This was a vital match for Norwich, they were in desperate need of a win to keep in touch with the relegation battle that they are facing. The match did not start well for the home team with a clearance kick straight from the kickoff being charged down and Wanstead seizing on a loose ball for a try. Norwich were down but not out and the forwards led by the ever green Chris Drohan rumbled over for a try by Phil Buckley.

Wanstead were soon back in the game and their impressive centre partnership continued to cause Norwich problems. A further try and a penalty left Norwich adrift 15-7 down, Norwich rallied and a well timed pass from Jake Christian-Goss was combined with a great running line from Danny Van Staden and saw Van Staden run in under the posts to bring Norwich back into the game.

A Wanstead penalty increased their lead but on the stroke of half time Norwich were awarded a penalty which was advanced after some Wanstead back chat, Van Staden went quickly and created space for Kobe Mardon to score under the posts leaving Norwich 21-18 ahead at the break.

In the second half Norwich continued to pressure Wanstead and three Jake Christian- Goss penalties enabled them to stretch their lead.

Wanstead were not out of the fight and some good running lines combined with a tiring Norwich defence saw them run in a well taken try to bring them within a score of Norwich. A well placed kick from his own half saw Van Staden claim a 50:22, Elliot Baines reacted quickest taking a quick lineout to Conan Hoey who drew his man freeing up Jake Bailey to run in a welcome score.

Norwich found themselves in a familiar position to the Woodford game being nine points up with ten minutes to go, a position they had lost from on that day. Wanstead piled forward launching wave after wave of attack, Norwich’s defence was rock solid with Charlie Kerrison and Lewis Kenworthy tackling for all they were worth.

Thank you to Simon Watson Photography for the match day images.

Eventually however the dam broke and with five long minutes remaining Norwich held a two point lead and their supporters held their breath.

Again Wanstead came at Norwich, the clock seemed to be moving in slow motion as Wanstead moved to within five metres of the Norwich line, relief was at hand as Wanstead conceded a penalty, Norwich saw out the time and the final whistle was a relief to all in the Norwich camp. 

This was a great win for Norwich and was compounded by the Second teams 96-3 win at Lowestoft and Yarmouth. Norwich gave everything in this game and deserved the win, they now look forward to the visit of Chelmsford in two weeks time who sit one place above them. That fixture is shaping up to be a crucial encounter for both clubs.