Westcliff vs. Rochford U15, Essex League 1, 20 March 2011

Westcliff having improved considerably from last season’s sixth place, had topped the table after the first game, to be replaced by Rochford thereafter. With so much riding on the game and the late start, both sides were understandably nervous and tense, this was reflected in the game which remained close throughout.

Rochford scored first, when Westcliff knocked on from a Rochford kick over the top, and with the ref playing advantage, Sean Prior took the opportunity to score out wide Westcliff 0 – Rochford 5. Westcliff hit back quickly, exploiting a period of good attacking play to equal the score Westcliff 5 – Rochford 5. Rochford were kept on the back foot for several minutes, before Rochford again kicked over the top. Andrew Bevan charged down the attempted Westcliff clearance, the ball dropping to a Rochford player and allowing Jedd Donnelly to score, with Josh Lipscombe converting Westcliff 5 – Rochford 12, with the game remaining tight with no further score before half-time.

In the second half Rochford failed to make the most of their chances, often taking the ball to ground, when they had a good overlap. A Rochford penalty kick that would have relieved the pressure went just wide. So with the score still at Westcliff 5 – Rochford 12, and Westcliff determined to get an equaliser, forcing Rochford to defend resolutely, the game ending as it had started with the score Westcliff 5 – Rochford 12. Having come close last season, in second place with only points scored in games separating Rochford & Chelmsford, they were now U15 League Champions, having been closely pursued all season by the very improved Westcliff side.

Both teams will meet again next Sunday for the Essex Cup Semi-Final.