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1st XV Match Reports

Sat 14 Apr 07: Sidcup 45 - Old Elthamians 15

A beautiful, sweltering spring day, lunch on the patio, the crowd in shorts and tee-shirts, lager flowing and the scent of sun cream on the breeze, this was the unexpected setting for our last game in the 2006/2007 campaign.

On a day destined for open rugby, Sidcup were determined to keep their unbeaten home record and continue their run of league wins to 15 games. Their opponents, standing in their way, were local rivals Old Elthamians, who fielded a very young looking outfit. Although sitting near the bottom of the table OEs started the game with some ferocity taking Sidcup by surprise and giving themselves an early lead with a drop goal by their fly-half.

OEs were not overawed at playing the league leaders and the ball was fed to their back line on many occasions. However, some strong tackling in the centre by Callum Thomson and Chris Jones kept their big centre at bay. Despite of their lack lustre start, Sidcup began to come back into the game with their bigger forwards (at least a stone heavier than the opposition) putting their captain, Danny Mizzen over for their first try. Richard Pilgrim, looking to go to the top of the table for league points scorers, converted.

Sidcup now knew where the game could be won and stalwart Matt West broke away from the side of a driving maul to score the second try. The ever trustworthy Richard Pilgrim converted. Sidcup themselves were always looking to move the ball wide to their top try scoring winger Richard Roddis, who went close on a couple of occasions before breaking a tackle near the line and giving the inside pass to Kent U20 player Jon West who was up in support. Richard Pilgrim again did the honours.

The last try of the half was a combination of good hands between forwards and backs and saw Nathan Ellery, the solid fly half, take the final pass from Matt West to score near the posts. Another conversion came from the ever reliable Richard Pilgrim. With the U13 team supplying water-boys who were constantly on hand, the Sidcup team was never short of liquid refreshment and the basking Sidcup supporters thought they were in for a try feast after the interval.

Soon after half-time, with Sidcup pressing the Clubhouse end, the ever robust Jon Harris on the wing was fed a ball through the centre and brushing off two or three tackles scored near the posts. Richard Pilgrim added to his conversion tally. Old Elthamians did not give up and with their supporters cheering them on scored from a set piece which Sidcup failed to control. Sidcup responded when, from a 5 metre scrum, their explosive pack, controlled at the back by Jon West, gave him the chance to pick up and dive over for his second try. The score went unconverted from wide out. At 38 – 8 the game faded as the players wilted in the sun with the high temperatures taking their toll on energy levels. With errors now creeping in it was left to the OEs scrum half to find a gap in the Sidcup line out and the supporting No.8 went over near the posts. This try was converted. The final say of the afternoon was had by replacement Liam Rankin who took the option close to the line of showing his strength to dive over rather than using the lurking and unmarked Richard Roddis. Scoreline: 45 – 15.

Although this was not the best game seen at Sidcup this season, the spectators enjoyed the spectacle knowing that Sidcup had already been crowned London 3 South-East champions. The ever present captain, Danny Mizzen led his side off to great applause and clicking of cameras to register his last game as captain after four seasons. The celebrations went on well into the night with champagne flowing. Preparations for playing in London 2 South have already begun.

PJW - 16 Apr 07

Man of the Match Nathan Ellery receives a bottle of champagne from MotM sponsor Simon Beresford-Webb.

Nathan Ellery

Predict the score winner Vic, member of Bexley CAMRA and volunteer at the Bexley Beer festival, receives £325 for correctly predicting that Sidcup would beat Old Elthamians by 45 points to 15. Cheers Vic.

Vic wins £325

Sat 31 Mar 07: Chichester 15 - Sidcup 24

Sidcup travelled to Chichester on a warm sunny day on Saturday with the comfort of knowing that the League was already won.

Although warm, there was a strong south westerly wind which played a significant part in the style of rugby played by both sides. Sidcup’s travelling army of supporters were present as usual, which is fully appreciated by all the players. The pitch was very hard and in places dusty.

Chichester came out onto the pitch like raging bulls and found themselves on the score board first when their inside centre run through from a Sidcup mistake. The conversion was not made 5-0. The Chichester score appeared to be the wake up call that Sidcup needed. After some dominant forward play within the Chichester half Sidcup spun the ball wide, veteran Dominic Walton (No 8) floated a great pass to speedy winger Danny Mizen who timed an excellent pass back inside to the scavenging Richard Roddis playing his 150th game for Sidcup. The reliable boot of Richard Pilgrim playing full back stroked the ball through the posts to make the score 5-7.

After a well planned backs move Callum Thomson playing inside centre broke through the Chichester defence to score a well taken try under the posts again converted by Pilgrim. 5-14. Sidcup scored again through John West after several driving mauls by the dominant pack and JW showed his ability to score under pressure. 5-19.

Chichester set up a driving maul close to Sidcup’s line and were rewarded with a further 5 points when their Scouse looking tight head prop broke from the back of the maul and ran toward the posts again unchallenged. 10-19. Just on half time a rare mistake by Sidcup in the scrum saw Chichester’s open side and captain score in the corner. 15-19.

Sidcup with the front row of Mizen, Wilson and the ever maturing Anderson exerted pressure at virtually every scrum on their opposite numbers which meant that the quality of ball received from Chichesters backs were often on the back foot. The usual safe line out of Sidcup again operated efficiently all afternoon with the West brothers securing their own ball and both also competed well on the oppositions throw in.

Chichester did not score again. The majority of play was dominated by Sidcup whose pack had total control in all areas and backs whenever given the opportunity to run looked very sharp.

The final score of the afternoon came from Richard Pilgrim. Mark Smith just on the pitch from the bench took a difficult high ball from a misplaced clearance kick and fed Pilgrim inside. With his smooth running style Pilgrim ghosted half the length of the pitch to score in the corner. 15-24.

With the wonderous back drop of the city's cathedral, time ran out for the home side who battled till the end but could not destroy Sidcup’s party plans.

To celebrate his 150th cap winger Roddis was presented with a sparkling blue ‘off-the-shoulder’ dress to wear for the evening. Man of the match Simon Burwood was rewarded for a work man like performance from the second row engine room. Sidcup’s ability to party through the night easily matched their efforts on the pitch and a great night in the clubhouse was had by all attendees.

Congratulations to the coaching duo of Phil Ubee and Darryl Vas for their first promotions of their coaching careers and thank you for their continuing efforts to prepare the team for each tactical battle.

Next Saturday is President's Day with kick off at 3pm at Crescent farm. Family fun will start at 10.00 in the morning with inflatables and other fun activities available prior to the match.

Sidcup will play their final league game of the season on Saturday 14th April when they host Old Elthamians. The team are hoping for a very large supporting crowd to say goodbye to London 3 rugby and hope to sign off in style as first class champions.

