Sevenoaks Rugby Club Academy 2s enjoyed a cracking day in the sun at Medway RFC on Sunday 9 January, starting 2022 in some style with a 26-7 win over very solid opponents.
The match provided a robust way to blow away the cob webs for two sides that never yielded willingly all match. Medway put in some huge hits and battled hard however ultimately the structured phase play of Oaks, coupled with some outstanding individual performances, won out.
Harry Corsini was Oaks man of the match on the basis of three steals at the breakdown; several thumping tackles, and deft steps and passing on the carry by the front row forward. Henry Hartley and Ollie Langley also impressed in the front row and Tom Hunt at hooker threw perfect darts into an infallible line out, chiefly to James Kerton who soared above the opposition time and again to set the platform for the Oaks.
So it was that the Oaks breakthrough came from a line out catch and drive from 10 metres out, with the imposing Oaks 8 Henry Thompson marshalling the maul over the line for a try that outside half Billy Boyd duly converted.
Charlie Day and Rhys Owen were both dominant on the flanks and their carries and hard work set up the field position for Oaks’ second try. A couple of phases found Oli Heap romping down the left wing to set up field position and then Heap popped up again to burst through the Medway defensive line for Oaks’ second try and Boyd again added the extras.
Stung by this, Medway sprang into action. Oaks allowed the big Medway ball carriers a little too much space and given the inches they duly took the yards, moving the ball effectively and abrasively into the Oaks red zone. From here a sequence of pick and go rugby resulted in the Medway 8 dotting the ball down under the posts and the conversion meant it was 7-14 to Oaks going into the half time break with the game very much afoot.
Sevenoaks were up the hill in the second half yet started very strongly. Harvey Galloway at 9 made some trademark yards with a box kick and this set the platform up for Boyd to put Finn Good and Luka Crowcroft into space. A few phases later Crowcroft found the space on the left to dive over for a try following an intelligent pass by Galloway.
Medway then once again stepped up, putting in a lot of hard work in the midfield to keep Oaks at bay. The hosts put in some very solid tackles as did Oaks and the sides went properly at it in a few lively encounters in the middle of the park.
Pip Hodson and Toby Goodman in the centre ans wing respectively were proving a handful for the Medway defenders. This ultimately told with a midfield break by Sam Keenan recycled to give James Akerman some space on the left wing. Akerman stepped one Medway player then outpaced the cover to dive over the line for Oaks’ fourth and final try that Boyd, who truly impressed in the way he kicked from hand as well in bossing the Oaks back line and also both taking and putting in some big hits of his own.
Twice following that final try Oaks got over the Medway line and twice - with full credit to the Medway defence - the visitors were held up. Final score 7-26.
Huge credit to both squads for an outstanding match played in great spirits.
Squad list: Harry Corsini, Tom Hunt, Henry Hartley, Sam Keenan, James Kerton, Charlie Day, Rhys Owen, Henry Thompson, Harvey Galloway, Billy Boyd, Toby Goodman, Luca Crowcroft, James Akeman, Oli Heap, Finn Good
Subs: Oliver Langley
The Oaks Academy 1st XV bagged their first Kent League win of the season in their final league game away at Blackheath on Sunday.
Both sides were clearly affected by unavailability due to school and county rugby commitments, but it was the new faces on the Oaks side who were better equipped to deal with the step up.
After their disappointing exit from the cup a fortnight ago, Oaks have shifted their attack structures to align more with those used by the senior squad. These are complex shapes, yet the way the group have adapted to them has been nothing short of a revelation.
Oaks started at a rapid pace and settled into their attacking shape in a way previously unseen this season. Hard carries through the middle by the likes of James Kerton and Sam Keenan were complimented by the second wave of runners out the back. Space was fashioned out wide on the left for debuting fullback, U16 Ben Pearl. Slick hands from the midfield backs did the job and Pearl stepped inside a drifting defender to dot down and get Oaks off to the perfect start. 0-5.
Oaks countered immediately from the ensuing kick-off and once again utilised their attacking shape to stretch the Blackheath defence. This time, Oaks decided to play through their opposition and another debuting U16, number 8 Joe Sussmes, cut a cracking line through the heart of the defence before powering through the fullback to score under the sticks. Shirtcliff added the extras to take Oaks into an early 0-12 lead.
Oaks were firmly in control and after Blackheath conceded a penalty around halfway, the ball was pumped deep into their 22. A trademark Oaks catch-and-drive allowed prop Alby Butt, one of the few ever presents in the side so far this season, to dot down and take Oaks 0-17 up. Oaks new boy, Oli May, capped an impressive display by bagging himself two tries before half time. The first came after fly half Billy Boyd found him out the back before May stepped inside the cover and then the fullback to score. His second came after receiving the ball just inside the Blackheath half. The home side were dropping off a lot of tackles by this point and May took full advantage by carving through from long range for a fantastic solo effort. May's tries sandwiched a Zac Shirtcliff score from a Sevenoaks lineout steal close to the Blackheath line. All of this amounted to an Oaks half-time lead of 0-34.
The half-time message was to maintain the levels of intensity and accuracy demonstrated in the 1st half. This is always a challenge when a half has gone so perfectly. Oaks were up to the challenge.
Immediately from kick-off, Butt reminded everyone that aside from being a demon at scrum time, he is also incredibly quick. He burst down the left wing from the kick before bulldozing the covering Blackheath defender. An amazing piece of individual play, but unfortunately the brave home tackler was injured in the collision. Play was stopped and Blackheath were forced down to 14 men. Oaks matched their numbers and the game continued. Oaks pinned Blackheath deep in their own territory. From a 5m ruck, Shirtcliff was able to strip a Blackheath carrier during the tackle before spinning out and diving over the line for his 2nd. He converted his own score. 0-41.
Sadly, the game wouldn't last much longer as another huge carry from the kick-off led to a Blackheath playing suffering from a suspected concussion. Physios from both teams entered the field to provide the very best care to the stricken player. With the prospect of the home side going down to 13 players for the last 20 or so minutes, both sets of coaches agreed to call the game early to reduce the risk of further injury.
Huge credit must go to Blackheath for fulfilling the fixture with such limited resources. At full tilt, they are strong enough to be awaiting news of their National Cup 4th round opposition. Oaks can sympathise with the struggle of getting games played with huge numbers of players unavailable. In a time where teams increasingly just bail on fixtures because they are missing a few players, it has been pleasing that Oaks have been allowed to play all 6 of their league matches this season - even if results have not gone our way.
Now to Oaks. Where to begin really. The starting team was yet again completely different to even a week ago vs Canterbury. Three U16s started the game, two of them debutants. Only 5 members of the starting team featured in Oaks' last win, in the 2nd round of the National Cup back in October. Despite this, Oaks produced a very fluent and intense performance. The speed of the ruck ball combined with the sheer number of options that halfbacks Mac Leason and Billy Boyd had available to them was hugely encouraging.
The last two performances have given Oaks real confidence heading into the post-Christmas Kent competitions. The emergence of so many players as legitimate 1st team contenders, combined with players undoubtedly returning from school duties, should give Oaks the depth to compete at the top table again.
In the short term, the Academy U16s have one final fixture before Christmas - a double header away at Chobham next Sunday (12th Dec).
