Harlow v Epping Upper Clapton 24.10.15

Rain clouds gather But the sun still shines on Epping RFC

As Autumn kicked in and the weather begun to turn cold and dreary Epping Upper Clapton travelled to Harlow for their league fixture, something that has not happened for a few years and this alone regardless of the local rivalry and bragging rights was sure to heat up the day.

Both teams leading into the day had 100% records in this years league campaign but only one was to end the day in the same position.

Harlow started strong and with probing kick chase rugby into their favourite corner down the slope applying pressure on Epping on numerous occasions, with Epping getting out of the awkward corner more times than not although on a couple of the occasions this was not the case as Harlow used a good catch drive play to good affect and raced into a two try10 point lead.

Such is the ever growing belief and mental strength of this Epping group of players this year they rallied themselves and began to put some phases together and started to expose some weaknesses in the Harlow defensive set up and get some go forward ball, this period of controlled possession from Epping resulting in 2 tries of their own 1 of which was converted giving Epping a half time lead 10 - 12.

The second half started better for Epping and numerous waves of attack led to a couple more tries from the visitors again one of which was converted, Harlow again used their lineout catch drive to keep the score board moving for them with another catch drive score.

The game continued very much in the same vein with Epping and Harlow both trying to capitalise on the others mistakes caused by the local rivalry, however it was Epping that scored another try and added the conversion,

Harlow themselves scored twice more through their lineout again and another around the fringes, however the new found 'Epping' mentality kicked in and some outstanding defensive quality won the day as Epping held onto their lead and won the game 25 - 31 and Epping continued with their 100% start to the season and sit alone at the top of the table.

It must be said that the game was played in great spirit by both sets of players and club supporters with a 10 try fest, lets hope that the return fixture at Epping will be as good.

Next match Epping v Wanstead 7th November