CRANLEIGH V OLD FREEMANS 15/2/25 RESULT 22-15

Cranleigh was determined to overturn their poor performance in the game on November 9th at Freeman’s. However, it turned out to be a game of two halves. Cranleigh was dominant for the best part of the first half. It was only 10 minutes before Cranleigh was awarded a central penalty, which Harry Crabtree converted.The forwards’ driving kept Freemans in their half, and they were rewarded with a splendid drive to the line, which Ian Weir scored. Cranleigh relaxed for just a minute and let Freemans score a simple try. But Cranleigh immediately put more pressure on Freemans, putting together some exciting moves, but Freemans defended them well.Unfortunately, Josh Barraud was yellow-carded after the referee had issued several warnings to the Cranleigh team. Still, it didn’t stop Cranleigh from attacking, and a brilliant move through the backs was finished off with a try by Mikey Rosser. Great runs up the center of the field by Luke Fielden and Pierre Goodwin ended in another try at 22-5. Half Time.

Cranleigh started the second half full of confidence but was soon interrupted by another yellow card to Titch Macey, and they could not impose themselves on Freemans. Suddenly, Freemans came to life and decided they were a better side than the one they had shown in the first half. For 15 minutes, they constantly attacked, with Cranleigh defending well, with some excellent tackling by everyone, but especially by Captain Dandy and Pierre Goodwin. Freemans eventually found space to add another try. No sooner had Titch Macey returned to the field that the referee yellow-carded Tom Teltley following a ruck. So, over 30 minutes during the game, Cranleigh had to play with 14 men, which did not help. Freeman’s fly half pushed Cranleigh, and their pressure brought about one more try. Thankfully, Cranleigh could get to full-time 22-15.

Cranleigh’s forwards were excellent throughout the game, but the three yellow cards disrupted the side’s play, especially in the second half.Next, in two weeks, Southwark Lancers will be away, which will be an excellent test for our ever-improving team.

Report John Bailey

Results 15/2/25 Counties 4 Surrey

Cranleigh 22- 15 Old Freemans

Haslemere 52- 0 London French

Old Paulines 12- 64 Old Emanuel

Reigate 20-34 Old Glynonians

Southwark Lancers 52-7 Harlequin Amateurs