TUNBRIDGE  WELLS RFC 1ST XV.     13.     WESTCLIFF RFC 1ST XV.     19.
This fourth league fixture of the new season saw Wells face an undefeated Essex side in intermittent rain. Wells continued to change their back line to reflect current injuries and unavailability with Charlie Rigby back at 9, Frank Taylor returning from injury at 10, skipper RYAN Taylor-Dennehy in the centre and  Max Douch returning from University.,
Wells found themselves playing up the hill in the first half and fairly regularly incurring the displeasure of the referee. This saw Westcliff into a 0-6 lead after 12 minutes as their fly half Ben McKeith kicked two simple penalties as Wells went off their feet in greasy conditions. Penalties were not all one way ,however, as Frank Reynolds pulled one back on 15 minutes only for Wells to concede another in front on 20 minutes for McKeith to stretch the score to 3-9. With both defences looking miserly it was no surprise that on 25 minutes Reynolds kicked another penalty for Wells to narrow the gap to 6-9. The next 10 minutes was to decide the result of the game as Westcliff No 8 Jim Smith was yellow carded and Wells launched themselves at the visitors line yet couldn’t quite get over. Breaking out Westcliff appeared to have taken out a Wells centre but play continued and right wing Ross Merrick got over in the corner with McKeith converting from the touchline. 6-16. Wells could have replied as the 40minutes were up but were forced out following a diagonal kick to the corner to leave them looking at a difficult but not impossible task in the second half down the slope.

The halftime talk clearly identified more direct tactics and having pinned Westcliff on their own line within 5 minutes of the restart Wells showed patience with the pick and drive for prop Ben Williams to burrow over for a try converted by Frank Reynolds. 13-16.
With this score early in the third quarter Wells could and should have gone on to take the game. Several promising moves, however, were spoilt by inaccurate kicking from hand and lack of patience when driving the narrow channels. The home side went further behind to yet another simple penalty for McKeith on 47 minutes but continued to  dominate possession and position. Two periods of recycling close to the Westcliff line should have seen Wells home but a combination of impatience and inconsistent tactics coupled with an outstanding defensive performance from Westcliff saw Wells thwarted in terms of adding to the scoreboard despite two attempts at diagonal kick passes and a 14 phase close range attack as injury time beckoned which was finally snuffed out as the ball was moved wide and into touch. Full time came with Wells scratching their heads and wondering how they had lost.

Despite the disappointment of a home loss against the current second side Wells did get a losing bonus point. They can take encouragement from a stable scrum, secure ball from Mike Hathaway and Christian Earle in the line out from the accurate throwing of Josh Pankhurst and a combative second half performance from the back row. Wells must build on this as they travel to Guildford for a 3 00 pm KO this Saturday in order to bring back the points.

Squad: Williams, Pankhurst, Crosilla, Mcgarvie, L Hawkins,  Earle, Hawkins J, Pentney, Allen, Hathaway, N Doherty, Rigby, Reynolds, Spicer, Bailey, Taylor-Dennehy, Douch, Allman.

TUNBRIDGE WELLS PROVE TOO STRONG

The weekend saw Tunbridge Wells travel to Shelford (and their artificial pitch) looking to right the wrongs of their heavy defeat to Wimbledon the previous week. Shelford finished 7th in the league last year, two places below Wells and had endured a tough start to the season with defeats to Sidcup and then Hertford. Each side won their home fixture between the teams last year and a competitive game was predicted.

There were a number of changes to the squad. An injury in training saw fly-half Frank Reynolds drop out of the side and Charlie Rigby moved from 9 to 10. Fellow junior product Max Edmonton, who has returned to the club after a near two year absence, started at scrum half. Captain Ryan Taylor-Dennehy moved to 13 as Rich Webster missed out through injury, Ollie Allman and Max Hobbs returned to the first team fold at fullback and wing respectively with Chester Clough the back reserve. The forwards saw changes too as Carl Straeche started at tighthead after impressing off the bench last week, with Brendan Crosilla onto the bench. Player coach Dave Allen made his first appearance of the season at flanker and new recruit Josh Hawkins started at second row with fellow newcomer Jamie Farris starting as sub.

On a warm and slightly breezy afternoon Shelford came out of the blocks very quickly. First blood went to Wells however, after a surging run by the back row of Hathaway and Allen and were rewarded with a penalty in front of the posts which Edmonton converted easily. Shelford came straight back retaining possession time after time frustrating Wells and this was soon rewarded after 8 minutes when Shelford were camped on the Wells line for the scrum half to jink his way through three poor Wells tackles to dive over the line between the posts. This was successfully converted. Wells then started to get back into the game but poor kicking out of hand and poor handling errors saw them losing possession and losing territory. Shelford again recycled the ball well and after 9 or 10 phases were rewarded again when Wells gave another penalty away on their 10 meter line. The Shelford full back stepped up and accurately converted to make the score. The game then went into a stalemate position with both sides making surging runs but turnover ball thwarting both sides. On 27 minutes Shelford increased their lead with a penalty kicked by their 15 from almost the same spot as previously.