Match report by a very hung over Zed - 3 Apr 07

Sat 17 Mar 07: Sidcup 54 - Folkestone 10

Man of the match, Tom Page receives a cuddle and bottle of champagne from Kathy Hill, MotM sponsor for the day.

Tom Page

Mascots George Parker and Harry Wilford celebrate with members of the first team.

Folkestone mascots

Sat 10 Mar 07: Old Colfeians 30 - Sidcup 17

Sidcup were knocked out of the Kent plate at the weekend by Old Colfeians, a team vying for promotion in the league above. The two sides were given another stab at winning some silverware after being knocked out of the Kent Cup earlier this season.

The home side kicked off and quickly gained possession back by turning Sidcup’s scrum. They continued piling on the pressure and were rewarded by their centre scoring an unconverted try in the corner within five minutes.

Old Colfeians immediately picked up from where they left off and swiftly made their way towards Sidcup’s try line through their ‘pick and go’ tactics within their strong forwards.

Their second attempt at a try was held up by Sidcup’s pack. But they did not give up and the resulting scrum five meters out saw them drive Sidcup back and gain another five points through their number 8.

Sidcup’s failed penalty attempt showed they had no answer to Old Colfeian’s dominance and another try, through their prop, and a drop goal saw the half-time score at 18-0.

The home side started the second half the way they finished the first and soon after the break, their outside centre dodged Sidcup’s defence to score the first converted try of the game and make the score 25-0.

But, just as the game was beginning to look doomed for the visitors, Old Colfeian’s second row was sin-binned for fighting.

This seemed to upset the home side’s game and Sidcup took advantage of this and their back line created an overlap to allow winger Phil Evans to score in the corner. This was converted by his brother, full back Richard Evans, and the score was 25-7.

Sidcup began to gain some momentum after this and another try soon came from Richard Evans who went over the line in the corner and narrowly missed the conversion.

But Old Colfeian’s seemed to catch Sidcup sleeping towards the end and another unconverted try followed through their fly half.

Sidcup finished the game on the attack, but their final try from inside centre Callum Thompson was not enough to take them through to the next round and the final score was 30-17.

AC - 12 Mar 07

Sat 3 Mar 07: Tonbridge Juddians 7 - Sidcup 42

With the recent heavy periods of rain it was not possible to play this London 3 South East league match on the 1st team pitch of Tonbridge Juddians. Thankfully, Judds had the use of a pitch in a neighbouring county and both teams set out by foot on the long journey to kick off.

Top of the league Sidcup, virtually at full strength bar their Scottish centre, started the game with the same passion and ability that they had shown in recent weeks. Only the constant infringements by Judds avoided an avalanche of early scores by Sidcup. Sidcup even managed to cross the white wash with a driving maul to be denied by the referee.

It was completely against the run of play that Judds opened the afternoon’s scoring. From a long kick, Sidcup hit the self destruct button and gifted a try and conversion under the posts to Judds. It was hard to believe but Judds were 7 - 0 up!

The Judds’ score was to be their last of the afternoon and Sidcup spent the rest of the afternoon demonstrating the kind of rugby that has seen them at the top of the league since thumping Purley John to lead the title race.

Sidcup were successful in all areas of set play. The early front row of Page, Wilson (sporting a head dress and helmet rather than the usual ginger wig) and Vas had the upper hand on their opposition in the scrums and put Judds’ scrum under pressure leading to several mishaps at the back of the scrum. Liam (the salmon) Rankin had a great day in the line out winning all of his own ball and thieving several of Judds’ line out ball.

Sidcup’s backs were sharp all afternoon despite the slippery conditions underfoot. As usual Nathan Ellery teased the opposition with strong runs and the ability to off load out of the tackle creating space for his fellow backs. Ellery also had a good day kicking from hand and made several long kicks to touch to clear any potential danger.

Sidcup’s deadly duo on each wing were too fast and powerful for their opposite numbers. Roddis with his slight wirey frame grabbed a well executed try backing himself to tip toe down the wing past the opposition to touch down in the corner. With a slightly more rounded frame, the other winger Jonathan Harris was not to be outshone. Harris grabbed two tries, one of which was top draw gathering the ball on the half way line. Harris then set off on a powerful run dodging ten or so hopeful tacklers to run in under the posts.

Tries also came from Jon West who had a good day both with ball in hand and in defence tackling everything that moved, and the slight framed Anderson showing why he believes he should be playing centre instead of replacement prop. Anderson’s try from 18metres out was again set up by the magical playmaking of Ellery. Roddis was as usual available outside, but knowing he had a side step, goose step and gravity on his side Anderson set off on a long solo run to the try line.

Other players to mention are Chris Jones whose long striding runs carved through Judds centres on several occasions, replacement Walton who was too strong for the opposition to handle after coming off the bench, Richard Pilgrim who kicked three penalties and only missed one conversion all afternoon, No 8 Elliott who went quietly about his usual stealth like business and skipper Mizen who steered his troops to an impressive victory.

The players would like to thank all of their travelling supporters who not only made the drive down the A21 but who also made the long hike over to the chosen pitch. Special thanks go out to the environmentally friendly supporter who for some strange reason decided to jog from Sidcup to Tonbridge to watch the match. Let him be an inspiration to us all.

Elsewhere in the league Purley beat Deal comfortably which now sees Sidcup two points clear with a massive advantage over nearest rivals Purley by 256 points. Sidcup with three games left will hope to clench the title on their next two league games.

There are just two home league games remaining for the season. On the 17th March Sidcup host Folkestone and on the 14th April Sidcup host Old Elthamians. It is hoped that the supporters of Sidcup will turn out in their hundreds for both matches.

Next week Sidcup face a tough Kent plate challenge playing Old Colfeians who are currently second place in the league above.

Match report by Zed - 4 Mar 07

Sat 24 Feb 07: Sidcup 45 - Lordswood 9

Sidcup welcomed Lordswood to Crescent farm at the weekend. After recording one of their three losses to this team earlier in the season, the home side knew they could not afford to slip up a second time if they want to return to London 2.

Lordswood kicked off and Sidcup immediately showed their determination by putting pressure on the visitors, quickly making them concede penalties. This soon paid off and a Lordswood forward was sin-binned for repeated offside offences. Sidcup took full advantage of this and soon scored a try through a catch and drive from a line out. Full back Richard Evans converted and the score was 7-0.

This was quickly followed by another converted try from winger John Harris, who saw a gap on the blind side, making the score 14-0 within 15 minutes.

But Lordswood responded to this by putting pressure on Sidcup, who conceded two kickable penalties in quick succession, both of which were scored, enabling them to close the gap by six points.

Both teams kicked another penalty each shortly before the break, and just when it looked like the half-time score would stay at 17-9, a run by winger Richard Roddis saw him offload to prop Tom Page, who’s powerful run enabled him to score his first try of the season under the posts on the stroke of half time. This gave Evans an easy conversion, which he duly kicked, making the score 24-9 at the break.

