A tough loss to take against local rivals but the performances are improving

Selection:

Kerr, Whitworth, Heron, James, Burbidge, Dawes, Wilkinson, Downsborough, Rowntree, Gianotti, Hinchliffe, Raby, Bruce, Mollet, Cockroft.
Subs: Milner, Bryan, Sharp, & R.Cole

Scorers:

Tries: Raby, Mollet, Wilkinson & Gianotti.
Cons: Gianotti (3)
Pen: Gianotti

Report:

Heath entered this game determined to improve on recent performances and with returning players definitely did that.

In a frantic opening Heath dominated play, lead by Ian Downsborough, the pack were on top and setting a great platform. Ben Gianotti opened the scoring with a simple penalty. The ever improving Gianotti found Jack Raby, who justified his selection in the centre, pushing his way through and outpacing the cover for an impressive try. The best try of the day followed, Matthew Wilkinson stripped the ball and released the backs, Tom Cockroft and Jack Bruce timed passes superbly to release Jack Mollet who sprinted clear to score, Gianotti converted. Brods hit back, scoring from close range, only for skipper Tobias Hinchliffe to charge down the conversion attempt, epitomising his leadership and enthusiasm. Oli Burbidge left the field to be replaced by Adam Milner. After a few attempts from close in, Wilkinson scored a converted try and Heath were looking good, however, Brods hit back to reduce the deficit. When Gianotti dispossessed an attacker, the pitch opened up in front of him for a fifty metre dash, converting his own score. Debutant Silla Bryan entered the fray and his first run saw him skittle three defenders. Brods scored on half time to keep within touching distance, 29-17 HT.

With the elements now with the Brods, Heath needed to defend well and repel the early pressure. The home team got overrun for twenty minutes, struggling to contain the visitors strong running, conceding five tries without reply. Injuries to Downsborough and Wilkinson not helping the cause. The team did show great spirit and resilience and fought hard till the end, with Sam Sharp harshly denied a great score and Max Dawes tackling everything sent his way.

Always a tough loss to take against our rivals but the performances are improving and with lads to return the results will improve. We stick together and go again.