Crosilla then replaced Straeche and the Shelford pack began to wilt. Strong running from Doherty, Hathaway and Allen lead the charge, followed by carries from Bailey saw Wells putting more and more pressure on the Shelford side who were starting to look tired. Hawkins began making a nuisance of himself and Wells had their heads up. All this pressure was rewarded after a solid 5 metre scrum saw skipper Ryan Taylor-Dennehy crash over just on half time, successfully converted by Edmonton, leaving the score 13-10 at half time.
Wells came out the second half full of energy and scored very quickly through Doherty and then soon after by Tom Bailey, who had a very strong game in the Centre. Edmonton converted bringing the score to 22-13. Wells continued the pressure through the scrummaging of Williams, Pankhurst and Straeche and again Wells scored with the pack powering their way over the line with Doherty touching down for his second try, again Edmonton converting, 13-29. Continued possession, strong running and constant pressure saw Wells striking again, this time with an excellent chip and chase for Ryan Taylor-Dennehy to go over for his second try, taking the score to 13-34.
Jamie Farris then replaced the workhorse of Josh Hawkins for his debut , however Shelford found their second wind and started to play their way back into the game with a try coming from their centre, converted and soon after on 79mins, what seemed to be a successful turnover Farris was sent to the bin for being off his feet. Shelford took advantage of the extra man and scored a converted try on 80 minutes. Final score 27-34.

Wells will take heart from this game, knowing that it was a much improved performance compared to the week before, however with next weeks’ encounter with Westcliff at home, unbeaten this Season, they know they will have to step up another gear to compete.

TWRFC – Shelford – 15/09/18

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Cranbrook Vets 10- TWRFC Vets 54

A reading from the (less than) sacred scriptures 

And it came to pass, in the second year of the reign of King Creesius the lusty, that the Lord God commanded the ancient men of Tunbridge to battle the heathen men of Cranbrook. For Cranbrook were an brutish and ungodly rabble unpleasing to the Lord. 

And so, verily, the men of Tunbridge wandered to that far and distant land; robed only in cloth of finest blue, provided by an strange man of hideous appearance whose loins were girded heavily as to maketh his pants seemeth fat. 

And, hark, a whistle blew and the Spirit of the Lord descended- so as to maketh them all keen unto a man. And they did take the fight to the heathen heartily, the Baldock running hard, his knees lifted high, his chest stuck out, until the breath runneth from his lungs and his rounded belly dragged upon the earth. And he was joined in the warrior pack by an assortment of blessed disciples; Milo, Tiggy, Craney, Gray, Fatpants, Kenners, Mac, Croker and an dodgy looking chinaman named Taz.

And these mighty men did battle hard, singing hymns of love unto the prophetess Emily, and did provide much ball to the glory of God. And they were inspired by the oldest amongst them, an ancient man whose years span eight and fifty, and Maynard is his name. And he is an miracle. And he also played the day before, despite his crumbling form, for the seconds. And he is an hero of the vets. 

And lo! A giant then appereath from amongst them, Andrew by name, of the tribe of the Northern of Irish, who smashed the heathen aside to put the first points on the scoreboard. And then did a fishy prophet of the Lord, one Bob-eye Jee, kick the conversion. And the Lord was mighty pleased. 

And the whistle bleweth again and the men of Tunbridge returned to battle. And lo! A pretty angel did appear in the backs, sent by God, and his face was brilliant white and his buttocks rounded and firm. And he did score an brilliant try by using a dummy, scissors and pop. And Beamooooo was his name. And Bob-eye Jee did converteth again and the men rejoiced heartily…for it was now 14-0. 

And Beamoooo was joined amongst the angel host by other fair beings of smooth face and effeminate nature. And their names were Hacker, Daley, Webster, Wratton, Derbyshire, and Hughes. And an angel that was fallen stood amongst them, an demonic and evil being, whose leg was deformed. And Riggers was his name. And he was an horrid abomination before the Lord. And the men of God turned their faces from him. And none would speak of him. 

At his command the enemy rallied and the heathen respondeth with an glorious try- straight from the kick off- the ball sailing into the hands of a winger to frustrate the will of the Lord. But the men of Tunbridge were not afraid for a midget did then rise up from amongst them. And the midget did score an third try. And the people of God asketh him to stand before them. And Milo was his name. And the Bob-eye Jee did kick once more and the Lord was mighty pleased. 

But lo! What awful play is this? An calamitous and embarrassing knock on from an hairy and brutish man, Mac, whose anger spilleth over and who did provide for the heathen many penalties with his loutish play and angry visage. But the problems were overcometh when a soldier of the Lord, fleet of foot, did outsmart the enemy on the flanks. And Wratton was his name. But the try was not given for an monstrously foolish and ignorant man, named Croker, did raise his flag and call for a line out. But the soldier of the Lord was not dismayed and scoreth again and this time it stood. And the Bob-eye Jee kicketh but this time the ball striketh the post and the Lord was displeased. And Riggers did laugh for he is evil. 

Now there stood on the field an crippled man whose arm the Lord had healed; an copper man, strong of back but wonky of eye. And he did stand behind the pack to play scrum half for his healing was so recent. And Tiggy was his name. And he did try a fancy boxed kick and verily did make himself look like an arse. And riggers did laugh at his misfortune, for he is a vile and evil being, and wants to return at 9. 

And there was on that field of play also an greedy man who did run mazily through the heathen hoard to score under the post in the second half. And Charlie Hacker was his name. And he did convert his own try for the fishy prophet, Bob-eye Jee, was taking a breather. And the Tiggy also scoreth an try and the Hacker kicketh that also. 

And behold! The Bob-eye Jee did return to battle and was tackled naughtily by heathen swine. And the fury of the Lord possessed him and he did breathe mightily through is nose, red of face and awful stroppy. And he did smash his opposite man and whinge a plenty. And the heathen laughed at him and scored another try in return. 

