Blackheath Rugby Club Clinches Exciting 39-32 Victory Over Bishop’s Stortford
In a thrilling matchup that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Blackheath Rugby Club emerged victorious with a 39-32 win over Bishop’s Stortford. The game showcased Blackheath’s resilience and skill, as they fought off a determined Stortford side to secure a crucial victory just before the Christmas break.
A Damp and Blustery Battle
The game kicked off on a damp and blustery December afternoon, setting the stage for an intense showdown between the two teams. Blackheath’s Tom Ffitch got the scoring started with a three-point penalty for not rolling, but Stortford quickly answered back with a penalty of their own, putting them in the lead. The match continued to see-saw back and forth, with both teams pushing hard to gain the upper hand.
Blackheath’s Second-Half Surge
As the second half got underway, Blackheath came out strong, with Jake Lloyd and Tom Baldwin leading the charge. A well-executed play from Markus Burcham set up Lloyd for a crucial try, narrowing the gap between the two teams. Blackheath continued to pile on the pressure, with Billy Harding scoring a try off a close-range lineout to keep the momentum going.
A Stellar Performance
Despite a valiant effort from Stortford, Blackheath’s relentless attack proved to be too much to handle. Jordan Burns, Mike Etete, and Andrew Boye showcased their skills, paving the way for Harding to score his 10th try of the season. Ffitch’s accurate kicking extended Blackheath’s lead, putting them in a commanding position.
A Nail-Biting Finish
As the game entered its final moments, both teams fought tooth and nail for every point. Stortford managed to close the gap with a late surge, but Blackheath’s defense held strong to secure the win. Director of rugby James Shanahan praised his team’s character and resilience, highlighting the crucial turnovers that kept Blackheath ahead.
Looking Ahead
With the Christmas break approaching, Blackheath can savor their hard-fought victory before returning to league action in January. Fans can catch the Anthony Fitzgerald Memorial Match at Well Hall on December 27, followed by a series of exciting matchups in the new year. Blackheath’s upcoming games promise to deliver more thrilling moments and intense competition for both the team and their dedicated supporters.
