17 Try Feast

The Epping boys found they’re form in attack scoring 12 tries. All converted capping an impressive 100% record for Matt Thompson who bagged a fine 34 points on the day. Still with many players away, injured or working the Thornwood club fielded a young side much to the displeasure of the Basildon old boys. The front row came together late with Crouchy, Sweeney and Brown all playing very well. James Hack at 9 was outstanding.

The first half started with 2 fine scores from the Epping side but Basildon came back with one of they’re own. Again Clapton extended their lead with a fine try with the ball moved across the width of the pitch for the allusive finisher Lyndsey Dobbin to score in the corner. The big Basildon forwards would not lie down and smashed their way back in to the game. Epping scored again with Dean McFarlane sprinting through a gap and in under the post. Basildon played the percentages well and kicked for the corner, won the lineout and muscled their way over, 35 – 19 at half time.

A quick chat at the break – tackle low and pass earlier was the call. Inspirational captain Paddy and the lads responded brilliantly. Matt Sweeney filling in at hooker for the poorly groin of Swalesey was immense and the two destructive Liams, O’Connor in the centre and Rodgers playing in the back row for the first time smashed the Basildon players back time and again.

This gave the Epping lads a platform to play and another 7 tries were scored in the 2nd half with 2 conceded. The score line flattered somewhat as Basildon were good opponents who kept causing problems throughout.

Try scorers – Dobbin 2, Thompson 2, Stalley 2, Sheehy 2, Hack 1, Rodgers 1, Howard 1, McFarlane 1