Sidcup started the second half as they meant to go on and after making some great ground through their wingers, centre Callum Thompson forced his way over the line for another converted try.

There seemed to be no stopping the home side after this and any of Lordswood’s possession was quickly turned over. Another two tries followed – one through fly half Nathan Ellery and another from Roddis, who scored in the corner after the ball made its way down the back line.

Evans expertly kicked both conversions and the final score was 45-9.

AC - 1 Mar 07

Man of the Match Jon West receives a bottle of champagne from Phil Ubee.

Jon West

Sat 17 Feb 07: Aylesford 13 - Sidcup 66

Aylesford were missing 9 first team players. They had won 4 games on the spin but were no match for the powerful Sidcup side on this occasion.

Strong running and good support was evident in a side that knows that only wins to the end of the season will ensure outright promotion. Nathan Ellery at fly half had a strong game and the back division found more space than on a usual saturday.

Aylesford opened the scoring with a penalty to lead momentarily until the powerful McDonald playing his first game for Sidcup this season went over near the posts.He later had to be replaced by Callum Thomson, a non-starter due to flu, after suffering another recurring shoulder injury.

Tries were scored at regular intervals as one of the Aylesford officials called it a training afternoon for Sidcup. Aylesford did not give up and scored there only try just on half time.

They were overwhelmed by a very determined side. On many occassions forwards and backs combined to score some exciting tries which was well appreciated by the strong Sidcup support.

With three strong Sidcup replacements being used the pressure on Aylesford was too much and tries continued throughout the second half.

Try count:
Danny Mizen (2), James Cosh, Liam Rankin, Richard Pilgrim, Rob McDonald, Richard Roddis (2), Callum Thomson, Thierry Paul, Tom Page
Richard Pilgrim 4 conversions and 1 penalty.

Anon

Sat 3 Feb 07: Sidcup 18 - Purley John Fisher 0

Sidcup emerged victorious in this top-of-the-table clash at the weekend – claiming the premier spot in the process. With the season far from over, every game is still a must-win for Sidcup if they want to return to the Powergen London 2 South league – and last Saturday’s game against Purley John Fisher (PJF), previously top of the league, was certainly no exception.

Danny Mizen’s team kicked off knowing the game would be a tough one – after narrowly losing to their opponents earlier in the season. But this simply seemed to spur them on and the home side opened the scoring after five minutes through a Richard Pilgrim penalty kick.

PJF appeared to lose their focus, giving away penalties and not capitalising on decisions which went their way. They had their first real spell of possession 15 minutes in, when a back line move ended with their winger catching the ball at full-pace. He gained 15 metres before opposite number Richard Roddis stopped him in his tracks.

Sidcup had a chance to score six more points this half but Pilgrim, uncharacteristically suffering from an off day, missed both and the score stayed at 3-0 at the break.

PJF started the second half on the back foot again, with the home side continuously recycling the ball and gaining ground with rolling mauls. The visitors put up an impressive defence for long periods but Sidcup eventually wore them down and a catch-and-drive from a line out on PJF’s 5 metre line saw flanker Liam Rankin score the first try of the game.

It was the backs turn to shine soon after and impressive lines of running from Pilgrim and winger John Harris took Sidcup out of their territory and fly half Nathan Ellery dodged even more defenders to score from 10 metres out.

PJF began to come back at Sidcup at this point and came within a whisker of scoring from a grubber kick towards the posts from their fly-half. But they were denied as Pilgrim won the race to the ball and the score remained at 13-0.

The home team clearly felt their job wasn’t quite done and continued to turn over PJF’s ball. This paid off and the match finished with as Ellery scored another, almost identical try under the posts and the game finished 18-0.

Club president Phil West said: “It was a typical top-of-the-table clash. The rugby wasn’t great in places and it was a tense encounter nonetheless. I’m very happy we managed to keep a clean sheet against one of the best teams in the league, and with two difficult away games against Chichester and Tonbridge Juddians coming up, promotion to London 2 is in our hands.”

AC - 5 Feb 07

Sat 27 Jan 07: Deal & Betteshanger 19 - Sidcup 31

A dominant display from Sidcup’s forwards saw them secure a 12-point win over Deal and Betteshanger (D&B) at the weekend. With D&B placed just one place below them in the table with two games in hand, Sidcup knew this was a must-win game if they are to keep up their promotion campaign.

Sidcup scored two converted tries in the first half through driving mauls but four kickable penalties awarded to the home team saw the visitors lead by just two points at the break.

But they stretched their lead by 10 points through a converted try and a penalty early in the second half and some steady territorial kicking from fly half Nathan Ellery ensured Sidcup kept exerting pressure for the remainder of the game.

The visitors scored their final try 10 minutes from time and, despite giving away a penalty try soon after, they had done enough and the final score was 19-31.

AC - 5 Feb 07

Sat 20 Jan 07: Dover 19 - Sidcup 13

Dover scored a surprise victory over Sidcup in the Kent Cup at the weekend, despite being reduced to 14 men.

Sidcup travelled to the coast and were first to put points on the board though a Richard Pilgrim penalty. But Dover soon responded by adding seven points of their own after centre Ben Sedgwick picked up a fumbled pass from a tackle to score under the posts. Dover’s confidence clearly grew after this and another try quickly followed as winger Ricky Mackintosh beat Pilgrim to the ball and touch it down over the line. The conversion was missed and the score was 12-3 at the interval.

Dover started the second half without flanker Buster Collins, who had been sin-binned for constant fouling in rucks. Sidcup’s play improved immensely some gutsy performances in rucks and mauls saw captain Danny Mizen touch the ball down for a converted try. An earlier Pilgrim penalty kick meant the visitors were in the lead by one point.

But the gap proved too small and, despite Collins being given another yellow card and permanent marching orders, Dover scored another converted try five minutes from time through centre Lee Tonks and the final score was 19-13.

Sat 13 Jan 07: Sidcup 45 - Bognor 0

A seven try flurry at the weekend, with an impressive five coming from winger Richard Roddis, saw Sidcup climb to second place in the London 3 South East league.

Coastal side Bognor made the long journey to Sidcup with high hopes after winning 21-9 at the away fixture. But Danny Mizen’s team clearly had other ideas and scored 45 points, preventing the visitors from getting on the scoreboard.

Sidcup started well, with Roddis opening the scoring, as well as his own tally, through slick passing down the back line. This was shortly followed by a try from number 8 Jon West, who won a race to touch down a loose ball behind Bognor’s try-line. Both were converted and the score was 14-0 on 15 minutes.

The visitors started to frustrate Sidcup, forcing them to concede penalties and a yellow card, which was shown to prop Darryl Vas for punching. But the home kept winning back possession and two good runs from winger John Harris were stopped short by Bognor’s determined defensive line.

