A league match just 4 days before Christmas against the league leaders was a daunting prospect and became even more so when Askeans started with 13 players – eventually reaching a complement of 14 and conceding a try from the first move of the game.
Fortunately, Alex Miller cut the deficit with a penalty but the first half was a story of backs to the wall defence.
Despite this, Askeans defence held firm and only conceded one more try before half time – Very much in the game.
3 – 10
Would there be an onslaught from Beckenham, perhaps taking advantage of the gallant but tiring Askeans 14 – But who wrote this script? In the second half, it was Askeans who were dominating!
Yes, Beckenham scored early in the 2nd half to make the score 3 – 15 but after that, it was Askeans who were camped in Beckenham’s 22 for a prolonged period of time. Eventually after yet another good passing movement and drive, the opponent’s line was breached by skipper Nick Patten.
8-15.
Askeans came back again and after an excellent passing move, winger Vineeth Ravula jinked over - Vinnie's first ever try for Askeans! - A fine conversion by Alex Miller brought the scores level.
15 – 15
There was time for both sides to have an opportunity to steal a win, Askeans looking the more likely to do so.
Dave O’Connor’s sin binning late on gave players and supporters the collywobbles as Beckenham elected to go for a scrum in search of a pushover try, but a handling error led the referee to blow for No-Side.
Instead of a heavy defeat, the outnumbered Askeans played with skill and determination to get a score draw!
An excellent performance and an excellent way to Step into Christmas!
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