Burnham 1st XV defeat local rivals in tight game

With so many injuries Burnham were forced into a number of changes into a slightly makeshift side. That said the back line boasted plenty of youth and pace, and clearly the game play was to "man-up" in the forwards, and secure decent possession for the backs.

The game started, and Burnham decided to receive into a strengthening breeze. The first 10 minutes were fast and physical, with both sides trying to impose themselves. Burnham however drew first blood with the returning Sam David playing at his favoured No 8 position going on a bullocking run, smashing through a number of Woodham players before crashing over the line.

With the conversion made, Burnham 7 SWF 0

Woodham though bolstered by a number of Witham players, were not going to lay down, and quickly replied with a well worked try.

The conversion was missed, Burnham 7 SWF 5

The game ebbed and flowed with some enterprising and fluid rugby being played by both sides. This was certainly a fast, physical game.

Half-time and both sides were glad for the break.

Second half kicked off, and in what can only be described as a superb individual try, George Duck showed power, pace and footwork that left the Woodham defence flatfooted. Under the posts and the conversion to come. Now the next part was clearly not part of the script. Up comes Stevie Walters (not known as Burnham's answer to Owen Farrell) and decides to attempt to drop kick it! The result..he misses!

Burnham 12 SWF 5

Back came Woodham again, and this time they used their lineout to set-up a rolling maul. Burnham struggled as the maul gained momentum and it resulted in Woodham crashing over the line for a try.

No conversion Burnham 12 SWF 10

The game really could have gone either way, it was a close affair with both teams showing great opportunities to score. Eventually, Burnham capitalised on a Woodham error, Conall Hornett kicked through, and it was then a straight race with the Woodham fullback. The ball went over the line, and it looked like a Burnham try, but the referee waved play on, and Woodham attempted to play out, were caught in possession and Sam Barr went over for the try.

This time the conversion was over and Burnham were leading 19 -10

In fairness to Woodham, they came back and were rewarded with their third try, but missed the conversion. Burnham 19 Woodham 15

The game finished up, and Burnham had their win. Four points secured.

Try Scorers
Sam David
George Duck
Sam Barr

Next week in the last game of 2018, Burnham travel to Bancroft for another league fixture