Squad list: Alby Butt, Tom Hunt, Drew Mercer, James Kerton, Sam Keenan, Elliot Peters, Charlie Day, Joe Sussmes, Mac Leason, Billy Boyd, Oli Ebsworth, Juan Barnard, Zac Shirtcliff (C), Oli May, Ben Pearl
Subs: Harry Fulcher, Christian Dolly, Jon Odeyimi
Sevenoaks RFC Academy 1st XV 12-28 Canterbury RFC U18s
Sevenoaks welcomed Canterbury to the Paddock on a crisp, but clear morning for their return Kent League fixture.
Oaks' availability struggles had cost them dearly in the first fixture, with a strong Canterbury side coming out 53-3 winners. In the pre-match build up, there was a real fear that history would repeat itself. Late dropouts from injuries sustained in school matches the previous day, combined with the fact that Oaks were fielding an Academy 2s team, also against Canterbury, meant that Oaks started with a bare 15.
When lock Damien May went down a couple of minutes into the game with a shoulder injury after a huge shot on a Canterbury ball carrier, things looked bleak. Oaks would have to play the rest of the game with 14 men.
What happened next defied belief.
It has not been an easy season for this group. A tough Kent League campaign combined with last weekend's National Cup loss have understandably dented confidence within the group. It would have been so easy to surrender to another Canterbury battering after such a demoralising start. Instead, the group rolled up their sleeves and proceeded to climb into Canterbury from minute one.
They got rewarded for their bravery. Captain Zac Shirtcliff - self-admittedly quiet in defeat the week before - cut a superb line from an early scrum strike and was put through by his fellow centre Pat Spice. The momentum Oaks gained from this line break led to a succession of lineouts close to the Canterbury line. From one such lineout, Oaks' maul came down just short of the line. Scrum half Adam Davies reacted quickest and darted in down the short side for Oaks' 1st score. Shirtcliff added the conversion and 14-man Oaks found themselves 7-0 up.
Canterbury were clearly missing a few players themselves. This, combined with ferocious Oaks tackling from the likes of Drew Mercer, James Kerton and Barnaby Thomas meant that instead of customary Canterbury line breaks, passes were being dropped and possession often conceded on the floor. The away side still had plenty of quality however. A frankly mesmeric crossfield kick from their 10 was caught by the right winger without even breaking stride for Canterbury's 1st try. They converted the score to level the game at 7-7.
Oaks took this setback in stride and applied huge pressure from the kick-off, led by pack leader for the day Elliot Peters. There were big carries from Gregor Pauling and Alby Butt which opened up gaps for fly half Billy Boyd to dart through and win Oaks a penalty inside Canterbury territory. Oaks went straight to their driving game and once again were stopped just short of the try line. A couple of pick-and-gos towards the posts pulled the Canterbury defence inwards and Oaks again exploited the short side to put winger Joe Ryder into the corner for their 2nd try. No conversion this time around, but Oaks were back in front at 12-7.
Canterbury struggled to find their usual fluidity in attack, but showed their invention when another outstanding kick from their 10 found space in the depleted Oaks backfield. Oaks scrambled but were turned over on the floor and several phases later Canterbury were over in the corner. They added the conversion to go in at halftime 12-14 up.
The first 20 minutes of the 2nd half were full of action and endeavour from both sides, but short on outcomes. Canterbury would work a promising attack to then be foiled by heroic Oaks scramble defence. Oaks would then fashion a line break in phase play before throwing one offload too many or being turned over on the floor by relentless Canterbury jackalling.
It was all great entertainment for the watching supporters but the 14-man elephant was slowly creeping into the room. Canterbury's extra man began to tell as their big carriers started to dent Oaks' defensive line more consistently. Yet again, the visiting 10 took advantage of the space out wide and a crossfield kick was fielded on the bounce by their right winger. He was chopped down by Mac Leason - playing out of position at fullback - but he got the ball away back inside to his fullback who raced in under the posts for Canterbury's 3rd try. 12-21.
Oaks were now being penned into their own half and were forced to chance their arm from deep. One such attempt back fired as Oaks were charged down from a scrum strike insider their own 22 and Canterbury pounced to score their 4th try and head into a 12-28 lead. This was ultimately how the game would finish.
Despite the defeat, there was a mood of optimism in the Oaks huddle post-match. The players had been challenged by Head Coach Dawson before the match to "show visible pride and desire in wearing the Oaks colours". This they certainly achieved. They defended brilliantly for huge chunks of the match and scored two well-worked tries in the early game before energy levels got too depleted. Recent arrivals to the club like prop Drew Mercer and fullback/winger Oli May put down strong claims for further 1st team inclusion. Players who had underperformed in the National Cup loss to TJs came back spitting and snorting in a manner that has not previously been seen from this group.
Oaks have one more Kent League game away at Blackheath on December 5th - their last opportunity register that elusive win against Kent's elite. After that, the coaches and players look forward to (hopefully) having much stronger availability for the Kent Cup post-Christmas, with school XVs largely stopping after December. If the group approaches the cup with anything like the energy and enthusiasm on display vs Canterbury, they might just surprise a few people.
Squad list: Drew Mercer, Elliot Peters, Gregor Pauling, Damien May, Luke Walter, James Kerton, Alby Butt, Barnaby Thomas, Adam Davies, Billy Boyd, Oli May, Pat Spice, Zac Shirtcliff (C), Joe Ryder, Mac Leason
Sevenoaks RFC Academy 2nd XV 12-41 Canterbury RFC U18Bs
Sevenoaks Rugby Academy 2nd XV had a tough run out versus their Canterbury counterparts on Sunday 28 November. Thanks to Sevenoaks School for supplying the pitch on a bright and clear winter morning.
Canterbury started strongly and only resolute defending by the Oaks kept them at bay in the opening salvos. Rhys Owen (C) was leading from the front and helped marshal the pack to keep the Oaks line in tact.
However with the slope in their favour it wasn’t long before Canterbury, who played some great rugby on the day used field position to scythe through a gap in the Oaks back line. A tough match was made harder for Oaks when very early in the match a head clash between Toby Goodman and Cameron Davies forced them to leave the pitch and we wish them both a speedy recovery.
Two subsequent tries for Canterbury opened a 0-17 advantage; Oaks having squandered their own ball on several occasions were being quickly punished.
Then Oaks began to hit their stride and managed to retain possession through phase play. Jon Odiyemi after several penalties to Oaks and catch and drives from the ensuing line outs from five yards out saw the winger athletically dot the ball down. The teams entered the sheds at 5-17 and with the slope to their advantage it seemed the Oaks fight back was on.
Canterbury however had other ideas and played decent fluid rugby to take the first points in the second half and extended their lead to 5-24.
For Sevenoaks the pack including Ed Cross, Will Dinsmore, Adam Vickers, Charlie Day, Daniel Craig, Sam Keenan, and Harry Fulcher all put in big shifts especially as Oaks through injury went to 14 and then 13 players on the park. Fulcher, Keenan and Owen all carried the ball well to make hard yards for Oaks at vital stages in the game.
In the backs Rhys Williams bossed from 9 and established a strong combo with Ben Graham at 10, who was immaculate with the boot securing some great field position in closed and open play.
Outside the half backs Henry Lynch, Christian Dolly and Juan Barnard plus Sam Hopkins all stuck to their task.
