Friendly, Harpenden 10 Barking 7

Tries: Will Down, Conor Mitchell.

Match Report

The ‘A’s continued their winning ways at Redbourn Lane with a close win against a strong, well organised and previously unbeaten Barking team.

There was little to choose between the teams at the start, with both teams pumped up and determined to win. The Harpenden pack performed well, more than holding their own, against larger, bulkier Essex Division 1 opponents. The backs tackled well and made some good breaks through the centre. Harpenden held a slight territorial advantage but were pegged back by some deep kicks which were efficiently dealt with by full back Ed Jinks.

Harpenden were awarded a number of penalties which they decided to run using their ‘Spice Girls’ routine. Ginger, Posh et al gained some valuable metres but were unable to break the strong Barking defence. Eventually our pressure paid off with Will going over in the corner from the back of a scrum 5 metres out.

Half-time: Harpenden 5 Barking 0

Barking came out fired up for the second half forcing Harpenden back into their half. From a long throw to the back of the lineout a Barking forward gained possession and ran through a number of tackles to score while we were appealing for an infringement. (We must learn to play to the whistle!). The try was well converted.

Harpenden 5 Barking 7.

With 10 minutes left both sides pushed forward for the win. From a lineout near the Barking line, Fly Half Conor Mitchell went over in the corner making it 10-7 to Harpenden.

Barking spent the last 5 minutes camped on or near the Harpenden line. Harpenden defended bravely and the result hinged on the last play of the match – a 5 metre scrum. Harpenden had the put in and the ball came out to Toby Sweeney who gladly hoofed the ball into touch to earn a hard earned victory.

Well done to both teams for a great game!

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