On a wet, cold and windy day Maidstone were anticipating a tough encounter
against league leaders Cranbrook, although the elements did have a
levelling effect - Cranbrooks youngsters were slowed down somewhat and the
conditions favoured the Maidstone pack.
From the kick off Maidstone played a tight and controlled game, forwards
driving and the centres cutting back inside. John Hogarth's steady boot
also allowed Maidstone to dominate territory. The opening score strangely
started on the Maidstone 22 following a good catch and drive at a line
out. Scrum half Tugwell spotted a gap on the blindside, fed inside to the
ever alert Mattinson, who chipped and chased. The full back looked to have
it covered but it slipped out of his hands and Mattinson dived on it to
open the scoring. The second score came from another driving maul close to
the line, the ball popped out to Jacques Vrey, who drove over from close
range and managed to ground the ball after briefly being held up. The
conversion by Hogarth gave Maidsone a deserved and comfortable 12-0 lead,
with Cranbrook yet to show why they were unbeaten.
Eventually Cranbrook did get on the score sheet with a close range
penalty, but they rarely threatened the Maidstone line.
The second half mirrored the first with the Maidstone pack dominating the
ball aided by some strong aggressive defence in the backs. On a couple of
occasions Maidstone put themselves in trouble by trying to be too
ambitious when running the ball back. Conditions dictated using the boot
and playing territory. However, Maidstone did extend their lead following
quick ball from a ruck, which saw a half break by Hogarth make an inroad
into the Cranbrook 22. Shaun Charlton continued the move and slipped the
ball to Dominic Baxter who could not believe how much space he had and
scored under the posts untouched.
Cranbrook did score a second penalty, but Maidstone finished the game with
a strong scrummage close to the line and Dave Tugwell nipped in with the
touchdown to seal the win. a satisfying victory, but tinged with
disappointment that Cranbrook did not put up more of a fight.
Mention should be made of full back, Dane Smith's unusual boomerang
kicking technique, which sends the ball out high and straight, but clever
use of the outside section of the boot and awareness of the prevailing
wind, means that it almost comes back into his hands. He can achieve this
feat with great consistency and is happy to pass on his expertise at
training.
Man of the match - Dave Coleman, whose handling, tackling and all round
work on the floor made him the perfect player in those conditions.
Thanks also to Tuggy for providing the after match beers. Mac is in charge
of this next week.