And the battle drew to a close and the Lord proclaimed his delight in them all. And the men of Tunbridge did stay for a beer and also won the drink off. And then did they travel to the home of the fishy prophet, Bob-eye Je, for a festival of sausage cooked on a brazier of silver. And the men enjoyed their ‘bit of sausage’ and danced into the night. And two disciples of the Lord, Tiggy and Laurence, did attempt to entertain them all with gripping tales of a constabulary nature which sent them all to sleep.

And the Lord looked down on the mighty vets that day and saw that they were good. And he proclaimed this a year of jubilee and commanded them to go forth into the world of Kent and claim a cup of finest gold…the season has begun. 

Here endeth the lesson. 

Wells Start Season with 5 Points

It’s a long time (if ever) since the competitive rugby season started on the first day of September for Tunbridge Wells. However, with 26 games to fit in during this second season in the level 5 London and South East Premier League it was a sunny St Marks that heralded the opening game of the campaign.

After a positive pre-season ended with a win at Westcombe Park, there are five new teams to encounter this time around in the shape of Bedford Athletic, Brentwood, Chingford, CS Stags 1863, and Wimbledon. However, it was familiar foes in the form of Hertford who were the visitors to the Wells. A fifth place finish exceeded most expectations last year but with Hertford having finished one place higher (and a whopping 28 points ahead) no one was anticipating anything but a tough opener.

Wells have strong continuity from last season with the coaching team remaining in tandem along with the vast majority of the side continuing and Ryan Taylor-Dennehy as captain. The squad has also been bolstered for the season with this week’s team containing big second row Chris Pentney, inside centre Tom Bailey and back reserve Henry Toomer. A few players missed this game due to holidays and last season Players’ Player Mike Doherty suffered an injury in training and will miss the early part of the season.

Wells played the first half up the slope towards the clubhouse and proceedings began very well for the home side. Hathaway secured an impressive lineout steal on the Hertford 10 metre line and the travelling side conceded a penalty, Reynolds sent the kick to the corner for a lineout 7 metres out. A well-executed catch and drive ensued which saw Pankhurst peel down the blindside to touch down unopposed, Reynolds converts from the left. 7-0 after 4 minutes.

Both sides threatened for the first quarter of the game without an end product as a little rustiness showed which was to be expected on the opening day of the season. Wells were getting some joy down the left hand side through Webster and Smith, who were both to have excellent games and Hertford broke through centre field on a few occasions through their 13’s direct running for the most part. Wells’ scrum was proving very solid and would hold a slight advantage throughout the game in what was a terrific battle, whilst the lineout provided some good ball, primarily through Earle and Hathaway, but proved sloppy at times.

It was Hertford who were next to score on 20 minutes, after a number of phases they found themselves in the Wells 22 where the scrum half darted down the narrow blindside to offload to the winger to score in the corner, conversion missed 7-5. Within 5 minutes Wells had responded effectively, they broke down the right hand side up to the 22 after good handling by Taylor-Dennehy and the ball was moved back to the left where Taylor-Dennehy’s superb delayed pass sent Webster powering through only to be pulled down just short of the line. Hertford cynically conceded a penalty for offside and their blindside flanker was sent to the bin. The ball was kicked to the corner and the home support were willing for a replay of the first score, it was not to be as Hertford’s maul defence saw them receive a scrum.
The game was proving very open with strong running from both sides with Hathaway, Doherty, Webster and Bailey getting through a lot of work. Whilst the breakdown was clean for the most part, Hathaway and the travelling four were proving to be nuisances for their opposition.

On the half hour mark Wells scored their try of the game. Hertford were launching what looked a dangerous attack up to the Wells half way line on the Wells left hand side. However, Pankhurst ripped the ball from the attacker and threw the ball deep to Taylor-Dennehy who surged across the pitch before straightening and offloading to Hathaway on the 10 metre line who in turn moved the ball to Doherty. He provided quick hands to Spicer and he expertly drew the final defender and sent Bailey free down the right hand touchline and under the post for an easy conversion for Reynolds 14-5.

Whilst the team’s second try was superb the third would best be described as opportunistic. With one minute to go until half time Hertford looked to play from deep, as they did for much of the game, but the ball was knocked on just outside the 22 metre line. Reynolds reacted quickest to hack through twice before falling on the ball over the line dusting himself off and converting, 21-5 halftime.

Both sides would have been looking for improvement in the second half and the home side were wary of a resurgent Hertford. The half began with strong breaks from both hookers, the run from the Hertford number 2 could easily have resulted in a try after only 5 minutes but the ball was knocked on and Wells had a scrum 5 where the front row of Crosilla, Pankhurst and Williams secured a penalty. The Tunbridge Wells scrum hasn’t always been the strongest in previous seasons but the side now appear to be very secure in the area and it offers an effective attacking platform.

Hertford were next to strike, from a scrum in the Wells 22 they moved the ball wide to touch down in the corner, good conversion 21-12. Wells’ defensive effort was being optimised by Reynolds who made numerous tackles including a crowd pleasing dump tackle on the opposition centre. From this tackle the supporting players were over-zealous and pinged for going off their feet in the centre of the pitch 30 metres from the Wells posts. Hertford opted for the corner, but the ball was sent dead which was to prove a big moment. From the resulting scrum the ball went blind as Bailey sent Smith on a surging run down the left hand side, the ball was kicked deep and Hertford recovered the ball under pressure in their 22. The ball popped out the ruck and Webster was there on this occasion to hack through to score and secure the try bonus point, converted again 28-12. From the following kick off Pankhurst’s comical left foot swipe should, but probably never will be forgotten.

As the game entered the final quarter Hertford saw their best period of the game. Firstly they scored as they broke through the centre and fantastic offloading saw their prop dot down against the post. Then with 10 minutes to go they received a penalty infront of the posts which was successfully kicked, 28-22.

