Home   Tonbridge   Sport   Article

Tonbridge Juddians 17 Henley 0: National League 2 East match report

By Adam Hookway

National League 2 East leaders Tonbridge Juddians returned to winning ways with a 17-0 victory over Henley.

With the Slade pitch waterlogged the teams battled it out on the 3G surface at Vizards, but the change in venue made no difference to TJs’ home form and they maintained their 100 per cent record against visiting sides and avoided a second successive defeat after losing at Bury St Edmunds last time out.

Tonbridge Juddians' Shadyn Osgood was on the scoresheet against Henley. Picture: Adam Hookway
Tonbridge Juddians' Shadyn Osgood was on the scoresheet against Henley. Picture: Adam Hookway

The game was a stop-start affair and the only first-half run of note came from Hugo Culverhouse, who charged 30 metres from the base of the scrum inside the TJ half to put Henley under pressure in their own 22. Shadyn Osgood was quickest to support, and tumbled over the line after 20 minutes. Sam Evans converted for a 7-0 lead.

It wasn't until the end of the half that either try line was again threatened. This time Henley kicked to the corner and went for the catch and drive, followed by several efforts to get over the whitewash. Juddians kept them out twice, illegally, before holding the Henley forwards up over the line.

The second half saw TJs enjoying plenty of territory but Henley's defence were largely up to the task. The hosts had their moments, with the returning Curtis Barnes adding speed on one wing and Duncan Tout power and pace on the other, but it was Evans with a penalty who increased the lead after 48 minutes.

Tonbridge Juddians (red) proved too strong for Henley, making it 11 wins from 12 games in National League 2 East. Picture: Adam Hookway
Tonbridge Juddians (red) proved too strong for Henley, making it 11 wins from 12 games in National League 2 East. Picture: Adam Hookway

The introduction of Connor Lloyd added some extra zip to the breakdown but every metre was still hard to gain. TJs continued to loiter for long periods in the Henley half, though, and their territorial advantage brought further rewards with 10 minutes left. A series of drives took them to the try line and space was created for captain Tommy Nicoll to go over, Evans topping up the score.

The visitors had a final flurry upfield and TJs lost Osgood to a late yellow card, but they held strong to keep the away side off the scoreboard.

Juddians, four points clear of Dorking, although the Surrey side have a game in hand, visit 12th-placed Oxford Harlequins on Saturday.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More