Match Report
Match reports 2006/7: 1st XV | Stacks | Gnus
1st Team Match Report - 16th September 2006
(EDF Energy Senior Vase - 1st round, home against UCS Old Boys)
Score: 20 - 18
Yet again Canvey had to make more changes, as their already injury hit side lost another player, Russell Wright going down at the last minute to a virus. Chris Hall was in charge for his first home game of the year, as Canvey looked to maintain their amazing two year unbeaten home record.
Brett Smith stepped up as captain, with Alex Breading still out injured. It was Smith who led by example, finishing off some neat off loading in the tackle, by out sprinting the covering defence to score early on. The visitors then replied with arty of their own.
Dave Dennis extended the islanders lead by connecting with a drop goal, making the score 8 vs. 5.
Just before the stroke of half time UCS hit back with an unconverted try.
An injury to winger Ben Chandler, made way for youngster Dave Wood. After some great interplay between forwards and backs, Wood finished well, scoring Canvey's second try.
Again UCS replied, the score 13 all.
Canvey again battled back, this time they lost James Breading to a re occurring ankle injury, and the irrepressible Kevin Cooper (knee). New coach Hall was forced to re shuffle his pack.
Canvey exerted more pressure on the visitors, determined not to lose their unbeaten home run. Smith took the game by the scruff of the neck and in a late surge barrowed his way over the line after intercepting a UCS lineout.
Too injured to take the kick himself, fullback Dave Dennis did the honours and converted from a difficult angle. Score 20 vs. 13
UCS came back and got an unconverted try but it was too late.
Canvey's side still injury stricken, had showed guts and determination, and outplayed their opponents in the loose. Players like Lloyd Miller in only his third game ever at tighthead were immense, and typified the spirit that still exists at Canvey!
Men of the match: Lee Brumwell & Lloyd Miller
