First half performance encouraging for Harrow, but not enough for the win

The match was on the day of the Wales v South Africa world cup semi final and some had made it early to Croxley Green in the hope of watching the first half from the warmth of the clubhouse. However it was not to be as the message hadn't got through to the keyholders, so the hardy few watched the first half of that match outside in the cold, peering at a phone. It didn't matter much, as that semi-final was hardly watchable in any case, particularly in comparison with England v New Zealand the day before.

This was Harrow's first fixture since Billy had sustained a serious injury in training and the coaches and manager were a little unsure about how the team would react. As it happened, they reacted very well!

Harrow could only muster 13 players, so both sides dropped their flankers. Chess started well with some good pressure in the opening minutes but Harrow defended resolutely and their defence wasn't breached. Then, following a great break from Kyle and Henry, the ball appeared to be lost but great work at the ruck by Adam secured possession and a couple of phases later, Harry went over for the opening score. David wasn't able to add the extras.

A breakthrough return play from Chess allowed them to level at 5-5 before Harrow went ahead again, this time with Michael finishing well from the wing. He managed to touch down under the sticks, from where Tom slotted over the conversion for a 12-5 lead which is how it was at half time.

This Harrow team is still finding their way when it comes to lifting at the lineout, but there was some success in that regard today, with Vincy being a good and willing jumper.

Harrow started strongly after the break and had soon stretched their lead to 17-5 when Jamie dived over from close range after a constant pressure and a few penalty offences by Chess near their won line. Tom couldn't find the required accuracy with the conversion.

From them on, Harrow tired, and Chess made very good use of their extended squad by bringing on a number of players and the fresh legs told. Chess ran away with it, scoring some lovely tries as holes appeared in Harrow's defence.

Harrow joined Chess in a lively clubhouse for their respective forward and back of the day presentations, which on Harrow's side were picked up by Ted and Tom.

All in all, an encouraging first half performance by Harrow, and they should not be too disheartened by the comeback from a much larger squad.