Match Report by Graham Pratt

On a windswept pitch Rochford started lively enough but Saffron took an early lead with a converted try followed by another unconverted effort and went further ahead with a penalty. When Rochford were able to obtain some decent ball they put together a some good moves but they were few and far between.

Even then the visitors looked lethargic and needed to go up a gear and finish off promising build ups. Late in the first half wing Mattie Stewart went over for a well taken try which Tom Ashton converted to turn round at half time 7 – 20 down.

The second half should have favoured Rochford more with a strong wind behind them but a large amount of time was spent defending against a determined Saffron. The home side on the other hand seemed to smell a surprise result considering their lowly league position and went full out to achieve it.

In spite of that Rochford still had the means and talent to restore the initiative and when No.8 George Chipper drove over for an unconverted try and then followed up by back row Andy Baker scoring it looked as if they could scratch a result.
Rochford were now within one score of levelling the match but a red card for Matt Norris for punching and various other incidents by some players conspired to give the home team the honours on the day.
A great disappointment especially as leaders Thurrock also dropped points at Mersea Island which would have put Rochford at top of league.

Team:- Chivers, McMahon, Dyer, Tape, Stephenson, Baker A. Norris, Chipper, Webb S. Needham D., Baker J.Spencer, Ashton, Stewart, Stubbs, Usher, Barnes.