Match Reports
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SAT 21 MARCH 2026
Sudbury
31 - 41
Southend
Back to Back
Following Sudbury’s last fine lunch of the year supporters gathered on the terrace as the teams finished their warm up and left the pitch. A flock of seagulls arrived and settled at Southend’s end, a Sudbury supporter was heard to say “blimey they’ve bought their own seagulls”. Was it an omen for what was to follow?
First Half
The Saxons kicked off into a very stiff breeze, Sudbury in possession mounted a determined attack but Southend managed to keep them at bay with some stalwart defence that resulted in them getting the ball and mounting attacks of their own but each time they looked to be on the verge of scoring a loose pass or a knock on denied them.
Finally, a well won line out in Sudbury’s half resulted in a fine try from captain John Kenward. The conversion attempt sailed wide on the strong wind but The Saxons moved into the lead at 0 – 5.
Soon after Sudbury opened their own account after the ball sailed perfectly into the hands of one of their quick backs who broke through and ran almost the length of the field to touch down under the posts. The conversion took them into the lead for the first time at 7 – 5. A few minutes later they were at it again with another try under the posts 14 – 5, after thirty three minutes.
Three more try’s followed in quick succession, with both sides playing running attractive rugby. The first from Southend’s second row Will Brand, converted by Tom Moran, 14 – 12. The next from Sudbury after a penalty kick gave them a line out five meter’s out, five phases later saw another touch down under the posts. The conversion moved them further ahead again at 21 – 12.
Southend where not finished yet though and scored their third try following a knock on from Sudbury ten meters out in their own half. They controlled the resulting scrum until Matt Wagstaff picked the ball up at the back and ran bundling his way forward twenty meters before offloading to supporting players. The ball ended up in the hands of winger John Denny who sped forward and touched down, Again the conversion attempt blew sideways in the wind. 21 – 17. A score Southend were pleased with at half time considering the conditions.
Second Half
Sudbury kicked off into the wind and the ball curled backward straight into the hands of their right wing who took off at the speed of light. A number of passing interchanges and then their 4th and bonus point try of the afternoon. But like Southend in the first half the conversion attempt sailed wide in a strong gust. 26 – 17. They added to that, almost straight away with another race down the line out pacing the Southend defenders but again the conversion missed by some margin but similar to Letchworth last week they moved into what looked an unassailable lead at 31 – 17 point lead.
But like last weekend the Saxons were not finished, Ben Lloyd came on for the first time since his injury some months ago He went to his normal position at fly half and Tom Moran moved to full back. Attacking ball to hand rugby building phase after phase took Southend into menacing positions until their no.11 Joe Denny sped over for a spectacular try and Southend’s 4th. With the wind in Morans favour it was converted to take them back to a strikable distance at 31 – 24 only two scores behind.
Soon after Matt Wagstaff scored another of his marauding try’s when he touched down allowing Morans conversion to tie the score at 31 – 31 each.
Sudbury suffered another disappointment when one of their players was yellow carded and penalised reducing them to fourteen men for 10 minutes. From the kick and subsequent line out Southend mauled and rucked their way nearer and nearer the Sudbury try line. They then released Tom Day who went over close to the post. The conversion took Southend into the lead for the second time at 31 – 38.
A few minutes before full time they were awarded another penalty which was kicked to touch on the halfway line. The line out resulted in a maul that they dominated, gaining 30 meters causing Sudbury to commit another penalty close enough for kick and another three points 31 – 41 which they defended until the full time whistle blew.
Another very fine second half display with notable contributions from the players who have recently moved into the team from The Priors and The Academy. This result takes Southend back into 4th in the division and looking forward to the last game of the season, at home to Amersham & Chiltern on Saturday 11th April. A must win game for them, battling it out at the tail end of the division.