The previously very confident home support were now wary that the next score was crucial, up steps Hathaway. The openside secures a brilliant turnover on the left hand side as Hertford attack inside their own half. The ball is moved inside for one phase and then back to the left where Hatherway powers through before offloading to Doherty who strolls over for the try, Reynolds does it again 35-22. There was still time for Hertford to score a length of the pitch bonus point try which proved to be the last play of the game, conversion missed which meant the away side didn’t secure the losing bonus point.

It was certainly a great game to watch and a fantastic 5 points awith impressive performances through the team. Wells scrum half Charlie Rigby was awarded the Man of the Match award due to his impressive controlling of proceedings.

Head Coach Simon Whatling said “it was a contest between two teams who clearly were rusty, but we had fantastic character and work rate. It was great to see a change of mind-set.”

Next week sees Wimbledon who were relegated from National 2 South last season visit St Marks for a 3pm kick off. This is sure to be a tough game against a side that many consider favourites for the league and won 28-15 against Tring (3rd last year) in their opening game.

Photos from the game can be found here:

TWRFC – Hertford RFC – 01/09/18

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Wells faced Combe in this second pre- season practice game knowing that the S London side had been unlucky to be relegated from London and SE Premier last season and in the knowledge that they had lost the league fixture in very wet conditions by a point at Goddington Dene last campaign.
Wells fielded a number of new faces from last week with Stuart Nicholls at hooker, Josh Hawkins in the second row, James Farris at 6, Dave Allen at 7, Charlie Rigby at 9, James Potter on the wing, Ryan Taylor Dennehy at full back and Ollie Allman and James Lautch on the bench.The game started in good weather with the home side dominating possession but Wells showing sharpness and ambition  in the counter attack. This brought them the first points on 7 minutes. Dave Allen put in a big hit to thwart Combe on the right and Wells recycled the ball to Mike Doherty on the Wells 22. Doherty got the ball away to Richard Webster with some 50 metres to go and he made no mistake with a difficult finish with Frank Taylor adding the points 0-7.
In general Wells were demonstrating a tight defence but on 15 minutes after they had failed to secure their own line out ball the scores were even as after a long pass the Combe right wing went in for a converted score 7-7.The game continued in the same vein with Jake Smith putting in a 40metre gain on the left before Combe taking advantage of the possession they were retaining rolled a maul close to the line for their No 6 to score the try which was significantly unconverted 12-7.
The rest of the half saw Wells gaining ascendancy in the scrums, with both sides defending well with the turbo charged Allen everywhere and Webster, Doherty and particularly Smith putting in some big tackles in the backs. This gave Wells a higher percentage of the ball but it was still the art of the counter attack which saw them draw ahead on 29 minutes as the ball was moved left by Nick Doherty to the returning Ryan Taylor – Dennehy who made 40metres before switching the ball inside to the supporting Mike Doherty who scored near the posts for Frank Taylor to convert. 12-14.

This remained the score until halftime when both sides found themselves a man down due to yellow cards.

Halftime saw a total change as heavy  rain swept the field and made conditions difficult. Combe started the half better but Wells put on pressure on the home line between the 55 th and 65 th minutes earning a number of penalties as they dominated in the scrum. At anytime they could have opted for the three points and in a league game they would have taken them. However, despite getting within a metre on several occasions the only winner was the heavy rain as the surface and the ball became very slippery. Eventually Combe broke out aided by a number of their own penalties and despite both sides launching further attacks and Wells dominating the set pieces the score remained the same until the end of a game where the weather had played an unpredictable part.

Wells head coach Simon Whatling and his coaching team were pleased with a hard work out and the introduction of a range of new players and Academy products as they work towards the first league game at home to Hertford this Saturday KO 3 00 pm. A new look back line worked well at times with Charlie Rigby setting them in motion at scrum half and with fellow Academy products Webster, Smith and Potter blending in well. The scrummage was also a big plus point and the only area to work on in the set pieces will be some of the line out organisation. The defensive game was solid from forwards and backs with Allen and Smith outstanding.

Squad: Ben Williams, Stuart Nicholls, Luke Hawkins, Brendan Crosilla, Carl Straeche, Chris Pentney,Josh Hawkins, James Farris, James Lautch, Dave Allen, Nick Doherty, Charlie Rigby, Frank Reynolds, Ollie Allman, Jake Smith, Mike Doherty, Richard Webster, James Potter, Ryan Taylor- Dennehy.

TWRFC – Westcombe Park – 25th August 2018

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Wells travelled to Cambridgeshire to compete in their last game of the season against a Shelford side they had defeated 39-19 in their first home game of their new campaign in London and SE Premier Division. The temperature was in the low 20’s as they ran out on Shelford’s new artificial grass pitch. Wells had secured their impressive 5th place in this the highest league they have played in the week before and Shelford had guaranteed survival with a big win against Sutton and Epsom.

The first half was a relatively even one with Wells not really at their best in attack but with their defence causing a number of spill ages and turnovers from their hosts. Scrums were even but again Wells had trouble securing their own ball at offensive line outs.
Shelford were on the large electronic scoreboard first as fly half Josh Simmons made no mistake 3-0 7 minutes. Wells though stuck manfully to the task with an intent to move the ball wide which saw them run the ball down the right in a counter attack before moving the ball inside for Mike Hathaway to get the touch down and Frank Reynolds the conversion 3-7 on 16 minutes.
Possession continued to ebb and flow with Wells defending several rolling mauls.