On several occasions in the second half Oaks pressed the Canterbury line but then turned the ball over a little too easily with the visitors making the most of these errors to romp up the pitch. Canterbury showed great handling and awareness to move into a 5-41 lead.
Sevenoaks as you would expect stayed in the fight. The lads were duly rewarded when Keenan crashed over the line for a much deserved try before Graham’s conversion marked the end of proceedings.
Credit to both squads and thanks must go to referee Jonathan Wright for his help in the staging of a lively and game Sunday run out.
Oaks travelled to the Slade for their 3rd meeting of the season with local rivals TJs. Oaks were desperate to win for two reasons: 1) they had lost their previous two meetings by a combined total of 8 points and 2) this was the 3rd round of the U18 National Cup.
Unfortunately for Oaks, the occasion appeared to weigh very heavily on them, especially during the 1st half of the game.
Oaks defended exceptionally well against a varied and high tempo TJs attack, often forcing the home team into kicking possession away. They were also able to climb into the TJs lineout, forcing a number of 'specials' from the hosts early on in the game.
Sadly, all previous talk about an expansive and dynamic Oaks attack in the build-up to the game fell by the wayside once Oaks had gained possession of the ball. All too often, promising phase ball was kicked away with overlaps begging to be exploited on the outside and when Oaks did decide to keep hold of the ball, there were few signs of wide-wide attacking shape that had been causing teams, including TJs, problems in recent weeks.
The result was a half in which TJs dominated possession and territory. Oaks did well to only concede 3 points from a kickable penalty about 20 minutes in. Their persistence in kicking possession away actually led to two kickable opportunities, with an energetic chase making up for the lost possession by winning penalties on the floor. Unfortunately, Oaks were unable to convert these opportunities into points.
TJs led 3-0 at half time.
Both teams made their mandatory changes at half time and Oaks' subs initially made the bigger impact. Instead of kicking possession away, players like Jonny Francombe, Pat Spice and Barnaby Thomas ran the ball back hard at the hosts and milked several penalties for high tackles and not rolling away. This approach actually hurt the Oaks cause before it helped it as a failed counter led to another TJs 3 pointer to take the score to 6-0.
However, whilst still lacking cohesion, Oaks were now beginning to fire some shots and actually make the TJs defence, defend. TJs were incredibly aggressive at ruck time. This was often rewarded with a turnover or a penalty for holding on, but it did also give Oaks their most concerted period of dominance in the game. Penalties around the halfway gave Oaks access into the TJs 22 and they were finally able to begin taking advantage of their driven lineout. It must be said, the home side defended the maul as well as any team this season has done against Oaks, but the sheer quantity of reps meant that Oaks began to gain more and more momentum in their drives. After multiple infringements, a TJs forward was sent to the bin and Oaks went in for the kill. Another penalty for in at the side unfortunately didn't result in a 2nd yellow and TJs managed to stop the following attempt just short of the line. Oaks' lack of composure in phase play came back to haunt them as they struggled to convert from a couple of metres out. They lost possession and TJs survived their biggest scare of the match.
It was in fact slightly cruel that the score that killed the game off was from a driving maul that the hosts themselves managed to put together. Having won a penalty on halfway with their aggressive strategy at the ruck, the home side pumped the ball deep into Oaks territory. Oaks defended the maul superbly, but TJs did what Oaks previously could not and found a way over the line, with a procession of pick and go drives. TJs converted and at 13-0 the game was effectively over.
Oaks did what they could to try and close the gap but the TJs try appeared to have extinguished any residual belief in the Oaks team that they could win the game. To add insult to injury, the game ended with an injury to fly half Louis Bouverie after a huge collision in midfield after an Oaks scrum strike - a real area of strength to date - was telegraphed by the TJs centre.
Oaks will be hugely disappointed not so much by the loss - TJs are a strong side and historically have had the edge in the current U18s age group - but by the manner of the loss. Oaks didn't really fire a shot until after the half time whistle, something that was pointed out none-too-calmly by the Head Coach during the HT team talk. This was a game they could have won. Indeed, they could very easily have been awarded a penalty try during their series of driving mauls in the middle of the 2nd half - this would have actually put Oaks 6-7 up at that point. Captain Will Murphy was immense in the pack, along with Jack Ludden and Dom Stangroome. Young Frank Kitchen shook off a ropey 1st half to put in some powerful carries after the break. The talent is there, the belief sadly isn't. If these players can find a way to back themselves, they have the tools to go after a consolation prize of the Kent Colts Trophy after Christmas.
In the short term, Oaks need to dust themselves off quickly as next weekend they play a very strong Canterbury side in the return leg of the Kent League. This should hopefully be a double-header at the Paddock so a great chance to bounce back! The Academy U16s also have a double header, away at Old Elthamians.
Squad list: Alby Butt, Dom Stangroome, Gregor Pauling, Jack Ludden, James Kerton, Frank Kitchen, Elliot Peters, Will Murphy (c), Sam Hopkins, Louis Bouverie, Barnaby Thomas, Zac Shirtcliff, Angus Hall, Joe Ryder, Juan Barnard.
Subs : Luke Walter, Damien May, Billy Boyd, Jonny Francombe, Pat Spice
Just two weeks before they meet in the 3rd round of the National Cup, Oaks and TJs met for the return leg of their Kent League fixtures. Oaks had gone down 15-10 away at TJs at the beginning of the season and were keen to make amends.
With neither team in a position to win the league, both sets of coaches agreed to rotate their squads to give players opportunities to try and force their way into National Cup selection.
Any notion that the quality of the game would suffer as a result of this was quickly dispelled.
TJs started strongly, with physical carries through the midfield sucking in Oaks defenders. Oaks got a little narrow after one such carry and TJs took full advantage, spreading the ball wide and dotting down in the left corner for an early lead. The extras were added for a 0-7 scoreline.
To their credit, Oaks responded well. Some well executed shape and pattern led to a Shirtcliff line break through the middle of the TJs defence. TJs scrambled well but knocked-on having managed to smuggle possession back. From the split field scrum, Oaks worked a nice shortside move with fly half Pat Spice putting winger Jon Odeyimi away on the left for Oaks' 1st try. Shirty was unable to add the conversion on this occasion. 5-7.
Almost immediately from the kickoff, Sevenoaks worked another clever shortside attack and made big yards down the left-hand flank. They maintained possession and pressure which led to a penalty and then lineout inside the TJs 22. A trademark Oaks lineout drive enabled prop Alby Butt to dot down and take Oaks ahead. Shirty added the extras. 12-7.
Oaks had started to dominate territory, with Shirtcliff and Spice noticing some indecision in the TJs backfield and repeatedly probing with smart kicking options. Oaks managed to win another lineout inside the TJs 22, but got their timings wrong and conceded a frustrating penalty. However, TJs missed touch and the young Oaks launched an impressive counter attack. Several phases of quick ruck ball presented Spice with a gap in the TJs defence. He stepped through before feeding hooker Elliot Wright for Oaks' 3rd try. Shirty again added the conversion. Oaks had gone from being 0-7 down early on to being in control at 19-7.
TJs came back fighting and their big carriers started to make bigger dents in the Oaks defence. The home side's discipline worsened under pressure. Repeated infringements close to the line led to a yellow card for flanker Adam Vickers. TJs took full advantage of the numerical advantage. They worked the ball wide from a lineout, before a clever tip-pass on the gainline created their 2nd try of the day. They converted to bring the score to 19-14.
