Match Reports
By Ben
By Ben
NEW SEASON 2005-2006
Sunday 23rd April 2006
Dagenham 22 - 8 Thames
Essex Presidents Shield Final at Bancroft RFC
Dagenham played in their second Presidents Shield Final in 3 years on Sunday against Essex 1 side Thames at Bancroft RFC. The morning rain combined with two other Finals being contested on the pitch that day, meant that conditions underfoot were far from perfect, however, the build up to the final had been awesome, and the Central Park side looked slick and confident in their warm-up.
Roared onto the pitch by a magnificent band of supporters, the D's tore into Thames from the whistle. The tone was set by Dico Hennig in his last game for the club who put in an almighty hit in the first minute that visibly lifted the rest of the team, and laid down Dagenham's intentions. Despite a clear size disadvantage in the pack, the Dagenham forwards fronted up superbly and laid on good quality ball for half backs Dicky Smith and Louis Stevens to work with. After about ten minutes of good pressure, Dagenham were given the first chance of points with a penalty just to the right of the posts. Stevens struck the ball well but it rebounded off of the left upright, however, Perry Lock had followed up and was quickest to react to grab the ball and dive over, so a possible three points had been quickly turned into five. This was a real boost to the D's and they again took the game to Thames up front, surprising the men from Aveley with their passion and power. It was not long before they had another score. A lineout in the left hand corner was won by Steve Tucker and the ball was moved quickly into midfield where Hennig made good yards. The ball was recycled and moved back to the blindside where full back Dexter Devlin took the pass and skipped out of a couple of tackles to dive over. The conversion was missed but the D's were ten points to the good and their tails were up. They kept the momentum going, the front row of Sean Clarke, Ben Fowler and Dave Purton were combining with the powerhouses of Tucker and Gary Knowlden to continue to provide good ball for a rampant backline. Every time the ball was moved, the D's looked dangerous, and it was no surprise when they added a third score. The ball was moved through several sets of hands and found its way to Neil Davis on the right wing who turned on the gas. When he was halted by a superb covering tackle, Simon Argent kept the ball alive and took it to within a couple of metres before feeding Stevens who sprinted round under the sticks to score. He was caught late in the process which resulted in play being held up for a few minutes. Dicky Smith slotted the conversion to make it 17-0 and it looked like the contest was over. However, Thames came back hard at the D's and right on half time, their Scrum half Chris Carpenter scored a great opportunist try in the right hand corner to make it 17-5 at the break.
For some reason, Dagenham could not seem to get going at the start of the second half. They started to concede more penalties and were making little handling errors that were not there in the first half. Thames reduced the gap further with a penalty and were threatening to get back into the contest. The game continued to ebb and flow. With ball in hand, Thames ran hard at the D's, but in general, their defence was magnificent, as it has been throughout the season. Gradually, the D's inched their way back onto the contest. The back row trio of Daryl Keen, Kev Everitt and Phil Crawley were making tackle after tackle and bossing the breakdown area and denying Thames any real quick, clean ball to work with. Stevens had an opportunity to extend the lead, but pulled his penalty just wide. Disappointment was short lived though, a penalty was awarded deep in Thames 22, and Dagenham opted for the lineout. This proved to be a good choice as the rehearsed move saw Phil Crawley thunder up the blindside and over in the corner. Dagenham made several changes which helped freshen things up. Darren Brooks for Clarke in the front row, Tom Warwick for Knowlden, Jimmy Roberts for Crawley, Kieran Clancy for Smith, Billy Nelson for Argent, and Ryan Stevenson for Davis. Dagenham continued to press and one flowing move that went all the way from their own 22 looked to be set for a score, only to be pulled back for a forward pass. Thames came back right at the death, pushing hard for another score, but wave after wave of attack was repelled by the D's defensive line that has conceded only forty points in its last eight games. The final whistle came shortly after to great delight from players and supporters.
An elated Ben Fowler lifted the Shield, and afterwards paid tribute to the squad. "This has been an outstanding season. A real privilege to lead such a talented and committed group of players. Today's win is a great reward for the hard work everybody has put in since June last year. Thames never stopped today and it was real battle. We can now take a well deserved break and look forward to next season with real confidence. The players would also like to pay tribute to the support received, amazing today as it has been all year".
Dagenham: Clarke (Brooks), Fowler, Purton, Tucker, Knowlden (Warwick), Keen, Everitt, Crawley (Roberts); Smith (Clancy), Stevens; Lock, Hennig, Argent (Nelson), Davis (Stevenson), Devlin
Saturday 8th April 2006
MILLWALL 8 - 17 DAGENHAM
HOME ESSEX LEAGUE 2 At Victoria Park
Dagenham rounded off their league season with a hard fought win over a Millwall side who have been in storming form since December. With both teams 2nd XV's playing before hand, the touchline was full of spectators which ensured a superb atmosphere and both sets of players didn't disappoint as they put on a thundering spectacle.
The early exchanges were hotly contested, however Dagenham, who were playing slightly into the wind probably edged it in terms of posession and territory but could find no way through a well organised Millwall defensive line. Visitng Centres Phil Crawley and Billy Nelson were offered some opportunity to run, but their opposite numbers were up so fast that space was denied. Dagenham were also a little guilty of "white-line fever" as they made errors at crucial moments, and at times simply over complicated matters. When they went back to basics, the first try came. A catch and drive from a lineout was controlled brilliantly and skipper Ben Fowler got to within a couple of yards of the line before the ball was reset and Dave Purton crashed over. The wind made the kick for Louis Stevens virtually impossible, but the try did seem to settle the visitors down. However a little ill discipline let Millwall back in the game when a penalty was awarded in the D's 22 just to the left of the posts. Home Skipper Dom Sutherland stepped up and slotted home to reduce the gap to two points. The D's got back in the game fairly quickly. The forwards were generating good set piece ball and were also becoming increasingly difficult to put down, with Sean Clarke and Steve Tucker both punching big holes. They were close again soon after when Jimmy Roberts made a blind side break and fed Fowler who was pulled down just short. As the half drew to a close the D's looked the more likely to be next on the board. Crawley and Nelson were looking more threatening, and it was Crawley who got the vital score just before the break, bursting through the midfield and stepping round a couple of would be tacklers for a fine try. The conversion was added by Stevens and the half time score was 12-3.
The second half started scrappily. Dagenham infringed too often and this saw them pushed back into their own 22. Their defence as has been all season was generally superb, but when Millwall moved the ball they looked threatening. They soon had a touchdown when a big overlap on the right side saw the ball moved to right wing Harland Sinclair who touched down. The conversion was missed but the D's knew they had a fight on their hands. Not to be swayed, they put the pressure back on the home side. The forwards driving game was working superbly as they were marshalled outstandingly well by scrum half Dicky Smith, who was having a storming game. It was perhaps fitting that he got the score that again gave them a 9 point cushion. Several good phases took the ball to within ten yards of the Millwall line, and the Dagenham number 9 spotted the slightest of gaps to jink his way home. From that point the D's had the better chances to score but never took them. A lovely break from Perry Lock looked promising, he found great support in Daryl Keen but unfortunately his pass went forward and the move was stopped. Opposite wing Neil Davis also looked to be in when he came off his wing and took an inside pop from Stevens but was tackled just short. Tucker was also continuing to look menacing with ball in hand but a couple of great surges from the big second row were again halted by dogged home defence. Millwall themselves gave the D's one or two iffy moments, as their pacy backs and big forward runners linked to good effect.
The final whistle brought down the curtain on a fine match and a fine season. Unfortunately the D's didn't do enough to claim the title, an agonising gap of 11 points scored between them and Writtle, meant the men from Chelmsford claimed the crown. The D's however can be justifiably proud of their achievements in securing a place in Essex 1 next year and can now turn their attention to the Essex President Shield Final in 2 weeks time against Thames. Congratulations to Writtle who have also had a fine season. Their was a small margin separating two very good sides and they will be doing battle all over agian next year. Mention also to Millwall who gave the D's one of their toughest games of the season to make it a great finale. They should be proud of the strides they have made in 2006.
