EUCRFC got off to the brighter start and scored their first try through Connor C. The Club’s second try was a spectacular effort. A full flowing move with backs and forwards handling the ball and quick recycling was again finished off with Connor C scoring.

Benfleet Vikings kept plugging away but struggled to get first phase ball. The Club won all their own put-ins at the scrum and all but 2 when Benfleet were putting in, and though lineouts are uncontested at this age group, as soon as the Benfleet had their hands on the ball they were being wrapped up by the Club’s forwards and were often stripped of the ball.

The rucking and mauling by the Club was excellent and many of the first half tries came from multiphase play.

There was a strong cross wind which made passing a little tricky and handling errors squandered further scoring opportunities.

In the second half the Club’s intensity dropped slightly, Benfleet were prevented from crossing the line, but EUCRFC only crossed for 3 more tries.

The try scorers were Connor C, Louie, Danny, Paddy, Luca, Dan Padian (his first for the Club!) and Man of the Match Connor M, with 3 of the 10 tries being converted.

Everybody played very well, Tom had an excellent game from No 8 and Joe W enjoyed (we think!) his first outing at full back. Connor M was awarded the MOM for some barn storming runs, and great support play.

As always Benfleet were great hosts, and put up a good contest for the whole match.

Next week the U15s play a friendly at home against Barking.