AG
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SAT 21 MARCH 2026
Southend
34 - 31
Letchworth
Matt Wagstaff going over for the winning try
‘All for one, won for all’
Southend ladies organised their annual charity lunch prior to this game and the Saxons responded with one of their best displays of the season. It was a first for the team having not beaten Letchworth before although the results were often close.
FIRST HALF
A bright sunny spring day greeted the teams on firm flat pitch and it was not long before Letchworth scored their first try of the day after a quickly taken penalty released a player to run through and touch down close to the post. The conversion took the score to an early 0 – 7.
The play then flowed back and forth mainly at the Saxons end of the pitch so it was a nice surprise when they finally moved the ball up field to score a neat try of their own, courtesy of outside centre George Griffiths. Tom Ramsey obliged with the conversion. 7 – 7 after fifteen minutes.
With the play from both sides proving entertaining for the spectators the Letchworth supporters were delighted when one of their players broke through a couple of despairing tackles and ran thirty yards before off loading for a team mate to run through and touch down. The successful conversion moved them back in front at 7 – 14. A successful penalty kick from Ramsey narrowed the gap to 10 - 14
After 33 minutes the score moved again in, this time in Southend’s favour after Captain Kenward collected a high kick and touched down wide out. No conversion but they moved into the lead for the first time at 15 – 14. But two minutes later Letchworth took it back again following a poor pass from Southend resulting in their 3rd try and conversion of the game 15 – 21 where it stayed until half time.
SECOND HALF
The half started in much the same manner as the first half with Letchworth scoring their 4th and bonus point try following a good run down the wing. The conversion sailed over taking a two score lead to 15 – 26 only two minutes after the half kicked off.
A few minutes later it widened even further after play was bought back when a Southend clearance kick went straight out. Letchworth scored their 5th try from the lineout and moved into what looked to be an assailable lead at 15 – 31.
But like last week the Saxons were not finished scoring three try’s, two from Matt Wagstaff and one from Tom Moran, plus two conversions without reply. After a period of good possession and passing the score moved to 20 – 31.
What followed was one of the best fifteen minutes of rugby their supporters had seen all season, playing attack after attack creating great space and energy. Letchworth could not hold out and conceded two try’s in quick concession both were converted resulting in 34 – 31 bonus point win much to the delight of all Southend members.
This result took them back to 5th in the table three points clear of Sudbury who they play away next week. A.G.
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SAT 14 MARCH 2026
North Walsham
40 - 33
Southend
A great comeback after being 33 - 0 down earns The Saxons two bonus points and makes certain they avoid the relegation zone. Next week Letchworth at home.
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SAT 28 FEB 2026
Southend
14 - 50
Huel Tring
Following a splendid lunch, that included members of the first team from the year 2000 (when Southend gained promotion from London League Division 3), The Saxons took to the field against 3rd placed Tring who were 10 points ahead in the league at the start of play.
First Half
The Saxons team included Matt Wagstaff in his150th appearance. They took to the field determined to win their first home game of 2026.
Despite conceding a converted try very early in the game they responded immediately with a well-crafted try of their own from centre George Griffiths converted by, back from injury, fly half Tom Ramsey. 7 – 7.
Play continued for the next twenty minutes with Southend competing well and having much of the possession within Tring’s half of the field. Southend eventually were awarded one of their few penalties of the game, about thirty meters out and decided to go for the posts. Unfortunately, the ball sailed just wide and the score remained at 7 – 7.
Shortly after Griffiths suffered an injury and was replaced by Josh Groom. With about ten minutes of the half remaining number 8 Matt Wagstaff was penalised and yellow carded, one of the few times in his career. It was to prove a game changing moment as Tring took full advantage and scored two try’s in the last ten minutes of the half. Converting one but not the other 7 – 19.
Second Half
Within minutes of the restart Tring scored their fourth and bonus point try quickly followed by another spectacular one that started in their own twenty two. Both were converted taking them into unassailable twenty six point lead at 7 – 33.
