Heath beat freezing conditions to continue winning season

Heath started strongly with Max Drage scoring twice and Robbie Fotheringham converting both within eight minutes of play taking the score to 0-14. But Shoreham were determined to make a game of it and although the strength of the Heath pack and running backs showed, Shoreham thwarted Heath’s attacking moves at every opportunity limiting a rampant Heath side to three more tries in the first half from Fotheringham, Joss Townsend and Heath captain Nick Main, two of which were converted to take the score to 0-33 at the break.

The freezing wind along the coast increased in ferocity during the second half, making it difficult for spectators and players alike, and Heath’s continued pressure even more impressive. A kick from Fotheringham was followed up by Sam Drage who powered over to score within five minutes of the restart. A swirling wind caught the conversion which missed wide of the posts to make the score 0-38. But Heath did not stop moving forward in waves and renewed pressure allowed Joss Townsend to score his second of the match which was converted - 0-45. But Shoreham were proving to be determined opponents and they got their reward for their effort when they won ball from a lineout and powered over the try line to get themselves on the scoreboard. A strong conversion took the score to 7-45. Soon after the restart Wilf Bridges charged down a Shoreham kick and scored, with Jack Best taking over kicking duties and converting to take the score to 7-52. Shoreham then parked themselves near the Heath line and were only kept out by some strong Heath defence, which had the benefit of fresh legs from the bench that had by now taken to the pitch. With five minutes remaining Heath turned defence into attack and ran in two more tries through Sam Drage (his second of the day) and Duncan Liddle, one of which was converted. The final whistle blew on a scoreline of 7-64 to Heath and another great result to add to their unbeaten season so far. Jack Best, who also plays for Heath Colts, was Man of the Match, showing the depth of rugby talent that is coming through the ranks at the Club.

Next Saturday Heath are at home to Newick 1, with pre-match lunch and both RBS 6 Nations Internationals being shown live in the Clubhouse - all support welcome. And don’t forget Friday evening you can watch Wales v England 6 Nations opener live in the Whitemans Green Clubhouse with a large variety of tasty pies on sale at the bar. All welcome - it will be another great weekend of rugby at Heath.