Sat 23 Oct 2021
Kingsbridge failed to make the most of an impressive first half comeback as they lost to a slick Burnham on Sea 22-36. The visitors started like a train and were soon up 22 points before Kings staged a remarkable turnaround as they scored three unanswered tries. However, they failed in the end, unable to stifle Burnham’s late rally
The first half started with Kings going deep into Burnham’s half through the industrious Cope. It didn’t last long as Burnham slotted one of a raft of penalties the referee was handing out like confetti. Kingsbridge kept pressing. Baldry ran a great line but was unable to find anyone in support and Burnham were soon back with a try under the posts. From the restart, Cope gathered and took Kings all the way to the visitors line where they so nearly scored, but the last pass was judged forward, the first of many. From that, Burnham made Kings pay as they broke out of their 22 to score their third try, leaving Kings 17 points adrift. It could have been worse had it not been for Toby Baldry making a last-ditch tackle. This seemed to galvanize Kings, who took the game by the scruff of the neck and staged a remarkable come-back. First up was Harris, making great ground, off-loading to Banfield and scoring the home side’s first points. Banfield unable to add the extra. Next was Newman, breaking clear with Baldry on hand to pass on to Cope for King’s second. The third try was a move straight from the training ground, as Vincent ran round to score from their lineout. Unfortunately, the conversion was missed, leaving Kings still trailing but only by 2 points at half time.
Kings started the second half as they left the first, pressing at every opportunity. They were rewarded with a penalty try, taking them into the lead. With the referee brandishing yellow cards, Burnham were down to 13 men but the numerical advantage didn’t last long as Palmer was adjudged to have deliberately knocked on. It did, however, galvanize Burnham and they started to make strong in-roads to King’s half and, from a quick tap-and-go penalty, they were level. Kings still had plenty chances but were soon rocked back after another try scoring opportunity was adjudged forward. Burnham, now playing fluid rugby, went over again. With a successful conversion, they stretched their lead to 7 again. Try as they might Kings could not find a way past Burnham, who were now playing with their tails up and scoring their sixth try, leaving the visitors running-out winners 22-36.
Kings at least took a try bonus point, but it could have been so much more had they been able to keep the momentum of their first half comeback.
