Westcliff Win Derby Day

In the first of two back to back derby weekends Rochford Hundred Harts took on a strong Westcliff Lions team who were looking to continue their good league form following their trouncing of local rivals Southend the previous week.

However it was the Harts who started the stronger. Some adjustments in mid field and change in defensive structure Rochford were superb for the opening 15 minutes of the match. Their defence was highly aggressive knocking back Westcliff every time they got hand on ball and the attack was also looking sharp, with Needham, Prior and Pickering creating holes all other the Westcliff back line and forcing Westcliff on to the back foot.

The Harts pack had met their match in the scrum but were working tirelessly and the Line out led wonderfully by Whight was looking strong and dangerous. Rochford opened the scoring after intense pressure on the Westcliff 22 eventually led to a penalty for continual offside at the ruck which Prior slotted over to put Rochford ahead, Rochford 3 – 0 Westcliff.

Westcliff hit back straight away, taking field advantage which led to an attacking scrum 5 metres from the Rochford line. The big Westcliff pack managed to take advantage and pushed Rochford back to record the first try of the game. Rochford 3 – Westcliff 7.

Rochford retook control for the remainder of the first half and mid way through some excellent work by the pack, who were growing into the game, forced their way down field. Lien out won 20 metres out and Levy brushed off a number of defenders to force his way over the line to put Rochford back in front, Rochford 10 – 7 Westcliff.

As the half draw to a close it was Westcliff who eventually finished the stronger with a break away try scored through the wing to close out the half.

Rochford 10 – 12 Westcliff.

As the second half kicked off a similar tale to last weeks game vs Eton Manor emerged. Rochford dropped off and went to sleep again for a period of 15 minutes which resulted in 3 tries 2 of which were converted in the opening 15 minutes of the half which again was Rochfords failing. Rochford 10 – 29 Westcliff.

Rochford needed to respond and respond they did, taking more control of the game through some aggressive running through the forwards and the back line. Eventually the pressure told and Harry Obeney swerved his way down field brushing off a couple of cover tackles stepping the full back and getting over the line. Rochford 15 – 29 Westcliff.

It was Westcliff who had the final say though as with the last play of the game managed to crash over the line again for a final converted try.
Final Score Rochford 15 – 36 Westcliff.

The Harts again were left without victory in a game they knew they could of done better in. They need to ensure they compete for the full 80 minutes and can no longer afford to drop off for any period of time at this level and will be looking forward to putting things right in this weeks Derby game against Southend.