Crawley - 21st October                                                                Pictures

A frosty start to the morning, but the Brighton boys looked well fired up to follow the success of last week. 

A long kick from Alex began the game, and Brighton chased up the pitch for possession. A scrum was won easily and the ball was delivered well from Ben to Alex to Jude, who tiptoed through the tulips, I mean defence, to give Brighton the early lead. 5-0 

Once again Brighton possession was regained, and a penalty against Crawley saw the ball recycled across to our new winger Louis W, who headed up pitch with determination. The Brighton pack stood firm, retained possession, and a quick ball was delivered along the line to Robert for touch down. 10-0

Once aware that Crawley were failing to impact upon their game, the Brighton boys began to show increased confidence in their play. Highlighting this was a fantastic individual run from Louis G who managed to cover the entire length and breadth of the pitch (or so it seemed!) for the next try. Wow! 15-0

Another Crawley error and Brighton were once again in possession. Jude strode the touchline, knocking over defenders in his way, before being brought down near the line. Brighton forwards pushed up leaving Matthew to seize the opportunity to break out for a try. 20-0

Further strong driving from the Brighton pack, and the ball was won over, delivered to Alex who cut back inside, leaving Ollie the chance to poach a try. 25-0

Nifty running on pitch from the Brighton backs, Alex and Callum, saw Jude held up in front on the line. The ball was swiftly fed back from Alex to Liam for the next try. 30-0.

Further possession regained, and the backs continued their assault on the weary opposition, leading to intelligent running from Jake who saw the gap, nipped back inside and made the ground up to the line. A scrum was called, and Ben made the quick pass to Callum, who went for the classic dive over the line! 35-0. 

More pressure on Crawley, and Brighton continued totting up the points, leading to a try for Alex.40-0

Incisive running down the right wing from Alex and Robert created space in the middle for Ollie to deliver to Jude, for our next try .45-0

Next up was time for the forwards to show off their prowess. Luis darted through, with his trademark ‘Tiny but Dangerous’ running, passing to Lewes who shrugged off the opposition. A scrum later led to another good run on the wing for Louis G. A further ruck on the line and Ben released for Alex who crossed for his second try.50-0

The best moment of play was left for the last try, which saw superb, un-greedy play from the boys. Alex ripped the ball for possession, passed to Jude, looped back for the ball and gave unselfishly to Robert for his second try. 55-0

Unfortunately Crawley were unable to penetrate our defence throughout the game, and Brighton remained unthreatened.

Great play from all of the Brighton team. Special mention to newcomers Ben,  Joss, Louis G and Louis W for their excellent start to the season.

Like a story book, the Brighton forwards held their ground for the entire game, and the distribution of the ball along the backline clearly produced a shudder of emotion for Coach Roberts. (However once he became aware that he was becoming too sentimental, his softened features were soon transformed back into growls and the Brighton boys were slowly punished one by one for holding on for too long…T’is all in the name of good habits boys!) 

Many thanks to Crawley for their hospitality, and their patience whilst the young Brighton Neanderthals were painfully shown at length just how to create a tunnel…How the Brighton parents felt for Coach Roberts! And how embarrassing…!

Final Score 55-0 

Worthing & Chichester - 28th October                                      Pictures

Brighton vs Worthing ‘A’ 

Dark rain clouds loomed at Waterhall, as Brighton Under 11’s welcomed Worthing and Chichester to their first triangular fixture of the season. 

Worthing kicked off and pushed straight up onto the Brighton defence. A scrum was won by Worthing as their forwards out-beefed the Brighton posse. A pass out to a strong Worthing forward and the try was scored. 0-5. Conversion taken with confidence and their lead was increased. 0-7.

After a comfortable start to the season, the Brighton lads were quick to realise that this was ‘Game-on’, and Brighton forwards started to push their weight; Lewes making good ground up the pitch. Familiar swervy running through the defence from Callum, led to a switch in direction from Jude. A pass across to Louis G, who continued the move with confidence up the wing, but was brought down just short of the line. Ruck on, Brighton held fast, but the Worthing defence seemed impenetrable for a lifetime! Luis saw his chance, grabbed the ball up with an air of panache (? Ask Dionne!) and fed directly to Jude for the try. 5-7. Callum kicked to level the score 7-7.

Brighton confidence regained, the Brighton back line began to take charge of the game.  However Worthing remained hungry and continued to hustle for possession. An unfortunate handling error by Brighton gave Worthing the turn over too close to the line. Try scored 7-12. Conversion scored 7-14.

A game displaying tenacity from both sides. Outspoken voices in the Worthing camp, led to the ref explaining that his eye sight had indeed been tested recently and was not to be challenged. Cheeky devils that they are, the Worthing crew had enough belief in themselves to outsmart the home team, keeping the pressure high and enforcing Brighton slips. And so it seemed that costly errors at key moments sealed Brighton’s fate. Brighton had enough of the ball to win the game, but the Worthing defence was steadfast, and Brighton failed to penetrate.

