Rochford 15 Ilford 5 & Rochford 5 Ilford 20

On a well marked pitch, smaller than what Rochford normally play on, and with an Ilford team mixed with under 11’s, it looked like it would be a tough game. However, with much focus on the boy’s tackling during training recently, it was an ideal time to put that practice to practical use. Most of the first half was spent camped on the Rochford try line. Michael, Stefan, and Tom Child all producing try saving tackles. Joe was also tackling hard and making ground with the ball. Stefan, as usual was also making ground, crashing into opposition defence at every opportunity. Finally, on turn over ball, Tom managed to find some space, getting past the Ilford defence and handing the ball out to Michael. Having done all the hard work, Michael was stopped just short of the Ilford try line but a nice pop pass out saw Jake get Rochford’s first try.
The next try came after Rochford forced Ilford backwards; Angus managed to pick the ball up from the ruck, getting it out to Tom Child who got it over after a quick run. The boys were now up for the win. Owen was quick in closing the gap, closely followed by the other boys not allowing Ilford to organise themselves.
The second half saw more determined play from Rochford with Matthew Fitz-Patrick getting over the try line after ripping the ball out of Ilford hands. Repeated pressure from Ilford finally saw them over the try line, but an excellent performance from Rochford, better than seen in a long time.

Rochford 5 Ilford 20
Owen’s Mum promised us no rain for Sunday morning! She was wrong and with the driving rain, the Rochford resolve seemed to be washed away. Matthew Fitz-Patrick got an early try diving over the line, with the crowd cheering him on to lift our dampened spirits. However, the defence was crumbling; Matthew Dobson and Angus were holding their own, both performing big hits on a revitalised Ilford. Rhys and Alex were making an effort to run with the ball. However lack of support was making the going difficult. After three scrums on the Rochford try line, Ilford eventually came away with their first try.
The second half saw the flood gates open further with Ilford scoring right from the off, running through a non existent defence. With the bit firmly between their teeth, Ilford proceeded in getting two more easy tries. Lack of tackling and not picking up loose ball, particularly in the rucks lost Rochford the game. After such a good performance in the first match it was a shame to see Rochford go to pieces.