Campion 26 v Beccles 27

  Beccles won their final league game of the season away at Campion. Beccles had to defend a late Campion surge to hold on for a victory by 27 – 26.

  Beccles were missing Wilson, Rix and Maeer but had Arnold and Stone back from university. Pennington made his first start on the wing.

  Beccles started well and after a number of drives by the forwards Wade received the ball in a stationary position and crashed over the try line. Murray added the conversion. Campion were quickly back level when a lucky bounce fell to their winger who scored.

  Beccles were dominating in the scrum with the front row of Stone, Lake and Ling scrummaging well. They also did well in the lineout with Hinsley and Porter jumping well. Beccles scored next when Payne linked up well with Arnold who cut through to score. Murray added the conversion and a penalty to give a half time score of 7 – 17.

  Campion scored at the start of the second half before Beccles added another try. Musker McIntyre man of the match Arnold chipped the ball over the defence and collected his own kick. He then out paced the defence to score his second try of the game in the corner.

  The Beccles forwards were carrying the ball lead by Holtzer and Wilson. However, Campion again came back with a try before Beccles restored their lead. This time a good pass by Green put Pennington in space. He dived in at the corner for his first try for the club. Stone was replaced at prop by Rix.

  Time was running out and a weak clearance let Campion back in with a try in the corner. Beccles were one point in front and Campion stepped up a gear looking for the win. They got in position for a drop goal attempt but a flying block by Johnstone stopped the kick in its tracks. The final whistle then went to give Beccles a rare victory in Essex by 27 – 26.

  Beccles have equalled their best ever finish of sixth place at the moment. There is one outstanding game to be played in the league and if South Woodham beat Billericay Beccles will stay in that position. Beccles looked like improving on their finish at one point in the season but will not be too disappointed. They have had a lot of injuries to key players this season and their small squad has done well to maintain their league position.

  There are two big events left in the season for Beccles. In two weeks they host Southwold and will be looking to win back the Pony Moore trophy. There is then the Gentlemen’s Dinner at the Kings Head Hotel on the 2nd May where former England and Lions legend David Duckham will be providing the entertainment. Tickets are available for Reece Ling or Lee Roberts.