WOKING GO DOWN TO LEAGUE LEADERS IN TOP OF THE TABLE CLASH
Woking RFC 17 vs Staines RFC 35
Woking hosted undefeated league leaders Staines RFC at Byfleet Rec on a perfect day for rugby. Looking to avenge their defeat from earlier in the season and to go level on points at the top of Surrey Counties Five. Despite some late changes to the squad Woking were able to name a full 20-man squad.
From the kick off Staines dominated the opening exchanges all over the pitch barely allowing Woking the opportunity to have the ball and get themselves into the game. With the hosts looking a pale shadow of themselves and lacking intensity in defence the league leaders took full advantage scoring 4 unanswered tries. Only one of which was converted to give Staines a 22-0 lead.
Thankfully, rather than be overwhelmed and to their credit Woking battled back. Some crunching tackles from winger Charlie Goddard and returning centre Carl Jacobz. Now enjoying their best period of the game Woking pressure told as winger Charlie Goddard powered over out wide.
With the half ending, player coach and man of the match, Mark Rose crossed under the posts for his second try in consecutive games. Jacobz converted to reduce the arrears further. Staines having had their early momentum disrupted worked their way back up field and were awarded a penalty which was converted to temper the growing belief amongst the home support that a comeback was on.
Half time: Woking 12 - 25 Staines
Once again Staines started the half strongly but, on this occasion, Woking stood firm despite the visitors shading it territorially. As the half went on Woking were given an opportunity to get back in the game when the Staines winger received a yellow card for a high tackle.
With a numerical disadvantage the Staines forwards took control. A Staines line out 5m from the Woking try line saw them catch and drive over for their fifth try of the match. The conversion was made from out wide. Not long later Woking were penalised in front of the posts allowing Staines to extend their lead to 35-12.
Woking continued to keep their opponents honest without really having the same impact as they had in the first half. However, their persistence did pay off as Mike Aitchison score a late consolation try in the final moments.
Full time: Woking 17 - 35 Staines
Post match, coach Mark Rose said, ‘There are several lessons we can take from the match. Congratulations to Staines they were the better team and deserved the victory. We now need to focus on our next match away to Guildfordians who are in third place and just behind us in the table.’