Southend’s only hope of getting something from the game. They needed another three try’s for one bonus point. It was not to be as they suffered yet another yellow card, this time to replacement Groom who was defending following a thirty meter dash by one of Tring’s props.
Not long after, another attacking move was thwarted near the Southend try line by none other than winger Tom Day. The referee decided on awarding a penalty try and yet another yellow card to Day reducing The Saxons to just thirteen men. 7 – 40.
Tring added another when their winger ran half the length of the field virtually unopposed. The conversion attempt sailed wide but the score moved to 7 – 45.
Toward the end of the game Southend did manage another try of their own when Taine Mason touched down. Tom Ramsey’s conversion took the score to 14 – 45. Tring added yet another unconverted one of their own just before full time. Leaving the final score at a disappointing 14 – 50.
The Saxons did their best against a good Tring side but ultimately were punished by a heavy penalty count against and the three yellow cards. This seems to be becoming a feature in many of their matches this season and questions why?
Despite the result they remain in fourth place in the table but now 15 points behind Tring and only 2 points in front of next weeks opponents, away at North Walsham and Sudbury who they play away on the 28th March.
Two home games remain, 21st March v Letchworth who lay second 33 points ahead and Amersham on the 11th April who are bottom of the league and will be fighting to avoid relegation.
A.G.
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SAT 14 FEB 2026
Southend
38 - 41
Hertford
Southend welcomed old friends and foes Hertford to Warner’s Park for this Regional 1 South East fixture. Hertford were feeling buoyant following their home win against Shelford last week, whilst the Saxons were trying to gain their first home win of 2026.
First Half.
The afternoon was sunny and bright with little wind and the spectators were looking forward to a good contest and that is what they got straight from the kick off. An early scrum well controlled by Southend resulted in the ball being passed quickly and neatly across the field into the hands of scrum half Jayvan Scarff who avoided a couple of despairing tackles and touched down, Sexton kicked the conversion for the Saxons to take a very early lead 7 – 0.
This was almost immediately followed by another try for Southend, this one from full back Taine Mason who gathered the ball and raced to the line after a neat cross field kick from fly half Jac Sexton who also added the conversion 14 – 0.
But on the fifth minute of the game Southend supporters early delight was tempered as scrum half Scarff was yellow carded for a deliberate knock on and Hertford responded with some attacking rugby of their own resulting in their first try and conversion of the game with only ten minutes gone, 14 – 7. That was quickly followed by another try after Southend conceded a penalty for not releasing twenty meters out. The conversion sailed wide but they had narrowed the gap to 14 – 12.
Scarff returned to the field and the game flowed back and fourth for the next fifteen minutes of attacking and counter attacking rugby from both sides until a turnover close to the Saxons line saw Hertford rumble over for their third try. The conversion took the score to 14 – 19. Six minutes later they added to that with their bonus point try and conversion after poor defence from Southend 14 – 26.
Southend responded well straight from the restart after winning the ball and trying to maul their way over the Hertford line. Their defence was penalised resulting in a yellow card and a penalty try for Southend, 21 – 26. On the stroke of half time Southend were deemed offside in front of their post and Hertford accepted the opportunity of taking extending their lead and kicked the penalty. 21 – 29.
Second Half.
The Saxons came straight out of the changing room and like the first half, attacked from the start. They were quickly rewarded, scoring the fourth and bonus point try under the posts, 28 – 29. They looked to have scored another soon after having turned the ball over but the ball was deemed held up. The many Hertford supporters sighed a huge sigh of relief. Only for a minute as the referee had awarded a penalty to Southend following a forward pass from Hertford prior to the turnover. This time they were not to be denied as they mauled over the line to take the lead again. The conversion attempt failed from wide out. 33 – 29.
After fifty three minutes Harry Branch came on for outside centre Josh Groom. This necessitated a shuffling of positions as he moved to scrum half. Five minutes later he kicked the ball high over the top for winger George Griffiths to collect and run in wide out. Again, the conversion attempt was unsuccessful but the score moved to a two score lead for Southend, 38 – 29.
