Purley John Fisher gained quick revenge over local rivals Warlingham on Saturday, winning their return London 3SE match at Parsons Pigthle 17-8 with some electric running rugby
The victory - only their fourth of the league season - should ensure that PJF avoid relegation in May, but the defeat may not have ended Warlingham’s promotion hopes altogether, after results elsewhere went their way which now see four clubs at the top of the table separated by just two points.
Warlingham only got into the match in the second half, by which time Purley had established a 17-3 lead. With some stern defensive work in the second period, the hosts held out against wave after wave of Warlingham attacks, as their forwards took command of the match.
But Warlingham’s sole return for their second-half territorial and possession dominance was a Darren Walker try 20 minutes from the final whistle, following a dynamic break out of his own half by Warlingham’s left-wing Joel Keaveney, which skipper Tom Street followed up.
When Street was held-up just short of the try line, the ever-enthusiastic Walker - in his first game for a month after ripping ligaments in his hand - was ready to drive over and score.
Walker and his team mates in the pack continued to win lots of good ball, but the Warlingham backs were unable to make any decisive breaks through the determined Purley defensive line.
“The lack of decision making and an ability to read was what in front of them was the difference in the two teams yesterday,” Warlingham’s disappointed coach Steve Wagstaff said.
“Our pack was impressive and any team who take five against the head against a strong scrum like PJF must think that we would make something out of this possession. Our backs were spoilt with a surplus of good ball.”
Walker came on midway through the first-half as a replacement for the injured lock Stan Smith, and his presence in the Warlingham engine room helped shove Purley off the ball three times in the scrum.
Making his debut at No8, alongside his Caterham school teacher Tom Street, was 18-year-old Matt Foulds, who made the most of Warlingham’s forward domination with repeated strong carries, combining well with scrum-half Ollie Doe.
Warlingham’s next match is not until January 10, when they entertain promotion rivals Old Reigatians at Hamsey Green in what has become a must-win fixture. An improvement in form in the new year could help to keep the season alive to the very last match of the season, when league leaders Old Elthamians are due to visit Hamsey Green.
Wagstaff plans several tough training sessions over the Christmas holiday for his squad, and wants to build on some of the positive performances from his players against PJF.
“What was pleasing were the individual performances of Darren in the second row clearly showing that his injury to his hand has repaired, and he’s used the time out to get fitter and better.
“Rory Child and Joel Keavaney in the backs showed that decision making and tactical kick and chase can reap dividends, Ollie Doe added an extra bite to the team and Matt Foulds making his debut at his age was exceptional and deserved the plaudits from all.
“We would like to congratulate PJF for a well-deserved win and hope they continue to develop their attacking style which was at times a pleasure to watch.”
Warlingham’s under-18s, despite losing skipper Foulds to the first XV, managed to claim an impressive 21-12 win against a John Fisher School side in a curtain-raiser match, Ant Braithwaite scoring 16 points with a converted try and slotting three penalty goals. Warlingham’s other score was a 80-yard breakaway try by win Omar Dixon