Cobham battle to victory over Old Elthamians

Cobham welcomed Old Elthamians (OEs) to Fairmile Lane for the first time since January 2012, fielding a youthful side with five changes from the previous week due to injuries, unavailability and international call-ups. Cobham’s backs, all products of the club’s youth system, had an average age of just 24. Henry Lunn made his first start, while American newcomer Abe Turpen made his debut off the bench. Despite OEs having lost their opening three games, Cobham knew they faced a tough challenge after the visitors had pushed the league leaders close the previous week.

The opening exchanges were tight, with both defences on top. Cobham threatened through Saywell, who was held-up just short of the line, before a fine midfield break from Ollie Fielding created the opportunity for Burnett to send Lunn over for the opening try in the 13th minute.

Will Stephen then left the field injured, bringing Turpen on at centre. Cobham continued to press but OEs defended well and took advantage of Cobham’s indiscipline. A five-metre lineout led to a try for centre Adamson, giving the visitors the lead (5-7). OEs finished the half strongly, scoring again after a series of excellent carries to take a 14-5 advantage into the break. Cobham had enjoyed plenty of possession but struggled to turn it into points.

Cobham needed a strong start to the second half and reduced the deficit when Saywell kicked a penalty after sustained pressure. At 8-14, the game was finely poised. The turning point came with a superb team try. Joe Harker won clean lineout ball on halfway, Andrew Murphy made an excellent break into the OEs 22 and Harker continued the move before Cobham moved the ball wide for Taylor Burnett to finish. Saywell’s conversion put Cobham ahead (15-14).

Despite several positional changes, Cobham continued to build momentum. Noah Joyce made excellent ground from a penalty advantage before the ball was moved right for Springett to score. At 20-14, Cobham had taken control. With 10 minutes remaining, another attacking scrum led to Bond crossing after a fine pass from Burnett, extending the lead to 27-14.

OEs refused to give up and dominated the closing stages. A strong break through the middle created the opportunity for winger Xavier Turner to score in the 77th minute, reducing the deficit to 27-21 and setting up a tense finish. Cobham responded with some heroic defending. McQuade won a crucial turnover with a counter-ruck before Noah Joyce secured another vital turnover to relieve the pressure. Cobham held firm until the final whistle to secure a hard-fought victory.

Final score, Cobham 27–21 Old Elthamians

Cobham will be pleased with their second win of the season, although they may feel they could have made more of their possession and territory. Credit must go to OEs for their strong defence and determined late fightback. Ultimately, Cobham showed great character to see out an entertaining contest.

This weekend (24 October), Cobham travel to league leaders Beckenham. All travelling support will be very welcome!

Cobham 1st XV Squad:-

1. Chris Lippiatt (Capt.)

2. Andrew Murphy

3. Lewis Joyce

4. Joe Harker

5. Louis Porter

6. Ollie Fielding

7. Noah Joyce

8. Jake McQuade

9. Christian Disley-May

10. Will Stephen

11. Wilf Saywell

12. Taylor Burnett

13. Henry Lunn**

14. Will Springett

15. Jordan Bond

Substitutes:

16. Ryan Aujla

17. Luke Westgarth-Taylor

18. Abe Turpen*

Scorers:

Tries: Lunn, Burnett, Springett, Bond

Conversions: Saywell (2)

Penalty: Saywell

* Debut

** First start