A voice in the crowd called out “It’s champagne rugby” another replied “Well, I wouldn’t go that far, Prosecco maybe”
Again, the game flowed back and fourth, with both sides putting their all in. Then Southend suffered another yellow card to flanker Steve Walker who was sent to the bin for the remainder of the match. Hertford mauled over from the penalty. The conversion missed but they were now within touching distance at 38 – 34.
It was to prove decisive at that stage of the match as the highly effective Hertford lineouts gave them an advantage that Southend were unable to handle. With five minutes to go another successful Hertford line out gave them time and space to kick over the top for one of their players to run onto and touch down under the posts. The conversion sailed over leaving the final score at 38 – 41 and the Hertford supporters delirious with delight.
An entertaining game of rugby which could have gone either way. Southend stay in in 4th place in the league whilst Hertford move nearer to safety at 9th.
The next game for The Saxons see them travel to 10th placed Old Northamptonians on the 14th February.
A G
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SAT 17 JAN 2026
Southend
10 - 26
Colchester
Nothing to Show
League leaders Colchester turned up at Warners Park sporting four on loan players from the Championship, National 1 and National 2. Southend included two players who have recently graduated from their Academy, Will Brand on debut and Osa Obasuyi who debuted at the beginning of the season.
First Half.
There was a minutes silence remembering Ken Fosbery who recently passed away.
Having not lost at home all season the Saxons were determined to make a game of it and nearly scored in the first minute but were penalised just short of the Colchester line. Not deterred shortly after a smart kick into space resulted in back row Matt Wagstaff racing onto the ball and touching down wide out. The difficult conversion attempt sailed wide but Southend took an early 5 – 0 lead.
Sad to say that was their only score of the half as Colchester dominated the next thirty five minutes with nearly all the rugby being played in the Southend half. When they did get possession they lost it quickly as a result of turn overs at lineouts and breakdowns, knock-ons and missed passes. However good defence limited Colchester to only three try’s and two conversions keeping the score to a recoverable 5 – 19 at half time.
Second Half.
Southend made a couple of changes including bringing Harry Branch off the bench to take up his usual role at scrum half. Within four minutes Colchester extended their lead by another seven points after winning the ball some 30 meters out and touching down under the post taking the score to 5 – 26. But that was that for them as Southend took charge of the game for the rest of the half playing the majority of the rugby in at Colchester’s end of the field. They added a try from Harry Branch, again wide out resulting in only adding five points 10 – 26.
Southend supporters were in full voice in what looked likely to be a remarkable recovery but it was not to be as attack after attack came to nothing partly due to a very reliant Colchester defence and last minute mistakes.
Colchester deserved their win but Southend are disappointed not to take any points from the game. They remain in 4th place in the league and look forward to welcoming Hertford on the 31st of January, who lay in 11th place after a good win against Sudbury this weekend.
A G
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SAT 10 JAN 2026
Westcliff
Southend
4 – 2
Following a lunch for two hundred and ten supporters of both teams for this local derby Westcliff president Bob Smith remaindered every one that after five previous league encounters Westcliff lead 3 – 2 and that he was hoping that could increase it to 4 – 2 and so it proved.
First Half
The game started in front of four to five hundred spectators on a calm sunny, if cold day, on a good pitch and flowed back and forth until Southend were awarded a penalty about thirty meters out. Jac Sexton, Saxons fly half, took the opportunity to kick the points putting Southend in front 0 – 3 after ten minutes.
Soon after back row and Captain Stew Whatling came off injured to be replaced by Osa Abasuyi. There was then15 minutes of play mainly in the Saxons half. A combination of good defence and Westcliff knock on’s denied them a score which was eventually punished when Southend broke away and sped down the pitch for Jack Buckley to touch down close to the posts. Another successful kick from Sexton extended their lead 0 – 10.