Oaks immediately applied pressure once again and won two penalties in reasonably quick succession. One went wide, but the next went through the sticks to give Oaks a 22-14 half time lead.
Sadly, this was to be the last time Oaks would register points. A combination of unforced errors from Oaks and a much-improved showing from the visitors led to the majority of the 2nd half being played in Oaks' territory.
First, TJs took advantage of poor defensive reads on the outside of the home defence work walk-in out wide on the right. No conversion brought the score to 22-19.
TJs then really flexed their muscles and whilst Oaks' defended bravely to prevent another try, two more kickable penalties brought the scores to 22-22 and finally 22-25 in the visitors' favour at the full-time whistle.
A hugely frustrating day for Sevenoaks. A really promising 1st half was ultimately undone by a poor performance in the 2nd half. Discipline, unforced errors in attack and defensive decision-making out wide are the major work-ons between now and when these sides meet again in a fortnight. That being said, there were plenty of performances to be proud of. 2nd row James Kerton made a strong case for inclusion with a hard-working display and Elliot Peters led from the front at 7. Pat Spice and Zac Shirtcliff produced mature performances with no shortage of skill and vision, as proven by two of the three Oaks tries on the day. There was also the return to the fold of talented Sevenoaks School back, Jonny Francombe and the debut of new prop from Trinity School, Sevenoaks - Drew Mercer.
Next weekend sees the Academy 2nd XV welcome Sittingbourne and Sheppey U18s whilst the Academy U16s have a big derby match away at Medway.
Squad List: Alby Butt, Elliot Wright, Harry Corsini, James Kerton, Sam Keenan, Adam Vickers, Elliot Peters, Ben Sellors, Mac Leason, Patrick Spice, Jon Odeyimi, Finn Good, Zac Shirtcliff (C), Jonny Francombe, Juan Barnard.
Subs: Drew Mercer, Charlie Day, Rhys Williams, Henry Lynch
The Academy 1st XV welcomed the Sussex team to the Paddock on Sunday for round 2 of the RFU U18 National Cup. Having come out comfortable winners in their round 1 matchup, Oaks were expecting a sterner test this time out. In spite of the score line, that is exactly what they got.
Oaks started much as they have throughout the season. Lots of energy and enthusiasm but with a lack of control. An early missed penalty by Heathfield was a bit of a let off for sloppy Oaks discipline around the ruck.
The home team took full advantage of their good fortune and worked a strong position inside the Heathfield 22. A strong drive from an ensuing lineout allowed prop Alex Watkins to dot down over the line for an early Oaks score. 5-0.
Oaks' poor discipline both at ruck time and on the offside line would be a theme of the match as they continually undermined strong defence around the ruck with the concession of unnecessary penalties.
Unlike in the round 1 fixture, this opposition were ready and able to take advantage of easy access into the Oaks 22. Poor Oaks work rate around the corner in defence allowed Heathfield to capitalise on a huge numerical advantage on the Oaks left flank. The ball was moved wide quickly and accurately for the equalising score. The following conversion took the visitors into a 5-7 lead.
The next 10-15 minutes were a real test for the home side as H&W consistently took advantage of poor numbering up in defence to find space out wide and get in behind the Oaks defence with clever attacking kicks. One such break led to a somewhat desperate period of defence from Oaks, during which they somehow forced a turnover. They broke out from deep and were only stopped a few metres out from the away team's try line. Several powerful pick-and-gos later, Watkins was over for his 2nd try. Zac Shirtcliff added the extras to take Oaks in 12-7 up at half time.
The 2nd half followed much the same theme as the first. Oaks' poor discipline meant most of the half was actually played inside the home side's territory. However, Oaks had identified weaknesses in the H&W defence. Centre Fin Stables sliced through off a scrum strike inside the Oaks half before going all the way to score Oaks' 3rd try of the game. Shirtcliff again added the extras to make the score 19-7.
Heathfield once again highlighted Oaks' achilles heel as more needless penalties were conceded in the middle third. The away team constructed a tidy two-phase starter play from an attacking lineout in the Oaks half. With Oaks once again failing to fold around the corner in defence, the ball was worked wide to the H&W left winger who went in untouched. No conversion brought the scores to 19-12 with around 25 minutes to play.
Heathfield now very much believed they could win the game and in reality, they could have. Unfortunately for them, they had no answer to 30 second bursts of pace and power that the Oaks were blasting out in between periods of mediocrity.
Stables bagged his 2nd try and replacement scrum half Adam Davies got on the end of Zac Shirtcliff pass to score Oaks' 5th. Both tries came from deep, either side of a Shirtcliff penalty. The game was now beyond Heathfield's reach at 34-12 but to their credit they continued to throw the kitchen sink at the Sevenoaks defence whenever they had possession. A powerful break from their very impressive number 12 gave them some reward for their efforts and brought the score to 34-19.
The final try of the game was somewhat comical as Oaks actually fluffed their lines from a split field scrum. The wayward pass completely halted the Heathfield defence and Stables took full advantage to power through some weak tackling to score his hattrick. Shirtcliff added his 4th conversion of match to bring the final score to 41-19.
Oaks progress to round 3 of the National Cup with two strong results under their belts. However, further progress will very much depend on the young Oaks massively improving their discipline on both sides of the ball. Heathfield were afforded far too many easy entries into Oaks territory and far too much space out wide. One has to conclude that in a national competition, a 3rd round opposition will punish these errors more ruthlessly. On the flip side, Oaks are finding energy levels in the latter stages of matches that opposition teams are currently struggling to deal with. It should also be noted that Oaks were missing several senior players due to the half-term holidays.
Sevenoaks now await confirmation of their round 3 opposition with baited breath.
Squad list : Alby Butt, Elliot Wright, Alex Watkins, Jack Ludden, Gregor Pauling, Barnaby Thomas, Elliot Peters, Ben Sellors, Sam Hopkins, Louis Bouverie, Raphi Simmonds-Dance, Zac Shirtcliff, Fin Stables, Ollie Ebsworth, Juan Barnard
Subs : Tom Watkins, Damien May, Frank Kitchen, Adam Davies, Jon Odeyimi
The young Oaks welcomed Aylesford Bulls to the Paddock on Sunday for a high-energy encounter between two large squads.
Bulls have had some availability issues thus far this season - Oaks can certainly relate - and thus requested a game of three thirds in which they could get game time for their entire U18s squad.
Oaks obliged and took the opportunity to rest chunks of their local grammar school contingent, many of whom had already played a midweek game followed by a Saturday fixture. In spite of several new combinations, Oaks put it in a strong showing built upon the foundations of huge amounts of energy and desire.
It was actually Bulls who struck first. After a lively opening few minutes from both sides, Aylesford spotted space in the Oaks backfield and forced a goal-line dropout. Oaks were unable to get much distance on the restart and powerful Bulls carrying had them over the tryline two phases later. Their kicker nailed the conversion to give them an early 0-7 lead.
