FULLERIANS 1st XV 35 Southend Saxons 32

By Kevin Brind

Great all round display earns Fullers a valuable bonus point win

London 1 North

Fullers actually started this game slowly but then grew in confidence as the game went on. They took the lead with a try by James Maher after some strong running by the centre. Captain Dan Evans converted the extra two points.

The home side extended their lead with a penalty in front of the posts as Southend were caught offside. Evans once again converting.

Fullers looked in control but a missed lineout on the halfway line saw the Southend no8 catch the ball and have a wonderful turn of pace to catch everyone unaware to score in the corner.

Southend then came back into the game with another try to take a slender lead.
Fullers stormed back with some strong direct running by the forward pack and second row Liam Boyd was on hand to crash over. Evans converting the extras on the stroke of half time.

In the second half Fullers played with the wind and kicked very well indeed. They spread the ball from touch line to touch line and eventually the gaps appeared. Wing Curtis woodham used his pace to score in the corner. Evans once again converting a wonderful kick right on the touchline.

Southend came into the game with a fine worked try but Fullers always seemed to keep their noses in front as Evans converted a penalty in front of the posts as Southend were penalised for a high tackle.

The last score came after some great interplay between the forwards and backs saw Fullers work up field. The gaps appeared and Evans was on duty to walk over the line for the bonus point win.

“We played well today and had the hunger for the win. Southend played well but our defence held firm at the critical times. We can take confidence from this win and build for our next fixture away to HAC.” commented Fullerians head coach Rich Hoskins.

Team. Barson, Williams, MacGregor-Smith 60, Kerr, Boyd, Finnegan, D. Toon, Harvey, Matchett, Jacobs, Woodham, M. Toon, Maher (Dollard 30), Mann, Evans

Man of the Match: McGregor-Smith