SUSSEX UNDER 11's COUNTY FINAL 2006

The last match of the season saw Brighton RFC play Pulborough RFC in the county final at Waterhall

The final had to be rearranged because Pulborough had been on tour the weekend the final was originally planned; and it was down to the hard work from both clubs that this final was ever played.

The boys played on the 1st team pitch at Waterhall, which was the first time the boys had played on the showpiece playing field (hopefully the first of many times – Ed).

The boys had a light training session and then went back into the changing room for a team talk, by this time the nerves had settled and they were fired up and ready to go.

Brighton kicked off and immediately started to play some good running rugby. Due to support in the loose and quick ruck ball, Brighton scored their first try of the day through Judd Newell. This was converted Ben Ward. It had been raining quite heavily for about 10 minutes so with a greasy ball handling errors ensued on both sides. Excellent work in the tight and good passing off both hands by Joe Thomas gave Josh Ash the quick ball needed to get it down the line to Nic Proffitt and Lewis Ball. Strong running by Felix Dibb-Fuller and Josh Cooper on the wings and full-back Ben Ward maintained the all important possession. Pulborough the West Sussex winners fought hard tackled like demons but Brighton managed to cross their line just before half time, Judd Newell once again, and the sure boot of Ben Ward gave the team two further points from the conversion.

Half Time Brighton 14  Pulborough 0

Half time changes, Rory McKeown who plays at 3 had to be replaced due to a bump on the head, he had played his heart out in the first half but was replaced by Sam Woolven, other changes at half time were Char Jasper, who took his place on the wing for Felix Dibb-Fuller, it just goes to show the strength in depth we have in the squad, with all the boys fighting for a place in the team.

Second half.

After the break both sides battled hard for the ball, but Brighton edged forward using rucks to set up three or four phases of possession at a time, this made Pulborough play on the back foot. Pulborough responded by drawing Brighton into too many maul situations, Pulborough are probably one of the best mauling team we have played this season.

Brighton stepped up the play and crossed the line for the third time. Judd Newell notched his hat-trick, not bad for a prop!

Ben Ward guaranteed the two points from the conversion and with six minutes left Brighton made more changes, Chris Doodson took over at hooker for Joe Willis. The front row was rearranged allowing Bill Evans in and Sam Woolven taking over from Cian O'Sullivan at 5. Time was almost up, but good defensive work was needed from Fin Curson, Joe Thomas and Josh Ash to make sure Brighton won the game. 21 – 0.

A big thank you must go to the referee Mr Paul Jarvis and also to the two touch judges who all gave up their free time to make this game possible.

Final Score Brighton 21 Pulborough 0