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Lewes Colts unable to cash in on a good 2nd half to lose 19-28 to Hove.
Steve Bowie21 Nov 2023 - 23:28
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Despite a dominant 2nd half the Colts were unable to make up for a poor defensive performance in the 1st half of their friendly match against Hove.
With a very strong wind definitely favouring one side on a narrow pitch, Lewes started the match playing into the wind.
The 1st half was spent almost entirely in defence. However, a masterclass in D it was not; with a distinct lack of dominance in the tackle or desire to compete in the ruck. This carried over to any attempts at attack, with Hove almost always out-competing at the breakdown.
The half ended with Hove 4 converted tries ahead.
Lewes had the wind at their back for the 2nd half, and immediately went on the offensive.
Defensively Lewes were much stronger, with every tackle being made to count and the breakdown being cleared. This meant that the attack, despite being played by a back-line being played out of position, had much more confidence and a willingness to try plays.
Tries were scored by No. 13 Ben Smith and Prop Max Preston scoring twice from a dominant carry off the line and an opportune steal from a fumbled lineout; 2 of the tries converted by Joe Lacy.
Unfortunately Lewes were unable to match the 1st half deficit, with Hove showing fantastic valour in defence against a side playing with confidence in open play and containing some older players.
Opposition's Man of the Match Ben Smith, Players' Man of the Match Max Preston, Coaches' Man of the Match Ben Simmonds.
The 1st half was spent almost entirely in defence. However, a masterclass in D it was not; with a distinct lack of dominance in the tackle or desire to compete in the ruck. This carried over to any attempts at attack, with Hove almost always out-competing at the breakdown.
The half ended with Hove 4 converted tries ahead.
Lewes had the wind at their back for the 2nd half, and immediately went on the offensive.
Defensively Lewes were much stronger, with every tackle being made to count and the breakdown being cleared. This meant that the attack, despite being played by a back-line being played out of position, had much more confidence and a willingness to try plays.
Tries were scored by No. 13 Ben Smith and Prop Max Preston scoring twice from a dominant carry off the line and an opportune steal from a fumbled lineout; 2 of the tries converted by Joe Lacy.
Unfortunately Lewes were unable to match the 1st half deficit, with Hove showing fantastic valour in defence against a side playing with confidence in open play and containing some older players.
Opposition's Man of the Match Ben Smith, Players' Man of the Match Max Preston, Coaches' Man of the Match Ben Simmonds.
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