Dagenham (1-15): Clarke (Brooks), Fowler, Purton, Tucker, Knowlden, Keen, Everitt, Roberts; Smith (Clancy), Stevens; Lock, Crawley, Nelson, Davis, Devlin. Sub Evans
Tries: Purton, Crawley, Smith Cons: Stevens
Millwall: Wood, Burns, McLean, Le Roux, Gibson, Kruger, Gera (O'Brien), James; Spearman, Sutherland; NEwton, Copping, Parsons, Sinclair, Tiffin: Subs: Paton, Peasley
Tries: Sinclair Pen: Sutherland
Saturday 25th MARCH 2006
DAGENHAM 136 - 0 STANFORD-LE-HOPE
HOME ESSEX LEAGUE 2
LOCK, STOCK AND BARREL!
Dagenham ended their Central Park season in fine style on Saturday, recording a club record victory over Stanford-Le-Hope, running in an amazing 22 tries, 13 of which were converted by the boot of Louis Stevens.
The hard work that has been put in on the training pitch over the past few weeks really showed as a dominant Dagenham buzzed into life from the first minute. An early structured move was nicely executed which saw great interplay between backs and forward. Rampaging second row Steve Tucker fed skipper Ben Fowler who was halted a yard off the line, but on hand was Dave Purton who had a fine game in both the tight and the loose to crash over. From there some of the handling was sublime, and the home side have rarely moved the ball better. They added tries a plenty in the first half as they let the ball do the work. Kevin Everitt got the first of his two tries next as he showed great support play, and it was then the turn of Stevens who cut back in off the right wing after some lovely play between the Dagenham outside half, Neil Davis and Dexter Devlin. Purton added a second try before Everitt ended a breakout which involved all three of the back row, who didn't stop running all afternoon. The forwards continued to provide a great platform for Dicky Smith to feed the hungry back line and they helped to ensure that the D's went into the break over fifty points to the good, with further scores from Gary Knowlden, proving that second rows don't look out of place in the midfield, Stevens, Perry Lock and Jimmy Roberts.
The second half was one way traffic as Dagenham really upped the ante. The period really belonged to man of the match Lock who used his blistering pace to claim four further tries. His great finishing reward for the great running lines and deft handling of centre pairing Phil Crawley and Simon Argent. Argent helped create another score for Dexter Devlin before being replaced by fit again Billy Nelson, who's hard running was too much for Stanford and allowed the eighteen year old to grab a brace of scores. Louis Stevens completed a fine hatrick for a personal haul of 41 points, while both Sean Clarke and Roberts scored fine long range tries. Dave Purton was denied a hat trick after running virtually the length of the pitch before being bundled into touch a yard short of the line by the smallest man on the pitch. As the game wore on it became more open and holes were being found with regularity. Daryl Keen looking very good with ball in hand and continuing to link well with his back row colleagues. The final score went to Neil Davis who finished off a flowing move right on the stroke of full time.
The win sees Dagenham back at the top of the table for the first time since January. Writtle themselves had a thumping win over Burnham, but this result means Dagenham have a points difference advantage of 45 going into the last game of the season. It promises to be an exciting day. The result also is a tribute to the hard work and dedication shown by then entire squad over the past few weeks. Great training sessions have seen this side improve even more, and on the day, 18 men contributed fully to this amazing result.
Tries: Lock (5), Stevens (3), Purton (2), Everitt (2), Devlin (2), Roberts (2),Nelson (2)Knowlden, Crawley, Clarke, Davis Cons: Stevens (13)
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton (Brooks), Knowlden, Tucker, Keen, Everitt, Roberts; Smith (Clancy), Stevens; Lock, Crawley, Argent (Nelson), Davis, Devlin
Saturday 11th MARCH 2006
MAY & BAKER 7 - 11 DAGENHAM
AWAY ESSEX LEAGUE 2
Dagenham took on there oldest rivals on Saturday in what was always going to be a pumped up occasion. The visitors took to the field on the back of a string of impressive performances and in good heart.
Dagenham were playing into the wind in the first period and found themselves on the backfoot early on. Bakers through themselves into the contest, forcing many uncharacteristic errors from the Dagenham side. The Central Park side survived an early scare when a penalty from Bakers was pulled just to the left of the uprights. However this was not heeded and one missed tackle too many finally saw the home sides right wing get over. The conversion was slotted and Dagenham found themselves 7-0 down and as yet not in the contest. Gradually they eased their way back into the game and when the ball was moved wide they looked threatening, but over complication and dogged home defence often caused a mistake at the vital moment. As half time approached, the pack picked up the game considerably. Dagenham used runners close to the ruck and this started to punch holes in the home defence, this was working effectively for the D's, as it tied up defenders and allowed space. A good set of phases saw the ball moved out to the right wing and although Neil Davis was hauled down by a fine cover tackle, the ball was quickly recycled and fed to Dico Hennig who crashed over the line. The conversion from Stevens appeared to creep over but was not awarded and the half time whistle sounded with the score at 7-5.
Despite being told they needed to build on what was a very good last ten minutes, the D's were again guilty of too much forced play for most of the half. Man of the match Dexter Devlin was having a fine game from full back and looked Dagenhams most threatening runner by far when he had ball in hand. In truth, the D's spent much of the 2nd period in Bakers half, but could find no way through a tight defensive unit and were making too many mistakes still at crucial moments. With 20 minutes to go, fly half Stevens was sin binned for an offence at the ruck, and some wondered whether it was not to be the D's day. Despite enjoying the lions share of territory and posession they had used it fairly poorly and were now down to 14 men. Over the next ten minutes though, the constant stream of D's attacks appeared to be taking its toll on a weary home defence who had tackled to a standstill. More and more penalties were being conceded and finally their was one that was kickable. Despite Stevens being in the final seconds of his ten minute absence, skipper Ben Fowler elected to take the shot at goal, and scrum half Dicky Smith took on the responsibility of the kick. Showing great nerve and professionalism, he struck the ball between the posts and the D's held a narrow 1 point lead and were restored to 15 men. Dagenham didn't allow Bakers back into the game and went straight back into their half and were almost immediately awarded another kickable penalty which the returning Stevens landed. Although the lead was still slim, this seemed to galvanise the visitors and they created one or two further chances. Stevens pushed a further kick at goal just wide and then was unlucky not to create a touchdown. Great vision from Simon Argent who had pushed himself onto the left wing and called for the crossfield kick. The kick was executed beautifully and Argent appeared to be set for a score but was unable to hang on to the ball with the line at his mercy. The final couple of minutes were played out without incident and The D's were mightily relieved to hear the final whistle.
Although by far a classic, this was an excellent game of rugby with the tenacious home side pushing the D's all the way. With the top two places secured, the D's now have a straight gunfight with Writtle for top spot which is going to go right to the wire.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton, Tucker, Knowlden, Keen, Everitt, Roberts; Smith (Clancy), Stevens, Lock (Stevenson), Hennig, Argent, Davis, Devlin. Sub: Waller
Try: Hennig Pens: Smith, Stevens
Saturday 4TH MARCH 2006
Dagenham 38-0 Burnham-On-Crouch
Home Essex League 2
Dagenham took on Burnham for the third time this season and again came away with the spoils in another dominant Central Park performance.
The visitors started brightly, attacking the Dagenham line with some determination. The D's defensive line has found its early season toughness of late though, and Burnham could find no way through. The pressure eased and Dagenham inched their way forward, but forcing the play often let them down against the crucial moment. They took the lead though, when alert play from blindside flanker Daryl Keen pounced on a loose pass and fed the backs. The ball found its way to Simon Argent who unselfishly fed left wing Perry Lock. Louis Stevens was unable to add the extras but moments later he added 3 points from a well struck penalty. The scores seemed to settle the hosts down and they started to string together some good phases of play. Jimmy Roberts made a burst through the middle and he found in support Steve Tucker who in turn fed skipper Ben Fowler who was pulled down just short of the line. Quickly recycled ball meant a score looked odds on but lazy runners from Burnham prevented this. The penalty was in front and Stevens stepped up to convert for 11-0. Dagenham kept the momentum going and a catch and drive from the lineout saw prop Dave Purton crash over. Stevens fine touchline conversion saw the home side enter the break with an 18-0 lead.
