If you want entertainment watch Woodford. This season they have averaged nearly 5 tries per game, predominately built from defensive positions.
Saturday’s game followed a similar style with two early tries by the home team both scored by right winger, Hylton Foster, following some excellent skilful play and resulting in a 12 point lead.
However, Woodford twice had the opportunity to kick penalties but opted for the line out. Unfortunately they lost the line outs from which Stowmarket, who played a similar adventurous style to Woodford, managed to score two tries. So after 30 minutes the scores were level.
Stowmarket’s tails were up and they subjected Woodford to tremendous pressure which resulted in their third try and the lead at half time. Woodford 12 Stowmarket 17
Very quickly following the start of the second half Woodford scored two tries both of which were converted. 26-17.
Woodford continued to dominate the second half putting immense pressure on the Stowmarket line. Unfortunately this could not be turned into points, in fact Stowmarket managed to break out of the strangle hold and run in a try from their own 22 which was converted, and made the score 26 -24.
Then followed an eventful last 10 minutes. Woodford were awarded a penalty which was kicked meaning that Stowmarket had to score a try to draw level which they duly did. Score 29 -29.
Next Stowmarket were awarded a penalty which they kicked, 29-32.
With about 5 minutes left, Woodford showed the resilience they have shown all season: a determination not to lose. This was rewarded with a try, 34-32.
The last few minutes were about ball retention. On the 80th minute Harry Gahagan kicked the ball into touch and Woodford could celebrate their 13th victory of the season.
That was a tough encounter. Next up, Norwich away. They recently beat Stowmarket 20-14 and are unbeaten in their last 6 games. Woodford won by only 4 points at Highams earlier in the season so they face another big challenge.
Tries 5, Hylton Foster x2, Valerio Braconcini-Phipps, William Cooper-Rendu and Alex Meads. Conversions 3 and a Penalty, Tom Redfern.