Thanet Wanderers Colts vs Bromley Colts 43-12
A surprisingly warm November day provided the backdrop for an exciting encounter between Thanet Wanderers and Bromley Colts in the third round of the Kent Cup. With the favorable warm weather for running rugby, the match quickly became an intense contest with Thanet asserting dominance from the outset.
Thanet Wanderers started well but were initially struggling to establish a clear pattern to their play. However, solid tackling and quick recycling allowed them to gain ground into Bromley’s half. Their first points came from a well-struck penalty by Callum Duffy, giving Thanet a 3-0 lead.
The Thanet pack continued to dominate, and after a solid scrum win against the head, Charlie Bailey took a powerful No 8 run, breaking through Bromley’s defense to score the first try. Callum slotted the conversion with ease, extending Thanet’s lead to 10-0.
Building on their momentum, Thanet applied great pressure, and a fantastic break down the wing by Alex almost led to a try, with perhaps an extra pass being the better option. The ball was recycled, though, and after a series of phases, Finn Grounds found himself in the right place at the right time to power over for the second try. Callum once again converted, bringing the score to 17-0.
The pressure continued to build, with excellent service from scrum-half James and a strong combination with Kai creating further opportunities. Alex’s run down the left wing and subsequent quick hands sent Callum in for another try. The conversion was good, and Thanet now led 24-0.
In the second half; Thanet clearly came out fired up after the break ready to finish the job. The physicality of the game increased, with monster hits from the likes of Charlie Bailey and Harrison Taylor, adding intensity to their defensive efforts.
Bromley eventually broke through, scoring a kick, lineout-and-drive try despite solid defense from Thanet, reducing the deficit to 24-5.
However, Thanet responded swiftly. Alex made a brilliant line break, and following a quick ruck, Owen powered over the line for another try, which was converted by Reece Merrifield to bring the score to 31-5.
Jem Harris made a characteristic run from his own 22, evading tackles and running all the way to Bromley's 22. Although he was eventually caught with a nice tackle by the fullback, his offload set up a ruck, and after a charge by Charlie Bailey, James Murdock was able to cross for another try. Thanet's lead increased to 36-5.
A brilliant kick-and-ruck move allowed Ollie Parker to set up a final try, with quick hands moving the ball to the wing, where another try was scored. Callum converted, bringing the score to 43-5.
Bromley did manage a late consolation try, but it was too little too late, and the final score was 43-12 in favor of Thanet Wanderers.
A thoroughly dominant performance from Thanet, who demonstrated great attacking flair and physicality throughout the match. The team’s quick recycling, solid tackling, and strong forward play were key to their success. Despite some missed opportunities to pass in space, the team’s overall play was impressive. Bromley showed resilience but were ultimately outclassed.
Man of the Match:
Charlie Bailey, for his powerful runs, solid defensive efforts, and overall leadership on the field.
Final Score: Thanet Wanderers 43 – 12 Bromley Colts.
Date
1st Dec 2024
Competition
COUNTY GAME R3
Venue
Home
Report Author
Simon Harris
1. Finn Harris
2. Finn Grounds
5. Owen Long
7. Hubert Derda
9. Cai Redmond
10. James Murdoch
11. Jem Harris
12. Harry Harrison
13. Alex Dyer
14. Finn Willmans
15. Callum Duffy
16. Noah Bull
17. Ollie Parker
18. Oli Davies
19. Jude Rigden
20. Ronnie Hemmings
21. Reece Merrifield
23. Zac Ragunel
Tries: Charlie Bailey, Callum Duffy, Finn Grounds, Harry Harrison, Owen Long, James Murdoch,
Conversions: Callum Duffy 3, Reece Merrifield,
Penalties: Callum Duffy,
Drop Goals: None