Wisbech beaten in Counties 2 Eastern Counties clash at Woodbridge

Wisbech’s difficult start to the Counties 2 Eastern Counties campaign continued after the Men in Red fell to a 41-5 defeat at Hatchley Barn on Saturday.

The hosts dominated from the outset and after the game director of rugby Leonard Veenendaal admitted it had been a challenging afternoon for his team.

“With only 16 players travelling, team spirit never wavered, even as the scoreline widened," he said.

“But continued unavailability for away matches is undermining the team’s performance, confidence, and momentum.

"You only have to compare the match sheets for home and away games, it’s clear for all to see, and it’s not a good look for the squad.”

Despite their struggles, there were positives to take from the loss, particularly the senior debuts of 17-year-old colts Morton Middleton and Joshua Abrams-Stebbings.

“They showed real promise and commitment in their first senior appearances — attributes that will serve both them and the team well going forward,” Veenendaal said.

Woodbridge seized control within minutes, scoring their opening converted try after just two minutes and adding further efforts in the 7th, 15th and 17th minutes to race into a 26-0 lead.

An unconverted score just before the break extended Woodbridge’s advantage to 31–0 at half-time, leaving Wisbech with a mountain to climb.

The Warriors struck again early in the second half before Wisbech finally got on the board when full-back Matt Esser crossed for a well-taken try, a reward for the visitors’ improved spell of play with the breeze behind them.

However, Woodbridge had the final say with another unconverted try to seal a comprehensive 41-5 victory.

Wisbech battled gamely in the closing stages but were unable to add to their tally, undone by a combination of poor decision-making and a resolute home defence.

The Men in Red will hope to bounce back this weekend when they return to Harecroft Road to host Diss in Round 4 of the Counties 2 Eastern Counties League.