A Close Encounter of the Rugby Kind

The Aylesford side were in good form in the first half and their forwards had initial superiority . However, the Lions, with some key players missing through injury and promotion to the 1st XV, gradually began to offer good resistance and to produce some good ball . Michael Rowarth, who again had a good game at Scrum-Half made further progress in the position, but the wind did play havoc with passing .

From a kick ahead by the Aylesford Fly-Half , their Centre fielded a favourable bounce and scored under the posts for a converted try .

The Lions reacted well and pressed their own attacks and only a dropped pass when the Aylesford line was very vulnerable prevented a try in response . The Lions Back-Row tackled well and the forwards started to apply more pressure .

The game went to and fro, and eventually a good drive from a line-out gave Aylesford another try .

The speedy and skilful Aylesford Full Back kicked through on a loose ball and won the race for the line . Thus at Half Time, Aylesford led by 19 points to nil .

However, now the Lions were working together better . Gary Dixon and Andrew Sapsford led well from the front, Rowarth varied the attack and the Forwards put on the pressure . Ed Topping made some telling runs after quick ball from Ruffley and Mitch Halpin and play went deep into the Visitors’ territory . Dan Atkinson joined the fray and the result was pressure on the Aylesford line and Ben Ruffley scored . Matt Halpin converted and that was followed by another try from more pressure on the Visitors’ line and Joe Michael scored . Again , Matt Halpin converted .

A close contest, well – refereed and an enjoyable game .

Report by David Storrie

The Lions continue to improve and with more players at training, the good results will follow