Things remained this way until the referee took exception to events at a break down on 23 minutes when Luke Hawkins the Wells hooker and Aki Lea the Shelford 8 were both shown yellow cards. This opened the game up and on 28 minutes Anzelu Tuitavuki the home left wing scored from the halfway line with Simmons missing the conversion 8-7.

With both players safely back on the pitch Frank Reynolds took a simple penalty opportunity on 33 minutes to restore the Wells lead which remained the score at halftime 8-10 to the visitors.

At the restart Wells continued in contention holding up the Shelford pack over the line and initiating some good yards in attack. Despite going behind to a Simmons try and conversion on 52 minutes 15-10 the game was still in the balance but opportunities were not so frequent as Simmons put Wells under aerial bombardment. Nevertheless Max Hobbs went close on the right and then Wells moved the ball right to create the extra man. Often games are won with an inspired moment and home right wing Charlie Parkhouse seized it as he intercepted only 10 metres from his own try line to score under the posts withSimmons converting on 62 minutes 22-10. From then onwards this was a task too far for Wells as they strove to deliver a sixth successive win and with a further yellow card for impeding conceded a final try which brought Shelford the bonus on 80 minutes. 27-10.

This defeat can in no way though undermine the most successful season for Tunbridge Wells playing at RFU Level 5 for the first time as they end up in 5 th place from the 13 sides competing.

Credit must go to the squad in general, the coaching team of Simon Whatling, Dave Allen and Mike Whatman and to the team management of Chairman John Crees and Team Manager Michelle Greenall not forgetting the work of Will Thorpe up until the end of January.
Now comes a rest before the town side looks to improve on this showing in 2018/19.

Squad: Ben Williams, Luke Hawkins, Brendan Crosilla, Carl Straeche, Adam Webb, Christian Earle, Toby Talbot, Mike Hathaway, Nick Doherty, Mac Popham, Max Douch, Frank Reynolds, Blaise Salle, Mike Doherty, Shadyn Osgood, Max Hobbs, Matt Spicer, Ryan Taylor – Dennehy.

TWRFC – Shelford – 21st April 2018

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Wells fielded the same starting 15 as they had in winning at Westcliff last week but brought Academy product Toby Talbot onto the bench with Kyle McGarvie. Conditions were at last firm under foot and warm sunshine greeted both sides. The visitors needed a win to bolster their chances of surviving at this level for the 2018/19 season and begun the game looking like the win was more important to them than it did to Wells. This was to be the story of the first half as despite Frank Reynolds putting the home side in front with a penalty on 17 minutes little else went right for the town side in the first 40 minutes as the G’s took a firm grip on proceedings aided and abetted by wayward kicking, and a failure to secure line out ball from Wells.

With territory and position it only took Guildford 2 minutes to respond with scrum half  Bradley Smith cutting inside the Wells cover to score close to the posts and with full back Ali Chisholm adding the extras 3-7 on 19 minutes. Things did not get better for Wells in the second quarter as imprecise passing, and a loss of initial dominance in the tight saw a succession of penalties move Guildford to within range and a rolling maul from a lineout on the left collapsed with Wells adjudged the offenders as the referee awarded a penalty try and Nick Doherty was despatched with a yellow card on 35 minutes 3-14.

With Doherty off Wells looked under even more pressure as Ben Williams joined Doherty in the bin as he was somewhat harshly  judged to have adopted an illegal position as the G’s no 3 George Banks went to the floor. With Wells down to 13  on 42 minutes Guildford rolled again and No 6 Ollie Millward claimed Guildford’s third try following up on the drive. This left the halftime score at 3-21 as Chisholm again kicked the extras and left the Wells crowd -bolstered by the Vice Presidents lunch- scratching their heads as to how they were going to extract themselves from this position.

However, this team has not hit the top 5 in London Premier this year without considerable skill and spirit and having succeeded in holding the opposition at bay for the first few minutes of the second half until back to fifteen they proceeded to reel in the score. First Blaise Salle went close on the right and within 2 minutes Nick Doherty finished off a patient pick and drive sequence halfway out with Frank Reynolds kicking the conversion 10-21 46 minutes.

Wells continued to dominate as Dave Allen used his experience and skill to pick at the narrow channels and suck G’s in before releasing the ball. This gave much greater space to the backs when the ball was moved wide. Skipper Ryan Taylor –Dennehy was next to blast up the left touchline and looked to have scored after a 40 metre run only to have the try disallowed for putting it down in goal but over the touchline. This made little difference to the momentum which had shifted decidedly to the home side as on 53 minutes further patient picking and driving saw Man of the Match Dave Allen pop the ball to Mike Doherty on the straight burst for him to score and for Reynolds again to add the extras which was to prove vital 17-21.

Wells were not finished yet as they exploited an 18 minute purple patch to score yet again on 64 minutes as a midfield switch from centre Shadyn Osgood saw Taylor – Dennehy make up for his earlier narrow miss to run in from 30 metres beating the defence for pace as he scored Wells third try with Reynolds again converting 24-21.

This purple patch put Wells in the driving seat as they regained control in the scrum and started to take their line outs as Mc Garvie came on from the subs bench. With the back row bossing the breakdown Wells were able to see out time despite Guildford striving for those points for survival.

As the final whistle came Guildford got a valuable losing bonus point and Wells couldn’t quite add to their try bonus points. However, soon afterwards it became apparent as Westcliff went down to Hertford that Wells had secured their 5^th position in their first season at this level and Guildford need a win in their last game or they need Westcombe Park to lose in order to survive in this league for next season.

