Horsham earn deserved draw with Chichester

The first score of the match, a try for Chichester, came through a very slick move from a set piece with the Chichester winger trotting in under the posts. They duly converted and Horsham found themselves 7 - 0 down.

This seemed to wake up Horsham and all of a sudden we started to see some ball and we looked good when we had the ball in our hands. This culminated in Aled Price spotting a gap, taking it very well after a good bit of phase play and crashing his way over the line. Aled duly converted and it was game on at 7 -7.

We continued to look good with the ball in our hands but everytime Chichester had it in the backs they were threatening to break thru as well. Blaise Salle then used the power that he's been starting to use more effectively as the season goes on and carried a couple of their players with him to the line. Aled duly converted again; 14 - 7.

Just after we lost our 7 but Tom came on for Simon and did a great job. The game continued and while we were playing well in parts and the forwards were securing more ball we couldn't make a breakthrough. Meanwhile, Chichester did what they are known for - kick the ball deep and attack from close in. There was great defending but they crossed our line twice more and converted each time. 21 - 14 to them with time running out.

Our forwards continued to work well and, thru Aled kicking accurately down the line from penalties, that set us up for the forwards to drive for the line with Kyle Fairs showing his usual determination to get over the line. 21 - 19 to Chichester with the clock counting down.

Now, there was a bit of confusion in our ranks about the score but one thing was certain - Aled needed to get the conversion over. There was wind against and across the pitch, our hopes of improving our League position would end if we didn't at least draw this match. There wasn't much time left. So...no pressure then Aled.

A quick check of the touchline showed a few worried faces, Richard wasn't smiling and looked really austere (same as usual then) and Dai had gone quiet (that's when I knew we had to worry). A final check on Aled and I have to say he didn't look worried at all ...

Usual routine ... run-up, nice clean strike and ball sailing thru the posts. Ya beauty.

But true to form, back came Chichester with a vengeance and got the ball close to our line but we defended with real determination. They infringed in their efforts to score and Aled kicked the ball dead for the end of the match.

A great team effort but with plenty still to work on to continue to improve.

Match reporter - Malky Allan