ROCHFORD BOUNCE BACK IN STYLE

After the disappointment of their previous outing at Romford the Magnolia Road side responded in a very positive way by scoring 7 tries in a fast and entertaining game.

In fact if they had been more clinical in their finishing Rochford would have scored more tries but that will come if they continue to play like they did in this match.

Rochford started with confidence playing with aggression and pace and were unlucky not to score in the opening minutes.

Eventually pressure told and hooker Nik Grier stormed over to score and Matt Stewart added the extra two points and soon after that Stewart ran through for a fine individual try.

At this stage it was all Rochford driving through their forwards and moving the ball quickly through the backs.

Next up was winger Matthew White, who had earlier just missed out scoring, showing plenty of skill and determination to beat the opposition and speed over for a great try. Stewart converted to put his side 19-0 up at half time.

The set scrums were reasonably even up to then and Rochford performed well in the lineout where flanker David Rufai was impressive winning good ball at the back which allowed his team to launch a number of attacks.

David is also a very good tackler and shined in the loose as did No.8 Louis Warner who appeared to be everywhere in attack and defence all afternoon.

Campion responded with a penalty kick early in the second half and upped their game to put Rochford under pressure and were rewarded with another penalty to reduce the deficit to 19 – 6.

The visitors never gave up the fight and they enjoyed more possession in the second session but gradually the fitness and skill level of the home outfit started to tell.

Captain Stewart finished off a fine move to score his second try and added the conversion to increase the lead.

Shortly after flanker Tom Corbet went over to score after good driving work from the forwards who were now dominating most aspects of play.

As often happens in matches the final quarter produces more open play as defences tire and teams on top find more space to play in.

Such was the case in this game as Rochford spread the ball wide and Full back Mark Billings showed his class to run in two more unconverted tries to finish off proceedings.

It was only just reward for Billings’ efforts all afternoon where he had been instrumental in coming into the line to set up many attacks.

A pleasing result for team and supporters and showed, once again, when Rochford put their minds to it they can play some pretty good rugby.

Due credit to Campion for contributing to a good ,fast and entertaining game and in spite of their struggling position showed plenty of spirit and resolve.