Big Deal for PJF

Whilst the more skeptical amongst us were searching the gloomy grey skies for the pigs, PJF knuckled down and worked hard to post this notable win against a reputable opposition at this level. Their competitors' results were also favorable to PJF allowing them to climb to 4th from bottom clear of Old Dunstonians, Bromley and Eastbourne.

It was a tough day at the coal face but PJF's hard graft and effort saw them play with inspiration for the entire 80 minutes. Self belief raised it's head as every player made a 100% effort with the realisation dawning on them that rewards did come as a result. Communication proved effective in several instances when the side needed to focus as a team and not allow their minds to wander. This was particularly effective in tight situations where PJF's defence was a credit and where the forwards repelled many a raid with bruising defence as the visitors made many raids in the latter part of the second half to try and steal the match.

On several occasions PJF's backs worked very well by counter attacking, displaying the latent talent that lies within. One run in particular from within our 22 saw centre Tuke feed the supporting fullback Leidecker who's line of running saw him slice through creating space to pass the ball off and through some more hands resulting in a marvelous try in the corner for winger Murphy.

Whilst this was very much a team effort, particular mention must go to Leidecker and Tuke, who having been injured, returned and took the game to the opponents. An inspired successful 30m drop goal from Waugh with 3 minutes to go, put PJF beyond a single score and sealed the win. The match was enjoyed by the faithful spectators who witnessed the future of the club, as the many young players involved learned some valuable lessons allowing them to go on to becoming more season hardened, experienced players.

Coach Mike Andress purred "I was very pleased to see the team work so hard and walk away with a win against a team several positions above us on the ladder. There is no doubt that we have spirit and commitment on Saturdays". Another contributing factor was the determined effort to reduce the penalty count which over recent weeks has negated much hard work both territorially and with regards to possession.

And so on to next Saturday away to Warlingham where PJF's mettle will be severely tested in this Across the Valley Derby, where belief in ourselves will go a long way to converting effort into points.