Tries: B Redmill,;C Sandison,J; Fernyhough;,J Allison

Conversions: J Allison (3)

BEXLEY EARN TWO BONUS POINTS

BY JAMIE WARREN

Despite narrow loss, Bexley still get two points to maintain pressure at the top of the table.

Spring was springing like Joe Fernyhough's bed springs i.e. loads and loads and loads and loads. The weather drew a good crowd from both sides for what is always considered to be one of Bexley's more physical challenges.

This proved very much to be the case as the Brocks pack scored an unconverted try from a catch and drive in the opening moments of the game. Brocks would indeed prove to a tough, confrontational side, scoring two more tries by the end of the first half.

It was Bexley though who went into the break leading. Byrce Redmill scored with a physical finish after fine approach work by backs and forwards. Similar approach work led to a well finished try by Charlie Sandison. Both these scores were converted by Josh Allison. The next score was by Joe; rising to the occasion, and getting up for it as we have been led to believe, with an unconverted charge down at the end of the half. Bexley led 19-17 while the oranges were being eaten.

Brocks were next on the score sheet however. Retaking the lead, and gaining a bonus point with a fine try not long after the break.
Bexley though got (yet another) try scoring bonus point themselves, a combination of slick and fortuitous handling resulting in a try for Josh, converted by himself. The score was now 26-22.

The wheels started to come off the Bexley wagon after this point though; substitutions being forced on Bexley with injuries to Josh, Ross Fowler and Joe. This however had potential to play into Bexley’s hand, with the skinniest prop I’ve seen for a while coming on to promise some zip around the field. “Cut those bits of string off hanging down from his shorts”, cried someone from the crowd; “that’s not string, they’re his legs” was a shouted response. It is fair to say Pete Nottage has lost some weight.

Brock’s powerful pack really started to impose themselves here, the catch and drive being a particularly strong weapon, even if it did appear to be a bit truck and trailer at times. Perhaps the new Bexley front row was too lightweight? Two more scores were scored by Brocks in the final ten minutes leading to a final score of Bexley 26 – Brocks 32.

Brocks’ number 8, tall lock forward, and outside half, showed up well throughout the game; with Bryce putting in a huge defensive shift for Bexley.

Not a good day at the office for Bexley. The team misfired somewhat today, with too many players reaching the level they are capable of for only small parts of the game. Uncharacteristically Bexley seemed to lack venom in the loose, and struggled in the tight also. However there are things to be pleased with; to be this off the pace and still score a try bonus point is worth celebrating.

New Ash Green being awarded a walk over today was unwelcome news, but Bexley’s destiny is at least still in their hands. This should give a needed kick in the backside and spur them on for the forthcoming fixtures. Providing concentration is maintained they should be confident.

We all hope Joe’s injury is not too bad, but none more than Mrs Joe for obvious reasons.