Bulls fall to Harlow

After a number of weeks of disruption at the club Beccles travelled to Harlow who have turned their season around since a series of early season losses. Beccles only had 5 of the team who started the corresponding home fixture on display and had to play against the slope in the first half. The home side showed why they have scored some good wins against teams at the top of the table from the start. From the kick off their fly half kicked over winger Gedney allowing his committed chasers to retain possession. Using his runners well the Harlow 10 went through some scripted plays before putting his centre over under the posts for an un-converted try after 4 minutes.

Beccles immediately countered and secured a penalty converted by Luke Wade. Unfortunately Beccles were second best in the battle for the loose ball and did not match the home sides intensity up front. Taking advantage of quick recycled ball a break down the blind side allowed the Harlow winger to go over for a converted score. This was soon followed by a powerful drive by their hooker to go over under the posts after soft defending. Beccles forced their way into the Harlow half and pressed for the score to get them back into the game with Pitts, Ling and Wilson going close with drives, resolute Harlow defence kept the Bulls at bay leaving them 19-3 down at the break.

The Harlow 10 had been given an armchair ride in the first half,Callum Roberts was moved from the centre to play an open side flanker role with Alan Cooper replacing him. Tom Harrison was carrying a heavy knock and was substituted by Matt Calver on the wing. Beccles had struggled in the lineout all day and despite Luke Wade gaining territory with his boot were unable to put pressure on the Harlow throw. After a flowing three quarter move the Beccles line was stretched and the Harlow centre broke through for a good individual score which was converted to give a 26-3 lead with half an hour to go.

To Beccles credit they did not fold and mounted a number of attacks from deep with good passing moves along the three quarters. Full back Sam Long had countered bravely all game and was finally able to break through the Harlow defensive line. Man of the match John Hoffman also sniped well from scrum half but unfortunately despite periods of pressure Beccles could not get the score they deserved. A late converted try and penalty from Harlow but some gloss on the score line however Beccles were well beaten and will need to improve their basics to finish the season on a high note.

Team

Pitts, Lake, Ling, Johnstone,P. Wilson, Edwards, Maerr,R. Wilson, Hoffman, Wade, Harrison, Roberts, Harmer, Gedney, Long. Res - Cooper, Calver, Penney