Chinnor digs deep as Storm Dennis rages

CHINA RFC’s Ehize Ehizode, who scored Chinnor’s only try in the 7-0 win over Canterbury away on Saturday, has been commenting on the match, hailing his side’s gutsy and gritty display as they dug deep to leave Canterbury with an away win. 

EHIZE Ehizode

The lock’s eighth-minute converted try proved enough as the Thame-based side battled their way to a 7-0 victory in the midst of Storm Dennis. 

Chinnor’s latest triumph extended their winning streak in National League One, to five games, while they also stretched their unbeaten away run to seven matches. 

It was never going to be an easy afternoon at Merton Lane and with the conditions only deteriorating, Canterbury chose to defend into the wind and uphill for the opening 40 minutes. 

Chinnor were only able to score once in the first half, but followed it up with a superb, energy-sapping display after the break as the hosts never troubled the try-line. 

Ehizode said: “When you talk about matches being a ‘forwards game’ that definitely epitomises it. 

“Games like that you’ll remember not because the storm was taking place, but because you knew it was going to be a mental battle as a player – and a team –  to get back on your feet and carry again and again.” 

He added: “It was dark playing in those conditions. With the wind being so strong ten minutes into the first half, it was impossible to play with or against it because you never knew where the ball would end up if you were to kick or pass it.” 

The majority of the second half was contested between the 22s, with Chinnor enjoying a good amount of territory despite playing into the wind and up the slope. 

Canterbury had a hint of an opportunity late on with the visitors down to 14 men and defending a lineout ten metres out. 

But Joe Dancer brilliantly won the battle and Jason Worrall kicked the ball into touch to end the contest. 

Ehizode added: “We knew Canterbury would have the upper hand playing with the wind. Regardless of that, as a team we backed our defence which is now evident from not conceding a try in two games. 

“We knew we would have to defend for numerous phases and we would have to buy in for as long as they made a mistake and reap the benefits when we got the ball back.” 

He continued: “I felt ecstatic at the full-time whistle – I didn’t have to defend anymore. 

“It was a great game to be a part of because I felt it brought us together as a team having to play in conditions like that. 

“Coming down to Canterbury’s ground, only scoring a try and defending or pick and goes for the rest of the game is extremely tough, but it was all worth it.” 

SOURCE: Contributed – Image credit David Howlett