Hadleigh 38, Broadland-Great Yarmouth 24

RUGBY: After a rest week, Broadland-Great Yarmouth travelled to Hadleigh aiming to secure their spot at the top of the ECL Division Two table. However, a spirited Hadleigh team proved a tough test.

The game started at a lightning pace with Ed Dixon making an early break through the line, but his pass went wide and missed Asa Morrison, allowing Hadleigh to take possession.

After some sustained pressure, Hadleigh broke through and scored.This woke Broadland up and after good running from Kieran Wilkes and Sean Tubby, Broadland got the ball out quickly through Simon Ruddick and Anthony Payne. This led to Tom Weston breaking the line and evading several defenders to score in the corner (converted Weston).

This was followed by a Weston penalty, and with half-time drawing near Broadland looked to be taking charge of the match. But disaster struck when Hadleigh scored just before half-time and opened up a slim gap.

Hadleigh came out the stronger side in the second half but good defensive work from Rye Bilyard and Rian Gallie slowed down their attacks. Despite their strong defence, Broadland conceded two quick tries and left themselves a mountain to climb.

This prompted a strong reaction from Broadland with Royce Chiddle coming on and making several big runs.

With quicker ball than the first half, wings Liam Howlett and Ben Collings were able to make several probing runs. Eventually Chiddle crashed over the line (converted) and Broadland had renewed hope of a comeback.

This was quickly thwarted by a quick breakaway try from Hadleigh.

Broadland almost replied immediately but with Joe Payne destined for the line the referee’s whistle prevented the gap being closed.

Broadland were rewarded for their pressure. With Phil Buckley and Stacey Ledgerwood both making good breaks, centre Sam Noon was able to move the ball well and set up Adam Towfighi to crash over the line (converted).

It was all too late, however, and despite finishing the stronger side Broadland were unable to get close enough for a losing bonus point.

Tomorrow, Broadland play host to Mistley (kick-off 3pm) at Cobholm Playing Fields, Great Yarmouth.

Team: T Weston, J Payne, A Payne, S Noon, B Collings, S Ruddick, P Buckley R Gallie, R Bilyard, S Tubby, K Wilkes, A Morrison, R Ruddick, E Dixon, A Towfighi (captain). Replacements: L Howlett (40 mins), S Ledgerwood (40 mins), R Chiddle (52) mins. Tries: T Weston, R Chiddle, A Towfighi. Con: Weston three of three. Pen: T Weston one of one.

For more information on playing rugby in Great Yarmouth, youth or senior, or becoming involved in helping run the club, visit www.broadlandrfc.com