Farnham started the season with a hard fought draw against a well respected Esher team. With a makeshift back line, including two forwards and a number of players out of position, Farnham decided to keep the ball tight and take on the Esher pack from the first whistle.
A numerous amount of rucks and mauls in the Esher half orchestrated by the ever present Martin Dedman led to desperate defending by the opposition and left Farnham frustrated at their lack of points. The feeling worsened as the Esher full back slotted over a penalty to make the score 3 – 0.
Farnham regained their composure and were rewarded with a penalty of their own through the boot of Keith Moore. A strong passage of play allowed the Farnham pack to take control of the game, and with a series of surging runs Joe Curran eventually touched down for the try; conversion missed.
Farnham started the 2nd half slowly and as discipline slipped Esher took advantage scoring 2 quick trys. With both conversions missed Farnham regrouped and peppered the Esher line with attacks and quick thinking from Dedman allowed him to scurry in from 30 metres for the try.
With the score at 13 all Farnham again switched off allowing Esher back into the game; it was only for a superb defensive display by all 15 players and the Esher kicker having an off-day that Farnham came away with a well deserved share of the points.
Farnham will take many positives from the game and are looking forward to visiting Camberley next week to build upon this strong performance.
