A glorious, sun-drenched day provided the perfect backdrop for a thrilling afternoon of rugby at Beccles. Despite facing a significant player shortage, the home side demonstrated immense spirit and resilience across two hard-fought matches.
Match 1: Beccles vs. Norwich
The first encounter saw Beccles take on a formidable Norwich side, boasting both size and numbers. The opening exchanges proved challenging, with Norwich utilizing their powerful runners to punch holes in the Beccles defense and secure a series of well-executed tries. However, Beccles refused to be intimidated. As the game wore on, they grew in confidence, showcasing their defensive prowess with some thunderous tackles. Freddie and Willem stood out with their unwavering commitment, while Oscar displayed his burgeoning talent at the breakdown, consistently jackaling the ball and making powerful runs through the opposition. The late stages of the game saw Beccles rewarded for their persistence, with two well-worked tries providing a fitting end to a challenging contest.
Match 2: Beccles vs. Southwold
For the second match, Beccles faced Southwold, bolstered by the generous support of several Norwich players. Now with a more balanced team, Beccles began to play with greater fluidity and freedom. Toby’s exceptional running and vision proved pivotal, setting up a series of offloads that allowed Beccles to break through the Southwold defensive lines. The increased support enabled Beccles to play a more expansive game, utilizing their hands to move the ball effectively and launch aggressive attacks. A heart-stopping moment saw Southwold break away for a length-of-the-pitch run, but Ollie’s incredible last-ditch tackle, after a phenomenal chase, nearly prevented the try. The Beccles attack continued to press, culminating in a well-deserved try for Freddie, marking his first of the season.
Overall, it was a fantastic performance from Beccles, showcasing their determination and adaptability in the face of adversity. The team’s spirit, coupled with moments of individual brilliance, made for an entertaining and memorable afternoon of rugby.
Player of the Match Award goes to Freddie - for his amazing display of tackling and scoring his first try of the season