Final Score 7-14

Brighton development squad vs Worthing ‘B’

Brighton kicked off, straight off the face of an unlucky Worthing lass…ouch…and back into Brighton hands. Alex made off through a crowd of player, back to Joss, who steamrollered his way through defence to score.5-0

More strong running from the zig zag duo that is Callum and Jude, and the ball came back to a battling Oliver, and then back to Callum for the try.10-0

Alex converted for more points. 12-0

Worthing kicked way up pitch, but the Brighton players had regained their perseverance, particularly Oliver who appeared to be playing under the guise of the Worthing mascot! Grrrrrrr!

Brighton stole possession form a Worthing line out, and the ball came swiftly across from Alex to Callum. Jude made a reverse angle run, but was held up just short of the line. Callum was ready in support to cross for the next try.17-0 Alex kicked the conversion and increased the lead to 19-0.

Worthing ‘B’ were reduced to a kicking game, but with Jake ably mopping up at the back Brighton continued the attack.

The forwards retained possession, winning rucks and scrums, with good delivery of the ball from Solomon. Good supportive runs from Alex, Robert and Henry led to the next try for Alex (And a squashed arm. Take care Alex! One broken arm per season is enough…) 24-0.

A less challenging match for the newer Brighton players, as the Worthing ‘B’ appeared to lack the resolve of the preceding squad.  And not forgetting the traditional welcome to new player Adam.

Final score 24-0

Brighton vs Chichester

The game started off well for Brighton, as the boys dominated possession.

Inconveniently for Jude, a gumshield inspection took place in the middle of a flowing team move, obliging him to multi-task. The gumshield was passed swiftly along the back line and Jude put the ball back in his mouth. And then he woke up!

Robert ran straight up, making good ground. A scrum won, switch later and Jude had scored for the first try. 5-0.

Callum kicked with poise to increase the lead 7-0.

A nice break up the centre of the pitch from Oliver and Lewes, and Brighton looked set to maximise. However some wayward passes and poor defence from Brighton, let Chichester back up to the try line. The Brighton back line began to look a little messy, forgetting positions and cutting across each other. How many times boys ???!!!!

Scrappy play led to a Chichester interception, and a break right up the wing to score the try. 7-5. Confident kicking to equalise. 7-7.

At this point the Brighton boys were showing signs of fatigue, and play began to appear in slow motion. The back line lacked depth which led to poor handling, and too many errors. Was it so cold that you needed to huddle that close?

Crucially, Brighton lost possession near their own line and a large defensive gap at the far end of the Brighton line enabled Chichester to increase their score. 7-12. Further increased by the conversion 7-14.

Final score 7-14.

And so the day was done. Some nice moments of skill and handsome rugby was presented by the Brighton boys to their opponents, but that first loss hung heavy in their heads, and hands it seemed.

Having been talked out of leaving for the bus to Timbuktu, their spiritual leader, young Stevriano, returned from the hilltops of Snowdonia, gathered the clan together and beseeched :

“Could the parents please ensure that their offspring have cleaned the honey off their hands by next week. Slippery hands do not a win make…” or words to that effect!

The Brighton boys headed back to the clubhouse, philosophising, “You win some, you lose some.”…, and were happy in the knowledge that the Brighton kitchen would always provide amusement when asked for more than one item of food at a time….

Sutton & Epsom Festival – 4^th November                            Pictures

So it was all off to Ewell near Epsom for the toughest assignment yet – a top-notch festival, playing against some serious clubs and looking mainly to ‘hang in there’. and, to a certain extent, it was mission accomplished .. ..  

Brighton v Sutton & Epsom ‘B’

Brighton began the game showing plenty of intent, and a good break by Louis B early on was an encouraging sign.  Sure enough, Brighton were soon camped out on the S & E line, a sweeping move involving Jude, Louis B & Alex having got them there. S & E looked to have repelled the threat , but an infringement gave Brighton a penalty a few yards from the line, and Ollie proved unstoppable, clinching the try with a swallow dive as he grounded the ball. 5-0.

The whistle-happy ref ensured that the game never quite flowed – although Brighton were reasonably happy with the broken nature of the play, having taken the lead. However, a Brighton indiscretion gave S & E a penalty and they elected to run it. Ollie thundered in but fell back pole-axed. After a good twenty minute delay he was whisked off to hospital. We all feared the worst, but thankfully it was just a very sore shoulder/arm. During the delay the boys gave Ollie a chant, which brought a tear to the eye of the hardened observers !

Brighton held out during the remaining moments to clinch a morale-boosting win, although not without some scares. Resplendent amongst the resolute tackling were two fantastic full length efforts from Henry – truly try saving. It’s fair to say that those tackles set a standard that the rest of the team must match.  As the clock ticked down, a good kick from Jude got Brighton out of their own half and to safety.

Decisions seemed not to favour the boys but we won’t grind on too much about that.

Brighton 5 Sutton & Epsom B 0

Brighton v Reeds

We knew what to expect from Reeds, and they did not disappoint. Excellent handling, nifty running and solid tackling. They drove forward immediately and the Brighton forwards could not halt the surge. A Reeds forward flopped over, and the try was easily converted. 0-7.

Straight from the restart, Reeds broke down the left and ran round a napping Brighton defence, although the final pass seemed to be forward, and Brighton could count themselves unlucky. The try was easily converted. 0-14.

