TABARD 5 Chingford 31 (by John Strickland)

Tabard’s finally surrendered their long-running home league record as they tumbled to defeat against league leaders Chingford.

Despite the score there were long periods of this match where Tabard were in the ascendancy but they just couldn’t convert pressure into points.

The game started badly for Tabard when prop Gough was shoulder barged in an off-the-ball incident at the kick off and this lead to him being replaced just four minutes into the game. 

Chingford posted warning of their potential when their fly-half converted a long range penalty after six minutes to give them an early lead.  This was followed just minutes later by a fine try when their scrumhalf broke around the side of a maul and raced over from 20 metres.  The try was converted to give them a ten point lead.

For the next twenty five minutes Tabard played well and were camped in Chingford’s half for the majority of the time.  A number of attacks looked as if they were about to produce a score but sterling defence from Chingford thwarted Tabard every time.

Just when it seemed the Tabard pressure must pay off Chingford fought their way into the Tabard half and scored a converted try to stretch their lead.

Tabard showed great spirit at this point and produced another period of pressure.  Fly-half Richard Woodard spotted an opportunity and his kick was collected by winger Daniel Nansoz on the Chingford 22.  With work still to do Nansoz showed great composure as he raced past both winger and fullback for a try in the corner.  This at least gave Tabard some hope as they trailed 5-17 at halftime.

The second half saw Chingford extend their lead with three further penalties and another try.  Despite desperate efforts by Tabard they could not produce another score and the game ended with a disappointing score of 5-31.

Team:   Fleuren, Nansoz, Ashcroft, Orchard, Thomas, Woodard, Smith, Gough (Collison 4 m), Baker, Davey, Montague, Crocker, Wyatt, Stoba and Karstel (Hopcroft 65 m).

With the early kick-off everyone retired to the bar and the large screen to watch England demolish the much fancied Australians.  With good food, good beer and such a fascinating game the clubhouse was buzzing and demonstrated much of what rugby is about.  Why not come and join us?

Next week Tabard play at Home against Wimbledon, from London 2 South, in the EDF Intermediate Cup.  Kick-off currently scheduled for 3 pm but watch website www.tabardrfc.co.uk for any changes.