Eastern Counties Rugby Union

Boxing Day
The Woodbridge Exiles prevailed in the annual Simpson Cup challenge, defeating the home side 38-20 to take an overall 4-3 lead in the series. Whilst traditionally the home side have been stronger up front, this year the Exiles were able to call on the services of Messers Beveridge, Hartson and Alabama, amongst others, giving them some real ballast and mobility in the pack. And with Angus Clogg pulling the strings behind the scrum, tries followed out wide despite some (occasionally!) committed home defence.

As ever, in an effort to fight fire with fire, the home team took the opportunity to blood several Colts in what is an ideal introduction to Adult rugby. Thanks to Dafydd Hartson and Jamie Smith for organising the sides in what is always an enjoyable day, and to EC for their continued support of a popular event in the Woodbridge calendar.

Woodbridge U21 – 10 Southwold U21 -37

Southwold ran out comfortable winners in the inaugural U21 match at Hatchely Barn on December 30th. Despite carrying a large injury toll from what was a busy week of rugby (resulting in them having to borrow several players), the older Southwold lads had enough nous in the pack to steal or slow the home ball, and some genuine pace out wide - which ultimately did the damage, running in several long distance tries.

In front of a large and vocal crowd that did their best to keep abreast of the game through a thick mist that had enveloped the ground, Southwold withstood some initial pressure before taking a 10 nil lead. Woodbridge pressed again and a cross kick from Jack Johnson saw Tom Ives dot down to make it 5-10 at the break. In the second half Southwold were able to close out the game, with two last minute tries from the pacy Barton putting a gloss on the score from the away perspective.

A big thanks to the Woodbridge Colts for stepping up to enable the game to happen – and to EC for their support in what I am confident will prove a welcome addition to the Xmas and Easter calendar. A great initiative that will build momentum.