Seaford I vs Brighton II - Saturday 24th September

Seaford travelled to Brighton’s’ home at Waterhall for what is always a physically challenging and close fought game. As is the usual case when playing Brighton, the possession was split relatively evenly but Seaford’s heads and communication dropped in the second half, paving the way for a surge of determination for the last ten minutes of the game. Unfortunately at this meet, this came a little too late and there was not enough time for Seaford to gain the extra points to steal the victory.

Brighton gained their points with two early penalties followed by two converted tries, one either half. Both Seaford’s tries came from flanker, Josh Sheppard, currently racking up the tries at a rate of knots. One of these was converted plus one penalty, lead to the final score of Seaford trailing by a mere five points.

Special mention is due to Seaford’s own captain, Paul Burns, for his try saving tackle late in the second half. Seaford had been pounding at Brighton’s defence but were unable to get those extra few yards to cross the try line and once Brighton gained possession of the ball they did a clearance kick deep into Seaford’s own half. Matt Shearing had been there to collect the ball on the wing, but with no support and Brighton players bearing down on him, he was forced, after being tackled, to release the ball on the floor into the hands of his opponents. With a clear run to the try line, Brighton’s’ hopeful scorer was caught completely off guard when Burns ploughed into him sideways and drove them both out of play.

This was certainly a performance to be proud of for Seaford, and one to be revenged when they host Brighton at home later in the season.

Next week, 1st October, Seaford welcome Pulborough to the Salts for another challenging match, one that is sure to be a fantastic watch for the supports as it always is!

Also remember that Seaford Rugby Club will be open for the England vs Scotland game next Saturday, kick off at 8.30am.