The game then entered a neutral phase with plenty of kicking from both sides. From this we learnt that Brighton very rarely catch the ball ! Never mind lads, it’ll come ..  Brighton began to make inroads but were compacted in midfield & couldn’t get the ball out. Only once did we threaten the Reeds line – a great switch move involving Jude & Alex carried Brighton to within a couple of feet, but the chance went begging, and half-time came.

In the second half Brighton concentrated on damage limitation, pinned back in their own half. It’s fair to say that too many ‘first’ and ‘second‘ tackles were missed, with maybe only the ‘third’ or ‘fourth’ tackle bringing the opponent down. Jake & Tiny Cox stood out for their commitment during an attritional second period. Brighton would momentarily break out of defence but would only find Reeds players. Finally, a misplaced Brighton pass along the back line allowed Reeds to cross for try number three. The conversion went wide but the victory was comprehensive.

Brighton 0 Reeds 19

Brighton v Richmond

Richmond won the prize on the day for the loveliest strip (no, that’s not a real prize). They were a hefty bunch – their pack were reminiscent of a group of swarthy, snorting, adolescent Oliver Reeds.

Two solid early breaks from Louis G gave cause for hope, and Richmond looked less assured than Reeds had been. However, Richmond strode forward near the end of the first half and bloody-mindedness saw them over the line despite committed Brighton defence. It was obvious that they were a powerful team. The conversion made it 0-7.

Moments later a second try came, again the product of brute force which Brighton could not resist. A comfortable conversion made it 14-0. Richmond started playing with great confidence, drawing players before passing, and running skilfully. Brighton were being outmuscled and outrun. Try number three was little more than a rolling maul which collapsed over the line. The kick was converted, and it was 21-0.

Brighton showed a lot of fight in the final stages however, and a superb drive, with Alex in possession, almost resulted in a try. However, Richmond skilfully held him up and guided him over the dead ball line. Under siege, Richmond were reduced to banging the ball upfield, but no matter – they had won easily.

Brighton 0 Richmond 21

Brighton v Rosslyn Park

Rosslyn Park had looked well organised as they went through their drills at the pitchside, but on closer inspection they looked slighter than Brighton and would have to show considerable running prowess to penetrate Brighton.

Early signs were good for Brighton, a good run by Louis B gained good ground. Then, after a defensive kick upfield, Brighton won the line-out against the head. Rosslyn Park struggled to assert themselves and based their attacks on a kicking game, without capitalising on the ground gained.

Suddenly Roberts the Runner jinked out of defence down the left and offloaded to Alex, who changed the angle and headed down the right. Moments later, having eased past several opponents, he found himself touching down for a great try, pausing only to cast a nervous glance at the touch judge who looked ready to pounce. But it didn’t happen and Alex had given Brighton a crucial lead, which he then extended with a successful conversion.

The final stages were all Rosslyn Park but Brighton held firm, with Jake in particular staying cool when fielding an up and under near his own line. Rosslyn Park mounted one final attack, and one strong runner looked certain to touch down, only to be thwarted inches from the line by the combined efforts of Matthew & Louis G.

Brighton 7 Rosslyn Park 0

In summary, it was a real achievement to win two of these games, and in particular to beat Rosslyn Park (who were clearly disappointed) in the last game when fitness was being tested. And as coach Roberts debriefed the boys and thanked them for their efforts, a smouldering yet quizzical look was etched across his features, calling to mind perhaps a young Clark Gable. And maybe, just maybe, if someone had asked him at that moment about his view of rugby festivals, he may have been tempted to reply ‘frankly, my dear, I do give a damn’

But we suspect not !!

Pulborough Festival - 11th November                               Pictures

The Pulborough Festival promised to be a more relaxed assignment than the previous week’s engagement at Sutton & Epsom. How wrong we were. Brighton were drawn in a group with Midhurst, Pulborough & Hove ‘B’. First up were unknown quantities Midhurst. 

Brighton v Midhurst 

The first notable event of this game was a bruising challenge by Robert, whose tackling the whole day was wholehearted. However, Brighton’s early handling was generally unsure and, although they looked the superior team, they could not hold on to the ball long enough to prove it. An intelligent kick by Alex was superbly picked up by Louis G running through, but the Midhurst defence stood firm. Their tackling was solid, although Ollie was still showing the way with some great ‘ambushing’. 

Towards the end of the first half, a Tiny Cox drive enabled Brighton to move within striking distance. From a resulting scrum, Alex deceived one defender and passed to Louis G who fooled another to cross for a try. No conversions at this festival : 5-0

Midhurst responded with an attack which was quickly snuffed out by Brighton, who held the half-time lead. The second half was more attritional, but again Brighton dominated and Midhurst did not look like scoring. A nice move involving Cox, Summerfield & Roberts moved Brighton upfield, where they camped out for most of the second half. There were no further scores. 

A good win for Brighton but maybe another try or two would have been a fairer reflection of Brighton’s dominance. Midhurst were a respectable side but Brighton did not let them play.  

