Sat 26 Nov 2022
Maldon travelled to Stanford Le Hope, the only other unbeaten team in the division, placed first in the table, as they had played more matches than Maldon. Some unavailability meant a few changes, but still a strong team took to the field.
Maldon started well with the scrum demolishing Stanford Le Hope’s pack, an aspect of the game that continued for 80 minutes. The line-out continued to show improvement, allowing a good attacking platform for Maldon.
There was then a 10 minute spell when Maldon blew Stanford Le Hope away. Forwards secured the ball & the backs ran amok, it was great to watch for the Maldon supporters.
Maldon had territory & almost crossed the line. The resulting line-out was lost by Stanford Le Hope, & the ball bobbled to George Alden-Smith, who powered over from close range, converted by Dan Allen, 0-7.
Very soon after, a number of phases resulted in a scrum, followed by excellent handling led to the backs moving the ball wide to Sam Johnson to score in the corner, 0-12.
Then, almost immediately, a break by captain Josh Chadwick was finished off by Ben Marshall, again converted by Dan Allen, 0-19.
Shortly after Stanford Le Hope lost their number 8 to the sin bin. Maldon failed to capitalise on this advantage & Stanford Le Hope came back into the game, with possession & territory. The number 8 returned from the sin bin to cross the line on the stroke of half time, 7-19.
The second half began & Maldon looked to have lost some of their rhythm, as passes were dropped & wrong options were taken. Stanford Le Hope kicked a penalty, 10-19 & were back in the game. Maldon woke up at this point & passes started to stick, better options were taken, breaks were made & Stanford Le Hope were on the back foot. The end of this period of play saw Sam Langston cross after some great running lines across the backs, converted by Dan Allen, 10-26.
The game had no more scores, but did have 2 yellow cards for Maldon, as they fell onto the wrong side of the referee. Decisions went against us & 50:50 calls went to Stanford Le Hope. Too many high tackles were obvious & too many penalties took the shine off the end of the game.
Overall, Maldon were deserved winners. Maldon did leave points out on the field and still have work to do. But, considering this feeling was against a previously undefeated team this season, Maldon have plenty to be happy about. Next week Maldon face Harwich at home, where they look to continue their unbeaten run.
Special Mention: Dimitri Sofoclous
MAN OF THE MATCH: George Alden-Smith
