Broadland returned to league rugby with an away fixture against Norfolk rivals Swaffham. Broadland knew a win would strengthen their position at the top of Eastern Counties Three North but Swaffham have always given Broadland unexpected surprises on away matches.

Swaffham kicked off and Broadland immediately stormed down the right wing. Some good work from Abel and Ruddick gave winger Raven the opportunity to beat his man and score within the first minute (unconverted).

Swaffham gave little in response and Broadland again went over, however Prescott's score was judged to be from a forward pass and the try was disallowed. Broadland continued to pressure Swaffham and this time Lee Raven touched down for his second of the game (unconverted).

Broadland were still dominating the game and some clever work between Patterson and Macintosh put Scrum-half Burling through for the score (converted Murray). The Yarmouth side was dominating the game, however Swaffham began to press and gain territory on Broadland.

Eventually the visitors found themselves defending from inside their own five-meter line and, after a sustained attack, Swaffham eventually scored a well-earned try; this put back into the game for the second half.

The second period began and flanker Jason Prescott who, by returning a kick 30 yards through the entire Swaffham pack, broke the deadlock broke a long spell of territorial kicking. He was dragged down just short of the try-line by the Swaffham fullback; Burling picked up but again went inches short. Broadland's forwards swarmed at the goal line with Bristo and Taylor clearing out the Swaffham defensive ruck, hooker Benham picked up and crashed over to score and consolidate Broadland's lead (unconverted)

Swaffham desperately tried to make an impact on the Broadland side, but solid tackling from Murray and locks Riches and Grey prevented Swaffham from breaking through. Ian Macintosh increased Broadland's lead with a well-struck penalty and Broadland were in complete control of the game.

With time running out, wing Pollard fielded a Swaffham clearance kick and returned it close to Swaffham's 22-meter line. Broadland forced themselves down inside the five metre line where Morrison went in close to lay the ball back for Burling to pick up and score his second on the day (unconverted). The whistle sounded after the conversion.

Broadland 1st XV are away next week in a top of the table clash against Sawston, while the 2nd XV travel to Crusaders 2nd XV.

Team: S.Murray, J.Pollard, P.Abel, G.Patterson, L.Raven, S.Ruddick, R.Burling, R.Taylor, E.Benham, R.Bristo, A.Riches (Capt.), J.Grey, A.Morrison, J.Prescott, I.Mackintosh

Asa Morrison

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