After two heavy defeats against the league’s high flyers, a visit from the leaders, Southend was perhaps the last thing the Blueboys needed. However, this local derby always seems to bring out the best in the team and this head-to-head proved no exception.

Despite being very much the underdogs, a blistering start saw Chelmsford race to an 18-point lead playing down the hill. Committed defensive work from the Blueboys denied Southend the freedom to play their natural game. With the ball in hand, concerted pressure on the Southend defence paid off giving Jack Acorn the first score after 7 minutes. This was followed shortly after by superb solo effort from centre Scott James, who made a determined break through the middle of the Southend defence to dot down under the posts – Jack Lavin adding the extras. Uncharacteristic indiscipline from the league leaders meant Chelmsford added to their total with 2 more penalties from Jack Lavin.

Unfortunately for the host side, the game now turned in Southend’s favour. Lacklustre defensive work allowed Southend to drive Chelmsford up the hill and push over for their first try of the game. This was followed shortly after by an unfortunate interception on the half-way line that saw Southend run in to score a second under the posts just before the half time break.

Half time Chelmsford 18-14 Southend

Having ceded the momentum to Southend at the end of the first half, Chelmsford knew it would be a challenge to hold the league leaders in check, especially now they were now playing down the hill. Southend took full advantage of some poor decision making in the red zone to take the lead for the first time in the game, which was followed by a couple of fairly soft tries that gave the visitors a commanding 17 point lead with 10 minutes to go. Despite the game being lost at this point, the Blueboys rallied and did score a consolation penalty try just before the final whistle to close the winning margin to 10 points. Chelmsford now sit in 8th place in the league on 29pts with just 6 points separating the bottom 5 teams.

Full time Chelmsford 25 Southend 35

Chelmsford Head Coach, Chris Green will be disappointed that his boys were not able to sustain the fantastic start they made to the game but will be encouraged by the improved performance overall. A brief break in the schedule means no 1st XV rugby next week but this is followed by a run of games against clubs all fighting to keep their place in the league.

Saturday 17th February – Away to Norwich (12th on 23pts)
Saturday 2nd March – Home to Dagenham (9th on 29pts) & Sponsors Lunch
Saturday 16th March – Home to Saffron Walden (11th on 23pts), Match Day Buffet & Beer Festival.

Match Report - Matt Burley
Photo Credit - Brian Purdy

The club would like to thank Brian Purdy, James Howe and Chris Gibson for their fantastic photos of the day!