Conceding early has been a theme of Oaks' season. What appears to be changing however, is the response to these early setbacks. Straight from the restart, Oaks applied defensive pressure to the Bulls carriers to force a scrum. Having almost scored with another first phase strike play, Oaks were able to go through multiple phases whilst retaining their shape and width. The pressure finally told as prop Alby Butt powered over from close range. Captain for the day, Zac Shirtcliff slotted the extras to bring Oaks level at 7-7 as the 1st third of the match drew to a close.
Aylesford struck first in the 2nd third, forcing a penalty from the Oaks kick-off receipt. Bulls opted for the 3 pointer and went back into the lead at 7-10.
Oaks once again responded immediately. A penalty was forced from the kick-off for holding onto the ball on the floor and Oaks went deep into the corner. A trademark catch-and-drive led to hooker Elliot Wright dotting the ball down over the line for Oaks' 2nd try. No conversion from Shirtcliff on this occasion, but Oaks took the lead for the first time in the match. 12-10.
Oaks took control for the remainder of this middle third of the game, with their wide-wide shape causing a lot of problems for the Bulls defence. After one particular attack that went beyond 10 phases, Shirtcliff stepped off his outside leg to carve through the defence before beating the cover to score under the posts. He converted his own try to take Oaks into the final third 19-10 up.
Oaks carried on where they left off in the final third as more accurate phase play in the Bulls 22 was rewarded when outstanding fly half Louis Bouverie found Wright on a beautifully executed unders line to split the defence for Oaks' 4th try. 24-10.
Bulls upped their physicality in defence as they tried to mount a comeback and actually succeeded in pinning Oaks deep inside their 22. An Oaks scrum under massive pressure in front of the posts looked ominous for the home side as Bulls cranked up the heat. Oaks somehow got the ball away to Bouverie who proceeded to step inside his opposite man before stepping outside the inside cover and accelerating off down the field. He fixed the Bulls fullback before feeding U16 winger and 1st team debutant Raphi Simmonds-Dance. RSD still had more than 50m to go once receiving the ball but his pace and power did for the Bulls cover as he went in under the posts to seal a very popular victory for the Oaks supporters. With Shirtcliff in the bin for a team yellow, Finn Good - another 1s debutant - stepped up to slot the conversion. 31-10.
Aylesford knew the match was done at this point, but to their credit they pushed hard for the final score. Oaks started to fall off some tackles in the midfield and Bulls found their way up into the Oaks 22. This time they weren't to be denied. Despite an outrageous cover tackle from Shirtcliff - now back on the field - Oaks were unable to keep the visitors out from close range. Bulls converted their try to close the gap to 31-17 with a couple of minutes to go.
Oaks almost responded with another immediate repost as a turnover from the restart gave them territory close to the Aylesford line. Finn Good went for an audacious chip and chase, which he came within millimetres of pulling off. It was not to be and the final whistle went.
Despite being a friendly in which both sides made use of large benches, this game felt like a bit of turning point for Oaks. Their attacking shape and depth was the best it has been all season and their defensive width was much improved from previous fixtures. No fewer than 7 players made their Academy 1st XV debuts. Two of them, try scorer Simmonds-Dance and Oli Ebsworth, became the 5th and 6th U16s to play in the 1s this season. Debutants and regulars alike brought massive energy in everything they did. Jack Ludden led the forward pack assuredly in the absence of captain Will Murphy, whilst fullback Juan Barnard demonstrated yet again why he has featured so prominently for the 1s this season.
With round 2 of the National Cup due at home to Heathfield and Waldron next Sunday (Oct 24th), Oaks are in a much better place than they were just two weeks ago.
Squad list: Alby Butt, Elliot Wright, Tom Watkins, Jack Ludden, Sam Keenan, Damien May, Elliot Peters, Ben Sellors, Mac Leason, Louis Bouverie, Henry Lynch, Finn Good, Zac Shirtcliff (C), Jon Odeyimi, Juan Barnard
Subs: Alex Watkins, Tom Hunt, Rhys Owen, Charlie Day, Adam Davies, Raphi Simmonds-Dance, Oli Ebsworth
The Oaks Academy 1st XV finally ended their losing run with an emphatic win over a combative Old Reigatians.
Oaks were made to work for it amidst the frankly stunning Surrey countryside as they wore down the opposition before pulling away in the 2nd half.
The opening exchanges were scrappy at best. Sadly, the breakdown was a bit of a mess and this made it very difficult for either team to find any kind of rhythm. After withstanding some early Reigatians pressure, Oaks' massively improved kicking game enabled them to pin ORs back inside their own half. An Oaks penalty led to a lineout in ORs 22. Oaks constructed a now typical driving maul, before launching a slick wide backs strike resulting in winger 'Big Joe' Ryder going over in the far corner. No conversion and Oaks led 0-5.
The game continued to be scrappy with defences dominating and ruck ball being somewhat on the slow side. However, Oaks were beginning to edge the territory battle and when Reigatians slipped up in a scrum 5m out from their line, Oaks new boy Mac Leason reacted first to scoop up the loose ball and dive over for Oaks' 2nd. Again, the conversion was just wide. 0-10.
Immediately from the kickoff, back row Barnaby Thomas - now playing on the wing due to early Oaks injuries - broke from deep. Although ORs were able to bring him down inside their 22, the damage had been done. Oaks maintained pressure through several phases of quick ball before Zac Shirtcliff cut a fantastic line off fly half Louis Bouverie for Oaks' 3rd score. The swan dive from Shirtcliff highlighted the elation of the group at finally clicking in attack after months of hard work. Shirty converted his own try to send Oaks in 0-17 to the good at half time.
Oaks started the 2nd half brightly, knowing that another score could put the game to bed. They managed just that as a well-worked scrum strike put Thomas away down the left flank. He was once again stopped just inside the ORs 22. However, so many defenders had been lost that just two phases later Bouverie was able to grubber through for flanker Ben Sellors to score under the posts. Shirtcliff slotted the conversion and Oaks were now on their way. 0-24.
ORs were now starting to fatigue. The big defensive shots that Oaks had been contending with since the start of the game were now becoming more sporadic. This fatigue was affecting the ORs attack as well and a turnover once again put Thomas away down the left. He was somehow stopped again but Reigatians infringed in the process. Shirtcliff acted quickest, taking a quick tap before kicking crossfield to Ryder who gathered for his 2nd and Oaks' 5th. 0-29.
Another scrum strike from deep minutes later gave Oaks their 6th try as Patrick Spice broke the line before multiple supporting offloads put Ryder in for his hattrick. Shirtcliff added the extras to take Oaks up to 0-36.
Oaks finished with a flourish. Ryder got his 4th try from another crossfield kick, this time from Bouverie after another impressive lineout drive from Murphy, Ludden and co. Thomas finally got his try after an amazing solo effort from deep. Finally, Elliot Wright broke through the middle of the ORs defence before taking their fullback on the outside to score Oaks' 9th and final try of the day.
Final score, 0-55.
This was an important day for the young Oaks. They are still competing with many significant contributors unavailable. Yet the manner in which they stuck together through a frustrating first 20 minutes hints at a corner being turned. Their kicking game has come along in leaps and bounds and some of their unstructured attack was high class. There are obviously still plenty of work-ons if this win is to be the catalyst for bigger and better things, but some much needed confidence has hopefully been restored.
Next up is a squad friendly at home vs Aylesford Bulls on Sunday October 17th.