Neither side scored any points in the latter part of the first half and the board remained at 14-0 at the break.

Sidcup started the second half with some impressive mauling from the forwards, which saw the visitors pull out all the stops to deny Sidcup scoring twice as they held the ball up over the line.

Their momentum soon paid off, however, as the ball went out to Sidcup’s back line from a scrum and full back Richard Pilgrim created an overlap to see Roddis touch down in the corner and make the score 19-0.

The next few minutes saw a spell of possession for Bognor but they were unable to utilise it and the ball was quickly stolen back by second row Liam Rankin. This ensured another score from the home team through some good communication in the back line allowing centre Chris Jones to score under the posts.

It seemed Bognor barely got a look in after this, as Roddis’ clear determination to get his hat-trick saw him sprint half the pitch and dodge five tackles to touch the ball down between the sticks.

The next spell of play saw Bognor threaten Sidcup with sustained possession, aided by scrum half James Cosh seeing yellow for stamping in a ruck. But Sidcup showed they believed the game was far from over and two more tries From Roddis, one from an impressive back line move and the other from a well-placed overhead kick from Cosh, saw the full-time score read 45-0.

Club president Phil West said: “We didn’t believe we scored enough points in the first half, but a stern half-time talk from the coach resulted in some of the best rugby we’ve seen at Sidcup for some time – for a player to score five tries in one match is outstanding.

“But I have a lot of respect for Bognor – they never gave up and finished the game on the attack. They have a very committed side and I wish them well for the rest of the season.”

AC - 15 Jan 07

Richard Roddis receives a bottle of champagne from Man of the Match sponsor, Simon Beresford-Webb

Richard Roddis

Sat 6 Jan 07: Old Dunstonians 5 - Sidcup 17

It might have been the driest year on record last year but the first Saturday of the league season in 2007 was far from dry. With continual rain throughout and a torrential downpour with five minutes remaining on the clock players, officials and spectators did well to last to the end.

As expected, weather conditions led to a game of two differing halves with many errors and adding the new scrummaging laws to the mix made for a messy game.
Old Dunstonians, to their credit, were a completely different outfit to the side which leaked 50 points earlier in the season, in fact, the game might have been closer if Sidcup had not scored just before half time to extend their lead to 17 – 0.

Sidcup playing with the conditions in the first half made hard work of their possession as continual penalties were conceded although many players and spectators were bemused by the Referees penalties for crossing.

After 15 minutes Sidcup opened the scoring, with captain Danny Mizen touching down after a driving maul from a lineout. The score went unconverted. Shortly afterwards good lineout ball allowed the back division to show what they could manage in the conditions, when Nathan Ellery fed Callum Thomson whose timely pass to full back Richard Pilgrim allowed his pace to outstretch the defence and score close to the posts. Pilgrim converted his own try.

Close to half time a series of pick and drives close to the Old D’s line finally allowed the backs to be involved and Pilgrim and Jones fed Jon Harris wide out. He squeezed through the narrowest gap to score near the corner flag. A wel -taken try from Jon who was returning from a 6-week injury lay-off.

With Old D's half backs playing well throughout and varying their play, the second half was one of “could Old D’s score early on and would Sidcup’s defence hold?” With nearly all the second half being played in Sidcup’s territory and with fresh replacements in the front row being made, the Sidcup defence held up, even with the departure of flanker Elliott early in the second half with a yellow card for repeated team offences.

Eventually Old D’s did break down the Sidcup defence when with 20 minutes to go their winger picked up a poor defensive kick by Sidcup and with a strong run up the touchline and three missed tackles went over in the corner.

The try went unconverted and Old D’s knew they needed to score twice more but determined defence by the midfield, in particular, Callum Thompson and the hard-working back-row meant they were unable to cross the line.

With spectators thinking January should be deleted from the rugby calendar, the light fading fast, players’ shirts and faces totally unrecognisable and a downpour to end all downpours the referee blew his whistle for the end of the game. It was the kindest action of the afternoon.

PJW - 9 Jan 07

Sat 16 Dec 06: Sidcup 23 - Gravesend 15

Sidcup retained 3rd place in London 3 South East this week as we welcomed Gravesend to Crescent Farm in a match that was laden with basic mistakes and left the Sidcup players and supporters confused by many decisions.

The game began with long periods of pressure being applied by the Sidcup forwards and their very strong driving maul allowed Iain Wilson to score his second try of the season......and of his life - it is thought to have happened because the Gravesend forwards were busy laughing at his hair. Richard Pilgrim slotted the conversion.

However the lead was cut down almost straight away as Sidcup were caught napping again. The restart, thought not to have gone ten metres by all, was collected by the Gravesend forwards, a quick ruck combined with good hands and strong running lines out wide saw winger Tom Goss slide over in the corner. The conversion was missed which made the score 7-5. The rest of the half saw both sides try to force the issue and basic mistakes meant the game never flowed. The next score was a penalty to Sidcup kicked by Pilgrim after a Gravesend player was caught going over the top of the ruck. Score 10-5.

Sidcup were yet to learn from experience and a succession of mistakes led to two charge down kicks, a bit of volleyball and a few knock-ons by both teams on the sidcup 22 metre line which then resulted in Joe Oxford, the Gravesend winger, jog in under the posts un-opposed. The conversion was successfully kicked by James Reed.
When Sidcup regained order, it resulted in another penalty, which was then kicked by Pilgrim. Sidcup seemed to gain some confidence from this score and piled a huge amount of pressure onto the Gravesend line with some excellent driving play. However the dogged Gravesend defence held strong and the half ended with Sidcup leading 13-12.

Both teams went into the break knowing that they were going to have to play a lot better to secure the win.

The second half definitely saw an improvement in both teams. Both teams looking to run a lot from the base of the scrum as well as Sidcup resorting to their effective catch and drive. In the end one of these well-formed mauls saw skipper Danny Mizen cross the line. The conversion was again kicked leaving the score 20-12.

The last twenty minutes saw few chances for either team through very strong defences however this did result in both teams giving away penalties and one was then kicked for either side leaving the score 23-15 at the final whistle. Sidcup’s pressure paid off in the end without either team really getting going.

Sidcup now go into a three week break over the Christmas period kicking off the new year against Old Dunstonians away on the 6th January. The break also sees Mike Elliot finally go on his dream holiday of a round the world yacht race.

JW - 18 Dec 06

MotM sponsor, a portly Dave Price, presents a bottle of champagne to Man of the Match, Michael Elliott.

Michael Elliott

Sat 2 Dec 06: Sidcup 25 - Chichester 23

Sidcup battled to the biter end to grind out a win against Chichester and move up to third in the table at the weekend.

The home side kicked off and started an initial attack through an up-and-under from full-back Richard Pilgrim, which covered nearly half the pitch.

