THANET WANDERERS VETERANS 10 – 27 WESTCOMBE PARK VETERANS

Wanderers lose a hotly contested Cup Final against a very useful Westcombe Park side.

The final was played at Maidstone RFC’s ground on a chilly but sunny afternoon. Wanderers kicked off up the pronounced slope. Early penalties penned Combe back and after nine minutes Jonty Stevens, on Wanderers left wing, attacked from deep and outpaced the defenders along his wing to touch down wide left. There was no conversion but Wanderers led 5-0. Combe looked dangerous when the ball was with their backs and mid way through the half went ahead after some sharp handling. Thanet’s hooker Ross Bell had to withdraw following a heavy collision. Wanderers conceded two more tries before half time one of which was converted to trail 17-5.

In the second half, with the slope advantage, Wanderers were testing their South London opponents who, with fifteen minutes remaining, were happy to take a breather and extend their lead by kicking a penalty. A fourth try soon followed for Combe after more good handling but Wanderers had the final word. A sustained attack ended with Andy Letts stealing away from a scrum and touching down for Wanderers second try.

This was a very competitive performance by Wanderers based on some very effective defence against a side that was, in the view of many of the Thanet side, among the better sides they have met in Veterans competitions.

Colin Whiteley.