Horsham battle to win over Esher

This was a fixture that was put together at short notice for both teams and as such the match was played in four, 20 min sessions to give everyone rugby.

The first 20 min saw the strongest sides competing in a well matched game with both Esher and Horsham enjoying good possession and field position with resolute defending. On 10 min, Horsham gained good second phase possession and good passing along the backs saw new lad Aaron Webster outstrip his opposite number to speed over the line only to then drop the ball over the line with no-one in sight! Just one of those things that happens. Horsham had another two chances out wide but were thwarted by good defending by Esher and the session ended 0-0.

In the second session Horsham dominated the play with three tries from Kyle Fairs, Zac Smith and Jerome Downey (with a Michael Turner conversion) building a 17-0 lead. Kyle’s try came at the end of some good driving forward play when he forced his way over from about 1m. Zac finished off a good passing move in the corner and Jerry ran in from 60m. Right at the end of the session the Esher No8 crashed through to the line from 20m for a well deserved try and a great touchline conversion saw the session end 17-7.

The third session saw a much more evenly contested period with Esher scoring the only points from a good lineout and drive. Again there was some good work in the forwards from both sides and at the end of the session both teams looked tired.

In the fourth session Horsham dominated again with superior fitness coming to the fore. Jerry scored another two tries to round off a good days work to make the final score 29-14.

It should be noted that Esher came with a large squad and so were able to substitute most players through the sessions whereas Horsham only had three subs and so most players did the full 80 min. As such, finishing the stronger of the two teams speaks highly of the lads fitness and determination.

There was some good play from Horsham, the lineout went well, the scrum settled down after some early pressure and the pick and drive was encouraging. The backs found space out wide and finished well and Esher did not break through the midfield.

A very good fixture against a good Esher side who played attractive rugby. We will look forward to the return match booked for later in the season.

Match reporter - Jeff Ashman