Essex Cup Final ( II) against who else but Braintree – who were looking to win this cup for the 3rd season in a row.  The weather was great but the firm conditions and heat were not going to help our forwards as the day wore on.

Our preparation was good and we were ready to give it our all – we would need to be at our best to win today.

We started the match like a team possessed and it was no surprise when Adam went over for the first score and conversion. The first 15 minutes were some of the best rugby of the season and we should have scored one or two more tries whilst camped in the Braintree half. But like all good sides Braintree came back at us and hit two quick tries to take the lead – as the half drew to an end a lack of concentration let them in again to go into the break 19-7 down despite the great start.

We needed to keep in touch and score quickly again  – however almost from the restart Braintree went over for a converted try. To be fair at this point we could have thrown in the towel but those days seem to be behind us – a great try from Baily raised the spirits but we seemed to be playing ping pong rugby as Braintree scored again them Adam scored a tremendous try dragging several defenders over the line with him and then yes Braintree scored again.  We could never seem to close the gap sufficiently to put pressure on them.

Final Score – Westcliff 19  Braintree 47

A little harsh on the scoreline but Braintree were deserved winners on the day.  As always the game was played in a great spirit and attitude and it was great to see the Westcliff and Braintree players lined up side by side in alternate fashion before the cup presentation.

Obviously a disappointing result but the boys put a lot in today and we cant ask for much more.