Bromley overcame travel problems which limited their preparation, to produce a committed and skilful performance, which just resisted a fine Cranbrook effort culminating in much try line pressure as the match drew towards a conclusion.
On an overcast day with little wind, Cranbrook kicked off and early play was inconclusive as the teams sought to establish themselves. A Bromley scrum was nearly turned over by Cranbrook, who continued to pressurize the opponents scrum as the half continued, this decision was to have match changing consequences later. When Bromley had the ball, their backs looked dangerous often passing just before contact. Soon they worked an opening on the right and managed to score in the corner, converting impressively. Cranbrook responded strongly and after defenders were sucked in near the try line, there appeared to be numbers of attackers on the left calling for the ball, which was not released by perhaps over eager forwards, so the chance was lost. Cranbrook pressure continued and, on a move, left the Bromley fullback attempted an interception but knocked on, possibly surprisingly in a top of the table game no card was given. Soon after as the pressure continued and Bromley were penalised twice, a scrum on 5 metres was called and scrum half George Robertson dummied and scampered over under the posts for Fabian Rimmer to convert to tie the scores after 30 minutes.
Parity was not maintained for very long as Bromley had an attacking scrum about 20 metres out towards the right, the decision to contest the scrum resulted in a simple, soft try as Cranbrook could have done with the blind side flanker Josh Forknall adding to the defensive effort rather than pushing. He did however otherwise have a very strong game with good work rate and was arguably the pick of a very decent pack.
Bromley attack continued and they missed a very kickable penalty attempt then Fabian Rimmer made a crucial turnover as the visitors approached the try line, he then shortly after succeeded with a pinpoint kick from his own half into the visitors 22 for a 50 -22 throw in. The lineout, which worked well all match, was won and Cranbrook were so close to scoring as the forwards with good control got within inches, but another strong Bromley tackle saved them, something which is a feature of their game and caused Cranbrook to lose the ball in the tackle on a few occasions through the match.
They then progressed up the pitch and scored a try from a rolling maul, although the referee did not seem well positioned to decide in their favour for a half time score of 7-19.
Kicking off the second half Bromley got good field position when they disrupted Cranbrook's attempts to catch the kick, albeit a couple of the chasers were in front of the ball and added to their score with a penalty as a Cranbrook back was called offside. This left Cranbrook with a mountain to climb but their response was heart-warming. From an attacking move by the home backs, Bromley were penalised for a hand in the ruck, but Rimmer just missed the very kickable penalty opportunity. More promising play produced a second closer opportunity for him which he duly took meaning Cranbrook needed 2 converted scores with plenty of time left. Although Cranbrook had most of the ball and got into good positions, genuine try scoring opportunities were rare as Bromley defended with vigour. George Robertson made one promising break but lacked support and the ball was lost in the tackle. Beau Archer was prominent in later attacking moves as he joined the line as replacement fullback for Theo Rimmer who was injured. As the game entered the final phase Cranbrook had a number of penalties close to the Bromley line, a Bromley prop was carded, a good chance to achieve a deserved losing bonus point was lost as a poor Robertson pass could not be collected as the try line beckoned.
So ended the game with a final score of 10-22, these teams had provided another compelling spectacle that this talented but streetwise Bromley side were delighted to have won, but they were certainly well tested by Cranbrook who may look back on some opportunities not taken. The coaching team were happy though that Cranbrook had trusted the game plan better than the previous week and players look forward to a rest weekend after a tough couple of weeks.
Match report courtesy of Philip Rimmer.