Brighton 5 Midhurst 0

Brighton v Pulborough 

Pulborough were tough opponents and they clearly know their own game very well. They were a physical side and imposed their game on Brighton straight away. However, Brighton’s defence was admirable, and, without really mounting attacks of their own during the first half, were able to sap the hosts’ morale by allowing them no freedom whatsoever. The tackling was insistent and Pulborough were neutralised. 

The second half was tougher going as Pulborough sensed a breakthrough. They made progress down the right but were thwarted by great tackles on two occasions, firstly by Sol and shortly after by Ollie. Shortly after that, the game was over. Brighton had not really threatened the Pulborough line but had been steadfast in defence, and had certainly frustrated their opponents greatly.

Brighton 0 Pulborough 0            

Brighton v Hove ‘B’ 

After the bruising Pulborough encounter, Brighton sensed that things would be easier against Hove’B’. And the early signs were good, as Joss broke from midfield in the first minute to score in the left corner.  But then disaster. Chasing the restart kick back, Jake’s attempted clearance was charged down and ex-Brighton forward Joseph Risbridger touched down for an immediate equalizer.  You even get name-checks for the opposition in these match reports ! 5-5. 

Brighton were stung into action, and breaks from Oscar and Matthew took them to within a couple of feet of the line. Joss picked up the loose ball and muscled over. 10-5. On the restart, Brighton attacked again, and soon had the put-in at a scrum deep in Hove territory. Alex stole up the blind side and drew two defenders before passing to Robert for the try. 15-5 at half-time.  

On the restart, Brighton were soon advancing again, and after Robert took a knock, Brighton had the put-in at a scrum. Ben quickly released Alex who rampaged through the Hove defence to score. 20-5. Alex then followed this up with a try-saving tackle at the other end to deny Hove a foothold in the game.  

Brighton were soon up at the other end mounting an attack. After Henry was forced into touch, Brighton won the line out ball against the head and Joss & Liam combined to send Ollie through for a trademark Ollie try complete with ‘dead salmon’ dive.  25-5.

Jude caught the restart kick and that was the last Hove saw of the ball. A foraging run from Alex up the right split the Hove defence, and Matthew broke out of a crowd of players and advanced to the try line – only to be felled agonisingly short. Louis G was there, however, to cross for another try and seal a 30-5 win.

Brighton 30 Hove ‘B’ 5     

Pulborough had won the group and advanced to the ‘Gold’ Stage. Brighton were in the ‘Silver semi-final, drawn against Chichester, who had beaten them two weeks previously. Everyone who had seen that game, however, knew Brighton had a good chance, if they could keep errors to a minimum. 

Brighton v Chichester (‘Silver’ semi-final) 

Brighton got off to a flyer as Louis G picked up a low pass from Jude and let a trail of Chichester defenders in his wake to score a superb individual breakaway try. 5-0. 

For the remainder of the first half Chichester tried to force their way back in, but Brighton were repelling them at every turn. The game was similar in style to the opening encounter with Midhurst. Chichester did not look like scoring. However, the second hal changed things and, playing down the hill now, Chichester kicked for position. Suddenly Brighton were defending a scrum next to their own line. Alex was hassled as he attempted to clear, and his charged down kick was grounded by Chichester. 5-5, and incredibly bad luck to concede two charged down tries on the same day. However, it was good Chichester pressure and they deserved their equalizer. 

Brighton mounted a wave of attacks but Chichester were more resolute now and there were few gaps to exploit. Nevertheless, Chichester were forced to kick themselves out of trouble. The tactic nearly brought them victory after one burly runner broke free, but Jude overhauled him before he reached the line. The final whistle came soon after and 5-5 was probably a fair reflection of the game. 

Brighton 5 Chichester 5    

Unfortunately, the draw meant that the tie would be settled on the number of points each side had scored prior to the game. Brighton had scored 35, but Chichester had scored 45. Brighton were very disappointed as they had played well enough to win, and it was a cruel way to go out. The final would have been against Hove and would have been an interesting contest against our Old Adversaries (n.b. Hove beat Horsham 15-0m in the final). 

Brighton v Haywards Heath 

Much to the chagrin of everybody, Brighton were obliged to play a 3^rd place play-off match with Haywards Heath – turning the day into a bit of an endurance test. Haywards Heath proved to be full of running and were obviously up for the extra game. It did not seem like our lads were, and Brighton succumbed 15-0 without mounting any meaningful attacks. 

Brighton 0 Haywards Heath 15

An anticlimactic end, but everybody knew why it had happened. Basically, the boys had given their all, and could not compete physically with Haywards Heath. Overall, however, the day had been a success, with Brighton snuffing out the hosts’ threat and indulging themselves with a few tries against Hove ‘B’.

Brighton v Heathfield - 18th November                               Pictures

Brighton welcomed two of their East Sussex rivals  to Waterhall for a triangular challenge. I wouldn't say it was cold but I saw a couple of brass monkeys make their excuses and head for home early.. ..

Heathfield were first up. Brighton started carefully with precise passing, spinning it along the line well. Having driven deep into Heathfield territory, the opposition were forced to kick. Oscar swallowed the high ball and released Alex, who in turn fed Tiny Cox. After a trademark run Luis set up a ruck from whence Lewes Roberts sprang to beat four defenders & touch down. Alex converted and it was 7-0.

