Pope proud of the effort in a narrow defeat

Cobham RFC’s three-match winning run in London 1 South came to an end on Saturday (26 October). Steve Pope’s men were on the wrong end of a 23-20 scoreline away at Chichester. Five penalties from centre Tom Farrelly and a try from fly half Ant Braithwaite did ensure the visitors left with a losing a bonus point, in a match that was frustrated by the tricky wet conditions.

"I am very proud of the boys; this was a really tough one to wear,” said Director of Rugby Pope. “The weather unfortunately played a big part in proceedings and was a real leveler, as it didn't allow either side to play much rugby. A narrow lose against a heavy and physical home side, where not a lot of luck went our way or any decisions seemingly going in our favour.”

“The players showed real grit and never allowed the score to get away from us. Even with the very bizarre yellow card against us, we hung in and kept going to final whistle. I would be interested to see what the penalty count was for and against over the 80 minutes.”

“I don’t want to take anything away from the home team, who were once again a tough opponent, but it did at times feel like we were playing the All Blacks, in the sense that they never looked as if they were going to be penalised, regardless of their actions.”

“However, you still have to play what is in front of you and this performance fills me with real heart. If we can build that application and consistency into our play moving forward, we will put pressure on all the teams in this league.”

“I hope the boys enjoy the week off, re-charge the batteries and we will get back to work following the World Cup Final.”

The 1st XV are next in action on Saturday 9 November, when they entertain Beckenham at Fairmile Lane (kick-off 2.30pm). All support welcome!

Click here to view images from Saturday’s game, courtesy of Chichester RFC.