Chobham (12) v (10) Dover 1st XV
Played 8th November 2008
Dover have learned some harsh lessons in the past month or so following some difficult encounters against the top sides in the league, and apart from one game, have proved that they are capable of competing with the better sides . This game was no different but it was a pity that Dover failed to live up to the promise of last weeks efforts and it was a mixed day for the majority of players. The game as a whole was very much a stop start affair on a heavy pitch and the penalty count against both teams was fairly even across the 80 minutes. The hosts were the first to score when Dover failed to hit touch from a penalty and a drop goal was nicely slotted from 40 metres or so. Dover’s possession was strewn with basic errors and set possession in the lineout was lost at crucial times, which was critical in the final analysis of the game.
Dover’s defence was strong and there were a number of good phases of play from both teams throughout the half. Jamie Phillips had another outstanding game on the wing and was comfortable in both defence and attack. Dover forwards competed well up front and on one occasion they drove the home side backwards for 30 metres but again the effort came to nothing. Late into the half Dover lost possession, after a lineout was secured, and Chobham pounced on the error and produced a number of phases of play which lead to a penalty which was duly kicked.
The second half could have been so much better for Dover, had the instructions
provided to them at half time, been adhered to. With the weather conditions
and the slope both favouring the visitors the opportunity was available
for them to take the two points. Dover did hit back in the game early on
when
Blair Charge dropped a goal and direct from the kick off Dale Tonks and
Danny Robinson
bulldozed up field in what looked a promising resurgence. Unfortunately
Dover made hard work of their possession and credit must be given to Chobham
for
their endeavours in nullifying any promise being shown. Why Dover failed
to kick deep down into the bottom left corner amazed most, particularly
as the
weather worsened. After a period of pressure, that proved fruitless, Chobham
returned to the Dover half and another penalty was scored following an
offside decision against Dover’s midfield. Dover then had a sustained period
of possession deep into the hosts 22 and given 2 penalty decisions Dover opted
to run the ball and try and score a try and conversion which may have won the
game. Unfortunately the move ended in disaster and the opportunity for 3 points,
was lost. Chobham then took the game back up field and yet another penalty
was given away and again neatly slotted, which meant that Dover needed two
scores to pull this game back. Dover had defended well throughout and not many
teams can take credit for denying the hosts a try on their own ground. The
impetus by Dover in the last 10 minutes was at least satisfying and they were
awarded a penalty try after Beaumont was taken out late. Ben Murray converted.
The game finished with Chobham taking the points and deserving their victory.
The reality check is certainly kicking in, however the team should be confident
in the knowledge that they are asking many serious questions to the bigger
sides and this will hopefully roll out in the four league games in the
run up to Christmas.
Dover meets local rivals Thanet at Crabble on Saturday (kick off 1430)
and the team would ask for a bumper crowd to support them in this fixture.
Team, Lucas, Savage (May), Gill (Bowditch), Robinson (Sluman), Tonks D, Collins, Foster, Surendorff, Murray, Charge, Tonks L, Beaumont, Phillips, McNamara, Townley.
Report by: Richard Collins
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