The second half was played almost exclusively in the Burnham half. Dagenham played some good rugby but at times over complicated things a little too much. They were making good ground in the forwads. Man of the match Tucker was in imperious form and he was ably supported by Gary Knowlden who was enjoying a fine game. The next score belonged to top try man Dico Hennig. Playing in his penultimate league game for the D's he took a pass from his centre partner Argent to crash over. Stevens added the extras and the D's advantage not stood at 25 points. More pressure led to more infringements from the visitors and Stevens slotted another penalty. With the game almost assured, hard working number eight Jimmy Roberts was justifiably rewarded for his efforts with a brace of tries. The first from a rehearsed lineout move which saw him crash over in the right hand corner and the next showing good awareness to supprt the backs and break out of several tackles to score. Burnham came back hard but some big hits in defence from Neil Davis, Stevens and that man Tucker kept them at bay.
An excellent victory for the D's made all the more sweet by news from Clacton that in form Millwall had recorded a 2 point victory over the seasiders. This now guarantees the D's a top two finish, but their will be no letting up. The Central Park side now face three massive games starting this week with a much awaited local derby with MAy & Baker, as they attempt to overhaul Writtles lead at the top.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton (Waller), Tucker, Knowlden, Keen, Everitt, Roberts; Smith (Clancy), Stevens, Lock, Hennig, Argent (Stevenson), Davis, Devlin
Tries: Roberts (2), Purton, Lock, Hennig Cons: Stevens (2) Pens: Stevens (3)
Saturday 25th Feb 2006
Bancroft 10 - 13 Dagenham
Away Friendly
On a very blustery day, Dagenham made the trip to take on Essex 1 side Bancroft in a friendly on Saturday. Conditions underfoor were perfect, but the strong wind that was blowing made open rugby very difficult.
With four of the side who defeated Loughton a fortnight ago unavailable, the D's again showed what a handy squad they are building. Electing to play into the wind first, the visitors controlled the majority of the opening exchanges and had several good phases of play in the Bancroft 22, only to be found guilty at times of over complicating play. They thought they had taken the lead when Dave Purton drove over out wide, bu with the ref unsighted the touchdown was not awarded. Bancroft had a couple of dangerous breaks of their own, and looked especially dangerous when they moved the ball wide. Dexter Devlin also went close a couple of times for the visitors, unlucky not to be rewarded for his persistency in the Bancroft half. With defences mainly on top the half time whistle sounded with the scores level at 0-0.
Dagenham made early use of the wind in the second half to again pin the home side back in their own half. From a succession of good attacking plays, the Central Park side were awarded a penalty right in front of the posts and vice Captain Louis Stevens stepped up to slot the ball straight through the middle. This appeared to spur Bancroft on and they came back hard at the D's line. A professional foul saw the D's reduced to 14 men for ten minutes and Bancroft applied the pressure on the visitors now seven man scrum. With the extra man being used to good effect, Bancroft cleverley worked a man over in the corner for an unconverted score to give them a 5-3 lead. Back to full strength, the D's started to look threatening again. Jimmy Roberts and Sean Clarke were making good ground with ball in hand and the Dagenham defensive line was now able to pressure the Bancroft attackers. It was Stevens again who made the break through, charging an attempted clearance kick down, collecting the ball and sprinting home under the posts. He also added the extras to give Dagenahm a 10-5 advantage. Bancroft though are a very determined and well organised team and they again came back, and levelled the scores with a well worked try from a lineout. The wind made the kick virtually impossible and with two minutes to play a draw seemed likely. Dagenham hadn't read the script though. They turned over the kick off and the ball was fed to Stevens who lined up a drop goal. It was struck well but fell just short. Bancroft failed to clear and great work from Kevin Everitt saw the ball held up and an attacking scrum awarded. With perfect field position, the platform was solid, the ball was again fed to Stevens and this time his drop goal sailed over to complete a full set for him and win the game for the D's.
An excellent game and an excellent win. Dagenham performed really well and hopefully this will stand them in good stead for the biggest two months of their rugby lives.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton, Waller, Knowlden, Keen, Everitt, Roberts; Smith (K. Clancy), Stevens; Lock, Hennig, Nelson, Devlin, Argent. Subs: L.Clancy, Charles
Scorers:
Try: Stevens
Con: Stevens
Pen: Stevens
DG: Stevens
Saturday 11th Feb 2006
Dagenham 63-0 Loughton
Essex League 2 - Central Park
After what has been a tough few weeks, which has seen Dagenham's dominant position in the division eroded, a performance like the one delivered on Saturday was just the tonic. With spirits bouyed by last weeks semi final win, Dagenham took on 4th placed Loughton in near perfect conditions and treated the spectators to an eleven try feast.
The game could not have started any better for the D's as from the kick off, Daryl Keen raced up to tackle the catcher and from the clearance, vice captain Louis Stevens charged down the kick and was able to pick up and score in the corner. That was the start they had called for, and the afternoon just got better. The Dagenham boys were clearly pumped up for the encounter and looked slick and fluid all afternoon. Knowing that Stevens was catching him in the try scoring stakes, South African powerhouse Dico Hennig was not to be outdone as he took a pop pass, straightened beautifully and touched down. The home side soon had another as skipper Ben Fowler went over in the corner after a catch and drive from the lineout. Scrum half Dicky Smith was next to pounce, grabbing a try under the posts after great pressure from the forwards on the Loughton scrum. Loughton could simply not get into the game, being starved of any kind of ball by a rampant home pack. The next try belonged to the forwards also. Holes were being punched regularly by Sean Clarke and Steve Tucker and when Jimmy Roberts, enjoying another outstanding game, burst through he was able to offload to the supporting Fowler who had a clear run in under the posts. Dagenham kept the momentum going by playing good, basic rugby, and when Phil Crawley was stopped just short in the corner, man of the match Dave Purton was on hand to crash over from the resulting ruck. The next try was a length of the field effort, with Dagenham running out of their own 22. Billy Nelson chipped ahead but great work by Neil Davis kept the ball in play and he hacked forward towards the Loughton line. Nelson followed up and showed huge determination to win the race for the ball to claim the score. Just before half time, Dexter Devlin who had looked threatening whenever he got the ball helped himself to a try on the left wing. Half time came with the score at 46-0, and the question was asked, could the second half match the first.
In some ways it was a little disappointing. Loughton must be given huge plaudits for their willingness to keep going and push all the way. The D's defence held firm, and they managed to add three more scores. Devlin completed a brace in teh left hand corner after nice hands in the backs saw him played in by Nelson. The Central Park side then showed great tenacity in their next score. Great tackling by Perry Lock and Steve Tucker allowed Gary Knowlden to turn the ball over in midfield and when the ball was moved wide, full back Simon Argent joined the line to grab the score. The curtain was brought down on the scoring by the home skipper as further good work at the lineout allowed Ben Fowler to complete a fine hat trick. The last few minutes saw a succession of Loughton penalties in the Dagenham half, but great defence kept the visitors out.
This was a superb performance by the D's and their first forty minutes was probably the best half of rugby played in many a year. With both Writtle and Clacton slipping up, the day was a huge success. Dagenham are now level on points with Writtle, with just a points difference of 7 separating the sides. Things are really hotting up.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton (Waller), Tucker (Wren), Knowlden, Keen, Roberts, Crawley; Smith, Stevens, Devlin, Hennig, Nelson (Lock), Davis, Argent
Tries: Fowler (3), Devlin (2), Stevens, Smith, Hennig, Purton, Nelson, Argent Cons: Stevens (4)
Sat 4th February 2006
Burnham-On-Crouch 7-15 Dagenham
Essex Presidents Shield Semi Final
Dagenham were on the road again this week, and after a few home truths and a very productive training session, it was clear that the squad that travelled to Burnham for this Semi Final clash had a bite and intensity about it that had been missing the previous week.
