The Beckenham performance away at Sidcup was synonymous with many performances this season. A poor start where the opposition would establish a lead and a late comeback from the blue and gold. However, in this fixture Sidcup walked away with the spoils.

Sidcup started this Kent derby far sharper and capitalised on some poor Beckenham discipline going ahead 3-0. Gradually, Beckenham worked their way into the contest but would make errors at crucial moments or Sidcup would win some significant penalties in and around their red zone. Sidcup were buoyed by their defensive efforts and extended their lead, firstly through a driving maul converted try following some pressure within the Beckenham 22 and through a second penalty kick to lead by 13.

Hans Laud-Anderson had set the target of scoring before the break and Beckenham’s response had to be immediate. For the first time in the match, Beckenham were able to play multiple phases and really stressed the resolute Sidcup defence, who were continually penalised for infringements. Finally, the officials patience had worn thin and like London Buses two arrived at the same time in the form of yellow cards. It is also important to note Dan Hamilton’s dramatical performance, BAFTA worthy, following yet another high tackle. From the resulting penalty, Beckenham elected for a scrum, Andrew ‘Pig’ Knowles picked from the scrum and dithered in possession and couldn’t believe the space available as he went over untouched. Geordie Boyce adding the extras in the final act of the half.

Sidcup 13 Beckenham 7

A disappointing first half performance meant that there were many adjustments and improvements to be made to hopefully overcome the deficit and no better way to start the half than against 13. However, ill-discipline, a kick to the corner and trick-play at the lineout resulted in Sidcup extending their lead against the odds. Sidcup’s tails were up, as they bombarded Beckenham’s line when they returned to their full quota. Unfortunately, repeated scrum penalties meant that Graham Murray was then given a yellow card. Heroic Beckenham defence prevented Sidcup from moving out of sight and got the desired reaction from an attacking perspective. Beckenham were now dominating possession and territory. Beckenham’s pressure finally told with Richard Keefe, an unlikely scorer, emerging from the maul. Geordie Boyce adding the extras from the touchline to reduce the deficit to 6.

The momentum was really with the away side and Sidcup were unable to retain possession or escape their own 22. Beckenham continued apply pressure with and without ball and this was evident with Josh Hiscott charging down a box kick and displaying great composure to dot the ball down with very little time left. Geordie Boyce had the difficult task of converting to put Beckenham in front for the first time and despite a good strike missed the target. With seconds left, Sidcup restarted with Beckenham still believing that the unlikeliest of results was still possible and despite good progress up the field an error brought about the end of the game, Sidcup prevailing 20 points to 19.

By Gary Dipple

NB:
We have no report for the Sutton and Epsom game from the 9th Dec, there will be a report after the game v Colfe's this coming weekend. Apologies there was no match report this week. Also no photos from Sidcup, light was too bad (photo credit goes to Sidcup RFC for the report) AB