The Wyverns, East London's 2nd team,
continued
their strong league form on Saturday against a competitive
Maldon side. The first half was a close affair, with the
opposition showing plenty of motivation and commitment. The
Wyverns scored first when 2nd row Jack De Santos surged down the
right wing, but after this Maldon took control. They repelled
numerous East London attacks by turning the ball over at the
breakdown, and offensively they used the driving maul to good
effect. Maldon's superior play saw their forwards score a try,
and win a penalty that was duly converted. At half-time it was
5-8 to Maldon, and the opposition had been by far the better
side.
The weaknesses in the Wyverns' game were
obvious, and the home team started the second half intent on
resolving them. Being far more aggressive and dynamic at the
breakdown ensured that the home side started to retain
possession. The Wyverns also brought their own mauling game into
play, basing it off Mike Groombridge's domination of the middle
of the lineout. The pressure on the Maldon defence started to
mount, and prop Billy Topping burst over for a try. After losing
centre John Walker, usual flanker Matt Buxton already being
employed on the wing, moved into the outside centre channel.
Using his pace and power he brought a new dimension to the
Wyverns' midfield. This was rewarded when Buxton sprinted clear
for the Wyverns' third try. Together with a successful penalty
attempt by flyhalf Walter Scott, the home team had scored 15
unanswered points. Maldon battled all through the second half,
and were rewarded with a consolation try in the final minute.
This was a tough and enjoyable game. Many thanks to everyone
that played.