Conditions were very good for the encounter, and Dagenham started off in lively fashion. A succession of early penalties out wide saw balls pumped into the corner and, while the supply of ball from lineout was plentiful, Dagenham lacked the cutting edge required to break through the Burnham defence. With around ten minutes to go to half time, Dagenham skipper Ben Fowler elected to take a shot at the posts after another Burnham infringement, and Louis Stevens stepped up to slot home. The half was not without concern for the D's, a turnover in midfield saw the ball moved wide to the pacy Burnham right wing who looked to be away, only to be thwarted by an outstanding cover tackle from Perry Lock. On the stroke of half time Burnham had the chance to level, but the penalty kick was pulled wide, and the whistle sounded with the scores at 3-0. Burnham were fighting for everything, but Dagenham felt that the posession and territory they had enjoyed, meant that a 3-0 lead was unsatisfactory return.
The second half couldn't have started much better for the visitors. A lineout ten yards out saw the ball moved to the back and the resulting drive saw Sean Clarke power over. Stevens added the extras and the Central Park side had a ten point lead. Burnham came straight back and hit hard at the line. From a succession of drives the ball was moved to ex-Dagenham man Steve Walters, who crashed over the line. A succesful conversion meant that Dagenham's advantage had been pegged back to just three points. the next twenty minutes saw Dagenham again lay siege to the Burnham line. More good work from the lineout saw real pressure on the home side who were forced to concede several penalties. Both Fowler and scrum half Richard Smith went over in the left hand corner, but on each occasion the pile of bodies meant that the referee was unable to see the grounding. However, moments later after several good phases, the ball was moved wide to Dexter Devlin who got over in the corner. Stevens just missed with the conversion but the score had opened up an eight point gap. Dagenham were reduced to 14 men for the last ten minutes, the referee, who had controlled the game superbly, finally lost patience with too many infringements at the ruck. This led to some last gasp defending of the line as Burnham applied the pressure. Their efforts though were thwarted by a resilient Dagenham defensive line, with some notable hits coming from Clarke, Kevin Everitt and Jimmy Roberts.
The final whistle was met with delight by Dagenham players and supporters. The side will now meet Thames in the Final on Sunday 23rd April
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton, Waller, Knowlden, Keen, Everitt, Roberts; Smith, Stevens, Lock, Hennig, Nelson, Devlin, Argent. Subs: Brooks, Morris, Wren, Wigham, Stevenson, Blade
Sat 21st January 2006
Clacton 31 - 8 Dagenham
Essex League 2
Dagenham made the long treck to Clacton for the 2nd time in 3 weeks to take on Clacton at Vista Road. With injuries and unavailability depriving them of five first choice players, they knew they were going to be up against it, however that was no excuse for the shambolic first half performance they delivered.
In biting wind, Dagenham never got into the game at all and a succession of missed tackles, poor options and infringements allowed Clacton to stamp their authority on the game and show their considerable class in running in four first half scores, two of which were converted. Louis Stevens managed a penalty midway through the first half, but at the break trailed 24-3 and losing both Sean Clarke and Tom Warwick to injury meant they had a mountain to climb.
The second half got off to the worst possible start, Clactons outside centre sprinting through under the posts. The pass may have looked questionable, but that is no excuse for standing still and not making tackles. At this point, Dagenham, realising they were playing for pride, upped their game somewhat. They forced Clacton into a few errors and had chances. A couple of trademark drives from the lineout saw Ben Fowler held up short twice, but they could find no way through until Stevens broke up the left hand side to get over for a consolation. Jimmy Roberts made a couple of half breaks, and never gave up the running in what was another impressively dogged performance from Dagenhams number eight. It was also good to see Simon Argent back, some good news on the injury front.
A bitterley disappointing afternoon again. It is not all doom and gloom. Dagenham will need to look long and hard at this performance and show some collective solidarity if they are to maintain what has still been a very good season. It was a poor showing, but that must take nothing away from this impressive Clacton side, who put in a superb eighty minute showing. Dagenham travel to Burnham next week in what will be a massive game as the two contest their third president shield semi in five seasons.
Dagenham: Clarke (Brooks), Fowler, Purton, Waller, Knowlden, Warwick (Collins), Keen, Roberts; Smith, Stevens; Lock, Hennig, Nelson, Davis (Argent), Devlin
Sat 21st January 2006
Dagenham 12 - 17 Writtle Wanderers
Essex League 2
Dagenham surrendered the top spot in the division that they had held for some four months to a very good Writtle side in this close fought encounter at Central Park.
Dagenham got off to another slow start as Writtle came at them hard from the outset, attacking the Dagenham blindside on several occasions. It was from one of these forays that they took the lead as their right winger beat a couple of tackles and found support from his blind side flanker who was able to touch down. The kick was slotted and Dagenham found themselves 7 points in arrears. It took the Central Park side twenty minutes to get going, and by that time they could have been further down. Writtle were hitting the gain line at pace and only some last ditch tackling and a couple of knock ons saved the home side. However they did creep back into the contest. They had a chance to reduce the deficit from a penalty, but unfortunately Louis Stevens pulled his kick just wide of the posts. They weren't to be denied for long, however, as from a scrum, the ball was moved wide and Stevens cut a beautiful line from full back which opened up the Writtle defence and with just the full back to beat, he off loaded to Anton De Villiers who touched down. The kick was missed but the D's were back in it. The home side had the better of the next ten minutes nad with half time approaching they had a succession of penalties. A couple of catch and drives in the corner were looking threatening and at the third time of asking the D's got the score. The forwards working superbly as an eight to drive towards the line for skipper Ben Fowler to sneak over. The wide out conversion from Stevens was struck beautifully but rebounded back off the posts. The score though sent the D's into half time with their tails up at 12-7.
The second half started poorly again for the D's. A well worked move again in the Writtle backs allowed them to put their excellent blindside flanker in for his second score of the game. The conversion was again slotted to swing the advantage back to Writtle. Dagenham had opportunities to get back into the game but never really got going and Writtle extended their advantage with a long range penalty. The next twenty minutes ebbed and flowed with neither side ever really looking like scoring and the final whistle sounded to jubilation from the visitors and deep disappointment from Dagenham.
This was a great game to watch from two sides who have led the way all year in the division. With them now level on points and a small points difference separating them, the run in to the end of the season promises to be an exciting one.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton, Tucker, Knowlden, Keen, Everitt, Roberts; Clancy, De Villiers (Stevenson), Lock, Hennig, Nelson, Davis, Stevens; Subs: Warwick, Waller
Sat 14th January 2006
Clacton 12 - 23 Dagenham
Essex Presidents Shield Qtr Final
Dagenham travelled to Vista Road on Saturday to take on an in form Clacton side who are having an impressive first season in Essex 2 in this Essex President Shield Quarter Final.
Having been the last side to inflict defeat on the seasisders at Central Park back in October, Dagenham knew they would have to be pumped up for this encounter, and if you had watched their first half showing you would have been wondering what the league leaders were upto. A mistake virtually from kick off allowed the home side te advantage. They showed nice hands and kept the ball alive for their skipper to crash over just to the right of the posts. The conversion was slotted and the visitors were 7-0 in arrears. The Central Park side got back in thee game straight away. Powerful running from centre Dico Hennig made good headway into the opposition 22, and when the ball was offloaded to his centre partner Billy Nelson, the 18 year old had enough pace and power to hold off two defenders and touch down. The conversion was missed by Phil Crawley but the D's felt they were getting back into the game. That was as good as it got for them though in the first half as a stream of mistakes and poor play as they tried to force the game often ended with them putting themselves under unecessary pressure. Clacton pushed hard at the D's line, but fortunately found no further way through and the half ended 7-5.
