Men’s 1st XV v Dover 03/12/2005

Away – London 4 South East

Report by Andy Ward

Lost 10-15

On arrival at Dover we were informed that their main pitch was deemed to unsafe as it was waterlogged. The match was transferred to their second pitch which was in a similar condition but deemed by the referee to be safe.

In the first half the match turned into a forwards game with Hove having the slight advantage of playing downhill. Handling was minimal and there were very few chances. Five minutes from the end of the first half Hove were awarded a penalty which Adam Phillips duly converted. H/T 3-0.

As the second half wore on it was increasingly difficult to identify which player was playing for which team due to the mud. Dover scored three unconverted tries to lead 15-3. With the clock running down Hove camped on the Dover line and with 5 mins remaining the referee awarded Hove a penalty try after constant infringements by Dover.

Adam Phillips converted to take the score to 15-10, but still in Dover’s favour. Although Hove attempted to attack the conditions prevented running play. Dover wading out 15-10 victors.

Dover used the downhill and the ‘paddy field’ to better advantage. The game was played in a good spirit.