Under 14s

Brighton 34 Eastbourne 10

Eastbourne RFC Under 14s played the third of their Sussex A League fixtures away to league leaders Brighton on 11 November.

This was always going to be a tough match against a rapidly improving outfit with large squad numbers and an edge in physicality but Eastbourne put in a courageous performance with their never-say-die attitude. Following the early setback of conceding a contentious try Eastbourne stormed into the attack and there were several opportunities to score before good work between Tom Biltcliffe and Will Bettles put Jake Giles away to touch down in the corner.
Despite having the bulk of the territory Eastbourne conceded again before a scintillating solo effort from Will Bettles brought the score level at 10-10 at half time.

With a steady start required in the second half Eastbourne wastefully conceded possession straight away and this led directly to a Brighton try. As the half went on Eastbourne failed to capitalise on a number of promising field positions and were hit repeatedly on the break as they tried to get back into the match.

A couple of Brighton tries at the death meant that the scoreboard did not do justice to a fine Eastbourne effort.  The attacking verve of this team had for a while worried the league leaders who before this match had not conceded a league point, leave alone two tries.
Praise must be given to the entire pack who fought magnificently throughout and whose technique was at times impeccable against larger opposition. Of the forwards Dan Bevan was the stand-out player with a performance of great athleticism and mention should also be made of debutant Jack Schuler who made a promising start with committed tackling.

Anyone wishing to join this improving squad should speak to under 14s manager Paul Feist on 07971 579443.

Eastbourne Under 14s:

Forwards: Sam Barrett; Tom Strange, James O’Donnell, Piers Newman, Patrick Feist, Charlie Di Lieto, Jordan Smith, Dan Bevan, Chris Hibberd, Jack Schuler, Jason Kearns

Backs: Andrew Chapman, Tom Biltliffe, Harry Wills, Ben Saunders, Will Bettles, Jake Giles, Daniel Woods, Philip Stone