Dagenham v Epping Upper Clapton 10.01.15

After losing their home match way back in September at the start of the season to Dagenham and despite missing a few key-players, the red and whites were determined to put on a good display this week. The rain stayed away but there was a horrendous cross-wind to complicate matters for both sides. Honours were even at first but Epping were penalised early on and gave the hosts several unsuccessful opportunities to punish the visitors for minor technical infringements. The visitors were setting up good moves but were let down by their unusual lack of game sense and were unable to establish a good rhythm at this point. Nevertheless, an impressive perseverance to get all on field players firing on all cylinders quickly changed the flow of both territory and possession. Despite several impressive attacks on the visitors' line Dagenham were unable to capitalise on their commitment to score. At half-time the score stood at 3-23 to Epping.

As previously mentioned the windy conditions hampered both teams with high balls and lineouts somewhat of a lottery, however at the change of half time Epping returned to the field of play with the quickly setting sun at their backs. Epping were able to show their scoring ability. Epping were now firmly in the driving-seat and dominated play. However Epping eased off a little, lost a player to a yellow card for a clumsy chase and subsequent stumble over a try scoring Dagenham player. Much to his credit the sin binned Epping player more than made up for his 10 minute ‘rest’ with some impressive try saving tackles on his return to the game. Given the extremely challenging windy conditions, special mention to Epping’s Essex U20’s point’s kicker, who managed to secure 15 points for the visitors. The match ended 15-40 to the visiting team.

In the end a good defensive effort and teamwork kept the opposition struggling for possession. However, Dagenham put on a good display, fielding the ball well, holding on to their passes and tackling effectively.