This Saturday Wells travel to Shelford  to play on their new Artificial grass pitch as they conclude the season in the highest position the club has ever attained since the inception of the RFU leagues and striving to keep their sequence of 5 wins in a row going.

Squad: Ben Williams, Luke Hawkins, Brendan Crosilla, Kyle McGarvie, Christian Earle, Mac Popham, Mike Hathaway, Dave Allen, Nick Doherty, Toby Talbot, Max Douch, Frank Reynolds, Blaise Salle, Matt Spicer, Mike Doherty, Shadyn Osgood, Max Hobbs,  Ryan Taylor- Dennehy (Capt)

TWRFC – Guildford – 14th April 2018

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After a well earned break over Easter Tunbridge Wells travelled to Westcliff for the fixture that would almost certainly decide fifth place in the league. Westcliff were two points above Wells in fifth and had their tails up after a good win over Sutton and Epsom in their last fixture. The sun was out, the ground was dry and conditions seemed perfect for expansive rugby, but the early exchanges were all about the scrum.  Wells found it hard going against a very solid Westcliff pack and once again it took them a while to get into the game. With their pack securing plenty of ball, Westcliff’s backs probed the Wells defensive line without success, but they always looked dangerous.

Neither side looked to be on top attacking form, but with defences working well and only a few minutes remaining the first half looked likely to be limited to two penalties for Westcliff and a yellow card apiece.  But Wells had other ideas. With very little time left on the clock and Wells applying sustained pressure to the Westcliff line, the ball was spun out to the back line and Mike Doherty made no mistake for the try.  Frank Reylolds’ conversion meant the visitors edged ahead with the halftime score of 6-7 giving them a mental boost.

Both sets of coaches would have had plenty to say at half time but it was the Wells’ coach Simon Whatling’s team talk that had the almost instant impact. Both teams were restored to full strength and the boys in blue and white restarted with all cylinders firing. They put direct pressure quickly on the Westcliff line and moved the ball efficiently out to captain Ryan Taylor-Dennehy for try number two.  Reynolds’ conversion went wide. 6-12.

It wasn’t too long before Westcliff replied with an unconverted try bringing the scores back to 11-12.  Nerves were jangling a little with the travelling support but seven minutes later Ryan Taylor-Dennehy bagged his second, and Wells’ third, try.  Reynolds’ conversion was unsuccessful so the score still felt too close at 11-17.

With less than 10 minutes to go and the home crowd vocally urging their team on, prop Ben Williams broke through the defensive line. Williams cleverly fed the ball across the pitch to Shadyn Osgood who made a terrific 50 metre run for the bonus point fourth try. Reynolds slotted over the conversion and with five minutes to go the score was 11-24.

Westcliff weren’t giving up easily though and finished the game with a second try making the final score 16-24.

This was not a pretty win, but it was a solid defensive performance against a side that has held fifth in this league for most of the season. A bonus point win is always welcome and with 16 try bonus points and five losing bonus points this season Wells have shown grit and determination in victory and defeat. Wells make it a double over Westcliff and will look forward to meeting them again next season.

Next week Tunbridge Wells welcome Guildford to St. Mark’s for the last home fixture of the season.  Kick off 3pm.

Squad:

Ben Williams, Luke Hawkins, Carl Straeche, Christian Earle, Mike Hathaway, Adam Webb, Dave Allen, Nick Doherty, Max Douch, Frank Reynolds, Blaise Salle, Mike Doherty, Shadyn Osgood, Max Hobbs, Ryan Taylor-Dennehy (c), Brendan Crosilla, Mac Popham, Matt Spicer

TWRFC – Westcliff – 7th April 2018

57 photos

Tunbridge Wells hosted Dorking at St Marks in a game that saw 6th take on 7th in a match that was always likely to be highly competitive.

Wells were hoping to put on a show as they bid farewell to club captain Chas Spence who now travels to Australia to further his rugby education and there was also a sense of unfinished business from when the teams first met on “Bonfire Night”in Surrey. An under-strength Wells were heavily beaten 42-7 in arguably their most disappointing performance of the season. It was a win Dorking clearly enjoyed that day but the boys from St Marks were keen to ensure that the only fireworks this time around came wrapped in blue and white.

Head Coach Simon Whatling was forced to make changes after the previous week’s impressive win at Southend. Max Douch started this time to replace Spence at scrum half, with Richard Webster coming on to the bench. The powerful Shaydn Osgood returned at centre after injury whilst in the forwards the ever-popular Andy Burgess came back into the second row enabling Mike Hathaway to move to his preferred back row slot. Luke Hawkins also returned as forward substitute cover. Full back Ryan Taylor-Dennehy assumed the captaincy.

The home side played up the hill  towards the club house on a bitterly cold day with the swirling wind predominantly in their faces going towards Wells’ defensive left hand corner. Indeed, the wind was to prove troublesome for both teams.

On 5 minutes Wells failed to deal with a box kick which led to to a successfully converted penalty for the visitors in front of the sticks. 0-3. In the early stages Dorking had the territorial advantage and after Wells knocked on during a line out maul in their own 22, they had an attacking scrum which earned a penalty and another scrum was chosen. Robust defence forced a knock on though and Wells were able to exit from the ensuing scrum. Strong defence of this nature was to be a feature of the afternoon for the home team.

Taylor-Dennehy and outside half Frank Reynolds kicked extremely well and intelligently into the wind, outplaying their counterparts. One such kick nearly led to a try as Academy product Toby Talbot charged down a clearing kick and the chasing wing Max Hobbs looked likely to score after good footballing skills only to knock on.

