Blackheath suffers devastating first loss in nine games

Blackheath saw their free-flowing style bogged down on a dismal December day, resulting in their first loss in nine games.

Club responded well to the home team’s bright start and maintained superiority throughout the first 40 minutes with a try by Andrew Daish, converted by Joe Tarrant.

This was despite an unlucky yellow card for Tom Stradwick for joining ahead of the back foot. Even more unfortunate was the injury to Tom Williams just before the break, Billy Youngs getting a debut.

The major turning point in the game came shortly before the hour mark.

A Blackheath lineout on the five-metre line of the home side was safely won and quickly became a driving maul.

Frustratingly the defence held strong and the ball was turned over, letting Rotherham off the hook and seemingly inspiring their revival.

After a further 10 minutes of to-and-fro a second yellow card – this time for Andrew Daish – gave Titans an opportunity which they did not pass up.

With a one-man advantage their pack were able to create a dominance at the scrum which quickly translated into a series of penalties awarded by referee Harry Walbaum.

Having drawn the scores level Titans continued to build momentum, earning another scrum penalty, this time just inside the 22m.

Replacement Alex Dolly slotted his effort with two minutes to play. The travellers summoned all of their energies for a heroic last-minute rally but with time and light against them they were unable to have the final word.

Blackheath return to action next week with a visit to Old Elthamians at College Meadow with a 2pm kick off. The next home game is on January 5 against Plymouth Albion.

Picture Credit: Gareth Siddons