Alas, the teams failed to deliver much of a spectacle for the large crowd of spectators in what was an error-strewn affair. However, there was never much between these teams and that made for an exciting contest.
Crowborough eventually came out worthy winners by 2 tries to Warlingham’s 2 penalties from Joe McEvoy although the visitors very nearly “nicked it” in injury time when scrum-half Murtagh and then fly-half Agate both went close to the line.
‘Borough started the stronger of the two sides and eventually turned pressure into points after 10 minutes with a forwards catch and drive straight from the training pitch. That score was sufficient to galvanise the visitors and brought Warlingham into the game. Skipper Zach King went close after some powerful forward drives but the only reward for a sustained period of attack was a McEvoy penalty.
A scything break from centre Luke Davies should have resulted in a Warlingham try but the last pass went astray. Losing 5-3 at half-time, Warlingham were reasonably content that they could take some points away from Sussex and they led very briefly after the break when McEvoy landed a second penalty goal. However, a stray clearance kick was well-fielded by the Crowborough full-back who then fed his outside centre who galloped over the line to regain the lead for the hosts.
Warlingham tried to get back during the second half but they were somewhat indecisive in attack and simply made too many handling errors resulting in spilled chances. On the positive side, the new signings all blended in well. Blindside flanker Ahola made good yards with the ball in hand throughout and the second rows, Ianouo and Boufaid both did well in the line out. Also, No.8 Ollie Dodwell was omni-present, putting in some crunching tackles before being replaced by Jack Wrightson. Ex-schoolboy Finton Morrison also got his first taste of Senior rugby for 15 minutes at fly-half whilst winger Jack Green sat out an injury.
So, Croydon’s senior club have lost their opening 2 league matches and will be looking to correct this run on Saturday when they entertain another Sussex side, Heathfield & Waldron at Hamsey Green.

Team: McEvoy; Hart, Saffery, Davies, Green; Agate, Murtagh; Scutt, Delderfield, Nunn, Ianouo, Boufaid, Ahola, King ©, Dodwell. Subs:- Wrightson, Ruddock, Morrison.