It has been a mixed two-game spell for the 1st XV, and with the ups and downs, the
squad remain motivated and more focused than ever coming into the Christmas period.
Bearing that in mind here is the brief round-up of another set of thrilling fixtures.

Gameweek 1: Eastbourne vs Haywards Heath

Following on from a strong win against Old Caterhamians, the troops were all set to display some dazzling joué on the road against a strong Haywards Heath side. However, on arrival at the ground, we quickly realised there was going to be little free-flowing rugby as the contest would be held in a swamp.

Despite this, Eastbourne started well, absorbing some early pressure from a sizable and well-organised opposition. After turning the ball over, Eastbourne kicked the ball up the field clinically, adding pressure and being awarded a shot at goal. Unfortunately, the chance was not converted, and the game reverted back to some up the jumper route one rugby.

Eastbourne generated momentum through a dominant performance at the scrum throughout the first half, which resulted in a crash ball try scored by a rampaging Ronnie Doorey-Palmer off another stable scrum platform, with Jake Howe adding the extras, taking us to the end of the first half.

Eastbourne, eager to defend their slim lead, started the second half just as they left off. The physicality of both teams seemed equal, and there was little to separate the two sides. Then, Haywards Heath, after generating a spell of strong carries, were rewarded by Eastbourne forfeiting some cheap penalties. This eventually resulted in a yellow card, swiftly followed by a try, levelling the game. Eastbourne, despite being a man down, continued to obliterate their opposition at the scrum. However, the referee seemed compelled not to reward our scrum efforts, which ultimately would have been the deciding factor in an otherwise even match. Sadly, in the dying moments of the match, Heath scored in the corner, snatching the game and the 5 points.

Final Score: Eastbourne 10 - 17 Haywards Heath

The standout performer of the day was Leon Wood. Despite being small in stature and

Gameweek 2: Eastbourne vs KCS Old Boys

This, on the other hand, was a gorgeous display of liquid rugby held at our home ground. Although hampered by many injuries, Eastbourne were confident to make amends following the defeat last week.

In spite of strong winds and slippery conditions, Eastbourne started quickly, throwing the ball around confidently. Our well-drilled structure held firm as we slowly progressed up the pitch. This solid structure gave Eastbourne a plethora of try-scoring opportunities early in the match. Unfortunately, these were left out on the field due to the slippery conditions and Eastbourne’s overly excitable wingers taking their eye off the ball. Eventually, Eastbourne were rewarded for their pressure with Jake Howe kicking over a penalty for Eastbourne to take the lead. This was swiftly followed by a sudden breakaway interception try by Leon Wood, taking advantage of some sloppy hands from KCS. Towards the end of the first half, a yellow card forced Eastbourne to reshuffle. Notwithstanding this setback, Dylan Viles got on the end of a lovely string of passes, scoring our second try of the day.

Perhaps due to Eastbourne’s superior fitness, the second half of the game seemed far more one-sided. Some blazing line breaks from Eastbourne’s backs kept KCS under pressure throughout. Eastbourne, clearly rediscovering their arrogance-infused flair, started to finally convert the chances that they had let slip away from them in the first half. However, Eastbourne’s familiar lack of discipline resulted in two more yellow cards and a try for the opposition. Tries from Dylan Viles (again) and Mason Dowle sealed the game for Eastbourne, closing out a well-deserved victory and making our post-match pints even more splendid.
Final Score: Eastbourne 31 - 7 KCS Old Boys

The standout performance came from our resident model and certified wizard with the ball in his hands, Spike ‘Godly’ Gleave. His combination of fast feet and dazzling looks left the opposition dizzy. Remarkably loud for his size, he kicked well and marshalled the team around the field.