Rugby Union: PJF denied success by costly defensive lapses

3:06pm Wednesday 16th January 2002

Purley John Fisher 20 Trojans 25

Having beaten Trojans away earlier in the season, Purley John Fisher failed for the second week running to complete the double against opponents from Hampshire on Saturday.

The home side got a flying start when hooker Dave Allan put them ahead with a try in the first three minutes.

Trojans then applied some pressure and, helped by the home defence, went ahead after 10 minutes through James Pennington, who converted his own try.

PJF were struggling to find their rhythm and 10 minutes later they found themselves further behind as Nigel Lebas cut through a stationary defence. Pennington converted to make it 14-5.

A Tony Henrys penalty reduced the deficit and the hosts applied more pressure. Then in the last minute of the first half Jeff Sweetman powered over and Henrys converted to give PJF a 15-14 lead at the break.

Within two minutes of the restart, Pennington's accurate boot landed a drop goal and the lead changed hands again but 10 minutes later Sweetman went over for his second try following a strong forward drive, although the conversion was missed.

However, Purley's defensive play was again at fault as Oliver Joisce found a way through following a scrum for an unconverted try.

Naive tactics and a lack of commitment proved the home team's downfall. The ever-accurate Pennington added a further three points through a penalty before the end to send Trojans home with two precious league points.