Too Close for Comfort

This pressure eventually resulted in Adam Michael going over for an unconverted try .

That roused a spirited response from Heathfield, who attacked well through the centre of the pitch by good use of their big and quick second row forwards, backed by their three-quarters . The Lions defended well in the forward play but there were some weaknesses in the backs ,which was in contrast to the strong defence by their opponents when Armstrong , Robinson and Moss were prevented from making their usual inroads .

Unfortunately, there were some hand injuries to two of the Lions players ,which did restrict the effectiveness of those individuals . This reduced the effectiveness of the Team and the game ebbed and flowed up and down the pitch . Eventually, the Home side drove over for a try in the corner .

From another forward tussle, Adam Michael made a searing break around the edge of the pack to go over for another try in the opposite corner .
Heathfield responded with a penalty conversion and at Half-time the score was 10- 8 to the Lions .

The second half continued in much the same vein, with Stone replacing the injured Roberts in the pack and Ludwig came on to the flank . Eventually, the Home side had too many runners on the flank and despite the winger being forced into touch as he dived for the line, the try was awarded .

The Lions, now narrowly in deficit , reacted strongly and pinned the Home side on their line . After five consecutive set scrums on the line which were thwarted , the ball was moved out to the blind-side by Schofield at Fly-half and via a quick pass by Robinson for Ebden to go over in the corner for a well-taken try .

The Lions Team were left with a victory, but they knew that they were capable of a better performance . But Heathfield & Waldron played well and attacked and tackled with spirit and thus made for a very close game .
Deal & Betteshanger were made very welcome by the Home side at their friendly Club and we wish them well for the remainder of the Season .