Horsham U16's V Crowborough

The phrase “a wins a win” has never been more appropriate, as Horsham registered their 4th consecutive victory, promoting them to 2nd place in the Sussex 'A' League. With Crowborough’s pitches sodden, the game had been in some doubt until Saturday lunch time. Despite the horrendous mud however the pitch was deemed just about playable, and both teams then did their utmost to play some attractive rugby, despite running being physically challenging at times.

The vast majority of the first half was played around the mid way line, until a powerful forward drive from the Horsham pack and a breakaway by fly half Matt Streeter saw them camped on the Crowborough try line. Following a number of powerful drives from Sean Richardson, Aiden Plumpton and Callum Murphy, second row James Hebbard eventually forced his way over the line to give Horsham a 5-0 lead. Liam Ruz's valiant attempt at the conversion was sadly missed however due to the strong opposing wind. Shortly after, Horsham should have doubled their advantage but took the wrong option from a 5 metre penalty, and scrum half Josh Steggles was forced into touch.

The second half saw more strong Horsham pressure and a number of clear try scoring opportunities were spurned again through taking the wrong option at 5 metre penalties and not utilising clear overlaps. Eventually winger Declan Nwachukwu touched down following a powerful run, but to everybody’s surprise, including the Crowborough supporters, the try was ruled out as the referee claimed the ball had not been grounded! Horsham spent the majority of the half in the Crowborough 22, but the home team's defence was worthy and their full back did give the away team a few nervy moments with his kicks and chases.

The whistle went with a final score of 5-0, and never before has a warm shower been more welcome.