A half-time roasting from Mark Collins was certainly deserved and appeared to have the desired effect on Dagenham as they put together a much improved second half performance. Virtually from the kick off they were awarded a kickable penalty which Crawley slotted to give them the lead, and from this they never looked back. The forwards who had been way off colour in the first period stepped up a gear, and while not at their best, gave the backs enough ball to work with to ensure that they spent almost all of the second period camped in the Clacton half. It was the forwards who extended the lead. A catch and drive from the lineout was superbly controlled and they went a full 15 metres to roll over the line and allow Kevin Everitt to touch down. The conversion was missed but at 13-7 the visitors had their tales up. Managing to secure more posession and playing more structured rugby, the D's looked far more threatening. Hennig and Nelson ran powerfully in midfield and made several gaps and it was these two who both helped themseves to deserved tries. Hennig was next on the scoresheet, getting the ball around 15 metres out he spotted a half gap and that was enough for Dagenham's top scorer. He muscled his way through the defence to touch down. The conversion was missed but disappointment was short lived. Soon after, Nelson reacted first to a loose ball from an attempted clearance kick. Still with much to do the outside centre arrowed to the right wing and showed great physical strength to get over in the corner. Again the kick went just wide but the D's now held a 16 point lead. They had opportunities in the last ten minutes to extend the advantage, as they were awarded more and more penalties in the Clacton 22, but they just came up just short on several occasions as determined home defence kept them at bay. Clacton had the last say as they broke out and threatened the D's line. From a tapped penalty, the Clacton forwards charged at the D's line. A huge hit from Tom Warwick turned the ball over but Dagenham failed to clear and the ball was charged down to give Clacton the try right on the whistle. Final score 23-12.
A frustrating end to the game for Dagenham. This was an excellent comeback after a poor first half against a very decent Clacton team. With five changes from the side that beat Old Brentwoods last week, this shows great depth and flexibility within their squad. Next Saturday see the top two in the division clash. Dagenham entertain Writtle at Central Park. With Writtle in fine form, this promises to be quite a clash. The kick off is 2:15 and all support is welcome.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton, Tucker, Lewis (Warwick), Keen, Everitt (Waller), Roberts; Clancy, Crawley, Stevensn (Blade), Hennig, Nelson, Davis, Calverley. Subs (Not Used); Knowlden, Collins
Sat 7th January 2006
Old Brentwoods 3 - 16 Dagenham
Essex League 2
Dagenham started 2006 in the best possible fashion with a hard fought win over a very strong Old Brentwoods side in difficult conditions at Ashwells on Saturday.
Both sides started the game in determined fashion, and it was clear that the very committed and well organised home side were going to be a tough unit to break down. The D's probably edged the early exchanges in terms of territory and took a 6-0 lead with two well struck penalties from Louis Stevens. The home side were reduced to 14 men when the referee sin binned their tenacious blindside flanker for one two many infringements at the ruck area. It was during this period that Dagenham increased their lead. Ball was moved wide from a midfield scrum and full back Simon Argent hit a lovely line before feeding right wing Neil Davis who sprinted home to continue his superb try scoring run. The wide kick from Stevens was struck beautifully but was just wide of the mark. Dagenham appeared to be gaining the upper hand and created a couple more decent chances and when they found some continuity they looked very dangerous, however they could not convert this into points. Gradually OB's edged their way back into the contest through a mixture of strong forward play and dangerous running and some fairly poor kicking from hand from the Dagenham backs. However solid defence from the D's ensured that a solitary penalty was all the home side had to show for their first half efforts. Half time 11-3.
To be fair to ld Brentwoods they enjoyed the lions share of territory and posession for a fair bulk of the second half but ran into some resolute defence. Although the Dagenham defensive line was at times stretched they came up with some crunching hits, notably from Davis who's ball and all tackle on the Home sides Outside Centre made everyone shudder and clearly lifted the visitors. With around fifteen minutes left a penalty around halfway was awarded. Stevens kicked for the corner and his kick seemed to be sailing in to touch around 5 metres out when it was kept in play by the home full back. Great following up from man of the match Daryl Keen, who was having a fine game in the unusual position for him of second row, saw panic set in, the kick was charged down and Keen was on hand to claim the try. The kick was missed but this score seemed to take some of the wind out of the home side. Dagenham held strong for the last ten minutes and claimed a hard fought win that keeps them atop of the division.
Cup committments are in the diary next week. A trip to the seaside where Dagenham take on a Clacton side who are in fine form in the quarter Finals of the Essex President Shield. Next up in the league is a home game against second place Writtle on the 21st of January. Their demolition job on Stanford at the weekend underlines their talent and form. It should be a cracker!
Dagenham: Brooks (Waller), Fowler, Purton, Tucker, Keen, Roberts, Everitt, Crawley; Clancy, Stevens; Lock (Wigham), Hennig, Nelson, Davis, Argent (Devlin)
Sat 17th December
Dagenham 15 - 17 Thurrock II
Friendly
With 6 of their regular starting XV unavailable this weekend, Dagenham's starting lineup had a fairly unfamiliar look about it, and they knew they would have to produce a very good performance against a well organised and experienced Thurrock side.
From the outset it was clear that Dagenham had rid themselves of some of the problems that had cost them their unbeaten record at Stanford last week, and took the game to Thurrock. The forwards were very competitve up front and when the backs were released they looked dangerous. The home side took a deserved lead midway through the half when Simon Argent, who had moved to the inside centre berth, threaded a great kick through and right wing Neil Davis showed his customary pace to beat his opposite man to the touch down and claim his fourth try in three games. Thurrock hit back with a score of their own in the corner and the first half was played out with no further incident to leave the half time score locked at 5-5.
Dagenham playing with the wind at their backs dominated the early exchanges and when they were awarded a kickable penalty. Louis Stevens stepped up to give them the lead. The fly half was also responsible for increasing the advantage ten minutes later. A clean catch from Daryl Keen in the lineout saw the ball moved quickly to Stevens and the Dagenham vice captain spotted a gap and darted through to continue his rich try scoring form. The conversion was added to give the D's what looked like a commanding lead. Minutes later Thurrock were reduced to 14 men and Dagenham, who were gaining plentiful ball in the lineout from man of the match Tony Whybrow, who had a fine dbut in the second row, looked to be in the ascendancy. However Thurrock clawed their way back into the game and forced a try in the corner to make it 15-10. Dagenham too were then reduced to 14 when replacement prop Tony Simon was binned for handling in the ruck. this galvanised Thurrock and heartbreakingly for the D's the visiting fullback collected a deep kick and sprinted virtually the length of the pitch to tie the scores. The conversion was the final kick of the game and from right out on the touchline, the Thurrock scrum half slotted an absolute beauty to seal an unlikely victory.
A disappointing end to 2005 for the home side, but given the restructured team for encounter, this was a very satisfying performance.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton (Simon), Whybrow, Mitchell, Keen, Calverley, Roberts; Clancy, Stevens; Lock, Argent, Nelson (Crawley), Davis; Devlin
Sat 10th December
Stanford 20-17 Dagenham
Essex League 2
Dagenham's excellent unbeaten record was ended by a whole hearted and committed Stanford side who deserved their victory over a seriously below par Dagenham side.
In good conditions, Dagenham played probably their worst 40 minutes of rugby in some time. Despite discussing the need to keep their penalty count lower this week, they conceded an endless stream of them and this combined with some poor decision making and generally just not fronting up enough saw them turn around 7-0 down and probably lucky it wasn't more.
The second half did not get off to a great start. Another penalty conceded saw the Stanford fly half slot the ball between the uprights for a ten point lead. This was a pivotal moment. Dagenham needed to get back in the game, and they did just that. A hoisted kick from full back Simon Argent was spilled by the home sides right wing under pressure from Perry Lock and Phil Crawley scooped up the loose ball and sprinted home wide left of the posts. The resulting conversion was beautifully struck by Louis Stevens and Dagenham were back to within 3 points. Stanfords advantage was soon wiped out. The backs were now starting to get some decent ball and it was the boot of Argent again that created the try. He slipped a perfectly weighted grubber kick through and the in-form Neil Davis beat everyone to touch down. The resulting conversion was pushed just wide from Stevens but Dagenham were 12-10 to the good. Instead of building on this however another penalty gave Stanford the opportunity to regain the lead which they duly did. Not to be kept down for long though, the D's sucked in the home pack with a series of blindside rucks and when the ball was spun out to the openside, prop Sean Clarke was on hand to finish the move off. Dagenham now held a four point lead going into the last 15 minutes and appeared to be in the ascendancy. In the following few minutes though, Dagenham had two decent try scoring opportunities and also missed a kick at goal, all of which would have probably sealed the win, however, in the final minute yet another penalty was conceded and the resulting catch and drive from the lineout brought the try for the home side that gave them the victory. The conversion was added and there was no time left for the D's to respond.
