Medway travelled away to a Kent club for the second week in a row hoping to complete a memorable 2017 against a much improved Old Colfeians team.

The first 15 mins saw both sides trying to exert their authority on the other and the game went from one end to other. Each side had kickable penalty opportunities but neither attempt was successful.

The opening score of the game went to Medway when following some excellent continuity and phases a Sam Sharpe break was backed up by Dan Huntley allowing James Dance the space to nip sharply through the gap and score under the posts. Dan Harvey converted and Medway led 7-0.

They were not ahead for long. Colfeians won good field position with their kicking game then a number of close quarter drives from their big forwards saw the ball transferred wide for the left winger to finish well in the corner. A well struck conversion saw the score levelled.

Medway had the opportunity to go back in front with a kickable penalty following some excellent work from Ross Cooley, Billy Sandison and Alex O’ Leary at the scrum but chose to go to the corner.  Colfeians defended the attempted catch and drive well and following a turnover broke out.

On 37 minutes the home side went in front. Some good approach work saw the ball fed wide to their winger who beat off two poorly attempted tackles to to score a converted try and give them the lead by 14-7 at half time.

The second half kicked off and Medway secured possession. A series of phases saw the visitors drive deep into the Colfeians 22m with Dan Huntley, Razmuss Debeer, Max Easton and Sam Sharpe particularly prominent. A number of drives at the home line were stopped short but eventually Michael Gardner drove over powerfully from 4 metres out to score the unconverted try. 14-12.

The next 15 minutes saw Medway control field position on the back of a dominant scrum. A number of penalties were won resulting in a yellow card for the home side. Medway opted for the scrum but lose control at the base allowing Colfeians to survive. Further penalties on 62 and 66 minutes were both kicked by Harvey to put the visitors back in front 21-14.

The home side did not give up. With only a single score in it and just 2 minutes left on the clock they won a penalty and kicked for the corner just 5m out from Medway’s line. Lineout possession was secured and an excellent catch and drive saw them score the try they craved.

The last kick of the game gave the home side the chance to secure the draw but the attempt sailed wide of the posts. Medway were victors in a hard fought game against a Colfeians side who’s current form belies their league position.

Medway are delighted to go into the Christmas break at the head of the table but know that they will need to improve elements of their game if they are to remain challengers at the top. For their part Colfeians are an improving team who will do well in the New Year.