Sevenoaks RFC 1st XV produced their most ‘mature performance of the season’ last Saturday according to Oaks Head Coach Adam Bowman, as they turned the form book on its head to register a fine away win against Hertford RFC.
Adam Bowman hopes that there will be a large crowd at the Paddock on Saturday to cheer on his team. Photo Credit: David Purday
Bowman’s side, who up until that point had an equal win/loss ratio in their league matches so far, were ranked outsiders against a more experienced side at this level. It seems Bowman’s men were having none of it though. ‘I thought our game management was excellent. We started well and were focused throughout which is what you need to do if you are to compete at this level.’
The Head Coach continued ‘I said before the season started that it would take us time to settle – it’s always the case across all teams and I think that now the league will start to take shape a bit more. Overall, I’ve been really happy with the way the boys have applied themselves, across the whole squad – everyone has risen to the challenge and continued to learn and expand new elements of our game which is all I can ask for.’
As well as a win for the 1st XV, Oaks 2nd XV all came away with victory as they beat local rivals Tonbridge Juddians RFC 2nd XV at the Paddock, by the narrowest of margins, 6-5. ‘That was a really good result for us – to be a side with the quality that TJ’s have is always a feather in the cap. But I think there will be a frustration in the performance – there were a few errors that crept in and the boys came away feeling we hadn’t hit our straps – partly because of the quality TJ’s possess, but also due to individual errors. It’s a good place to be in though – to win and still have lots to work on.’
This week end sees the visit of islanders Guernsey, who sit third in the league, with their only loss coming away to another strong outfit, Rochford Hundred. Whilst again the form book may point to the away team as the favourites, Bowman and his men are determined not to just make up the numbers.
‘We always love playing at home and hopefully the numbers will be swelled by those staying on to watch after the England v. New Zealand match. We have to front up and back ourselves, but most importantly execute and concentrate like we did last week – that has to be our minimum standard now and it’s important that we continue on that upward curve against an excellent side.’
The week after will see Oaks have a much needed rest week, which will allow Bowman to rest bodies after what will be an eight game block for the squad. ‘It will be a welcome break, not just for us but for all teams. I say it every year but the physicality gets turned up each year and whilst we have good squad depth, the boys need a break mentally as much as physically. Rest is as important as the doing sometimes and it will give us a chance to re-charge our batteries before the next block which leads into Christmas.’
Oaks 1st XV take on Guernsey RFC this Saturday at the Paddock, with Kick Off at 3pm. All support is most welcome.