But Chichester quickly gained possession and, despite a try-saving tackle from winger Richard Roddis, the visitor’s pack drove Sidcup backwards which resulted in a penalty in a kickable position and the scoring was opened at 0-3. Chichester’s determination continued and a try quickly followed through their pacy winger Gibbs, who broke Sidcup’s defence and ran half the field to score in the corner.

Sidcup then began to gain some sustained possession through some good work in the line outs and mauls and their hard work soon paid off through their first penalty which Pilgrim kicked to narrow the gap to 3-10 at half time.

Chichester began the restart well again and quickly scored by charging down a clearance kick by Sidcup and carrying the ball over the line. They failed to add the two points meaning the score remained at 3-15.

But, in a turn of events, Sidcup began to pile on the pressure on the visitors which resulted in two tries by flanker Jon West, both resulting from rolling mauls, and Sidcup took the lead for the first time by two points.

Chichester responded to this with a penalty kick, but Sidcup quickly gained the points back by adding three points of their own.

Despite their impressive run of play in the second half, Sidcup looked as if they were out of the game as full time approached as the visitors scored an impressive team try, with the ball starting in a line out and ending up over the line in the hands of their winger, making the score 20-23.

But Sidcup were not giving up and their hard work and determination paid off as a rolling maul charged towards Chichester’s try line and created space for Roddis to score in the corner during the last phase of the game. The conversion was missed, but Sidcup had done enough and the final score was 25-23.

Club Chairman Ian Anderson said: "This was an important and impressive win. A year ago this team would not have recovered from being 15-3 down. But the determination and commitment to win is a testament to the improvements they have made this year".

AC - 5 Dec 06

Man of the match Dominic Walton receives a bottle of champagne from MotM sponsor, Ian Anderson.

Sat 25 Nov 06: Old Eltamians 0 - Sidcup 15

After significantly beating local rivals Old Dartfordians in a friendly the previous week, Sidcup were determined to take their winning form back to the league in another local derby against Old Elthamians last weekend.

With tempers flaring throughout and four players sent to the sin bin, some may say it was a typical derby. But Sidcup did not let this distract them and came away victorious, ensuring their campaign for promotion is still going strong.

Sidcup had the first chance to put points on the board through a Richard Pilgrim penalty kick, which was narrowly missed, but the scoreboard did not stay clear for long as scrum half James Cosh peeled off a maul to score an unconverted try in the corner.

The foul play soon started, with Sidcup flanker Matt West being the first to see yellow for punching, and Old Elthamians continually giving away penalties for killing the ball. But this did not deter the visitors – as after coming close to scoring following a good run by centre Chris Jones, James Cosh scored his second try of the game – which was almost identical to his first. Pilgrim converted from out wide to make the score 12-0.

Penalties continued aplenty and when one against OEs became kickable after the referee marched the team back for abusive language, Pilgrim duly added the three points and the half-time score was 15-0.

The second half saw Old Elthamians begin to come back at Sidcup. They came within a whisker of scoring, only for Jonesey to get his boot to the ball when it passed Sidcup’s line before an OE’s hand managed to touch it down. But the pressure abated when OE’s number 4 was binned for punching and, despite Sidcup being the team giving away penalties towards the end of the match, OE’s were unable to turn this advantage into points and the final score remained 15-0.

Overall, a well drilled and focused Sidcup team deserved their victory and they remained unbeaten in November. Elsewhere in the club, good wins for the 2nd, 3rd and 4th teams made this a hugely enjoyable Saturday for the club. Shame about England though.

AC - 30 Nov 06

Sat 11 Nov 06: Gravesend 26 - Sidcup 29

The Gravesend programme stated “Sidcup are currently 5th in the league but with only one more point than Gravesend and having played one more game. Their last few games have been a bit of a rollercoaster with a narrow win over Deal, well beaten by next to bottom Bognor and then they thrashed Old Dunstonians.Which of their teams will run out today?”

Well the team that ran out on Saturday was a combination of all three – good controlled rugby scattered with silly mistakes in midfield that allowed the counter attacking backs of Gravesend to capitalise.

After early Gravesend pressure, Sidcup playing against the strong wind and incline made their first error when Matt West was yellow carded for a late tackle. Gravesend then lost one of their own back row players for slowing the ball at the ruck and Richard Evans slotted the three points from close range. Gravesend replied with their own penalty soon after to level the score.

Sidcup played a period of controlled rugby and with the extra player Sidcup forced a lineout ten yards out and after a drive to the line skipper Danny Mizen touched down.
Richard Evans slotted home from wide out, which was to prove valuable to the final outcome.

Leading 10-3 Sidcup found themselves under intense pressure but good defence kept Gravesend from the line but a second penalty made the half time score 10-6.
A good first half performance was continued into the start of the second half when a driving maul from the halfway was stopped just short of the line but a quick feed to fly half Mark Watson who, returning to the first team after an injury ridden two years, found a gap to score under the posts. Richard Evans then added the two points to make what seemed a comfortable 17-6 lead.

This though was not the case and a spirited Gravesend side came more and more into the game and as Sidcup made errors in midfield they were punished by some excellent support play by Gravesend. Gravesend then scored three tries without reply to take a 21-17 lead. All three tries were scored in the corner wide out and they all went unconverted which was to be Gravesend’s downfall.

From the last restart Gravesend made a basic offside error, which from the resulting penalty gave Sidcup a line out close to Gravesend’s line. Thierry Paul, returning to the Sidcup side after three weeks absence, forced his way over.

Back in the lead at 22-21 Sidcup started to gain more ball but suffered again when Thierry Paul was sin binned. This did not have too much effect on the score line but as always losing a player puts further pressure on the remainder of the side. On his return after a period of sustained pressure, replacement Dominic Walton was given the ball in midfield and went over from two yards out. Richard Evans converted.

At 29-21 Gravesend were not finished and they had the last say when for the fourth time in the half, forced their way up field to again score in the corner. With the conversion again failing the final whistle went to give Sidcup their second away win this season.

Sidcup would have been pleased with their never give up attitude but mistakes cost games and these need to be eliminated from their game. Sidcup now have a weeks break before playing local rivals Old Elthamians, away, on 25th November, kick off 2:30pm.

PJW - 13 Nov 06

Sat 4 Nov 06: Sidcup 50 - Old Dunstonian RFC 15

Sidcup continued their campaign for promotion by racking up a half-century score against visitors Old Dunstonian RFC (ODs) at the weekend.

After a disappointing cup run, it was crucial the home side raised their game if they want to return to the London 2 league next season. But despite the win it was ODs who had the first chance to open the scoring through a penalty kick in the first five minutes – although a poor attempt at goal kept the score sheet clean.

Sidcup quickly turned the game around and soon converted possession into points. The first try came about through some good linking up between the backs and forwards when centre Chris Jones passed to winger Richard Roddis, who dodged three tackles before passing the ball to flanker Jon West, who touched the ball down.

