Old Colfeians 38 - Gravesend RFC 29

Gravesend somehow managed to blow a 19 point lead on Saturday as their recent fine run came to a juddering halt at Old Colfeians.

Gravesend were immediately out of the traps when Ben Hope broke through the defensive line to run half the length of the pitch and give Gravesend the lead after 2 minutes. More was to come as the same player again broke through only this time to offload the final pass to Ben Stelfox and take the lead out to 14-0. With half an hour gone more was to come as Samraj Chahal picked up at the side of a scrum and drove over from 5 metres.

What was the most complete performance for 30 minutes turned as the players began to tire and succumb to going toe to toe against a bigger opposition. Colfes scored one try to give them hope and a second on the stroke of half time to leave the score at 19-14.

The second half started with an early penalty for Gravesend converted by Josh Barnes who then got himself in trouble with the referee for a high tackle which earned Old Colfeians a penalty try and himself a yellow card. Unsurprisingly Old Colfeians took the opportunity to take the lead 26-22.

Despite being down to 14 still Gravesend managed some good possession and when George Bruce offered up a dummy to fool the opposition defence and touchdown then converting his own kick Gravesend were in a good position at 29-26.

A missed penalty from long range and some poor execution as well as giving away just too many penalties started to cost Gravesend dear and the home side made the most of it running in two more tries.

In what was a fine example of rugby at this level Gravesend had to be content with 1 bonus point and drop to 6th in the table. Next week they are at home to Canterbury 2s.

Match Report - Mark Bruce

Photography - JP72Photography