HASLEMERE 23, WOKING 56

HASLEMERE three-match unbeaten run in Surrey 4 ended with a home defeat to third-placed Woking.

Both sides were carrying lengthy injury lists. Last week’s victory against Old Suttonians came at a price for ’Mere, with vice-captain Dave Head among five who were put out of contention.

Coach Max Stuart had to shuffle his pack, literally, with fit-again Harry Burt coming in at open side and Charlie Butterworth returning at No 8.

But Haslemere never really got going in the first half and Woking coped much better with the blustery wind at Woolmer Hill. The high-flying visitors ran in a series of tries to build a 26-point lead as ’Mere struggled to find their shape and rhythm.

A change of ends seemed to galvanise Haslemere and, with little to lose, they moved up a gear. Flanker Burt moved to the front row and on came Sam Powell at open side.

Soon, Mike Harvey-Browne made a marauding break from halfway and full-back JP McCumisky sped away to score in the corner.

Confidence growing, Haslemere encamped in the Woking 22 and second row Harvey-Brown barged his way over from short range.

The sides then traded tries, Haslemere centre Jordan Allan scoring under the posts after a superb run. Flying wing TJ Angliss was only halted by a high tackle, the result being a penalty try (plus bonus point) and a yellow card for the offender.

Woking hit back again before the referee blew time on a memorable half of rugby – a fine advert for the Surrey 4 league.

The Christmas break certainly comes at the right time for ‘Mere and they will look to start 2016 with a clean bill of health and a fresh impetus when they visit Raynes Park on January 16.

Anyone wishing to find out more about Haslemere RFC and for training details, should visit www.haslemererugby.co. uk