RAMPANT ROCHFORD KEEP A CLEAN SHEET

It just seems to get better and better as Rochford put on a display of outstanding rugby to blow away a disappointing Harlow outfit.

The boys in black scored 11 tries to none and the first game this season where they have not conceded a single point.

With all the focus on the attractive flowing rugby we have witnessed little credit has been given to Rochford’s terrific defensive capabilities which has kept the point count down to 95 for all league and cup games this season.

This was shown to great effect especially in the first quarter when Harlow looked like they were going to give the home side a run for their money but outstanding defensive work from both forwards and backs kept them at bay.

That was as it got for the North-West Essex team as Rochford’s powerful scrummage on the opposition line saw a great drive with the ball controlled expertly by No.8 James Kellard before scrum half Ricki Gould nipped in to pick up and dart over for a try.

The home side now started to get into their stride with total dominance in the set scrum and lineout together with speedy and effective loose play which set the foundation for the rest of the match.

Three tries on the trot from industrious hooker Tom Corbet, who was everywhere all game, were followed by Matt Stewart and Stuart Whatling both crossing over for tries.

Tom Ashton added 4 more points from the conversions which took the score at half time to 34 – 0 and Rochford were good value for it.

The second half started very well when lively flanker David Rufai sped over and the try was converted by Stewart who had taken over kicking duties from the injured Ashton who had pulled a hamstring.

Next up was big Luke Court-Rhind who made a huge contribution with his excellent scrummaging, lineout work and loose play to extend Rochford’s lead with a well taken try.

Into the middle and last quarter, the game slowed down a tad as Harlow picked themselves up and took on their opponents and only great defence kept them out and no further score came until late in the match.

As is the case with good sides they can find that little extra to finish strongly and a wonderful individual try from wing Sam Edwards who took the ball deep in his half and just powered his way through Harlow’s now tired defence to run in for a fine try.

Stewart added the extra and Rochford opened up for a final flourish to see Court-Rhind again, using all his strength and skill, to drive over for his second try .

The other second row Daniel Sowter scored the last try of the day and Stewart brought the afternoon’s proceedings to an end with a successful conversion.

An excellent team performance and as this side gels more with each game we can only wonder what lies ahead for the rest of the season.

Once more some really classy and intelligent rugby played at terrific pace and if there is any criticism it is that in some games a number of points do go begging as good moves are not always finished off as they should be and which falls below the standard the team sets itself.

They are things that can be sorted out and if that is all that can be found to moan about then it can’t be too bad.