In these initial exchanges Dorking held the upper hand in the scrum with Wells incurring the wrath of the referee. However, the Wells line out was  functioning very well with hooker Josh Pankhurst hitting Hathaway and Christian Earle and did so all afternoon.

Wells first got on the scoreboard on 18 minutes. After a series of phases in the middle of the pitch close to the ruck on the Dorking 22 metre line, with Nick Doherty and Burgess to the fore, centre Mike Doherty exploited a mismatch against a visiting prop to cross for an opening try on the left hand side 10 metres in from touch. With a fine Reynolds conversion it was 7-3.

Dorking came back strongly but fierce and intelligent defence from Talbot,  Hobbs, Douch and Pankhurst led to a great turnover from prop Ben “Fridge” Williams. Soon after, Wells counter attacked well with Taylor-Dennehy, Hobbs and Osgood in tandem.

A break through the middle from a Dorking winger off the back of a line out led to a penalty. This was kicked to corner to set up a catch and drive on 28 minutes but phenomenal Wells defence again thwarted the visitors. This impressive defence was also leading to Dorking mistakes and with the home scrum now becoming increasingly competitive Wells entered their best phase of the first half.

A Taylor-Dennehy and Osgood counter saw excellent field position and when Dorking were penalised for a tackle offence Reynolds knocked over the penalty from 30 minutes. 10-3. Wells closed out a tough half up the slope after a break deep in his own half by Nick Doherty was taken on by Talbot who surged up field impressively. Wells had assumed control of the half dealing with the worst of the conditions through a superior kicking game and handling, coupled with great defence. Half Time 10-3.

As the second period started Earle broke through the middle and off loaded to Hathaway and a penalty was earned. Unfortunately, this went wide  but the home side were not to be denied. Not only did Williams pre-empt a laboured box kick clearance and charge it down but it was the prop himself who hacked through from the 22 metre line and beat the Dorking cover for a very popular touch down on 46 minutes. 15-3.

Dorking are not in 7th by accident though and came back only to be held up by Brendan Crosilla, Earle, Williams and Hathaway but the men in red and white eventually earned a penalty on 50 minutes that they converted from 30 metres. 15-6.

What would have particularly pleased Skills Coach Mike Whatman (now promoted to Director of Rugby) was the fact that Wells were executing their skills much the better of the two teams in the conditions. With the scrum now gradually assuming dominance Reynolds was soon given another penalty opportunity after Williams and Hathaway carried strongly again and he extended the Wells lead on 57 minutes. 18-6. On the hour after another impressive outing an injured Hathaway was replaced by Hawkins.

Despite Wells seemingly being in charge the game was not yet won and the visitors best passage of play saw some big carries up field earning a penalty. Dorking kicked to the Wells 5 metre line and an impressive catch and drive saw them score a try on 63 minutes. 18-11.

Nerves were just starting to jangle for the home support but these were almost settled when Reynolds cleverly chipped and chased but the defending blindside winger covered well to prevent the try. Webster now replaced the injured Mike Doherty and soon after Wells stretched their lead. Douch fed his ball carriers well and Crosilla, Earle and Pankhurst made good yardage before Taylor-Dennehy showing great vision grubbered the ball behind the Dorking defence and in-form winger Matt Spicer was first to the ball for the try. With a cracking Reynolds touchline conversion it was now 25-11 on 74 minutes.

All that was needed now for the perfect afternoon at the office was the fourth bonus point try and on 80 minutes it came. A huge hit by Osgood created turnover ball for Nick Doherty to break through for a final try converted by Reynolds. 32-11.

Overall, this was a thoroughly deserved win. Wells managed the conditions superbly and always seemed in control with resolute defence and great execution in skills and game plan against a very useful team. Man of the match could have genuinely gone to several players but for a huge shift in defence, the scrum and a very well taken try the accolade went to Ben “Fridge” Williams.

Wells moved to within two points of 5th placed Westcliff and will be targetting this spot with this away fixture to be played . Next week they host Kent rivals Sidcup at St Marks with a 3pm kick off. As the visitors are one of four teams battling to avoid the final relegation spot then another fiercely-contested local derby is likely.

Squad: Ben Williams, Josh Pankhurst, Brendan Crosilla, Kyle McGarvie, Andy Burgess, Christian Earle, Toby Talbot, Mike Hathaway, Luke Hawkins, Nick Doherty, Max Douch, Frank Reynolds, Matt Spicer, Mike Doherty, Shadyn Osgood, Max Hobbs, Ryan Taylor- Dennehy (Capt) Richard Webster.

TWRFC – Dorking rfc – 18th March 2018

80 photos

Tunbridge Wells hosted Dorking at St Marks in a game that saw 6th take on 7th in a match that was always likely to be highly competitive.

Wells were hoping to put on a show as they bid farewell to club captain Chas Spence who now travels to Australia to further his rugby education and there was also a sense of unfinished business from when the teams first met on “Bonfire Night”in Surrey. An under-strength Wells were heavily beaten 42-7 in arguably their most disappointing performance of the season. It was a win Dorking clearly enjoyed that day but the boys from St Marks were keen to ensure that the only fireworks this time around came wrapped in blue and white.

Head Coach Simon Whatling was forced to make changes after the previous week’s impressive win at Southend. Max Douch started this time to replace Spence at scrum half, with Richard Webster coming on to the bench. The powerful Shaydn Osgood returned at centre after injury whilst in the forwards the ever-popular Andy Burgess came back into the second row enabling Mike Hathaway to move to his preferred back row slot. Luke Hawkins also returned as forward substitute cover. Full back Ryan Taylor-Dennehy assumed the captaincy.