The restart saw strong running from an energised Louis Buxton, who was proving angular, rangy and difficult to drag down. The ball made it’s way to Louis G who appeared certain to score down the left but was tackled agonisingly short. however, Brighton’s pressure paid off when Jude took the ball on the switch from Callum and crossed for the second try. Alex kicked successfully. 14-0.

Brighton were dominating in the scrum which meant they had all the possession and could run at Heathfield to their hearts’ content. Louis W broke down the right and it seemed like he was going to register his first Brighton try, but he was pulled into touch a couple of yards from the line. Brighton then proceeded to crawl, crab-like, along the Heathfield line, probing for an opening. Eventually it came after another scrum, as Alex ran through to score on the left. The kick went over and it was 21-0. Half-time.

Try number four was almost a carbon copy, with Brighton driving hard when in sight of the line, looking for an opening, and pouncing.  This time Sol fed Alex from a ruck, and his pass to Rob found the winger in space to run in the try. The kick was good and it was 28-0.

Heathfield mounted an attack on the resumption, and for a moment it looked like they had scored. Coach .. .. er referee Roberts quickly cobbled some excuse together and Brighton continued on their imperious way. Heathfield still had possession but Jude ripped it and off-loaded  to Tiny Cox, who embarked on one of his trademark runs. He was forced into touch, but Brighton took the resulting scrum and Tiny Cox had the ball again. He peeled off the side of the ruck and broke free to score. Alex made short work of the kick and it was 35-0.

During the final stages it was all Brighton but Heathfield, to their credit, battled all the way and did not make it easy for the home side. Brighton however scored regularly enough for the result never to be in doubt – Heathfield had few attacking options and were rooted in defence.

Brighton 35 Heathfield 0

Brighton v Tonbridge - 18th November

Tonbridge – replete with formidable lady coaches – have made a favourable impression upon us in the past, and everybody sensed that it was going to be a lot tougher than the Heathfield match. And so it proved in a tight first half. Brighton again had much of the ball due to their pre-eminence in the scrum, but despite lots of twisting and turning, they could not find a way through.

However, as in the first game, steady progress up the field gave Brighton a position on the Tonbridge line – albeit with Tonbridge in possession. However the ball was dropped and appeared like a golden egg at Liam’s feat. Moments later Easter had arrived and Brighton had the lead. Alex slotted the kick and Brighton were 7-0 ahead.

On the restart Tonbridge put together a series of nifty moves and looked to have scored a try in the corner. However, the ruling was that the Tonbridge winger had put his foot into touch (video evidence has proved inconclusive). Moments later we were all laughing as Jude went on a run, only to be robbed of the ball by some big brute. That was not in the script !  However, Brighton regained possession through Ripper Roberts – having a storming game -  who fed Liam – also playing out of his skin. Alex then accepted Liam’s pass and it was then on to Jude and finally Louis Grice for a beautiful flowing try.  Alex’s kick ?  It went over, of course. 14-0.

Brighton were really flying now and, although the Tonbridge defence was good, the Brighton passing was better, and they made progress with some very slick play. It looked like all the work on the training ground was paying off. After more concerted pressure, Tiny Cox lunged for the line and touched down for what really was a trademark try. And he looked only slightly embarrassed when doing his Robot celebration, as promised. The conversion went over and it was 21-0.

Tonbridge were now a little demoralised and when Brighton attacked again, a misplaced pass fell into the hands of the on-rushing Tiny Cox, who scored the sort of try that he has made his trademark (no he hasn’t, that’s a different type of try – ed.). Anyway, he scored it and that made it 26-0. Alex made it nine conversions out of 9 to bring the score to 28-0. There was no time for any more action – Brighton had won at a canter.

Brighton 28 Tonbridge 0

 Overall this was a highly satisfactory day for Brighton. No players had off days and the commitment and energy was outstanding. If Brighton continue to show this kind of form then they could trouble some very good teams this season. But, as is so often the case in sport, it’s a big ‘IF !

Brighton v Horsham - 2nd December 2007

Brighton welcomed Horsham to Waterhall on a bitterly cold and thoroughly wet day. The two sides were evenly matched in a closely contested first game, taking it in turns to launch solid attacks, with neither try line really being threatened. Brighton showed lots of endeavour and adapted to the conditions well, although most of the passing was being done only when an opposition tackle had been made, slowing most moves down.

At the start of the second half Louis Buxton made an excellent interception which looked like it may result in a try, but he was hauled down several yards short. Shortly before the end, Horsham came within inches of a try but steadfast Brighton defending, coupled with referee Roberts' final whistle, saved them from conceding.

Game 1 : Brighton 0 Horsham 0 

The second game followed a similar pattern - two sides struggling to get away from each other in stodgy conditions. Brighton matched Horsham in terms of effort but rarely looked like scoring a try. In fact, neither did Horsham - until two minutes from time, when they employed the old tactic of 'push the big boy over the line' - to maximum effect. It was a shame for Brighton but something that was always likely happen when you have been unable to score. The commitment that the boys showed was admirable, however, with Fred, Henry and Matthew in particular showing an appetite for a muddy sruggle.

