London North East

Braintree 13 v 10 Harlow

ON a hot September afternoon, Harlow found themselves playing their first game in London North East at Braintree.

The last time these two sides had played against each other was in 2010.

The first five minutes saw Braintree pressuring Harlow on their 22 metre line. Harlow eventually were penalised for being offside and Braintree converted the penalty to lead 3-0 after nine minutes.

Harlow started to get into the game with forwards Eoin Morrisey and Jack Bryne taking the ball up into the Braintree half.

After 18 minutes Harlow’s pressure paid off with Ryan Clark powering over the Braintree line for Harlow’s first try making the score 5 – 3 after 33mins.

But Harlow’s defence let them down as Braintree scored their second try just before half time making the score 13 – 5 at half time.

The start of the second half saw Braintree concede a yellow card for foul play. With only 14 men, Braintree struggled to contain Harlow’s backs.

Full back Ryan McGlone made a nice solo run into the Braintree half only to be stopped just short of the try line.

Harlow now had all the pressure. Braintree struggled to contain Harlow backs and outside centre Scott Whitby ran over to score Harlow’s second try.

At 13 – 10 with 20 minutes to go this game was not for the faint hearted.

Harlow succumbed to the pressure with winger Dale Stalley yellow carded for questioning the referees decision.

Harlow finished the game being the stronger team , but could not find the opportunity to break down Braintree’s defence.

The game finished 13-10 with Harlow claiming s disappointing bonus point.