A line out followed on ODs’ 22-metre line shortly after, which allowed Sidcup to set up a driving maul and club captain Danny Mizen, back from injury and playing in the front row, crashed the ball over the line. Full back Richard Pilgrim, who’s kicking game was impressive throughout, converted both tries to bring the score to 14-0.

ODs began to respond to Sidcup’s attacking play and, shortly after West saved Sidcup from conceding points by diving on the ball behind his try line before ODs, the visitors gained three points through a penalty kick. However, ODs began to get frustrated and were warned by the referee about their persistent fouling. But this unfortunately did not stop them and constant attempts to kill the ball as Sidcup were driving over their line caused them to concede a penalty try, which created an easy kick for Pilgrim to convert.

Some slick passing through Sidcup’s back line allowed Roddis to use his pace and score an unconverted try in the corner on half time, making the score 26-3 at the break.

The first 15 minutes of the second half saw ODs come back at Sidcup and score two tries in quick succession. The first saw the visitors capitalise on a lost scrum by Sidcup and their scrum half pass the ball out to their quick winger who scored in the corner. The second came about through an impressive drive by their pack. Their kicker added the two point to this try, to make the score 26-15.

But the visitors’ period of attacking play came to an end and Sidcup spent the final 20 minutes scoring a flurry of tries. The first came from a forward drive which saw second row Liam Rankin touch the ball down and another came from Pilgrim, who converted both scores. Sidcup fought until the end, and finished the second half the same way they completed the first, with a second try from Roddis, who created an overlap to score in the corner. An excellent conversion kick from Pilgrim brought their tally to 50 points.

Club president Phil West said: “We played exceptionally well for 90 per cent of the game and have set our standard for the rest of the season, which we must maintain if we are considering ourselves for promotion. It’s always nice to score 50 points against a local rival.”

AC - 6 Nov 06

Richard Pilgrim receives a bottle of champagne from MotM sponsor Adrian Gillan.

Sat 28 Oct 06: Sidcup 21 - Old Wellingtonians 34

Sidcup welcomed Surrey side Old Wellingtonians (OWs) at the weekend for the second round of the EDF Energy Senior Vase.

The visitor’s no training policy clearly doesn’t affect their game as they currently sit at the top of the Surrey 1 league and are yet to lose a match. With this in mind, Sidcup knew they had a tough game on their hands. But, despite some excellent rugby played in the first half, the talent of the OW side shone through and ensured Sidcup’s cup run was short lived.

The home side kicked off and continued with some good attacking play, stopping short of scoring by some strong tackling by the visitors. The first try came slightly against the run of play, when OWs’ centre spotted holes in Sidcup’s back line to score under the posts, converted by the scrum half, to make the score 0-7 on 14 minutes.

But Sidcup’s strong start paid off just two minutes later through a turn over on the 10-metre line which was passed to outside centre Chris Jones, who opened Sidcup’s scoring. Full back Richard Pilgrim added the two points to level the score.

Sidcup quickly increased their tally through a Pilgrim try and conversion and a third score through winger Richard Roddis, whose hard work paid off as he turned over the ball from his opposite number and was on the receiving end of a back line move to touch the ball down on 36 minutes.

But Sidcup’s defence let them down for the second time at the end of the first half as OW’s winger dodged six tackles to score their second try of the game. The conversion was missed, but a penalty kick shortly after saw the half-time score at 21-12.

The visitors started the second period in the same way they finished the last through another individual score from their number 11.

Sidcup responded with some good forward work, with rolling mauls gaining ground and forcing mistakes on OWs. However, they were unable to convert this into points and, shortly after Sidcup prop Darryl Vas was sinbinned, OW’s forwards scored a converted try from the resulting penalty.

Sidcup stepped up their defence and some fierce tackling from Pilgrim, Roddis and number 8 Jon West prevented OWs from scoring. But they eventually found a way through to score a final try through another impressive solo try from their outside centre and the final score was 21-34 to the visitors.

Club president Phil West said: “Sidcup started well but Old Wellingtonians are a very good side. They had some very sharp, talented players who scored great individual tries and I think their quality showed in the end.”

AC - 30 Oct 06

Man of the Match, Chris Jones, receives a bottle of champagne from MotM sponsor, Phil West.

Sat 21 Oct 06: Bognor 21 - Sidcup 9

Sidcup travelled to the South coast hoping for a convincing win to enable them to challenge top of the table pacesetters, Purley John Fisher and Chichester. They were met by a very determined Bognor home side that had only managed a point in this season’s campaign and were lingering near the bottom of the table. However, it will be a game Sidcup will want to forget as they only played with fluidity for the first ten minutes before losing their way for the remainder of the game, eventually losing 21-9.

During the first ten minutes Richard Pilgrim went close to scoring in the corner, only to be denied but then he opened Sidcup’s account with a penalty. A yellow card for Bognor’s lock forward for ankle stamping seemed to spur his side and Sidcup were unable to take advantage of the extra player.

Too many penalties from both sides led to uninspiring rugby but eventually Bognor took the lead with a back movement that created space for the outside centre to run in. With the conversion, Bognor lead 7-3. They then increased their lead creating a try from a quick throw in to a line out. Despite using a different ball whilst the match ball was being retrieved from the next pitch, the referee allowed the try to stand to the bewilderment of the players and spectators.

With Sidcup’s players becoming increasing frustrated, Jon West was sent to the sin bin just before half time for stamping and the score remained 12-3 at half time.

After half time with West still off the field Sidcup produced enough pressure to force two penalties in Bognor’s half which allowed Richard Pilgrim to reduce the scoreline to 12-9. Bognor were now tending to give away unnecessary penalties and an infringement at a scrum on half way allowed another shot at goal which this time failed.

With the game being played at a leisurely pace and uninspiring rugby between the twenty two’s, Sidcup themselves started to give away needless penalties and Bognor’s fly half Parry obliged on three occasions to punish Sidcup to a 21-9 defeat.

Sidcup will have to regroup on the training arena this week to try and bring cohesion to their game before they have to tackle a very good Surrey 1 outfit in Old Wellingtonians this Saturday in the EDF Energy Senior Vase.

PJW - 22 Oct 06

Sat 14 Oct 06: Sidcup 12 - Deal & Betteshanger 8

Sidcup won their third league game of the season against Deal and Betteshanger this weekend, in a closely-fought match which the home team had to fight for.

The majority of the first half was somewhat scrappy and it took 35 minutes to open the scoring, which the home team did in style. A double dummy pass move by fly half Dennis Buirman created an extra man in Sidcup’s back line. The ball was finally passed to inside centre Chris Jones, who had winger Richard Roddis on his outside to utilise his pace and beat the defence to touch the ball down, making the score 5-0.

