Rochford were the visitors to Upland Road this week and they came as unbeaten leaders in London NE2. EUCRFC’s recent form had been patchy, surrendering opportunities more often than not and the portents for the day were not good. Rochford ran out winners and in so doing demonstrated why they sit atop this league but Clapton produced their most combative performance of the year so far with many graduates from their youth system especially showing well.
Rochford scored 4 tries in the first half and a further 3 in the second period. Dan Jones was EUCRFC’s only scorer; crossing for an early try which levelled the scores at the time, when carving his way through the opposition defence. He converted and added a penalty just before the break to make it 10-24 in the visitors favour.
In the second half Clapton had further chances to add to their tally, going for long periods when play was competitive and equal but there was no score. George Cook, John Gunnel, Des Griggs & Connor Reynolds showed to the fore and they were ably supported by their team-mates all the way through. Clapton need to replicate this level of effort and endeavour in their final 2 games if they are to secure playing rights at this level for next season.