Centre James Walters on the way for his try, supported by flanker Josh Curtis

ABSENCES in key positions meant that Walden U15 were forced to field a makeshift side but were able to sign off the regular season in style away to a strong Woodford side, crossing the try line no fewer than seven times in a 41-15 win.

George Lacey, Ciaran Woods, and Charlie Tebbetts successfully accepted the challenge of unfamiliar scrum-half, full-back and wing positions; prop Blake Milligan and second row Jed Butler led the pack with attacking intent. Stand-off Jesper Walker accepted kicking duties with impressive results.

Tries in the 3rd, 15th, and 25th minutes of the first half were scored by Walker, centre Andrew Smith, and finally flanker Gareth Lolley who received a tap penalty 20 metres from the opposition line and powerfully cut through the stationary home pack to cross the line. However, Woodford stayed in touch with two tries in the 11th and 18th minutes.

The half-time scoreline of 17-10 perhaps flatterered the Walden side, by no means out of sight against the fast running backs of the home side.

The second half started evenly and defensive work on both sides prevailed. After 10 minutes, the score of the game sealed the outcome - Woodford kicked the ball dead and failed to position themselves correctly for the restart. Quick thinking Walker sprinted to the 22 metre line and sent a long drop-out high into the air. Andrew Smith caught the ball as it dropped towards his opposite number and triumphed in the ensuing footrace to score a magnificent try.

Centre James Walters capped an impressive defensive display with an impressive long-range run, surging past several despairing dives to score beneath the posts. Not to be outdone, second-row Jed Butler also showed a clean pair of heels to the home team.

Walden’s final try came from Butler’s second-row partner Oliver Ellis. Several phases of play recycled the ball to Walters. Sensing the need for a forward, he unselfishly fed to Ellis who was able to devastate the oncoming defence with a short range gallop, to the obvious delight of his teammates.

Regular season over, Walden now look forward to May and their short tour to France and Luxembourg.