In an electrifying clash that had local rugby enthusiasts on the edge of their seats, Beckenham emerged victorious over their long-standing rivals, Old Colfeians, with a resounding final score of 52-22.

As fans gathered in anticipation, there was an electric atmosphere at Balmoral Avenue after getting the season started with two wins over London Cornish and Sutton and Epsom. The clash between these two teams, lived up to its reputation as a fierce local rivalry. Both teams took to the pitch with a sense of purpose, knowing that bragging rights were on the line.

From the opening whistle, it was clear that Beckenham meant business. They came out of the gate with a fiery intensity, applying immense pressure on Old Colfeians right from the start. It didn't take long for Beckenham to put points on the board, with scrum-half, Ben Murphy, orchestrating the attack brilliantly with big carries from debutant David Bampoe. Dan Hamilton got Beckenham on the front foot, after a fortuitous grubber kick bounced up nicely in the opponents 22 Dan bundled his way over the line in the 10th minute. Throughout the remainder of the first half the home team's backline displayed exceptional handling skills, finding gaps in the Old Colfeians' defence and creating opportunities giving Liam Caddy two tries within 30 minutes, with excellent assists coming from Fin Kennedy and Geordie Boyce.

Old Colfeians, to their credit, fought back valiantly. They managed to break through Beckenham's defence on a few occasions, showcasing their driving mauls and their own attacking prowess. However, the defence held strong for most of the match, with the forwards making crucial tackles and turnovers that denied Old Colfeians any sustained momentum.

As the first half progressed, Beckenham continued to build on the early lead. Scrum dominance and lineout efficiency allowed the team to maintain control of the game. The last play before half time came from a Colfes overthrow in a lineout, gathered by Liam Markey and followed by another dominant carry Beckenham spread the ball wide to set free Rob Willden who ran in a try from the halfway line show great pace and agility. By halftime, Beckenham had established a comfortable lead, with the scoreline reading 28-5 in the homesides favour.

The second half saw Beckenham pick up right where they left off, with their forwards asserting their dominance in the set pieces and the backs displaying clinical finishing. Old Colfeians fought hard to mount a comeback, but Beckenham's relentless pressure and precision were hard to withstand.

Beckenham's fly-half, Lewis Bunton, continued to be the orchestrator of the attack, making pinpoint kicks and distributing the ball with accuracy. The forwards continued to provide a solid platform for the backs, and the combination of the two proved unstoppable. There were further tries from birthday boy Andrew Knowles, and Liam Caddy completed his hattrick with a piercing line and deadly step to walk in under the posts.

Old Colfeians did manage to score a couple of late tries, showcasing their determination and never-give-up spirit, but it was too little, too late. The final whistle blew with Beckenham emerging as the clear victors, with a final score of 52-22.

The match was a testament to the competitive spirit and local pride that drives these two teams. While Beckenham will revel in their victory, both sides demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship and respect for their opponents throughout the contest. This victory will undoubtedly be a source of immense pride for Beckenham Rugby Club and its supporters, while Old Colfeians will look to regroup and come back stronger in the next encounter. The local rivalry remains as intense as ever, ensuring that future clashes between the two teams will continue to be highly anticipated events on the rugby calendar!

Final Mentions to Debutants, Ben Hatfield, David Bampoe and Geordie Boyce who all put on a fine display in their first outings in Blue and Gold.

Man of the Match: Liam Caddy

Author: Rob Willden - Starting Hooker