Following some very close encounters over these last 2 seasons and a one point Southwold victory away from home before Christmas, this game promised to be another close run affair.

On a wet and windy common, and with a much changed squad from the previous week, Southwold seized the opportunity and took the game to Woodbridge. With a slippery ball and soft ground, ball retention was difficult which resulted in a good number of opportunities for the front rows to get acquainted!

A decent tight five and solid srummaging gave Southwold a good platform from which to attack. A quick pick up and direct run at the opposition stand off from Copling tied up several backs as they struggled to bring him down. Once the ball hit the deck, Southwolds back row were on hand to clear out the ruck leaving McDaniel to spin the ball quickly keeping the opposition on the back foot. A superb dummy by D Hume momentarily fooled the defence allowing him to run through a tackle to score close to the posts. Southwold 7 – 0

The next 20 minutes can best be described as ‘stalemate’ as both teams tried to create space in which to attack. Great tackling from Southwolds’ back row - but particularly G Starks - ensured all attacks from Woodbridge were snuffed out. The stalemate came to an abrupt end following a lapse in concentration by Southwold. An easy try to the visitors was awarded. Half time score: 7 apiece.

The 3rd quarter started with renewed enthusiasm as both teams looked to steal the advantage. Line outs were proving difficult to nail properly due to the wind, slippery ball and the change of thrower. Several line outs were lost until Southwold adapted to the conditions and mixed the line up around to wrong foot the opposition and unsettle a few minds. This tactic worked….. At the next line out, awarded within Woodbridge’s 22, Southwold caught the ball, formed a tight wedge and drove for the line through a powerful rolling maul. After a couple of attempts and failures to collapse it, Southwold crossed the line and touched down – Just rewards for a superb forward display. Southwold 12 – 7

Several minutes later and following a solid drive up the park, Woodbridge’s centre broke free and scored midway between the posts and touch line. The conversion was narrowly missed. Southwold 12 – 12.

With 5 minutes on the clock, Southwold restarted play and kicked off to Woodbridge. The ball was caught cleanly and driven back towards their 10 yard line. A series of hard tackles and great rucking by Southwolds’ pack ensured Woodbridge were unable exit their own half. Eventually, the frustration told and the ball was spilt following a huge tackle by Starks. The ball was cleanly shipped to the backs who took play wide to the right. Another ruck won by Southwold ensured retained possession and another opportunity to go for the points. This time the ball was spun left down the line. Curry entered the line in space and aimed his run for the try line. A good cover tackle from behind brought him down a couple of metres from the try line. Woodbridge, quick to react, snapped up the ball and kicked long and into touch.

With the last play of the game called by the Referee, a knock on in mid field resulted in the final whistle.

Final score: 12 – 12. You can’t get much closer than that!

Frustratingly and with respect to Woodbridge, this game should have been another win for Southwold 1st XV. With a renewed and laser like focus on the forward runs off first receiver that have proved so successful for Southwold this season, many more wins will be achieved.

A special mention must also go to our very loyal and very vocal supporters, who follow the 1st XV everywhere, every Saturday, irrespective of weather conditions.

Allacazoo’s, friends and loyal supporters – we salute you!

Here’s to the VP lunch and home game versus Holt next weekend.