Guildford Rugby Club
Match report, Guildford 29 - Chobham 28, Saturday 21 December 2024
Guildford 29 – 28 Chobham
Broadwater Park
21st December 2024
Guildford Snatch Dramatic Victory Over Chobham
Team: 1. James Delderfield, 2. Ed Pasfield, 3. Freddie Cole, 4. Alex Burrill(C), 5. George Angel, 6. Ben Bushell, 7. Tom Waddell, 8. Joe Garner, 9. Charlie Cuervo, 10. Joe Gwyther, 11. Ieuan Jones, 12. Tyler Pickford, 13. Barney King 14. Solomon Poole, 15. Harry Cole.
Replacements: 16. Ben Meager 17. James Gatty, 18. Aiden Jayawickrema, TR Charlie Adams
Guildford edged an exhilarating contest at Broadwater with a last-gasp penalty, securing a 29–28 win over Chobham and closing the year on a high. The thrilling encounter offered the home side much-needed redemption following their recent disappointment at Farnham.
Guildford’s tries came from Tom Waddell, Tyler Pickford, and a second-half brace by Ed Pasfield, while Joe Gwyther contributed three conversions and a decisive 40-metre penalty. Chobham, who had hoped to complete the double over their rivals, fell just short despite a spirited effort.
The match began under dry conditions with a strong crosswind, but by the final whistle, driving rain had added to the drama. Guildford started brightly, Waddell crossing for his first try of the season after eight minutes. However, lapses in defence allowed Chobham to respond with two converted tries, leaving Guildford trailing 5–14.
Despite the setback, Guildford fought back through Pickford’s try, converted by Gwyther, narrowing the gap to 12–14. Chobham extended their lead before half-time with a well-worked score out wide, making it 12–21 at the break.
In the second half, Guildford capitalised on the worsening weather and Gwyther’s tactical kicking to pin Chobham in their own half. Pasfield’s two tries, both converted, gave the hosts a 26–21 lead heading into the final stages. However, Chobham reclaimed the advantage with a late converted try, setting up a nerve-jangling finale.
With just minutes remaining, Gwyther calmly slotted a long-range penalty to edge Guildford ahead. Chobham had one last chance to steal the win, but their kicker missed a penalty, allowing Guildford to clear their lines and secure a crucial victory.
The bonus-point win lifts Guildford to 20th in the table, just four points behind Newbury. They next face Bournemouth away on 4th January, with hopes of carrying this momentum into the new year.
Mike Burden
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