Woodbridge 3-36 Southwold
20th September 2014
Match Report written by Anthony Bohncke

Southwold made the short trip down to local rivals Woodbridge on Saturday looking to make it two from two after their win against Newmarket last week.

Southwold started the game strongly and were able to keep the ball for long periods. The forwards were able to provide a dominant scrum for the backs to work off, credit to the front row, Chris Aldous, James Hall and Stuart Popplewell for providing this base. The first try came from the forwards mauling the ball forward and Josh Crick being in the right place to finish when the blind was exploited. 5-0, Southwold

Southwold were the dominant side both upfront and in the backs, and when they were again camped in the Woodbridge 22, quick ball through the backs enabled Josh Crick again to dance through the Woodbridge defence to score his second of the game 10-0, Southwold.

This gave Southwold a comfortable lead which they were able to protect right through the half, the only score for Woodbridge was a penalty kick just outside the Southwold 22, 10-3 Southwold.

With half time approaching Southwold were able to again keep possession well and create chances. Following a sustained period of pressure, a disallowed try and multiple penalties in the red zone Arron Bliss was able to cross for his try of the game, Chippy Middleditch was able to convert a difficult kick from close to the touchline 17-3 at the break to Southwold.

The only downside to the first half performance was Jonny Stephenson being sent to the sin for 10 minutes, for a repeated offences at the break down, fortunately the team were able to cope and come away without conceding anymore points.

With a strong lead at the break Southwold knew they had to keep concentration up in the second half and not rest on what they already had.

Southwold came out after half time the much fitter and stronger side, the team were able to keep possession and control the majority of the half. The forwards were working hard together working from line out moves practised over the summer and executing some with great quality.

From this a great team try followed from Richie Thickett, returning this season after a few years being out of action, great to see him back playing for the ‘Wold. James Hall who was able to burrow his way to the line. The scoring was rounded off by Tim O’Connell who came off the bench to add some more fire power to the scrum was able crash his way over to score from close range, to make the final score 36-3 to Southwold

This was a superb performance by the team away to one of their closest rivals. The team can be very proud and they will be looking to continue their good start this Saturday when Wisbech visit the common.