Woodham were away this week against Thurrock

Due to the weather the start was delayed until 11am, so the team took full advantage of the first hour to do some training (and to keep warm). Play was allowed from 11am, and 2 games were confirmed with the option of a third should time permit.

The first game was tightly contested with both teams playing well and scoring tries, and seeming evenly matched. Both teams received warnings for running with only one hand on the ball, and the odd high tackle but overall it was a clean match. The game ended with a draw at 6 points each.

After a short break the second game was started. Thurrock hand more of the ball and controlled more of the play, with both teams contesting the break down equally well. Woodham kept bunching around the ball and there was a distinct lack of passing the ball down the line into space.

This game saw a different Woodham to that of a couple of weeks ago against Burnham. The frustrations were showing on the coaches faces at half time. Woodham tried to regroup but were pushed back by a Thurrock Team that passed into space and allowed them to run home the tries. Final score 9 – 4 to Thurrock.

We had time to fit in one last game although we had to reduce the halfs down to 5 minutes. This seemed to suit both side who were getting a little tired, and Thurrock having sustained a couple of injuries down to just the 7 players on the pitch. This game Woodham should better play and attempted to use the space more. Final score was 4 – 2 to Thurrock, with an overall score of 19 – 12 to Thurrock.

Finally a thank you to both teams, coaches and parents for allowing me the opportunity to referee my first match since taking my ELRA course. It was great to referee such a good set of games and I learnt a lot form the experience.