The points on the board clearly raised Sidcup’s spirits and they began to retain possession through winning their first-phase ball quickly and cleanly.

More slick passing from the back line coupled with a well-won line out by forwards allowed the home side to score another try before half time, again through Roddis, this time on the receiving end of a pass from full back Richard Pilgrim. The full back kicked an excellent conversion from the touchline and Sidcup led 12-0 at the break.

The second half proved the visitors would not go down without a fight and started the session with a penalty kick, which their scrum half kicked with ease. Further attempts by them to add points through another penalty and a drop goal attempt went astray but their hard work paid off when their forwards drove a maul over the line to make the score 12-8. Deal and Betteshanger gained momentum after this score and pinned the home team on their try line for the majority for the second half.

The home side became frustrated but despite replacement prop Rob Farlam-Jones being sin binned for a professional foul, the team defended well and the final score stayed at 12-8.

Team Captain Iain Wilson said: “It was a closely-fought game but I believe we deserved our victory.”

AC - 20 Oct 06

Man of the match Michael Elliott receive a bottle of champagne from MotM sponsor Jim Wilson.

Sat 7 Oct 06: Purley John Fisher 28 - Sidcup 24

A stonger pack and lack of possession saw Sidcup lose their second match this season, against Surrey side Purley John Fisher, in the London 3 South East league. But despite the visitors losing crucial first-phase ball, some excellent kicking by new fly half Dennis Buirman and good use of the ball when in their hands saw the deficit narrowed to just four points.

The game got off to a slow start, but Purley John Fisher opened the scoring through a try by outside centre Campbell-Carson, who picked the ball up on Sidcup’s 22 and dodged the defence to score under the posts. A kickable penalty awarded soon after increased their tally to 8-0.

Full back Richard Pilgrim kicked a penalty to open Sidcup’s scoring on 24 minutes, but a strong forward drive over Sidcup’s line soon added another five points to Purley John Fisher’s score.

Sidcup began to catch up, with second row Thierry Paul score an almost identical try to their opposition’s previous one. Another try by number 8 Jon West, who picked up the ball from a clever kick in-field by winger Richard Roddis, saw Sidcup briefly take the lead by four points.

The home side responded with an excellent spell of rugby, scoring a penalty and two more tries – one from a back line move and another through a scrum to allow Booth, their number 8, to touch the ball down.

But Sidcup refused to lose hope and finished the game with an excellent team try (see below), which saw Richard Roddis cut in-field to take a pass from Jon West and pick out Thierry Paul, whose pace and power ensured his second try of the game. It was not enough, however, and the home team emerged victorious, winning 28-24.

Team member Matt West said: “Unfortunately we were unable to secure good scrummage ball but in open play we were far superior. Let’s see what happens at home.”

Try of the game.......

Sat 30 Sept 06: Sidcup 38 - Aylesford Bulls 7

Sidcup’s determined second-half performance ensured their first home win of the season, as the welcomed Aylesford Bulls at the weekend.

Both teams had been struggling for consistency in the London 3 South East league. Recording one win, one draw and one defeat so far, it is only a better points difference which saw Sidcup sitting above Aylesford in the table.

Sidcup’s Ian Wilson took over the captaincy for the day as Danny Mizen was forced to sit out injured and both teams got off to a slow start, with neither gaining control of the game.

Aylesford came within a whisker of taking the lead early on through a penalty but fly half Pat Norton’s attempt at goal hit the post. Sidcup’s penalty, awarded shortly after, also fell short.

The visitors frustration soon got the better of them and they gave away two penalties in quick succession – one for abusing the referee and another for an offside – the latter of which saw their number 4 Pete Webdale sent to the sin bin.

Sidcup capitalised on the extra forward and decided to go for a line out, which allowed them to drive the ball over the line and flanker Steve Hancox to touch the ball down. Fly half Dennis Buirman added the two points making the score 7-0.

The following five minutes saw Aylesford boast a good run of play, with Sidcup pulling out all the stops to hold them back. However, the visitor’s determination soon paid off and charged down an attempted clearance kick to score a converted try in the corner, levelling the game.

But this didn’t last for long – Aylesford gave away a penalty in the last phase of the first half in a prime kicking position for Sidcup and full back Richard Pilgrim duly added the points, making the half-time score 10-7.

Sidcup started the second half as they meant to go on, and a free kick awarded to them from a line out was passed to second row Thierry Paul, who bulldozed his way through Aylesford’s defence to score a try under the posts.

There seemed to be no turning back for Sidcup from this point on and this, coupled with Aylesford’s frustration ensured the visitor’s score tally stayed the same.

The Bulls lost another player for 10 minutes as their number 8, Lee Laqueaburta, saw yellow for a repeated offside offence. A rolling maul from a line out allowed loose-head prop Tom Page to add another five points and a well-struck kick from Pilgrim added another two.

Sidcup’s penultimate try came from another penalty, in which the forwards drove over the line to enable number 8 Jon West to score. Another Pilgrim conversion took the score to 31-7.

Things went from bad to worse for Aylesford, who finished the game fumbling the ball on their five-metre line. The ball went behind them, past the try line, and centre John Harris won the race to touch the ball down for a final converted try, making the full-time score 38-7.

Club president Phil West said: “It was a great performance from the whole team. Everyone played with full commitment and it is great to be back to our winning ways in a match we couldn’t afford to lose if we want to finish on top of the league.

“The support was also very good – it’s great to see so many turn up to cheer on their team.”

AC - 3 Oct 06

Man of the Match, Thierry Paul, recieves a bottle of champagne from MotM sponsor Margaret Mizen.

Thierry Paul

Sat 23 Sept 06: Lordswood 15 - Sidcup 6

Sidcup paid a visit to Chatham last Saturday to play their third league game of the season against Lordswood – a team well known for their impressive home record.

The visitors started poorly, with three penalties awarded against them in quick succession. One was converted into points by Lordswood and Sidcup were soon trailing 3-0. But a penalty from a scrum on Lordswood’s 22 quickly allowed Sidcup’s Richard Pilgrim to respond and level the score.

Sidcup followed this with a long spell of possession – undeterred by Lordswood’s large pack. The home team soon began to feel the pressure and brought down a rolling maul, allowing Pilgrim’s boot to take the lead for the first time in the game.

Although Lordswood’s game was strewn with penalties – with the ball going past their number 10 twice during the whole match – it was a Sidcup player who was sin-binned first when Callum Thomson, in his first game for Sidcup, was yellow carded on 34 minutes for being offside at a ruck. Lordswood capitalised on this to make the half-time score 6-6.

Thomson returned soon after the second half; only for Lordswood’s scrum half to be sin-binned for an identical foul.

The rest of the game proved a stalemate – Lordswood used their small pitch to their advantage, playing a kick-and-chase game, not allowing Sidcup to pass the ball wide when in possession. Sidcup’s pack began to struggle, especially in the lineouts, against ex-Blackheath player and coach Lee Evans.

