Norwich 20 Chelmsford 54

(London 2 North East League)

THIS was a game that should have tested Chelmsford’s resolve to the full, but despite missing some key personnel, especially in the second row, league leaders Chelmsford carried on from the previous week to maintain their two-point gap at the top.

Chelmsford put in a tremendous all round team performance and turned on the style to comprehensively outplay their hosts, scoring eight tries, seven of which were converted by fly half, Simon Hoult.

A pleasing feature for coach Eddie Gooby was that out of the day’s match squad of 18 players, three quarters of the squad were from local schools, which enforces the youth policy at the club.

“This was the best team performance so far this season, over the past few weeks the forwards have been outstanding,” he said.

“Today the backs took centre stage with great ball skills, hard running lines and excellent support play.

“We know we have a tough run of games coming up but we will enjoy the challenge and see where it takes us.”

Josh Cavey opened the scoring but Norwich replied with a try before Adam Cunnah went over.

Jack Acorn scored and Hoult converted to make it 21-10 at half-time. Cavey scored a fourth try to earn the bonus point and converted ties from Jamie Morrish and Jamie Ash gave Chelmsford an unassailable lead of 42-10.

Norwich scored a try to make it 42-15 but Chelmsford substitute Sam Bensusan scored on his first team debut. Norwich replied and Acorn went over again to wrap up the win.

Chelmsford do not have a game this weekend but return to action on January 31 against second-placed Campion.