Hackney Bulls promotion bid wrecked by Teddington defeat

Hackney Bulls' Louis Dickinson, who later went on to dislocate his wrist,versus Teddington

This was a make or break game for both the Bulls’ U16 team and their opponents Teddington. Success for either side today would mean promotion to Division Four – for the Bulls it would have been the second promotion in a row.

As it turned out, a closer more exciting match you could not wish to see. Teddington started strongly, pegging the Bulls back in their half and finally grabbing a well run try to the corner flag five minutes into the game.

The Bulls replied with grit and determination, giving Teddington a taste of their own medicine and finally equalising after some classy interplay between Luke and Jabz who scored the try. Tim converted so 7-5 to the Bulls. Game on.

What followed was real end-to-end stuff. Storming runs by Eric, an extraordinary run half way up the pitch from Riad – just one minute after he’d been subbed on to the field, great pressure from all of the forwards, driving through ruck after ruck.

The Bulls came close a number of times, but failed to take advantage of their position and gifted Teddington two more tries after lack of defensive cover.

The second half and everything to play for. The Bulls winning scrums and line outs and getting a lot of possession. This was soon rewarded with the pack driving over the line to score a much-needed try and put the Bulls one point behind.  Not long afterwards Jabz gathered from the ruck, and wove his way through the Teddington defense to produce a great individual try.

The Bulls were flying but, in spite of appearing to have the upper hand, again conceded a vital try against the run of play. Again Teddingon scored, Louis going down injured after making a last ditch effort to thwart the try. The coaches and First Aiders huddled around and, with help from the Teddington coach, helped Louis from the field – but not without leaving a few choice words of encouragement to his team mates. Seven minutes to go and six points behind.

Again a great individual weaving run by Jabz putting the Bulls back into contention. One point behind. But it was not to be. Teddington piled on the pressure, passing the ball along the line and ran a try in at the corner flag. The final score 32-26 to Teddington.

So not the Bulls’ year – but it was a brave, committed and powerful display and with time spent working on their defensive game, this team certainly will achieve next season.