On a fine day with the ground now greening up and just about taking a stud, Cranbrook kicked off playing towards the clubhouse against the breeze.
From the outset Cranbrook had the edge, whereas the forward battle was fairly even, it was in midfield that centres Fabian Rimmer and Sam Depoel Wood made good ground frequently, thereby creating opportunities for the wider players. It was the forwards who created the opening try after 15 minutes with sustained pressure in the right corner, leaving Crowborough short of cover when the ball was moved wide left for full back Elliot Barbour to score. Shortly after Fabian Rimmer added a penalty and he was then on hand to pick up a pop pass as Rory Goodyer's strong run was stopped just short. A successful conversion by Rimmer gave a 15-0 scoreline. Crowborough did have field position in parity with Cranbrook and demonstrated an effective rolling maul, but their backs created very little. Cranbrook tacking was good against an albeit limited threat until a missed tackle enabled a forward to score and convert. Cranbrook were soon back on the attack and after more strong forward drives Sam Depoel-Wood scored in typically muscular fashion for Rimmer to convert well. Crowborough replied after similiar forward drives for a half time score of 22-12.
From the Crowborough kick off Cranbrook cleared with the wind to a good field position and soon hooker Kenny Magsico used his strength to score, again well converted by Rimmer for the 4th try and bonus point. From the kick off Ollie Allman again cleared long, something Crowborough noticeably failed to do in the first half. They now conceded a penalty some 35 metres out but after the kick by Rimmer rattled the post they hurriedly cleared to touch. From the lineout moving left the scoring pass was dropped. Cranbrook soon set up another attack which was nicely finished in the corner by Elliot Barbour after collecting his own neat chip.
The game which was very well refereed now entered a quiet phase in the middle of the half only punctuated by a typical George Robertson break which foundered through lack of support. In the last play Crowborough scored from close range for a final score of 34-17.
A very encouraging start for Cranbrook at the higher level.
Match report courtesy of Philip Rimmer.