Game 2 : Brighton 0 Horsham 5

Brighton v Lewes & Haywards Heath - 13th January         Pictures

Of we trudged to Lewes to tackle a couple of our bogey teams, and attempt to upset the form guide. Whilst watching the initial Lewes vs Haywards Heath match from the sidelines, it was evident that both sides were really up for it, and we knew that our boys would have to play at their best to compete. Both sides were aggressive but also fluent passers of he ball.  

Brighton v Lewes 

Brighton kicked off and were awarded a scrum straight away. Sol fed Alex who slipped the ball to Jude, and the Lewes defence was caught cold as Jude muscled over to open the scoring. 5-0. No conversions today. 

Tiny Cox caught the restart well but Lewes pressure forced a turnover. The shouts from the sidelines indicated that the Lewes coaches were a little frustrated with the hosts’ sluggish start. However, on this occasion they used the ball well, moving into a position a couple of yards from the line. A try was then awarded although what actually happened amidst the pile of bodies is anyone’s guess !  Anyway, 5-5. 

On Lewes’ next attack – propelled by what can only be described as some magnificent forward passing (sour grapes – moi ?), a powerful Lewes forward made steady progress towards the corner flag, and a couple of passes later they were over for their second try. The tackling had been willing enough but was not going to stop the biggest boy on the pitch. Louis Wright and Ollie tackled manfully but too many tackles failed to latch onto the legs in the way the textbooks describe. 

At this stage it looked like it was going to be a high scoring game, But the game then entered an attritional phase, with a lot of kicking for position. Jude was the victim of two high tackles which did seem to be a feature of the Lewes play (‘on both sides’ said the ref at half time !) 

Brighton can be proud of the way they dug in in the second half, but now playing up the hill it was looking like a sizeable task to score further tries. Some great link-up play between Louis Wright and Callum made progress down the right, but a knock-on handed the ball back to Lewes. The final play came with Brighton in possession but they could not force their way through. No disgrace in defeat, but Brighton easily matched Lewes and a bit more passion (and belief) could maybe have caused an upset. 

Brighton 5 Lewes 10

Brighton v Haywards Heath ‘B’

Brighton gave opportunities to newer players against a Haywards Heath ‘B’ team who, for most of the fist half, looked like they would fight Brighton all the way. Strong early running by Cameron showed that he was a force to be reckoned with. Ben was distributing well from the scrum, and Fred was getting stuck in at the rucks and mauls. 

Finally after several minutes Joss embarked on a trademark (yes trademark) run and nearly made the line – he fed Ollie who said thankyou very much and touched down for a try on his return from injury. 5-0   WELCOME BACK OLLIE !   

Half-time came and went and Brighton were now in command. An excellent run by Callum nearly resulted in a try, but Brighton were pretty much camped out in the opposition half, from the resulting scrum, Oscar fed Fred who rushed through a crowd of players effortlessly to register his fist ever Brighton try.

Brighton then produced the best rugby of the match, a flowing move up the left – Jake to Louis to Oscar to Ollie – one end of the pitch to other in the blink of an eye. That move ended there, but from the attacking position they had gained, Brighton worked an opening on the right for Louis Buxton to dive over for try number three.  15-0. 

Heath responded with some plucky play and managed a try in the corner, with Brighton maybe resting on their laurels and their lead a little too much. The game ended with Heath in the ascendancy, but Brighton had done enough to win. All the newer players did well and learnt what it takes to win a rugby match. 

Brighton 15 Haywards Heath ‘B’ 5

Brighton v Haywards Heath ‘A’ 

Once again the ‘one match too far’ curse struck, with Brighton being easily defeated by Haywards Heath Firsts. We were out-muscled, out-fought, out-run and out-passed by a superior outfit on the day. As is usually the case in this sort of game, we defended stoutly at the start, only to be over-run as the opposition found their rhythm. 

Brighton did have spells – at 10-0 and again at 25-0 - where they had possession and endeavoured to try and break through, but the Haywards Heath tackling was ferocious, and Brighton were either forced backwards or lured into handling errors. When Heath had the ball they had a huge amount of joy down Brighton’s right flank, and at one stage seemed to be scoring at will. In the end they were well worth their 25-0 victory and Brighton were left somewhat demoralised (echoes of our last match against Haywards Heath at the Pulborough Festival).

Overall a disappointing end to a long morning. Brighton did not quite find the key to success on the day, but the win against Haywards Heath ‘B’ showed that we can play good rugby, and that we have players coming into the team who can be genuine first-choice players as the season progresses.

Old Colfeians Festival - 13th January

Report Soon

Warlingham & Pulborough - 20th January

Report Soon

Crawley - 17th February

Report Soon

Guildford Festival - 9th March

Report Soon

Heathfield Festival  - 30th March

With the Heathfield pitches looking like the Somme, it seemed like the Heathfield Festival was doomed. However, somehow the Under 11s earned a reprieve and were soon in action on slippery and treacherous surfaces. How would Brighton cope ?  Heroically, as it turned out. Right from the start, Matthew was all over the park - showing commitment, bravery and bags of character. Time and again he took the lead and dived in where others feared to tread. But enough about the pre-match mudbath - let's focus now on the rugby. First up were Hove.

