Colts just miss out in National Cup Plate

Colchester can consider themselves unfortunate to narrowly lose to Westcliff in the National Cup Plate competition. In a very close game, Colchester were let down by too often giving the ball away when in possession; whilst competing well with Westcliff, the home side just about deserved the victory on the day - and Colchester wish them well in the next round.

As during their previous meeting only 2 weeks previously, Colchester were forced to work hard against a larger and imposing opposition forward pack; especially struggling against the physical but mobile prop who was a constant threat whenever in possession. Playing against the wind in the opening half, Colchester conceded an early converted score but soon recovered when fly-half Owen Cowley rounded off some good forward work to open the away side's account (conversion missed). Back came Westcliff who utilised their maul to good effect; a close range forwards' try resulting (unconverted). To their credit, Colchester again responded almost immediately. Number 8 Henry Davetanivalu breaking tackles to release captain Dan Harding to run round under the posts. However, as the first half developed, Westcliff had much the better of things; pinning Colchester back in their own half and scoring three further tries. Two came from the backs breaking the line and working the ball out wide whilst the other came from solid forward effort.
Half Time: Westcliff 29 Colchester 12
Failure to collect the Westcliff kick-off put Colchester under immediate pressure and the away side were fortunate to escape without conceding a further score. However, now playing with the wind, Colchester started to have much more of a say in proceedings. Turnover ball in midfield gave the Colchester backs the opportunity of running the ball and second row James Simpson was on hand to dive over to reduce the arrears (try unconverted). Soon afterwards, an excellent kick and chase resulted in a Colchester lineout within Westcliff territory and a penalty was subsequently gained in front of the posts. Choosing to run the ball rather than take 3 points did not produce further points and Westcliff then frustrated Colchester for a long period, keeping possession and recycling effectively. Harding then gave Colchester renewed energy with a jinking run forward; replacement winger James Bond then being unfortunate to be tackled just short after some fine backline play. Colchester's ongoing effort was rewarded after some effective ball recycling gave prop Troy Palmer the opportunity of crossing from close range (conversion missed). The away side continued to press towards the end but could not find another breakthrough; full back Josh Attwood being the closest but he was tackled into touch when bursting forward.
Full Time: Westcliff 29 Colchester 22