Westcombe Park 17 Colchester Ravens 22

The Ravens travelled down to Kent, and played another close match in the competitive Zoo Shield.

The conditions (driving rain, wind, heavy ground, greasy ball) favoured the home side’s large pack and close driving game over the more expansive approach of Colchester, with a lightning fast back 4.

Combe went ahead after about 10 minutes following a driving maul which resulted in an unconverted try; their lead was increased to 12-0 with a converted try under the posts following more impressive forward work. Colchester determined to counter at every opportunity, trying to release their fast running game.

A penalty to Colchester for not rolling on the Combe 10 metre line was well converted by stand-off, Ben Seymour.

The Ravens closed the gap with a try shortly before half time; from half way, Seymour kicked ahead to the right where speedy winger, Owen Herbert gathered, stepped an opponent to touch down in the right hand corner.

Half time – Westcombe Park 12 – Ravens 8

Into the second half Colchester’s impressive scrum, led by props Alex Mitchell & Dave Langley and second row, Kieran Payne continually disrupted the Combe scrum; The Ravens were awarded a scrum 10 metres out, Combe collapsed the driving scrum, and the excellent referee correctly awarded a penalty try to Colchester.

Westcombe Park 12 – Ravens 15 – game on.

Colchester continually attacked the Combe line, but the conditions, greasy ball and handling errors thwarted the visitors; Combe made excursions unto the Colchester half, but excellent tackling from hooker, Alfie Walsh, and back row, Ollie Gozzett prevented any score to the home side.

Eventually fast ball was released on the Combe 22 from centre, Sam Bown to a fast approaching full back, Charles Hammond, who dived over in the left hand corner; an impressive conversion from Seymour increased the lead to 22-12.

Combe upped the pressure in the last 5 minutes, and were rewarded with a consolation try in the final minute of the match.

An excellent all round team performance from the Ravens, and a well deserved win.