H&B get the better of local rivals in friendly win(d)

H&B get the better of local rivals in friendly win(d)

Heathfield U13 (10) 10 v Hastings & Bexhill (10) 30

H&B travelled with a good size squad to Heathfield and a put on a storm, scoring six tries against spirited neighbours. Coaches Roberts and Davies gave debuts to Will Kneller, Tom Gooch and Taylor Beaney and a number of positional changes gave opportunities for a number of new players, alongside grizzled u13 veterans. Playing into a stiff wind in the first half, H&B got off to the perfect start, with Monty Wheeler at centre, latching onto a beautifully angled pass that shredded the surprised Heathfield defence, scoring under the posts after just two minutes. Despite the conditions, there was good handling by both teams and the scrums and rucking were competitive. Captain Will Roberts and winger Finley Davies were influential, making good use of space down the left wing and only good counter rucking from Heathfield prevented the lead from increasing. Fly half Charlie Jones exerted a steady influence over proceedings until an injury forced him from the field in the second half. The H&B backline were heavily involved in the first half keeping the score tight and snuffing out Heathfield attacks. However, Heathfield were very effective throughout the game in dropping off slightly in defence, leading to H&B’s ball carriers being over extended and isolated when they attacked. Heathfield counter-rucked, overloaded the wide areas and despite excellent positioning and bravery from winger Fenton Wheeler and full-back Ben Coulson, Heathfield were able to score twice in the first half. Full back Coulson split their tries with one of his own and some further scrambled defence by H&B at the end of the half, meant the teams went into half-time even. Following the Roberts & Davies team talk, the second half was played almost entirely in the Heathfield half. Four unanswered tries by Zane Wickens, Louis Turpin, Jarad Dobinson and Monty Wheeler (book-ending the game), capped a dominant performance against a spirited and skilled opposition. We thank them for their hospitality in putting the game on in difficult conditions.
Next Sunday we welcome Cranbrook for a friendly and a 11am kick off.

Hastings & Bexhill RFC are always looking to recruit new players from 5 years old – adult, girls and boys of all abilities. Please see our website www.hastingsrugby.org or email minis.rugby@hastingsrugby.org for more information. Hastings & Bexhill RFC prides itself on a warm welcome to all. Come and have a free, no obligation try out.

Report written by Sean Woodbridge