Colchester Colts defeat Braintree in Eastern Counties Cup

Colchester welcomed Braintree for their opening Eastern Counties Cup fixture and emerged winners in a competitive but occasionally scrappy encounter. The game was played 14-a-side (with no 8s) and many thanks must go to Colchester players Marcus Holmes and Luke Smith for playing some time in the Braintree shirt as the game developed.

Colchester started the game well and good build up play released lively centre Tom Coated to open the scoring. With the home side's front row working very well and props Finn Nuttall and Ben Ainslie carrying especially well, the platform was set for the side to develop forward play with confidence. Winger Ollie Eves finished well in the corner after some good back line work before flanker Enzo McIntyre crossed in the corner after the forwards had created the opportunity. Special mention must go to back row Elliot Adams for an energetic display, to second row Ben Brown for his hard working game and to centre Kit Welch for not missing a tackle.
Half Time: Colchester 15 Braintree 0

The second half was played mainly within the Braintree half of the pitch as Colchester maintained superior ball possession and territory; although further points had to be worked hard for. Back row Tom Holden was unfortunate to have a try disallowed for a double movement before McIntyre crossed from close range for his second score of the game. The back line then gave the opportunity and space for winger Sam Wilkinson to dive over out wide (well converted by Joe Herbert). As the half progressed, the game Braintree side did enjoy some time close to the Colchester line only for stout defence and turnover ball to prevent a score. Colchester then developed play through many phases down the length of the pitch to give centre Welch the final try with virtually the last play of the game.
Full Time: Colchester 32 Braintree 0