Entertaining game against enterprising O Blues

On a pitch that had held up really well after all the rain during the previous week, PJF were looking for a big improvement over their performance just prior to Christmas. From the kick off O Blues started with more intent than PJF who looked somewhat lethargic after the Christmas period. O Blues gained ascendency in the scrum and their lineout was working well. PJF looked as though they might carry on where they left off against Whitgiftians. Despite the pressure Blues didn't manage to cross the PJF line for around 15 minutes. From a ruck 5 metres out, the Blues picked up and went over close to the posts. With the extras added, Blues were off the marks. 10 minutes later PJF conceded a penalty just outside of their 22m but almost in front of the posts. Blues opted to take the points and a 10 point lead. This was enough to waken PJF who after a slick interchange between the backs, saw Charlie Crow go over close to the Blues' posts for a magnificent try. Max Webber adding the additional 2 points. Blues responded and forced PJF back into their 22m before going over for another try. The kick added a further 2 points. PJF responded with another nice move down the right hand flank and Josh Anoop on the overlap ran in 22m for another well worked try. The half came to an end with PJF trailing 12-17.

The second half started with PJF growing into the game, but just as things started to improve PJF conceded another penalty in a kickable position and Blues increased thair lead to 12-20. However, straight from the restart, Blues reciprocated and conceded a penalty in front of the posts which Max kicked to narrow the score to a 5 point game. With PJFs defence improving all the time and with the game opening up PJF ran the ball back at Blues and after some strong running by Luke Couchman, Luke went over on the right hand side out wide to level the scores. The kick was missed. Again from the restart PJF weathered a period of Blues' pressure and returned to the attack, their reward, a well worked try scored by Max Webber to seal a 25-20 bonus point victory. The game was entertaining and at points, a bit harum scarum, but PJF prevailed to make amends for their poor showing against Whits.

This coming weekend (Jan 13th) PJF travel to local rivals Chipstead in what should be a hard fought local derby. Chipstead are currently going well and the lads will need all the support they can get, so if you can make it up to Chipstead for a 2.00pm kick off come along and give the lads a boost.