Sidcup made a flurry of changes on 55 minutes, replacing two forwards and one back, but this made little difference and the visitors soon lost the lead through a massive drop goal by Lordswood from the halfway line.

Sidcup’s frustration then caused them to be marched back 20 yards during a Lordswood penalty, which allowed them to add another three points to their score. Another drop goal 15 minutes before time closed the score at 15-6 to the home side.

Club president Phil West said: “Lordswood clearly know how to play to their small pitch and we were unable to use the pace we have in the backs. We really need to put points on teams while we’re pressurising them if we want promotion this season.”

AC - 25 Sept 06

Sat 16 Sept 06: Sidcup 12 - Tonbridge Juddians 12

Sidcup Rugby Club welcomed Tonbridge Juddians last Saturday in its first home game of the season. The team, relegated to the London 3 South East league last season, was hoping to follow on from its comfortable 39-point win away against Folkstone the previous weekend.

But despite two tries from winger Jon Harris, the home side only managed to gain a point, drawing 12-12 in a game which lacked fluidity throughout.

Sidcup kicked off and started well with their back line putting some impressive back moves together and a tackle into touch on Jon Harris, who stood in on the wing to replace the absent Richard Roddis, denied the home team an early try.

The following 15 minutes saw a stream of mistakes and knock-ons, until a well-recovered dropped ball was passed down the back line to allow Harris to score the first of his tries in the corner. The try was unconverted, making the score 5-0 after 18 minutes.

The mistakes and foul play continued and a promising spell for Sidcup, which started from a rolling maul from an accurate line out, was quickly cut short by visitors winning a penalty when a Sidcup player dived over the top of a ruck.

Tonbridge Juddians had the chance to get points on the board soon after, as a result of Sidcup being caught offside and giving away a penalty, but the visitors’ kicker failed to get the ball over the posts. A failed attempt at a drop goal by the visitors also ensured the half-time score stayed at 5-0.

Sidcup started the second period well; with some accurate kicking from fly-half Richard Evans turned a penalty into a line-out on the half way line. Sidcup caught the throw and swiftly passed the ball to the back line, allowing Harris to score his second try out wide. This provided a difficult conversion for Evans, but he struck it well and converted the score.

A long defensive spell inside their 22 followed for Sidcup. The visitor’s back line were unable to find a way though and decided to change tactics by giving the ball to their tight-head prop Tony O’Doherty, who opened the scoring for his team after 55 minutes. The team’s kicker added the two points.

Tonbridge Juddians continued to pile on the pressure and winger Sam Burgess capitalised on a mis-timed pass by Sidcup to intercept the ball and run almost the length of the pitch. Sidcup fullback Richard Pilgrim did well to stop him in his tracks but his team mate was close behind and scored an unconverted try.

Sidcup had a chance to steal the victory in the last phase of the game when the visitors gave away a penalty for entering a ruck at the side. But although Pilgrim’s attempt to score the three points was close, it fell just short of the posts and the score finished 12-12.

Sidcup Rugby Club president Phil West said: “We should have won the game in the first half, really. I think this match proved there is some real talent in this league and we’ll definitely need to stay on top of our game all season.”

AC - 18 Sept 06

Man of the Match and scorer of both Sidcup tries, Jon Harris, recieves a bottle of champagne from MotM sponsor Sam Taylor.

Sat 9 Sept 06: Folkestone 10 - Sidcup 49

This was Sidcup’s first run out in London 3 South East and against the first of the eight Kent sides in the Division. With the sun shining and a good support on the touchline Sidcup came away with a good away win against a Folkestone side that were reduced to 14 men after 10 mins when their full back was dismissed for punching.

The game started well for Sidcup and after only 2 minutes a scrum on Folkestone 22 allowed Richard Evans and Richard Pilgrim to combine to put Phil Evans over wide out. (5-0). With players finding their feet in the first game of the season play was sometimes scrappy but Sidcup capitalized on a Folkestone mistake in midfield, Iain Wilson picked up, fed scrum half James Cosh who fed Rich Roddis wide out, just short of the line he fed No 8 Jon West who ran in (10 –0).

In the next passage of play, the Folkestone full back was handed a red card and from then on they were always going to be under pressure. This proved to be the case when, from a pick up on the Folkestone 22, a stampeding driving maul stopped just short of the line but the quick ball from the resulting ruck allowed Jon Harris to go over.

The next score on 28 mins was a surprise five points from Folkestone after a mistake on Sidcup’s 22 which their winger Woolford went over wide out. (15- 5).

Sidcup struck back straight away and from a scrum on half way, a pick up by Mark Whitford allowed James Cosh and Chris Jones to combine to put Rich Roddis in the corner. Richard Evans kicked the conversion wide out (22-5). The last ten minutes of the first half produced no further scores in some scrappy play from both sides. Half –time 22-5.

Darryl Vas replaced the debutant Tom Page who had an excellent first half but was suffering with a virus. After 8 mins of the second half a Richard Pilgrim kick through pushed the Sidcup side close to the Folkestone line. From the resulting lineout a driving maul allowed a second try for Jon West (27-5). Dennis Buirman replaced Richard Evans at Fly half for his first game for Sidcup and continual pressure on the Folkestone line did not produce any scores but a mistimed Sidcup pass allowed Folkestone’s Woolford to run the length of the park for Folkestone’s second try.(27-10).

Reaction from Sidcup was swift and from a scrum on Folkestone’s 22 allowed Jon West and James Cosh to put Jon Harris over for a try (32-10). Dennis Buirman was becoming busier at fly half and his miss-pass found Richard Pilgrim in open space to run in from 15 yards. Buirman converted (39-10). Steve Hancox replaced the busy Whitford in the back row.

Sustained pressure allowed Jon Harris to run through a tired Folkestone defence to pick up his third try (44-10) and finally second row Colin Cooper found himself in open space to run in the last of Sidcup’s tries (49-10).

Sidcup would have been happy with this performance playing some excellent rugby but knowing they have plenty to work to do for a long hard season in front of them.
Sidcup play their first home game against Tonbridge/Juddians on Saturday Kick off 3.00pm.

PJ W - 10 Sept 2006

Sat 19 Aug 06......

......saw the fhe first competative games of the season for the senior sqaud. Having been let down by scheduled opposition, Sidcup took the place of London New Zealand who themseleves had dropped out of a round-robin tournament at London Irish Amatiuers (level 6). The other team in the tournament were London Nigerian (also level 6). With Sisdcup in level 7 this coming season, the tournament would be a real test of our pre-season preparation.

The format was two games of 20 min halves against the other clubs. Sidcup beat London Nigerian 12 - 3 and drew with London Irish 12-12.

Steve Hancox takes the inside pass from Richard Roddis

Steve Amura times the run to perfection.