Squad list : Alby Butt, Dominic Stangroome, Gregor Pauling, Jack Ludden, Barnaby Thomas, Frank Kitchen, Elliot Peters, Will Murphy (C), Sam Hopkins, Louis Bouverie, Juan Barnard, Zac Shirtcliff, Angus Hall, Joe Ryder, Patrick Spice
Subs: Luke Walter, Damien May, Elliot Wright, Ben Sellors, Mac Leason
Oaks Academy's availability issues finally came home to roost in a very tough day at the office against a strong Canterbury side.
Missing in excess of 10 potential 1st team starters due to injury or school rugby commitments, Oaks found themselves outmatched for much of the contest. Injuries to key players such as fly half Louis Bouverie and big 2nd row Jack Ludden during the game did nothing to aid the Oaks cause.
Oaks actually started reasonably brightly in attack and defence. A couple of big shots early on led to turnover ball from which Oaks settled neatly into their attacking shape. However, a lack of precision at the attacking breakdown led to numerous Canterbury turnovers. It was clear from the outside that Canterbury were going to be a handful to contain. Big, powerful runners in their pack needed multiple tacklers to bring down and then deceptive, pacy outside backs took full advantage of the extra space afforded to them. This led to Oaks having to defend with as many as 14 players in the front line, leaving a lot of space in the backfield. The Canterbury fly half would take full advantage of this fact.
An early penalty gave Canterbury a lineout 5m out from the Oaks line. The black and yellow pack gave the Oaks forwards a taste of their own medicine as they constructed a powerful drive to take the game's first score. The wide conversion was missed. 5-0.
Oaks responded with a couple of strong lineout drives of their own. Unfortunately, some cute Canterbury defence and a couple of 50-50 calls not going Oaks way meant that no points came.
Then Canterbury took control. The Cant fly half was using the downhill slope perfectly and his massive boot pinned Oaks deep inside their 22. Canterbury scored two more lineout tries in quick succession. One came from another powerful driving maul and then other from a clever peel off the back by their hooker who bumped off a couple of weak tackles to score. Only one of these scores was converted, but the score was already 17-0.
Oaks were able to string some phases together from the kick-off, their wide-middle-wide shape opening some gaps in the middle of the Canterbury defence. Canterbury gave away a penalty in their enthusiasm to win the ball back. It was within range and Zac Shirtcliff stepped up to get Oaks' first points on the board. 17-3.
Sadly, this did nothing to change the overall flow of the game as more astute kicking presented Canterbury with another close-range opportunity. They took it and with the added conversion they went in at half time 24-3 leaders.
Oaks did their utmost to use coffin corner against Canterbury at the start of the 2nd half. Some good kicking from fullback Billy Boyd pinning Canterbury deep in much the same way Oaks had been in the first half. The key difference was that Oaks were unable to get that all important score that might just have ignited something. When a failed Oaks attack resulted in another close-range Canterbury try from yet another kicking duel win by their fly half, the fight went from Oaks.
At this point the lack of overall squad availability really started to bite. Replacement scrum half Mac Leason found himself on the wing for the second time in two games and centre Cam Davies had to shift into the back row when injuries in the pack forced several players off the pitch. Canterbury took full advantage of the impact this had on Oaks' cohesion and the rest of the game was a brutal experience for the young Oaks.
Complete physical dominance combined with a huge amount of enthusiasm to score more points led to four more Canterbury tries in quick succession as Oaks' usually solid phase defence imploded. The players looked exhausted and whilst they continued to put their bodies in harm's way, the lack of bite made it all too easy for Canterbury to pick holes and get their final killer offloads away.
The final score of 53-3 was a fair reflection of the two teams' performances on the day.
With the National Cup 1st round next weekend (October 10th) away at Old Reigatians, Oaks must try to take any small positives that they can from this experience. Several players will come back into the squad having recovered from various niggles so immediately Oaks will be a little bit stronger. They can also take heart from the fact that early in the 2nd half, they did put together several strong attacks that really challenged the Canterbury defence. Indeed, if a couple of 50-50 calls had gone their way during that period, it is likely that they would have scored. Who knows what would have done for the players' depleted energy stores.
Squad list: Alby Butt, Elliot Wright, Luke Walter, Jack Ludden, Barnaby Thomas, Ben Sellors, Elliot Peters, Will Murphy, Sam Hopkins, Louis Bouverie, Joe Ryder, Zac Shirtcliff, Cameron Davies, Juan Barnard, Billy Boyd
Subs: Damien May, Mac Leason, Jon Odeyimi
Sevenoaks Rugby Club’s Academy 2nd XV enjoyed a cracking encounter with their counterparts from Hayward’s Heath RFC on Sunday 26 September, going down 18-29 in four thoroughly entertaining quarters of rugby at Knole Paddock.
Having got back on terms in the final quarter at 18-22 Oaks could have taken the win. It wasn’t to be and the visitors ended with a flourish as they closed the match out with a try when their impressive back line cut through the Sevenoaks midfield.
There were a lot of positives for Oaks and once again Patrick Spice had a commanding game at fly half, while Finn Good was immaculate from the kicking tee as he slotted two penalties in the opening stanzas to keep Oaks in the fray after they shipped two soft tries early on.
The Oaks learned their lessons from those defensive errors and for the rest of the match there was very little between these two sides. Ben Sellors and Rhys Owen were formidable in the loose and ably supported by the doughty Oaks pack. In fact Sellors barrelled over for a much deserved Oaks try that brought the scores to 11-17.
The visitors responded with a score of their own before Jon Odiyemi, a threat on the right wing all day for Oaks, showed his pace to scythe through under the posts for a try that Good duly converted. Oaks were pressing and looking threatening at 18-22 as the match entered its closing phases. Twice they had opportunities to make proper inroads into HH territory only for the accuracy of the passing at pace to be found wanting.
Credit to both squads for the ambition to move the ball at speed and solid commitment throughout. And hopefully the chance to renew acquaintances later in the season will serve up another treat.
Squad Harry Fulcher 2. Tom Hunt3. Harry Corsini4. Rhys Owen5. Sam Keenan6. Charlie Day7. Elliot Peters8. Ben Sellors9. Adam Davies10. Patrick Spice11. Henry Lynch12. Finn Good13. Cameron Davies14. Jon Odeyemi15. Ben Graham16. Fin Rice
19. Rhys Williams
The Oaks Academy 1st XV eventually went down in a hard fought and expansive contest at the Paddock.
Despite a performance that was in a different universe to the previous week vs TJs, old habits came back to bite Oaks as an already potent Blackheath back three were given too many opportunities to put scores on the board.
Indeed, Oaks found themselves 0-14 down in a very short space of time. Much improved phase defence was undermined as first Oaks bit in on the outside from a Blackheath scrum strike to give the right winger a walk-in which was duly converted. This was then followed by Oaks spilling the ball during a scrum strike of their own, which the Blackheath centre gleefully pounced on to go in untouched for another converted score.
The way that Oaks responded deserves credit. Blackheath looked incredibly dangerous out wide and off turnover ball, but defensively they too had their flaws. Oaks exploited such a hole to break the line from their next attacking scrum with Louis Bouverie cutting an outstanding angle. Although they initially failed to convert, Oaks managed to maintain their discipline long enough to win two penalties in short succession. The first, led to a driving maul which fell agonisingly short of the Blackheath try line. The second, after some much improved attacking shape from Oaks, led to Zac Shirtcliff knocking over the 3-pointer to get the home side on the board. 3-14.
