After the heavy rainfall Broadland found themselves playing host to Beccles rather than visitors as the fixture was switched to Cobholm playing fields. The waterlogged pitch at Beef Meadow in Beccles had failed an early morning pitch inspection and both sides agreed at the last minute for a change in venue.

Broadland have been riding high, top of Eastern Counties Three and unbeaten in October. However, they expected a tough match as Beccles are currently placed three divisions higher than the Great Yarmouth side. For Broadland to challenge Beccles they knew a good start was essential but, unfortunately, their opening 30 seconds could not have been worse.

Broadland kicked off, Beccles cleared up, sent the ball out wide, and before the home sides three quarters had positioned themselves Beccles were on the score sheet with a try in the corner (converted).

Broadland stabilised and the Broadland front row of Taylor, Benham and Bristo held firm. It was the Beccles domination in the lineout that cost Broadland possession. Beccles broke through twice more and little more than 15 minutes had passed before the home side was 19 - 0 down.

Broadland rallied, Barry Trett and Lee Raven both made some good ground on the wings, but again Beccles broke through for a score. Broadland were getting some good ball from the back of the scrum, but it was only strong tackling from flankers Prescott and Hargreaves, and solid kicking from Ruddick, who were holding back an onslaught of Beccles attacking runs. The visitors scored once more before half time, and Team Manager Graeme Thompson was left to find some words of inspiration at half time.

The half time break made some difference and Broadland pushed Beccles hard. A quick break from centre Ian Macintosh gave number 8 Asa Morrison the opportunity to crash over from the five meter line (unconverted).

Broadland seemed to rally from a score and again were pressing Beccles, but this time a wayward pass was intercepted and the Beccles winger went the length of the pitch for a score.

Broadland made two substitutions with Bould and Blizzard both coming on, but the game was way beyond reach. Beccles scored twice more, the last score coming on the last play of the game.

Broadland never gave up and a mention must go to second row partnership of Captain Andy Riches and Jim Grey who, despite the endless Beccles assaults, never gave up and made the visitors fight for every inch in the thick of the forward battle.

Broadland can now look forward to another home match against Diss 2nd XV next week, and return to league rugby when they host Witham on 30th November.

Team: J.Pollard, B.Trett, I.Mackintosh, M.LaCock, L.Raven, S.Ruddick, J.Miller. R.Taylor, E.Benham, R.Bristo, A.Riches (Capt.), J.Grey, A.Hargreaves, J.Prescott, A.Morrison

Asa Morrison

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