Despite a victory from our 2XV against theirs earlier in the season, league leaders Streatham & Croydon came up winners in a hugely physical encounter at a very cold Frant Road. After numerous last minute cancellations, Mitcham turned up with the bare 15 players, so the side were always up against it from the off, however this did not dampen spirits as we gave a tremendous account of ourselves.
Fly Half Corey Griffiths made his debut as M&C 1XV Skipper, so a huge congrats on his appointment for the remainder of the season.
It was a bruising encounter throughout however S&C played a very impressive game and was a fair reflection of their position in the league. Their forwards were dominant in the scrum, and despite our pack's best efforts, were second best in most encounters.
Credit must however be given to our front row which included two players over the age of 50, one of whom at least was only expecting a cameo appearance, rather than the full 80. At the half, M&C were down by 25 or so points however heads were held high and S&C will agree that there was not much between the sides, expect for a few moments of individual brilliance.
Mitcham started the second half well and for long periods of the game looked threatening. Following two very impressive back plays, Griffiths was able to able to find space and score crucial points, converting one.
Towards the last 10 minutes of the second half, the fatigue only having 15 players started wearing the club down and Streatham were able to score a few more straightforward tries, including a few crash balls from the base of rucks, which possibly with a full compliment of players may not have happened. Either way, to lose in that manner to the league leaders is no disgrace and the lads played with the conviction and positive attitude that you expect from M&C. We dust ourselves off, visit the physio and go again next week.
#WeRise!
Next up, on 4th December, we host Haslemere who looking to get revenge from their home loss earlier in the season.
Tries: Griffiths x 2
Conversions: Griffiths
MOTM: Ian (Magoo) McAra - For a full 80 mins in very tough scrummaging conditions.
DOTD: JohnJoe Dolan - For an unforgivable clearance kick which we shall never speak off again.