A bitterley disappointing way to end 2005 for the D's but still much to be positive about. 7 wins from 8 and at the top of the pile is a good first halfs work. They must now look to raise the bar in January in what will be a very tough and potentially defining month for the Central Park side.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton, Lewis, Knowlden (Brooks), Everitt, Crawley, Roberts; Clancy (Devlin), Stevens, Lock, Hennig, Nelson, Davis, Argent
Sat 3rd December
Dagenham 35 - 3 Millwall Albion
Essex League 2
An accomplished second half performance in difficult conditions, saw Dagenham record a convincing victory that keeps the momentum going for the Central Park side.
Both sides took to the field with the weather unable to make its mind up. Bright sunshine often interupted by heavy rain and gusting winds. Dagenham started brightly, and a scrum taken against the head saw the ball moved to the left to Dico Hennig who burst through the line to touch down wide of the posts to give the powerhouse South African his seventh try of the season. Louis Stevens pulled the kick just wide but the signs looked good for the home side. However the D's failed to build on the early advantage and Millwall showed they were prepared to also throw the ball around. They came back very hard and forced Dagenham into many mistakes and a seemingly endless stream of penalties. The referees patience finally snapped and when Hennig was penalised for hands in the ruck he was shown yellow. During this purple patch, Millwall reduced the arrears to two points with a kicked penalty in front of the posts. Daggers realised enough was enough and during Hennigs absence they played controlled structured rugby and increased their lead by eight points. Some good phases of play saw the ball moved out to the backs, and Simon Argent stepped in to the line and put in right wing Neil Davis for an unconverted score. More pressure from the home side saw Millwall penalised in front of the posts and Stevens stretched the lead to 13-3. The half ended on a great note for Dagenham. Clean ball from a lineout saw Stevens hit left wing Perry Lock who had come into the midfield and he stepped round two would be tacklers for a superb training ground try under the posts. Stevens slotted the extras, 20-3 at half-time.
Playing into the elements in the second period, Dagenham will be very happy with the rugby they played. Backs and forwards at times linking well to gain good field positions. The forwards began to really turn the screw in the scrum and were hitiing the rucks and mauls with real force. Hennig and his centre partner Billy Nelson were making holes with some typically physical runs while Jimmy Roberts who had a fine game at number eight and Steve Tucker were always willing ball carriers. Millwall were dogged in defence however and when given the opportunity of three points, the home side took them, Stevens taking the lead out to 23-3. The twenty point cushion spured the D's on, and another beautifully executed backs move brought their fourth touchdown. Stevens switching the ball to Davis who had moved inside off of his wing, who then showed great vision to chip over the defence and use his pace to outstrip the chasing Millwall men for a fine score. Shortly after, a rehearsed lineout looked to have brought more reward as Roberts broke up the blindside and neatly fed back inside to skipper Ben Fowler who crashed over in the corner. However the joy was short lived as they were brought back as Roberts had stepped into touch. The Central Park side were not to be denied for long though, man of the match Stevens rounded off the scoring with a smart try. As the away defence pressed quickly, the Dagenham vice captain shaped to pass before dropping the shoulder and sprinting through the middle, rounding the fullback and touching down. The conversion was a formality. The last twenty minutes ebbed and flowed with Millwall showing great fighting spirit as they attacked the Dagenham line but could not find a way past a solid Dagenham defense which has now conceded just 47 points in seven league games.
That makes it 7 from 7 for the D's who visit Stanford next Saturday for their last league game of 2005 in what will be another tough encounter.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton, Tucker, Knowlden (Lewis), Waller, Keen, Roberts; Clancy (De Villiers), Stevens; Lock (Devlin), Hennig, Nelson, Davis, Argent
Sat 19th November
Millwall Albion 10 - 30 Dagenham
Essex Presidents Shield Rd 1
Dagenham secured their place in the next round of the Shield with a five try to two victory at Victoria Park on Saturday, but will want to quickly forget the performance.
On a bright afternoon, Dagenham ran into a very determined Millwall side who showed their intentions early on by running hard at the D's who showed some uncharacteristically poor defence. A couple of early scares passed with no real damage and the visitors gradually worked their way back into the game. Their lineout functioned fairly well and it was from a catch and drive that skiper Ben Fowler was able to grab the first of his three tries of the afternoon. The score went unconverted, but Louis Stevens soon stretched the lead to 8-0 with a penalty. Stevens was then able to give the Central Park side a bit more breathing space as he outpaced the home defence to grab his fourth try of the season and increase the advantage to 13 points.
The second half started well for Dagenham. Another catch and drive in the corner saw the forwards drive over the line and underneath the pile of bodies was Fowler for his second score. Millwall though were not prepared to lie down, and some really poor play from the visitors saw the home side grab two quick scores to put themselves right back in the contest. Dagenham's attacking play became very loose, bad options and execution were costing them dear and it wasnt until midway through the half that they were able to add to their tally. From another lineout the ball was again driven to the corner and Fowler was on hand to touch down to complete his hat-trick. This was a very important try as it seemed to take some of the wind out of the sails of the home side and allowed the visitors some breathing space. The curtain was brought down on a fairly inept performance by perhaps the try of the game. Quickly recycled ball was moved into the midfield where Dico Hennig showed great vision to put a sublime kick through for Simon Argent who gathered the ball expertly before holding off two defenders to touch down under the posts. Stevens kick made the final score 30-10.
Dagenham will be very disappointed with their overall showing and be thankful that their ability to score tries this season got them safely through this game. The two sides meet again in a fortnight at Central Park, this time in Essex 2.
Dagenham: Waller, Fowler, Purton (West), Warwick, Knowlden, Keen, Everitt, Roberts; Clancy, Stevens, Lock, Hennig, Nelson (Stevenson), Davis, Argent
Sat 12th November
Dagenham 30 - 5 Old Brentwoods
Away Essex League Div 2
Dagenham made it six out of six in the League on Saturday to strengthen their grip on the division, by putting to sword a determined and lively Old Brentwoods side.
In perfect conditions, Dagenham began brightly and were into their stride early on. A kick through from Louis Stevens saw the visitors full back and wing get in a tangle, and good following up from Billy Nelson allowed Stevens to gather the ball and race through for an unconverted try. The home side thought they had extended their lead when Dico Hennig burst through, dummied the full back and touched down, however the referee penalised Dagenham for obstruction. This lucky break seemed to galvanise the away team and they were soon on level terms. Some sloppy defending on the blindside allowed the OB's Captain to break free, and though he was hauled down short he popped up to a supporting runner to score. Dagenhams play then became a bit sloppy as they gave away too many penalties and became a little frustrated. However, a Stevens penalty put them back in the lead and they were soon further in front. Perry Lock punced on a loose ball and was too quick for the cover to get in at the corner, and shortly after, Hennig made up for his earlier disappointment by finishing off a nicely structured backs moves. The half time score 18-5 in the D's favour.
Old Brentwoods came out hard after the break and really tried to get themselves back into the contest. Their very lively backs were quite a handful and kept an ever impressive Dagenham defence firmly on their toes. Gradually though Dagenham inched their way forward and found some momentum. The OB's pack showed they had a powerful scrummage but Dagenham still managed to win several balls against the head, which was very impressive, and Steve Tucker and Kevin Everitt were outstanding in disrupting the visitors lineout. Midway through the half Coach Mark Collins made three changes, and the quality of the bench he had available made an almost immediate impact. Ben Fowler pinched another ball against the head in the scrum and the ball was moved wide to Dexter Devlin who showed great pace and strength as he broke several tackles to claim the score. Dagenham then saved the best try of the afternoon for last. A clean lineout take from Tucker led to a magnificent drive from the forwards that went a full twenty metres before Kieran Clancy released his outside men. Replacement fly half Anton De Villiers then made a sublime pass to Stevens who had picked a great line from full back. He in turn fed right wing Neil Davis who stepped back in side to feed man of the match Simon Argent to round off a fantastic team try. To their immense credit the visitors again came back at the home side, but they ran into a defensive wall that showed why it has only conceded 44 points this season.
