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| Farnham U15 v Esher 21 November 2004 |
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21 November 2004 - Back to their best, Farnham U15s ran in 7 tries against Esher without reply away at Molesey Road. Esher put up a spirited defence and tackled hard to the last, but excellent pressure from the Farnham back row – Hector Hoyte-Bone (8), James Morris (7) and “man of the match” Tom Paull (6) - ensured the possession. The pace of the backs, marshalled by the sure distribution and cultured boot of Ben Rubio at No 10, provided the finishing to deliver the points.
The first try from winger Chris Thorne was a classic with quick possession moved to the wing in good order for this fast and strong runner to carry two tacklers with him into the corner. Dan Lawrence on the other wing twice took the opportunity to show his speed and aggression to cross the line. His second try ably demonstrated his determination to score as momentum carried him over from a tackle five yards out. The other tries were from the ever present Hector Hoyte Bone (x2) and Ollie Todd, who throughout the game carried the ball with pace and directness deep into the Esher defence.
The front five did their share of hard graft and after a series of rapid “pick and drives” put skipper, Joe Curran over from close range. Craig Macey, starting for the first time this season as lock, was denied a well worked forward’s try with a foot in touch a yard out. Together with prop, Chris Hughes, he was always in the thick of things winning ball and minding his defensive duties.
Michael Salmon at outside centre always threatened in midfield and converted three of his five kicks at goal. Meanwhile Rob West at full back joined the line at pace and was secure at the back on the few occasions that Esher broke the first tackle.
At 30 points up, coach Jamie Salmon was able to give time on the pitch to the bench and have a look at the options for later in the season. Nick Stanworth on for Dan Lawrence made a try saving tackle and Tom O’Connell on for Tom Grimes at No 9 moved the ball from the base of the ruck with sound technique. Jake Watt returning from injury was keen to get back into the fray at centre. Dan Martin and Peter Meckiffe showed that competition for a place in the front row is still as hot as ever and locks Jack Babayan and Stuart Dick ably demonstrated that a squad with strength in depth can “impact play” this key position with both players giving their all for half the game each.
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