Brighton v Hove

Hove looked to have brought along a reserve side. and Brighton were soon into their rhythm. From their first scrum, deep into Hove territory, Jude grabbed the ball and charged over in the left corner. 5-0. Hove restarted and immediately Brighton were back in the Hove half, albeit with a line-out and a Hove throw. However, Brighton robbed the Hove backs of possession, and Rob fed Louis Wright who crossed in the corner for his first Brighton try !  10-0.

Soon afterwards, after good running from Rob & Matthew, Louis opened up the Hove defence again and ran through for the try of the game - only for it to be disallowed due to the ball being grounded over the dead ball line. In fairness, not only was the pitch a quagmire, but the teams had not been told where the try line was. Bad luck on Louis, but, undeterred, Brighton forged on.  At the start of the second half, Hove tried to mount an attack, but Jude made a tackle, grabbed the ball and sprinted in for the third try. 15-0.

Brighton poured forward again, and great running from Matthew saw them in sight of the line. Jude tried to offload to Louis Grice but the ball was intercepted - but knocked on also. From the resulting tap penalty, Joss surged over to complete a convincing win.

Brighton 20 Hove 0

Brighton v Hastings

Brighton spent the first three or four minutes camped in their own half as Hastings tried to stamp their authority on the game. However, the Brighton line was never threatened, and when Jude kicked into space behind Hastings, a ruck developed from which Joss emerged. No-one could stop him as he powered over the line. 5-0, and a real blow to Hastings.

On the restart, Hastings tried to mount attacks, but could not break through the iron Brighton tackling - there were dropped balls and knock-ons aplenty. As the game moved into the second-half, Brighton's confidence grew, and they mounted a wave of attacks. In sight of the Hastings line, Rob made a powerhouse tackle which unseated a Hastings back and gifted Jacob the ball. Sterling work from Cameron, Joss and Jude spread the play from right to left, for Louis Grice to cross in the corner. What a try ! 

Brighton dominated the rest of the game and didn't give Hastings another sniff. This was a hugely impressive, committed performance by the boys in conditions that were challenging to say the least.

Brighton 10 Hastings 0

Brighton v Thurrock

Thurrock had arrived late but were looking very good - cries of 'are you Pulborough in disguise' were heard. (Also heard was Brighton's disreputable tour song - resurrected just in time for this year's escapades. Parents were seen to bury their heads .. ..) 

However, when the game started Brighton made Thurrock look ordinary from the start. Thurrock had plenty of ball but it was all within their own half, and they could not escape Brighton's ferocious tackling. It was one such tackle from Joss that forced Thurrock to drop the ball. Matthew picked it up and drove through the Thurrock defence, handing the ball back to Joss for a great try. 5-0.

Brighton continued to attack and Joss made another great run and crossed the line - but the ball was held up. Thurrock managed to kick upfield but Callum, turning quickly under pressure, ran three-quarters of the length of the pitch for a fantastic individual try. 10-0, and Brighton looked comfortable.       

The second half was real attritional rugby, with Thurrock straining to get back into the game. Brighton's resolve was strong however, and whenever Thurrock made ground they were stopped in their tracks. Callum burst out of defence on another run, but Thurrock were desperate to get up the other end now and dispossessed him. They steadily made their way upfield but there was still no way through the Brighton defence, who were on their way to their third clean sheet in a row. The final whistle came amongst great jubilation from the Brighton fans - the final beckoned.    

Brighton 10 Thurrock 0

Brighton v Havant

This report is not helped by the fact that your correspondent's camera ran out of battery after two minutes, but those that were there will tell you that Brighton succumbed 5-0 in the final to a well-organised and mobile Havant side. Try as they might, Brighton could not summon the energy to respond to Havant's try.  

Brighton 0 Havant 5

However, there was no disgrace in the defeat - in fact, everyone agreed that it was one of the very best performances the boys had put in all year - the conditions had certainly brought out the best in them, and all the players played out of their skins.

WELL DONE GUYS !  

Tour To Dorset - Saturday 12th April

Brighton v Market Bosworth

Market Bosworth kicked off and Brighton held possession throughout the first few minutes. Gradually they made their way up to the Market Bosworth line but surrendered possession. Already there was an air of 'stalemate' to the play. However, Market Bosworth tended to kick the ball away and, with Callum cleaning up well at the back and counter-attacking well, Brighton were looking threatening. With Jake making forceful runs through midfield, we looked the likelier side to score. However, Market Bosworth slowly crept back into the game and showed good ability when running from the back with the ball.

Brighton made wholesale changes at half-time - with 19 tourists to accommodate, this was inevitable. Brighton defended stoutly for five minutes - with Fred and Rob being particularly ruthless with their tackles - but were finally breached by a nifty move through the centre. With the conversion, 0-7. A couple of minutes later Market Bosworth punched through the Brighton line again, as an intercepted pass was swallowed up for an easy score. 0-14. Then, just before the end, Brighton left themselves wide open down the left and an impressive Bosworth back crossed easily.  0-21. Brighton were stung into action and strong drives from Cameron and Liam led to Joss diving over to give the scoreline some respectability. The conversion went over and it was 7-21. However, Brighton had given everyone a game and were up and running on tour.

