No 8 David Bull link with back row partner Lee Guess creating space for Dukelow in the corner.

The Woodham pack dominated the set piece throughout the afternoon with hooker Andy Fry taking several against the head in the scrum, and Marshall and Bull took the majority of the lineouts which meant a constant supply of quick ball for the backs. With this amount of ball the centre partnership of Gateson and Williams hounded the Beccles defence and it was Leon Gateson who scored his first of two tries as a result.

Beccles then managed to secure some ball of their own but the home sides defence held strong preventing them from crossing the line, however Woodham were caught off side on two occasions which both led to beccles taking three points. Brown also added another penalty before the break to leave a half time score of 18 – 6.

The second half saw the continuation of Woodham’s dominance which provided the spectators with a great display of fifteen man rugby and a sublime individual try from Leon Gateson who gathered his own chip after splitting open the visitors defence to score.

It was then winger Warren Duggan’s turn to get on the score sheet when he finished off a multi phase period of play by going round his opposite man to score in the corner.

The afternoon was capped with probably the best score of the day from an all round team perspective which saw the ball eventually grounded by second row Ryan Marshall after it had been run both left and right linking forwards and backs throughout. With a further penalty taken by Brown earlier in the second half and a total of three conversions it left the final score at 40 – 6 which justified the effort put in by all eighteen Woodham

South Woodham 1^st XV travelled away to Campion on Saturday to continue their London 4 NE league campaign hoping to continue the run of good results that they have had recently.

The first 15 minutes saw Woodham totally dominate the home side with three early tries coming from incisive running from the three quarters which left the Campion centres bemused. Woodham centre Leon Gateson was the first to cross the line and set the benchmark for what turned out to be a man of the match performance. Fellow centre Andy Williams also scored in the first quarter as did No 8 David Bull whose support play paid dividends.

Campion then began to settle in to the game and with the help of an over zealous Woodham defence earned a succession of penalties which enabled them to kick six points. The home side then scored a try of their own to pull the score back to 11 – 17.

South Woodham struggled to observe the off side line throughout the middle section of the game which eventually led to the sin binning of prop Neil Gittos however they still managed to impose themselves in attack scoring another try through winger Warren Duggan.

With Woodham restored to 15 players they started to cut out the penalties and show their pedigree with the centre partnership of Gateson and Williams continually breaking the Campion defence which resulted in further tries for the visitors by Steve Kurslake and Joe Dukelow and a second for Gateson. Campion kicked another two penalties during the second half leaving the final score at 17 -41.

This result puts South Woodham Ferrers up to second in the league with their next game at home against Beccles on the 24^th November at Saltcoats Park (ko 2.30pm)

South Woodham Ferrers 1^st XV travelled to London 4 NE league leaders Sudbury on Saturday to continue their campaign after a two week break.

In front of a large crowd in Suffolk the home side came under pressure from the start as the Woodham pack looked to dominate the set piece as well as open play against a strong Sudbury outfit, however after an early missed penalty by Woodham it was the home side who opened the scoring with an un-converted try to give them the lead.

The visitors first try of the day was scored by centre Dan Quinn who crashed over the line to complete a set move from Woodham linking No 8 David Bull with Warren Duggan who broke the gain line before off loading to Quinn.

The second Woodham try came again from well secured ball from the Woodham pack which lead to the centre partnership breaking through the Sudbury defence for Leon Gateson to score. Both tries were converted by Adam Brown.

Due to a huge defensive display by the Woodham side Sudbury were limited to just one missed penalty kick in the first half which left a half time score of 14-5 to South Woodham Ferrers.

The second half started with an immediate score by scrum half Joe Dukelow who chased and grounded his own charge down as Sudbury were trying to clear their lines, again it was converted by fly half Brown.

Sudbury were then determined not to let the game get away from them with a 15 minute onslaught of the Woodham defence which lead to them getting two converted tries to bring the score to 19-21 and all to play for.

It was then Woodham’s turn to dig deep and that is exactly what they did as all fifteen players stood up and backed each other in both attack and defence.

Scrum half Dukelow got his second after skipper Craig McLellan stole loose ball from a Sudbury ruck to link with back row partner Ryan Marshall who span out of a tackle to supply the scoring pass to Dukelow. After scoring another conversion Adam Brown took a leaf out of Jonny Wilkinson’s book and slotted a drop goal.

The final score was provided by turn over ball from the ever present Lee Guess in his own 22 who the broke to the half way line before passing to Steve Kurslake on the wing who sprinted in to seal the match at 36 – 19 to South Woodham Ferrers.

Skipper Craig McLellan said of his teams win that “it was an exceptional performance by the whole team and it was no coincidence that the dominance of the forwards allowed the backs to play on the front foot and score some great tries.”

South woodham travelled to league opponents Canvey on Saturday in the first round of the Essex cup. With the 2^nd game into the season things were looking good and team moral was great.

Woodham started well with lots of possession. There was three try's, two of which converted.

15 minutes in Woodham was inside Canvey’s half from a ruck and with quick hands from scrum half

R Gateson to fly half mason then to centres Williams through to L Gateson side stepping through two of the defence securely scored Woodhams first try, try was converted by Mason making the score 7-0.

Canvey were straight back at Woodham with there powerful forwards being very quick to breakdowns and won a penalty against woodham for coming over the top. Making the score 7-3

2^nd half Woodham were dominating the game with outstanding scrummaging and Canvey’s backs were no match for woodhams back line. 5 meters out of Canvey’s line from a ruck prop Cheyne went into Scrum half and passed to center Williams who broke through two of the defence and popped the ball to L Gateson who walked over to score woodhams second. Converted by Brown.

The 3^rd try of the game was something else from a Canvey scrum Woodham drove Canvey back and won the ball against the head and Scrum half Dukelow took advantage with coming through and scoring the 3^rd. Man of the match was awarded to the front row P H Slater, P H Fry and P H Cheyne.

Next Saturday Woodham face Basildon away in the first league game in London 4 NE.

WYMONDHAM RFC Match Report – 31st January 2009

WYMONDHAM RFC Match Report – 31^st January 2009