ROCHFORD SET DOWN THEIR MARKER FOR THE

Rochford opened their home campaign with a display of quality rugby played at pace to blow away their opponents and set a standard that they will want to keep to.

Chelmsford had no answer to what this new look Rochford side put together and once the team gels as games go by they can only get better and must make them contenders for the title.

It is very early days yet and plenty of work for players and coaches to do to maintain standards but the side is looking like they could create something special if the boys carry on the momentum.

Fifteen tries in total, all from fast, skilful handling and support play with Tom Ashton kicking eleven conversions.

The Rochford set scrum was powerful all afternoon and gave scrum half Ricki Gould more than enough good, front foot ball to set his back line off to attack at every opportunity.

More good ball from the lineout where Sam Fombo and Luke Court-Rhind ruled the roost and with the excellent loose forwards that Hundred have they created plenty of ball from there as well.

A hattrick of tries from Stuart Whatling and two tries apiece from Mark Billings,Tom Corbet and James Kellard plus six others from Court-Rhind, Fombo, Gould, Ashton, Joe Hurley and David Rufai made up the scoring.

Hooker Corbet has now scored five tries in two games so he is well pleased with the development of this style of rugby.

Director of rugby Chris Green was unhappy by the way his side gave away points last week against Sudbury in the second half but his fears were put to rest after 48-5 lead at half time another 47 points were added in the second and only an interception try by Chelmsford against.

To their credit Chelmsford never gave up the fight and tried to play some expansive rugby themselves but in the end continual tackling and pressure took its toll and there were many tired legs when the final whistle went.

Although there were many excellent performances from many individuals this was a team effort through and through with great support play and structure but we must not get carried away just yet.

There is a long season ahead which could take many turns but all the hard work put in on the training field will show dividends and it is in the hands of the players to make things happen and to continue to develop as an outfit.

Lastly a special mention to young Matthew Needham, the younger brother of the talented Dan who has played for Rochford for a number of years.

He is a special talent and the spitting image of his big brother in many ways but has come into this side of experienced and skilful players and made his mark at stand-off in spite of his tender years.

He has shown immense maturity and is a player to be nurtured. All the best to him for the future.

Next week a potentially difficult match against old rivals Ipswich away but a week at a time and take each game on its merits.