Another excellent win for the D's who now have a rest from league action for a few weeks. Next up is a difficult trip to Victoria Park next weekend where they face Millwall in teh first round of the Essex Presidents Shield.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton, Tucker, Knowlden, Keen (Roberts), Everitt, Crawley; Clancy, Stevens; Lock (Devlin), Hennig, Nelson (De Villiers), Davis; Argent
Sat 29th October
Writtle Wanderers 7 - 23 Dagenham
Away Essex League Div 2
Dagenham strengthened their position at the top of Essex 2 on Saturday. Their well constructed victory over a well organised and strong Writtle outfit maintained their perfect start to the season, making it five league wins out of five.
In good conditions and after good preparation, the game could not have started much worse for the visitors. The Dagenham defence was caught cold by a chip over the top and the home skipper gratefully scooped the ball up to give his side the lead. Writtle's prolific kicker made the most of a regulation conversion to make it 7-0. Knowing they were in a game, Dagenham set about getting back in the match. They were awarded a penalty just wide of the right hand post which Louis Stevens knocked over to reduce the arrears to 7-3. The visiting back row of Daryl Keen, Kevin Everitt and Phil Crawley were proving to be a real handful at the rucks and Writtle could do little more than concede penalties. Two more shots at goal from Stevens saw the lead change hands to Dagenham, 9-7. The D's felt they were in the ascendancy now, and the backs were starting to get into the game. A terrific break at pace from Neil Davis looked like it may yield a try, but unluckily his pass to Billy Nelson went to ground. The D's were not to be denied for long though, and it was Crawley who set the score up. Pouncing on a fumble in the home defence caused by good pressure from the Dagenham backs, he split the home defence through the middle with a run full of pace and power and when he was hauled down just short of the line he had Nelson in support to claim his 3rd try of the season. The conversion was straight forward for Stevens. Writtle came back hard and briefly threatened the Dagenham line before a scuffle around the ruck saw a player from each pack be awarded a ten minute rest by the referee. Half time 7-16.
Scoring chances were fairly limited in the second period as both defences worked hard to cancel each other out. The hard work Dagenham have put in on the training pitch looks to be helping though as their work rate never faltered. The tight five were working manfully in the scrums to provide solid ball for the backs and the midfield pairing of Dico Hennig and Nelson were punching regular holes and becoming increasingly difficult to put down. It was the forwards again, however, who created the next try. A rehearsed lineout saw that man Crawley thunder up the blindside before releasing his back row partner Everitt who touched down. Crawley added the resulting conversion for a 23-7 lead. The final few minutes saw Writtle search for another score, but despite their endeavour, never really looked like breaching an awesome Dagenham defensive unit.
This was an important win for Dagenham. Painful experience taught them that this is a hard place to come and a tough side to beat, but it was a very professional performance and deserving victory over a side that will certainly be in the promotion mix come April. The 1st XV take a well deserved breather this week before resuming league action on the 12th of November, when Old Brentwood's visit Central Park.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton (West), Tucker, Knowlden (Wren), Keen, Everitt, Crawley; Clancy, Stevens (Devlin); Lock, Hennig, Nelson, Davis; Argent
Sat 22nd October
Dagenham 19-10 Clacton
Home Essex League Div 2
Dagenham made it four out of four in the league on Saturday and remain top of the pile after a scrappy victory over league new boys Clacton.
The hosts had a great start to the game, applying real pressure on the opposition, especially in the scrum, where man of the match Sean Clarke gave his opposite number a torrid time. Dagenham used this pressure to good effect and took the lead when Phil Crawley again demonstrated some of his skills, chipping the ball over the top to race through and claim the try in what was almost a carbon copy of his score last week. Louis Stevens unlucky with the conversion. The home side were soon further in front, as some good passages of play and hands saw the ball moved wide to Perry Lock who beat his man to claim a great score. Stevens fine conversion completed the job. The D's didnt let up and added a further score. A solid catch and drive from a lineout in the Clacton 22 allowed man of the match Clarke to claim his first try of the season. That was about as good as it got for Dagenham in the first half. Clacton came back hard and shoed they were willing to run everything. The Central Park side defended hard but allowed a score right on half time. 19-5 at the break.
Most of the second half saw both defences cancel each other, with the game littered with mistakes and infringements. All of this hardly making it a classic. The D's saved their best for the closing ten minutes when some good phases of play had Clacton under pressure, but no score was forthcoming. The final word actually went to the visitors, after a mistake in the Clacton 22 saw the ball hacked towards the Dagenham line and some indecision allowed Clacton the score. Dagenham will be disappointed with some of their play which at times was scruffy, but it was a valuable two points, and the home side can take heart that they are collecting wins without being at their best. Next week the D's are on the road again to the divisions other promoted side Writtle, who have enjoyed a fine start to the season and who accounted for Dagenham in last years Essex Presidents Shield.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton, Tucker, Knowlden, Keen (Roberts), Everitt, Crawley; Clancy, Stevens; Lock (Devlin), Hennig, Nelson, Davis, Argent; Sub; Brooks
Sat 15th October
Loughton 10 - 25 Dagenham
Away Essex League Division 2
Saturdays rearranged top of the table clash saw Dagenham move back into pole position with a hard fought win over a much improved and determined Loughton outfit. The visitors started brightly but it was the home side who took the lead via a penalty. Dagenham quickly cancelled this out with three points from the boot of Louis Stevens. The next twenty minutes saw both defences on top with Dagenham having to work hard after being reduced to 14 men for ten minutes. The D's managed to hold firm though and had a few good phases of play later in the half but ran into resolute defence, with Loughton showing why they are yet to be beaten this year. However they managed to grab a vital score just before half time when number eight Phil Crawley got over in the corner following some quick thinking from scrum half Kieran Clancy. Half time 8-3.
The Central Park side had a dream start to the second half. Good pressure from the forwards from the kick off saw ball turned over and following a nice burst from Dico Hennig the ball was moved wide to Crawley, who showed all his skills by chipping over the defence, outpacing the last Loughton man and collecting his own kick for a brilliant score. A superb conversion from Stevens stretched the lead to 15-3. The score seemed to galvanise the visitors as they were quickly on the board again. Another immaculate lineout from the forwards led to a drive towards the line and skipper Ben Fowler went over. Dagenham then had to withstand some fierce Loughton attacking before they broke away again. A well worked backs move saw Neil Davis come in off his wing, jink his way through and feed off to Kevin Everitt who showed great awareness to support his man and claim the try. Despite the 25-3 scoreline, Loughton came back even harder, and the visitors withstood scrum after scrum and many penalties, showing awseome defence before they finally cracked and the Loughton outside centre grabbed a consolation score. The conversion was regulation and that brought an end to the scoring .
An important win for Dagenham who were made to fight every inch of the way for the points by a Loughton side who have clearly shown that they could have a say in this years promotion race.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton, Tucker, Knowlden, Keen, Roberts (Everitt), Crawley; Clancy, Stevens; Lock, Hennig, Argent, Davis; Devlin (Nelson). Sub; West
Sat 24th Sept
BURNHAM-ON-CROUCH 7 - 43 DAGENHAM
Away Essex Division 2
Dagenham made the trip to Burnham on Saturday and produced a fine display of running rugby that made many sit up and take notice, running in a total of seven tries.
The Central Park side started the game in determined fashion and immediately were on the front foot. The returning Louis Stevens breaking down the blindside before feeding Full Back Simon Argent who put in Neil Davis in the corner. Dagenham were immediately on the attack again. The forwards were providing good ball for a rampant back line and from a scrum a nicely worked back row move opened up the Burnham defence for Dexter Devlin to grab his second try in as many games. The score further galvanised the visitors who went from strength to strength. Stevens who was orchestrating things from fly half then used a planned backs move to create the hole before putting in Argent who burst through to score under the posts. The D's were not finished their either, Stevens getting in on the act himself, by first dotting down in the corner and then adding a penalty to give the visitors a 25 point cushion at the interval.