The home side played up the hill  towards the club house on a bitterly cold day with the swirling wind predominantly in their faces going towards Wells’ defensive left hand corner. Indeed, the wind was to prove troublesome for both teams.

On 5 minutes Wells failed to deal with a box kick which led to to a successfully converted penalty for the visitors in front of the sticks. 0-3. In the early stages Dorking had the territorial advantage and after Wells knocked on during a line out maul in their own 22, they had an attacking scrum which earned a penalty and another scrum was chosen. Robust defence forced a knock on though and Wells were able to exit from the ensuing scrum. Strong defence of this nature was to be a feature of the afternoon for the home team.

Taylor-Dennehy and outside half Frank Reynolds kicked extremely well and intelligently into the wind, outplaying their counterparts. One such kick nearly led to a try as Academy product Toby Talbot charged down a clearing kick and the chasing wing Max Hobbs looked likely to score after good footballing skills only to knock on.

In these initial exchanges Dorking held the upper hand in the scrum with Wells incurring the wrath of the referee. However, the Wells line out was  functioning very well with hooker Josh Pankhurst hitting Hathaway and Christian Earle and did so all afternoon.

Wells first got on the scoreboard on 18 minutes. After a series of phases in the middle of the pitch close to the ruck on the Dorking 22 metre line, with Nick Doherty and Burgess to the fore, centre Mike Doherty exploited a mismatch against a visiting prop to cross for an opening try on the left hand side 10 metres in from touch. With a fine Reynolds conversion it was 7-3.

Dorking came back strongly but fierce and intelligent defence from Talbot,  Hobbs, Douch and Pankhurst led to a great turnover from prop Ben “Fridge” Williams. Soon after, Wells counter attacked well with Taylor-Dennehy, Hobbs and Osgood in tandem.

A break through the middle from a Dorking winger off the back of a line out led to a penalty. This was kicked to corner to set up a catch and drive on 28 minutes but phenomenal Wells defence again thwarted the visitors. This impressive defence was also leading to Dorking mistakes and with the home scrum now becoming increasingly competitive Wells entered their best phase of the first half.

A Taylor-Dennehy and Osgood counter saw excellent field position and when Dorking were penalised for a tackle offence Reynolds knocked over the penalty from 30 minutes. 10-3. Wells closed out a tough half up the slope after a break deep in his own half by Nick Doherty was taken on by Talbot who surged up field impressively. Wells had assumed control of the half dealing with the worst of the conditions through a superior kicking game and handling, coupled with great defence. Half Time 10-3.

As the second period started Earle broke through the middle and off loaded to Hathaway and a penalty was earned. Unfortunately, this went wide  but the home side were not to be denied. Not only did Williams pre-empt a laboured box kick clearance and charge it down but it was the prop himself who hacked through from the 22 metre line and beat the Dorking cover for a very popular touch down on 46 minutes. 15-3.

Dorking are not in 7th by accident though and came back only to be held up by Brendan Crosilla, Earle, Williams and Hathaway but the men in red and white eventually earned a penalty on 50 minutes that they converted from 30 metres. 15-6.

What would have particularly pleased Skills Coach Mike Whatman (now promoted to Director of Rugby) was the fact that Wells were executing their skills much the better of the two teams in the conditions. With the scrum now gradually assuming dominance Reynolds was soon given another penalty opportunity after Williams and Hathaway carried strongly again and he extended the Wells lead on 57 minutes. 18-6. On the hour after another impressive outing an injured Hathaway was replaced by Hawkins.

Despite Wells seemingly being in charge the game was not yet won and the visitors best passage of play saw some big carries up field earning a penalty. Dorking kicked to the Wells 5 metre line and an impressive catch and drive saw them score a try on 63 minutes. 18-11.

Nerves were just starting to jangle for the home support but these were almost settled when Reynolds cleverly chipped and chased but the defending blindside winger covered well to prevent the try. Webster now replaced the injured Mike Doherty and soon after Wells stretched their lead. Douch fed his ball carriers well and Crosilla, Earle and Pankhurst made good yardage before Taylor-Dennehy showing great vision grubbered the ball behind the Dorking defence and in-form winger Matt Spicer was first to the ball for the try. With a cracking Reynolds touchline conversion it was now 25-11 on 74 minutes.

All that was needed now for the perfect afternoon at the office was the fourth bonus point try and on 80 minutes it came. A huge hit by Osgood created turnover ball for Nick Doherty to break through for a final try converted by Reynolds. 32-11.

Overall, this was a thoroughly deserved win. Wells managed the conditions superbly and always seemed in control with resolute defence and great execution in skills and game plan against a very useful team. Man of the match could have genuinely gone to several players but for a huge shift in defence, the scrum and a very well taken try the accolade went to Ben “Fridge” Williams.

Wells moved to within two points of 5th placed Westcliff and will be targetting this spot with this away fixture to be played . Next week they host Kent rivals Sidcup at St Marks with a 3pm kick off. As the visitors are one of four teams battling to avoid the final relegation spot then another fiercely-contested local derby is likely.

Squad: Ben Williams, Josh Pankhurst, Brendan Crosilla, Kyle McGarvie, Andy Burgess, Christian Earle, Toby Talbot, Mike Hathaway, Luke Hawkins, Nick Doherty, Max Douch, Frank Reynolds, Matt Spicer, Mike Doherty, Shadyn Osgood, Max Hobbs, Ryan Taylor- Dennehy (Capt) Richard Webster.

TWRFC – Southend – 10th March 2018

74 photos