Brighton 7 Market Bosworth 21

Brighton v Bournemouth

Bournemouth had looked impressive in their match against Market Bosworth and Brighton anticipated a hard game. We have seen however that this can often bring out the best in our boys, and so it proved here. The opening minutes were played out in he centre of the park, but Bournemouth slowly began to dominate, and eventually their scrum-half- who had looked threatening all game - found himself in the clear and raced through between the posts. 0-7 with the conversion.

Brighton fought straight back, however, and from a scrum near the Bournemouth line, Jude scrambled to the line to bring Brighton back into it at 5-7. Alex made a good attempt at the conversion but it struck the bar - he wasn't helped by the fact that Bournemouth rushed out early and were practically on him by the time he hit it. But Brighton had the momentum now.

The second half was dominated by Brighton, and in paticular they had a lot of joy down Bournemouth's right, with Jude feeding Louis (Grice) and Oscar during a wave of attacks. It has to be said that the Bournemouth defence was admirable, but on several occasions it looked like Brighton would find a gap for that winning try. It never came, however, and the game ended with Bournemouth under siege at he end, but triumphant.

Brighton 5 Bournemouth 7

Tour To Dorset - Sunday 13th April

Brighton v Bridport

And so to a festival at the headquarters of Weymouth RFC, to pit our talents against a selection of far-flung opposition. The first game was against Bridport, who had looked slightly hesitant in their opening mach. Brighton, eager to record their first victory on tour, pressed forward straight from the off, and from a break by Jacob, the ball was fed along he line for Rob to touch down. Alex's confident conversion made it 7-0. The rest of the first half brought more of the same, with Brighton searching for a breakthrough, camped out in the Bridport half.

In the second half, Bridport looked no more threatening, and Brighton again attacked with freedom. From a Bridport kick, Callum broke through the middle and the ball found it's way to Fred, who looked to have run in for a try. However, he had been stopped just short - but Sol had picked the loose ball up and touched down for try number two. The conversion was good - 14-0.

Just time for a trademark (yes trademark) Callum try : From a scrum deep in their own half, Sol fed Alex and Alex fed Jake. Jake passed to Callum and Callum's pace did the rest. The conversion went over and there was no time for the restart. A comprehensive victory to kick things off.       

Brighton 21 Bridport 0

Brighton v Caerphilly

There is always an extra edge when the opposition is a highly combative Welsh side. Brighton knew they were in for a tough game, but also that if they could win it, they stood a good chance of a high finish in the festival. The game started with Brighton pressing forward and catching Caerphilly cold, and it was no surprise when Rob surged forward and fed Joss, who tumbled over for the opening score. 7-0 with Alex's successful conversion.

However, soon afterwards, Caerphilly surprisingly drew level. A Brighton move broke down and the ball fell to the one Caerphilly player who looked like he could power through the Brighton defence. He duly did so and it was 7-7 with the conversion. The half-time whistle came and it was a bitter pill for Brighton to swallow. Caerphilly had changed the mood of the game with a single strike. 

However, Brighton came out in the second half - playing up the hill - and proceeded to dominate, passing fluently and allowing Caerphilly no opportunities to break out of defence. Then, from a position near the Caerphilly line, Brighton had a penalty from a Caerphilly knock-on. Jude took a quick tap penalty and forced himself over in the corner. Callum's kick was good and Brighton had the lead, 14-7.

Caerphilly - spurred on by the frantic cries of their coach - attacked from the restart, but they could not break Brighton down. In fact, the game ended with Brighton searching for a third try and parents all over the pitch. Fred was unlucky not to get a try in Brighton's final attack, but thee was huge relief at full-time - Brighton had beaten a good side and were starting to look very good.   

Brighton 14 Caerphilly 7

Brighton v Weymouth

In this game the Brighton coaches tried the Market Bosworth tactic in reverse, and started the game with many players who normally tend to see second-half action. The game was very tight. However, it was Weymouth who mounted the first series of attacks, and from a position right on the Brighton line, they achieved a touch-down. The conversion was successfully .. er .. converted and Brighton were 0-7 down.

The second half brought with it the Brighton cavalry as Brighton once again shuffled their pack. The move paid off soon after the break as an attack down the left was rounded of by Alex who jinked round the blind side to score a neat try in the left corner. He converted his try to make it 7-7. 

The Brighton contingent were hoping that our lads would go on to clinch victory, but Weymouth focused hard on defence and kept Brighton out fairly easily.  That said, the final play of the match was a Weymouth attack that was brought to a end by a crunching tackle from Matthew. It finished all square, and Brighton remained undefeated.    

Brighton 7 Weymouth 7

Brighton v Teddington

Ah, Teddington .. .  best Under 11 team in the country. Now that's a challenge !

Looking at the game, Brighton did their best to match Teddington but were overrun by players who obviously knew their game inside out and were very used to playing with each other. This Brighton team will always fight hard but on this occasion they came up against something pretty special. The four tries tell a pretty accurate story !

However, Caerphilly's victory over Weymouth meant that Brighton had finished 2nd, which was superb achievement bearing in mind the excellence of Teddington.

Brighton 0 Teddington 28