Oaks were growing into the game and another line break off scrum shortly after led to a penalty just inside Blackheath's 10m line. Oaks opted to go for the corner and their increasingly impressive lineout driving game - led by captain Will Murphy and the returning Jack Ludden - resulted in a Dominic Stangroome try. Shirtcliff was unable to add the extras but Oaks were firmly back in the game now. 8-14.
Sadly, Oaks' continued inability to stick to process when exiting their own half was becoming a real Achilles heel for them. A charge down just outside the Oaks 22 led to another easy score for Blackheath which was again converted. Oaks, despite having had the majority of the ball and no shortage of territory, found themselves 8-21 down at half time.
Apart from an early infringement which led to Blackheath extending their lead to 8-24, Oaks dominated the majority of the 2nd half. They mounted their most sustained period of pressure in Blackheath territory, winning multiple penalties in phase play and at lineout. One such penalty was taken quickly 5m out by fly half Billy Boyd who darted over the line to score. Shirtcliff added the conversion and Oaks once again had hope at 15-24. They maintained their ascendency and won another kickable penalty. Up stepped Shirtcliff again to bring the Oaks within a single score. 18-24. The Oaks lineout was now dominant and yet another catch and drive from a Blackheath penalty ended with outstanding back row Barnaby Thomas peeling off the back and powering over from close range. Another Shirtcliff conversion took Oaks into a 25-24 lead with less than 10 minutes to play.
Sadly, Oaks were not quite done with offering Blackheath points for free. Another botched exit gave Blackheath's still potent backline possession inside the Oaks 22. They didn't need a second invitation and scored almost immediately to regain the lead. 25-29.
Oaks' basics were letting them down badly when it mattered most and from the ensuing kick-off, a poor kick chase gave Blackheath time and space to move the ball wide and they executed brilliantly. Every time a scrambling Oaks player chopped a Blackheath attacker down, a supporting player was on hand to collect the offload. Oaks eventually ran out of defenders and metres. Final score, 25-36.
In spite of the heartbreak at the final result, Sevenoaks can take massive encouragement from the scale of improvement in this performance. Their attacking structure was vastly improved, their phase defence was solid and their set piece dominated. The overriding work-on for this group is in how they progress up the field, so that they can play in the right areas of the pitch and avoid offering their opposition so many easy points. If they can improve in this area, this may yet be a memorable year for a hard-working group.
Next weekend sees the Academy 2nd XV at home vs Haywards Heath and the much awaited first outing of the academy U16As at home vs Romford.
Squad list: Alby Butt, Dominic Stangroome, Alex Watkins, Luke Walter, Jack Ludden, Elliot Wright, Barnaby Thomas, Will Murphy, Mac Leason, Billy Boyd, Fin Stables, Zac Shirtcliff, Louis Bouverie, Jon Odeyimi, Patrick Spice
Subs: Tom Watkins, Frank Kitchen, Rhys Owen, Sam Hopkins
Tonbridge Juddians U18As 15-10 Sevenoaks Academy 1st XV
In the second of back-to-back games reintroducing The Slade to club academy rugby, TJs ran out winners in a closely fought contest.
Defences dominated through the majority of this contest. The rivalry between many of these players at club and school level has been on hold for the past 18 months and it showed. Both teams seemed more interested in 'running it straight' than attempting to explore any space that may have been on offer. To their credit, TJs were the first team to combine some ambition with their physicality. Unfortunately for them, their execution let them down and a loose pass was thrown out wide under pressure from Oaks' defence. Flanker Barnaby Thomas pounced on the intercept and raced away from 60m out, showing impressive pace to beat the TJs back three cover. Zac Shirtcliff added the extras and Oaks found themselves 0-7 up without having actually had much of the ball.
Sadly, Oaks were unable to capitalise further on any TJs inaccuracy as they themselves struggled with unforced errors. Despite Oaks' scrum having the upper hand, dropped balls and turnovers led to TJs slowly but surely gaining ascendancy in terms of territory. Oaks failed to exit effectively on multiple occasions and eventually their luck ran out. The ball came loose at an Oaks scrum and the TJs scrum half reacted first, sprinting away with possession inside the Oaks 22 before feeding a supporting teammate to score. TJs were unable to convert, leaving the halftime score at 5-7.
TJs started the second half brightly and had clearly made some adjustments based on their halftime team talk. They forced a penalty outside the Oaks 22 in a fairly central position. They opted to kick the 3 to take them into an 8-7 lead.
Oaks responded well and solid defensive pressure led to a penalty to Oaks around 35m out on the right hand 15m line. Shirtcliff stepped up again to nail the 3 and take Oaks back into an 8-10 lead.
Despite their lead on the scoreboard, Oaks were now starting to come off second-best in both territory and possession. TJs had made the quicker fixes and were starting to dominate without ever really threatening the Oaks try line. Indeed, they coughed up yet more possession on half way and Oaks winger Juan Barnard spun his way out of two tackles down the touchline before grubbering the ball beyond the defensive cover. Unfortunately, Juan misjudged how close to the try line he was when, instead of diving on the loose ball to score, he attempted one final nudge with the boot which took the ball dead. A massive let off for the home side.
Oaks were unable to rally around this near miss and TJs took control for the remainder of the game. Their kicking game was keeping Oaks pinned inside their 22 and one felt that eventually, the dam must burst. Oaks' increasingly physical defence in the tight saw them repel multiple close-range lineouts and scrums. Inevitably though, fatigue crept in and on one fatal attack, TJs were able to win the gainline for consecutive phases under the Oaks sticks. With the hunting gold and navy defence sucked in, the home side finally connected their passes out wide to score a well worked try. They converted to head into a 15-10 lead.
It would be unfair to say that Sevenoaks didn't have opportunities to go on and win the game. Indeed, they managed to earn several lineouts inside the TJs 22 with the clock winding down. It wasn't to be though as crooked throws and solid TJs lineout defence kept the Oaks at bay until the final whistle.
Oaks will be disappointed with their display, especially in attack. That being said, 38 players across both squads got their first full-on club rugby in 18 months. With another double header this weekend vs Blackheath down at the Paddock, one feels that there will be plenty of opportunities for this group to put their best foot forward.
Squad list:
Alby Butt, Dominic Stangroome, Harry Corsini, Luke Walter, Gregor Pauling, Frank Kitchen, Barnaby Thomas, Will Murphy (C), Adam Davies, Billy Boyd (vc), Juan Barnard, Zac Shirtcliff (vc), Fin Stables, Joe Ryder, Louis Bouverie
Subs: Elliot Wright, Rhys Owen, Andrich Skein, Mac Leason, Angus Hall
Tonbridge Juddians RFC U18Bs 21 - 14 Sevenoaks Rugby Club Academy 2nd XV
Sevenoaks Rugby Club and Tonbridge Juddians RFC made a welcome return to Academy rugby on Sunday 12 September.
The curtain raiser to a double header saw the Academy 2nd XV streams of these two long-standing friendly rivals, well dating back to the merger of the Tonbridge and Old Juddians Clubs at least, lock horns at The Slade.
