Wanstead RFC 12 vs TWRUFC Colts 19

22nd Sep 2024, KO 12:00

Wanstead RFC - Away

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Match Report

Match Report: Wanstead Colts 14 – 19 Thanet Wanderers Colts

Thanet Wanderers Colts faced a long journey to North London for their clash with Wanstead, marking the first time I believe, any Thanet team had visited the club. Wanstead offered a warm welcome, showcasing very impressive facilities and a lush, rain-soaked pitch; perfect conditions for a gritty rugby contest.

The game unfolded over four tightly contested quarters. The first two quarters saw both teams battling hard, with nothing to separate them. Despite solid play, neither side could find the breakthrough, and the half-time score remained 0-0. Both teams making minor errors but also defending resolutely, keeping the game finely balanced.

In the second half, Wanstead came out with renewed purpose. A missed tackle from Thanet opened the door for Wanstead’s talented fly-half to score the first converted try, giving them a 7-0 lead. Moments later, another lapse in Thanet’s defense allowed Wanstead to exploit space inside, doubling their advantage with a second converted try to make it 14-0. Thanet's heads had dropped, and it seemed like Wanstead might run away with the game.

However, the game turned dramatically on a key moment. Jem stripping the ball from Wanstead’s winger after an attack in Thanet’s half. Turning into space, he stepped inside the covering defense and embarked on an exhilarating foot race to the line. Despite a last-ditch tackle attempt from Wanstead’s winger, he powered through to score under the posts. The conversion was good, bringing the score to 14-7 and revitalizing Thanet’s belief in themselves.

With momentum on their side, Thanet pressed forward. Fin G really growing in his hooker role, delivered a spectacular solo effort, breaking through Wanstead’s defensive line with a powerful run to touch down, narrowing the gap to only two points (14-12).

Thanet’s scrum had been impressive, with the welcome return of Will Gedge in the scrum with Finn T and a strong performance from Harrison making a significant difference. A crucial moment came when the Wanderers won a scrum against the head. Solid No. 8 Charlie B picked up from the base and powered over the line for a decisive try, giving Thanet a 19-14 lead following the conversion.

In the closing stages with eight minutes to go, Wanstead pushed hard to try to snatch victory. They had a try controversially disallowed for double movement after having dropped another scoring opportunity on the line previously in the half. Thanet's defense held firm, with outstanding last-ditch tackles preserving their slim advantage. Before Callum hoofed the ball into touch, on the final play of the game.

Despite a tense ending, this was a memorable and hard-fought win for Thanet Wanderers Colts. Showing true grit and determination to turn around a 14-0 deficit.

Special mention goes to the back five of Charlie P, Ellis, Owen, Hubert and Dillon, who’s tackling was instrumental in securing the victory. The backs combination of Cai, Oli, Tom, James, Vinnie and Alex (playing out of position but still putting in a good shift on the wing). Good to see Finn W back to increase the number of Finns in the team to the max and to further bolster the squad.

Coaches’ man of the Match went to Jem Harris for his try and tenacious last ditch try saving tackling.

Final Score: Wanstead Colts 14 – 19 Thanet Wanderers Colts

1 WILL ESCOMBE-GEDGE

2 FINN GROUNDS

3 FINN TWYMAN

4 OWEN LONG

5 DILLION SHELLY

6 ELLIS PLUMRIDGE

7 CHARLIE PAGE

8 CHARLIE BAILEY

9 CAI REDMOND

10 CALLUM DUFFY