On Saturday 7th December Old Caterhamians 1st XV made their way to the top of the Surrey 3 table in a 26-14 away win against Guildfordians.  Both teams were previously unbeaten in the league, with Guildfordians having the upper hand at the beginning of the match due to an extra bonus point.

Working through the phases from a line-out penalty in the first half set up the first try for the Old Cats. Paul Briant kicked a lovely ball to Jamie Henderson to set the ball down in the right corner.

Guildfordians responded with two converted tries in the first half before Alex Rayment was set up on the left wing by fullback Ben Doney. Ben unfortunately left the field with an ankle injury, but the try, converted by Ben Davidson, brought the Old Cats back to only two points behind Guildfordians as the half time whistle went.

Scrumming became easier for the Cats in the second half as they made their way down the slopey pitch. Paul Briant found a gap in Guildfordians defense, sprinting his way to the try line in the 50th minute. Ben Davidson duly converted the points.

Finishing off the win in spectacular style was Ben Morrison, with some wonderful work from the back row allowing him to dart through the Guildfordians defense and over the whitewash. Ben Davidson converted, making the score 26-14 at 60 minutes.

After the match, Toby Dessent, Old Caterhamians Hooker said:  “In the final ten minutes, Cats were stout in their defense, managing to disrupt and dominate three attacking line outs by Guildfordians, to keep the difference to two tries.”

With the final score 26-14, the team have been commended for their outstanding efforts and sportsmanship. Particular mentions must go to Matt Wilson on the second row, who made some excellent tackles as always and Paul Briant who had a brilliant game as scrum half, as well as putting some points on the board.

Matthew Yianni, Head Coach, Old Caterhamians RFC said:  “We played really well and won well. Everyone played their part today. It’s tough to go away against a good team and win, so to win with a bonus point is especially pleasing.” 

For more information about Od Caterhamians RFC visit www.pitchero.com/clubs/oldcaterhamiansrfc/