The match started at a high tempo that the sides maintained throughout and thanks to several jackals by James Kerton, who was having a stormer for the Oaks on the flank, the visitors managed to make decent early inroads into the TJs half.
The home side however landed the first points with Oaks up a little too fast from a set move and their line speed, impressive all day, opened a gap in the midfield resulting in a converted try for TJs.
The teams enjoyed a proper tussle for the rest of the half. Patrick Spice was pulling all the strings from 10 in the Oaks back line. Elliot Peters in the navy and gold pack was tackling everything that moved and this helped keep TJs at bay.
The TJs scrum became dominant as the first half progressed but Oaks had the edge in open play and hit back just on the cusp of half time as Finn Good collected a pass from close range, following a well worked move, to surge over the line. Finn slotted the extras to his own try to take the teams into the half time huddles at 7-7.
A chat at half time helped steady the Oaks scrum and credit must go to Oaks front row Will Dinsmore, Tom Hunt, and Harry French for battling hard for the full match
Oaks applied a huge amount of pressure in the early exchanges of the second half. When for all the world it seemed that they had taken the lead as Jon Odiyemi on the right wing was on the end of some exquisite interplay, an adjudged forward pass in the build up deemed the try void.
TJs then struck twice in quick succession to take a 21-7 lead into the final quarter.
So it was that Oaks rallied and it was no surprise when Justin Adesina, who had carried strong for the visitors all day, barrelled over from short range and with Good again slotting the extras the stage was set for a frenetic finale.
The game was definitely afoot however with Oaks pressing hard and in the ascendancy, time ran out as TJs ran out 21-14 winners.
Huge credit to both squads for a cracking display of rugby.
Squad list:
Will Dinsmore, Tom Hunt, Harry Fulcher, Sam Keenan, James Kerton, Charlie Day, Elliot Peters, Justin Adesina, Sam Hopkins, Patrick Spice, Jon Odeyimi, Finn Good, Ben Graham, Toby Goodman15. Henry Lynch, Daniel Craig
Subs: Rhys Williams
Oaks come close versus Blackheath
In the second of five planned May fixtures of the Oaks Academy senior players, Oaks came out on top in an end-to-end encounter.
This week's group were tasked with raising the physicality to accompany last week's attacking adventure. Ultimately, despite plenty of work-ons, it was a combination of these two facets that led to an Oaks win.
Bulls were actually first to score after an opening salvo that again had no shortage of energy from both sides, but lacked accuracy. Ultimately Bulls were first to gain sufficient territory and they found their way through some somewhat subpar Oaks tackling close to the line to score. No conversion, 5-0 Bulls.
To their credit Oaks responded immediately. After regaining possession several phases after the kick off, Oaks worked the ball cleverly down the right hand side with some lovely interplay out of contact. The seemingly never-ending support runners did for Aylesford's cover and Rory Baillie ultimately took the final pass to score. 5-5.
Oaks' next score came straight out of the play book as they executed an (almost) perfect starter play off lineout to quickly outflank the Bulls defence on the far side. Jakey Ivell got away down the outside before feeding winger Jamie Munday back on the inside to go in under the sticks. Ivell then added his first conversion of the day to take Oaks into a 5-12 lead.
Unfortunately, the theme of poor exits from Oaks continued into this fixture and true to form possession was coughed up inside their own 22 within several phases of the kick-off receipt. Bulls took full advantage with a tidy score outside from the turnover. Their kicker was successful this time around and levelled the scores at 12-12.
Clearly frustrated by their previous generosity, Oaks applied serious pressure from the ensuing kick-off. Possession was won back and Oaks found themselves within 5m of the Bulls try line. A patience not yet seen in this group was demonstrated and reminiscent of the promotion winning senior side of 2018/2019, the young Oaks used the pick and go over several phases before Edgar Payne-Sanchez powered over close to the posts. Ivell added the extras to send Oaks in 12-19 up at half time.
The 2nd half, whilst truly entertaining for the neutral, made for frustrating viewing for the Oaks coaching staff. The theme of Oaks gifting points to Bulls from poor exits before then immediately scoring themselves continued.
A close range Bulls score from yet another poor exit was followed immediately by Oaks' hooker Charlie Galligan crashing over down the shortside after some more impressive close range pick and go work. 19-26.
Oaks seemed to have cracked it when they successfully exited their half from kick-off and ran the ball deep into Aylesford territory. Bulls survived and won the turnover but a poor kick down the throat of fullback Ivell led to a superb break down the left hand side before dotting the ball down to take Oaks into a 19-31 lead.
Unfortunately, at this point Oaks entered their least accurate portion of the match. Another poor kick off drill led Bulls powering over to take the score to 26-31 before a lapse in concentration in defence allowed Bulls to sprint away from kick-off and deep into Oaks territory. Some excellent cover tackling from Jakey Ivell prevented an Aylesford score but Oaks botched the lineout. Bulls took full advantage and whipped the ball wide to level the scores at 31-31.
It appeared that a repeat of the previous week's late implosion was on the cards. Credit must go to the young Oaks for what followed. Oaks' defensive urgency and physicality from the following kick-off went up significantly. More importantly this was married with much improved discipline to pin Aylesford deep in their own 22 for a prolonged 5 minute spell. The pressure eventually told as a brave Bulls defensive effort close to their line was followed by another poor kick down the centre of the field. This time the ball found hooker Galligan who rounded the outside defence with a spectacular turn of pace before feeding scrum half Charlie Williams back on the inside to score and take Oaks into a late 31-36 lead. The improved discipline and accuracy which led to the final score was maintained for the next couple of mins and the young Oaks took the spoils.
The biggest positive to take from this encounter was that for pretty much everyone taking part, this was their first victory over and Aylesford side. Clear signs of improvement even with the challenges of this past 12 months.
The major work-ons for this group remain the same - respect for territory and possession. If they can marry these qualities with their frankly lethal counter-attack and support play, they will be truly formidable.
Next up for the academy seniors are Blackheath away on May 16th.
Oaks Academy Squad: Jacob Ivell, Jamie Munday, Elliot Haselden, Zac Shirtcliff, Pip Hodson, Billy Boyd, Rory Baillie, Will Murphy, Ben Sellors, Edgar Payne-Sanchez, Adam Vickers, Harvey Venables, Fin Rice, Elliot Peters, Andrew Dott
Substitutes: Charlie Galligan, Will Dinsmore, Josh Benjamin, Jack Ludden, Rhys Owen, Charlie Williams, Josh Vick
Sevenoaks Academy 1st/2nd XV squad versus Aylesford Bulls
Sevenoaks RFC Academy 1st XV produced a scintillating second half display to defeat London Irish and progress to the Quarter Final of the National Cup.
The Sevenoaks RFC Academy 1st XV battled past Dorking RFC Colts to reach the National Cup last 16 at the Paddock
Sevenoaks RFC Academy 1st XV beat Horsham RFC 45-5 in the first round of the National Cup
Sevenoaks RFC Academy 1st XV fall at the last hurdle in a pulsating fixture at the Paddock
Sevenoaks Rugby Academy travels to Amiens, France to take part in the Somme Centenary Rugby Festival
Sevenoaks u17s won the Kent Cup for the 5th year in a row. This remarkable group completed the quintuple on Wednesday evening under floodlights v Canterbury.