The team has improved so much since their previous encounter earlier in the season with more fire, commitment and skill levels that, although beaten in the end the score line did not reflect the sheer competitive nature of this game.

The Middlesex side started strongly and came out all guns blazing and sped ahead with two quick tries, one of which was converted before Rochford could draw breath. Their massive pack controlled the ball supply in this early period but gradually the home side picked themselves up and began to compete.

The set scrum proved to be much more stable than it was feared it might have been and praise must go to experienced prop Andy Badger, who stepped in at such short notice to help out and did everything coach Mark Sexton asked of him.

The lineout also showed up well with Murphy, James Needham and George Chipper climbing high to compete against taller opposition. Captain Simon Webb used all his vast experience to keep his back line operating efficiently where Tom Ashton, Dan Needham and Dan Allen all had massive games. Rochford’s defence was once again very robust although the visitors lines of running opened gaps.

Staines continued to show why they are in the top position with excellent attacks and players interpassing at pace and at different angles. They finished the first half with two more tries and a penalty. Rochford’s improved play during the latter period of the half forced Staines into giving away penalties and Ashton slotted one over before the break. Both wings, Jack Hall and Greg Stubbs looked full of running and gave Staines plenty to think about in defence.

Half time score was 6 – 27 to Staines and Rochford needed to dig deep to keep this side at bay.

This was just what they did and started to take the game to their more vaunted rivals. The second session was far more even and Rochford had their chances to pull back points through some sustained pressure on the Staines line but were unable to get the breaks at crucial times.

The sign of good, confident sides is their ability to finish off moves which was what the visitors did when they had the opportunity. Two more tries, one of which was converted,followed before Ashton once again punished them for an indiscretion with another well stuck penalty.

A final try finished off Staines scoring but Rochford were not finished as they increased the tempo and a fast flowing move through many hands found second row James Needham out wide who made no mistake to speed over for a fine try. Tom Ashton slotted over the conversion to complete a 100% kicking performance to make the final score more reflective of the game and with a little bit more finishing power and confidence could have been even closer.

Excellent performances from all and, although they cannot complain about the seven tries to one score line it again highlights the ability of the teams in this league to put away chances when they come and from which Rochford can only learn. With the ever growing confidence in their ability this surely must come.

Team:- Dyer, Corbet, Badger, Murphy, Needham J, North, Spencer, Chipper, Webb, Needham D, Hall, Ashton, Allen, Stubbs, Barnes.

Subs: Berry, Baker A, Ryan.

Ps. Photos c/o Russ Shepherd Photography
Check out all his game photos at:
http://s923.photobucket.com/albums/ad72/rshepherdphotography/RHFRC%206th%20March%202010/