PLEASING HOME WIN BUT STILL MORE TO DO

Rochford overcame a spirited, but ultimately limited Fullerians outfit in their first home match into the New Year.

It was a dull but dry afternoon, ideal for running rugby and the home side took full advantage as they ran in 11 tries and 7 conversions from Cameron Greenhall.

Centre Iain Meads opened the scoring with an early try before scrum half Jack Doherty, making his debut for the first team this season, went through to score a pleasing try which Greenhall duly converted. Doherty showed up well until he was injured and had to retire. Mark Billings took over those duties for second week in succession.

A good start to settle the team as they, initially, had to work hard up front against a big, strong pack but Rochford’s loose forwards are fast and skilful and were able to turn over good ball on a number of occasions.

This was evident in Craig Strachan’s try, who showed that old aggression and flair we expect of him and, again, Greenhall added the extra two points.

Iain Meads in the centre role is now settling well into the side and he showed skill in his second try and secured the bonus point. With Cameron Greenhall’s conversion the score line stood at 26 – 0 and Rochford were well on their way to another big result.

Just before half time captain Harry Hudson continued his try scoring spree with an excellent effort after good, powerful approach work by the forwards. Greenhall’s conversion took the half time score to 33 - 0 and a reasonably large crowd settled back for an entertaining second session.

Although 6 more tries came from the home outfit, three of which Greenhall converted the match seemed to fizzle out as Fullerians tired but due credit to them as they competed to the last whistle and were rewarded for their efforts with a deserved try late in the game.

Rochford’s try scorers were Mark Billings with a typical jinxing, speedy run to the line, together with Will Ferrier and “Bert” Radzevicious going over.

The two other tries were scored by big Alan Barker, making a successful comeback after long term injury, and wing Alfie Justice also making his first team debut.

A good, workmanlike performance by the team, although further tries were there for the taking and the boys are still not quite back into their stride yet after the Christmas break.

The trek up to Norfolk next week to play Diss will be another step in that process.