Rugby union: Wimbledon promotion hopes dented by defeat at leaders

Wimbledon’s hopes of promotion from London & SE Premier took a hit as they lost 12-3 at leaders Rochford Hundred on Saturday.

The strong breeze in Essex made catching the ball very difficult in an attritional contest.

Rochford scored in the corner through hooker Adam Ferrier after nine minutes but the conversion attempt by Cameron Greenhall was missed.

A sustained attack by Wimbledon’s forwards was held-up over the line.  This was the first of two occasions for this to happen.  As the half closed a yellow card was awarded against Rochford but the Dons were unable to take advantage and trailed 5-0 at the break.

Outside half Steve Boatman was successful with a penalty on 45 minutes for a Rochford offside.

It wasn’t until 62 minutes that another long kick gave Rochford the chance of their second try by Henry Hudson, and this time Greenhill’s conversion was kept low but just cleared the crossbar.

Wimbledon’s next action is away at Guildford on February 15.