Burnham kept battling away and the first exchanges of the second period were a little scruffy, with Dagenham at times perhaps over complicating things a little. With ten minutes on the clock skipper Ben Fowler elected to take a shot at goal to try and calm things down a little, Stevens obliging to take the score out to 28-0. This had the desired effect as Dagenham's control was re-established and they ran in three further tries. Two from Dico Hennig who is enjoying an outstanding start to the season and the final one from the livewire Stevens who was played in beautifully by debutant Ryan Stevenson. Burnham got a late consolation via a penalty try after a succession of penalties were met with stout defence but one two many infringements.
The final score reflected an utterley dominant display from Dagenham who again with a couple missing from the squad showed the strength in depth they are looking to achieve this year.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton, Waller, Knowlden, Keen, Everitt, Roberts (B.Davis); Clancy, Stevens; Devlin, Hennig, Nelson (Stevenson), N.Davis; Argent
Sat 17th Sept
DAGENHAM 5 - 13 UPMINSTER
Home POWERGEN VASE RD 1
Dagenham fell at the first hurdle in the Powergen Vase against an Upminster side who many feel will challenge for honours in Essex 1 this season.
The home side started went into the fixture with a real belief that they could cause an upset, but started the game poorl, conceding an early score after a big scrum from the visitors. This put them on the back foot and they were further in arrears when a regulation penalty was slotted. It took Dagenham a full twenty minutes to get into the game and when the forwards did start to gain some momentum the home side looked menacing. With 30 minutes on the clock, a nicely worked move in the backs carved open the Upminster defence and Billy Nelson had a virtually unchallenged run in.
A half time pep talk from Mark Collins certainly seemed to do the trick as Dagenham came out blazing in the second period. They were camped in the Upminster 22 for the first 15 to 20 minutes but were unable to find the vital score that their territory and posession seemed to deserve. Gradually Upminster found a way back into the game and with about ten minutes left to play, forced a score in the corner. Dagenham again came back hard but were unable to find an end product for all their endeavour.
The final whistle brough some relief for Upminster who certainly knew they had been in a game, but some disappointment for the Central Park side, who must have more belief in their own ability, and who certainly paid for their slow start to the game. On a positive note though, the disappointment felt by losing to a team of Upminsters stature is a measure of how far the club have gone, and with the emergence of some of the younger members of the squad, notably on Saturday man of the match Kieran Clancy, better things should come.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton, Tucker (Keen), Knowlden, Waller, Everitt, Crawley; Butler (White), Hennig; Lock, Argent, Nelson, N.Davis, Clancy; Sub; Brooks
Sat 10th Sept
Dagenham 27-5 May & Baker
AWAY ESSEX LEAGUE 2
Much was made of the need to keep the game simple during the break, unfortunately the home side had their only below par period straight after the break gifting the Bakers left winger a score under the posts. The conversion was missed but Dagenham needed to regroup quickly, and they did just that. With Bakers being reduced to 14 men for 10 minutes, the Central Park side applied the pressure in the forwards and from a scrum five yards out some confusion between the away sides half backs saw Anton De Villiers steel in for a try. Dagenham were now in the ascendancy and were punching regular holes in the away defence. Man of the Match Sean Clarke was having a field day in the loose, scattering tacklers at will and creating opportunities. To their credit the Bakers tackling did not wilt in the second period and the D's had to work very hard for their final score. Some great handling by both backs and forwards created the gap, and Dagenhams latest recruit Dexter Devlin gratefu lly accepeted his first try for the club.
A final score of 27-5 was fair reflection on an excellent team performance. Dagenham showed the strength of their squad, with four players missing for the game, and with three to return to the squad next week, will relish the visit of Upminster in the first round of the Powergen Vase.
Dagenham: Clarke, Fowler, Purton (Blakeborough), Knowlden, Tucker, Keen (Waller), Roberts, Crawley; Butler, De Villiers; Lock, Hennig, Nelson, Devlin (White), Clancy
SEASON 2004-2005
2-4-2005
CANVEY ISLAND 20-3 DAGENHAM
AWAY ESSEX LEAGUE 2
Playing into a strong wind, Dagenham found much of their progress halted in the first half by their own indiscipline, as they were often hauled back by the referees whistle. It was from one of the many penalties conceded that Canvey took the lead, slotting 3 points from a fine long range kick. The Central Park side, gradually worked their way back into the game, getting reasonable lineout ball and certainly enjoying the upper hand in the scrum, but they were looking unlikely to break down a resolute Canvey defence. the home side increased their lead when they worked their powerful fullback over in the corner, weight of numbers providing the extra man. Dagenham ended the half strongly. Billy Nelson made a telling break but could not offload in the tackle and right on half time a catch and rive from a lineout saw James Ffitch held up when a try looked certain. Going into the break 8-0 down, the visitors were in good heart as they felt the game was opening up and the wind would be with them for the second period.
Both sides cancelled each other out for the first few minutes of the second half before Dagenham made a surge forward. A fine move in the backs saw Louis Stevens hit the line and with the whitewash begging was halted by a last gasp tackle. However all was not lost as Canvey infringed at the resulting ruck and Stevens slotted the kick to bring the D's to within a score. From there Dagenham made several attempts to secure a platform for the vital try that would put them level. They were gaining great ball at the back of the lineout from Kevin Everitt, but it seemed that at the critical moment the ball was either given away in error or a penalty conceded. With time running out the wind was firmly taken out of the visitors sails when a ball squirted out of a ruck and Canvey darted through to score. The conversion rubbed salt into the wounds and put the home side out of sight. The final play of the game saw further frustration as Canvey chipped over the defence and their outside centre won the race to the ball to touch down. The conversion was put wide but was an irrelevance anyway.
So with one game to go Dagenham will be hoping for a big performance to end the season on and can then begin their preparations for next season. Congratulations to Canvey Island who have proved themselves worthy champions.
Dagenham: Ffitch, Fowler, Purton, Tape, Knowlden, Keen, Everitt, Warwick; R.Smith, Calverley, Lock (Blade), Argent, Nelson, M.Smith, Stevens. Subs (Unused): West, Davis
12-3-2005
DAGENHAM 46-15 OLD BRENTWOODS
HOME ESSEX LEAGUE 2
Dagenham started strongly with some good forward surges to the visitors line in the early exchanges. Skipper Ben Fowler was held up over the line, but from the resulting scrum a mix up in the Dagenham backs allowed The Old Brentwoods three quarters to cut loose and score in the corner. The conversion attempt fell just short, but the warning bells had been sounded. this spurred the home side back into life and while they were fortunate not to concede a second they were soon on level terms, some good work from Louis Stevens saw him release Peter Blade who drove his way over the line. The score did wonders for the team and they soon found themselves in the lead. Several drives were held just short, before Dave Purton found a way over. A further score from Blade and successful conversion from Stevens took the lead to 17-5. The visitors kicked a penalty on the stroke of half time to leave things 17-8 at the break.
Dagenham's second half showings have been much improved of late, and Saturday was no exception. Some excellent rugby was played to run in a further four tries. The first score of the half came as the forwards again drove manfully to get close to the line, before Fowler spotted a gap and squeezed over in the corner. Stevens fine conversion finished the job. Billy Nelson crossed the whitewash next as he capitalised on a mistake in the visitors midfield to pick up and crash over. Perhaps the try of the game came next, some great work from the forwards set up the platform before a rehearsed move was run in the backs for Louis Stevens to hit the line at pace and dive over. To their credit, Old Brentwoods kept going and were rewarded with another good score under the posts as their back line cut through some rather weak tackling. Dagenham were not to be kept out of the game for long though and it was Nelson who is enjoying a purple patch at the moment who scored the seventh try. From some twenty yards out, he crashed through several tackles to go under the posts, to complete his brace. His fifth try in four games showing what a real prospect the young centre is. Wes Calverley rounded off the scoring with a regulation penalty in front of the posts.
Another good win for Dagenham sending them into Easter in good heart. Next up are champions Canvey Island. Dagenham will need to end their fabulous unbeaten record if they are to have any chance of claiming second spot and promotion to Essex 1.
Dagenham: D.Brooks, B.Fowler, D.Purton, P.Lewis, G.Knowlden, K.Butler (D.Tape), D.Keen, T.Warwick; R.Smith, W.Calverley, P.Lock (J.Smith), S.Argent, B.Nelson, P.Blade, L.Stevens. Sub: M.Collins