Despite being on the back foot for much of the half they held out until hooker John Kenward was yellow carded ten minutes before half time for what the referee saw as a dump tackle. Osa was replaced by Sid Noad to make up the front row and they held Westcliff for the next eight minutes until their scrum was overwhelmed and Westcliff mauled over for their first try of the game. The conversion narrowed the score to 7 – 10.
Almost immediately Southend counter attacked passing the ball from hand to hand until one of their players looked to have been tackled before the ball reached him, as a result it was intercepted by a Westcliff player who broke away resulting in another try and conversion taking them into the lead for the first time at the break of half time.14- 10
Second Half
It started with Southend back to fifteen players and a couple of replacements but it was to no avail as Westcliff dominated the half resulting in another try and a penalty. Southend did manage another unconverted try from John Kenward but the best team on the day won 24 – 15.
Southend retain fourth place in the league with Westcliff in eighth. League leaders Colchester travel to Warners Park next week so another tough game awaits.
A G
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SAT 20 DEC 2025
Southend
Medway
ANOTHER HOME WIN
Medway RFC came to Warners Park for the first time and as is the custom were presented with a Southend shield by President David Ridler. The fine Xmas lunch finished with the traditional Christmas song, Twelve Days of Christmas, belted out with gusto by the hundred and thirty diners, ably conducted by Nathan Strange.
First Half
The teams took to the field in bright sunshine. Club captain Ben Lloyd broke his ankle last week at Shelford and was replaced at fly half by Jac Sexton with Stuart Whatling taking over the captaincy.
Having not been beaten at home this season Southend supporters were in an expectant mood and it was not long before the Saxons added to that with a successful penalty kick taking them into an early 3 – 0 lead. Shortly after they added another seven points following a Harry Branch delicate kick into space for winger Tom Day to add to his impressive try tally this season. 10 – 0.
With only twenty three minutes gone fly half Jac Sexton added a further three points following a scrum penalty for the Saxons. 13 – 0. Four minutes later they were awarded another penalty after Medway players crossed during a rare attack. The kick for touch took Southend to twenty meters out. A successful line out to the middle of the line followed by some neat passing across the field saw second row Stuart Whatling touch down for the Saxons second try of the game. Jac Sexton continued with his fine kicking of the day and converted from wide out. 20 – 0.
Medway suffered yet more disappointment when one of their players was yellow carded for a deliberate knock on thwarting yet another Saxons attack just before half time.
Second Half
If the crowd were expecting Southend to continue as they had in the first half, they were sadly mistaken because the second half belonged to Medway taxing the Saxons defence for the rest of the game. They were rewarded after fifty seven minutes when they scored their first try and conversion of the game with most of the rugby being played in the Saxons half. 20 – 7.
They scored another shortly after when Southend were denied what looked to be a penalty try after one of their players looked to have been tackled off the ball as he was running through chasing a kick. Shelford took immediate advantage charging up the field unchallenged to score their second try. The conversion attempt sailed wide but they were now within touching distance at 20 – 12.
Southend were able to restore a more comfortable lead when one of their rare visits to the Medway half resulted in their third try and conversion 27 – 12. Medway managed one more unconverted try before the game ended taking the final score to 27 – 17.
This result keeps the Saxons in 3rd place in the league with their next game three weeks away, January 10th, a local derby against Westcliff lying 8th having only lost 33 – 16 away to league leaders Colchester this weekend.
The next two games are at home to Colchester on the 17th January and then on the 31st at home to Hertford. The next away game for Southend isn’t until February 14th against Old Northamptonians.
AG
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SAT 6 DEC 2025
Shelford
Southend
THROWN AWAY.
Southend Saxons travelled to Shelford for the return after winning at home in September 48 - 24.
It was perfect day for rugby to be played on their artificial grass pitch (astro turf) a low maintenance all year round surface. There are only two teams in this league that have them, Colchester is the other.
First Half
Southend Saxon’s lost the toss and kicked off into a slight breeze and a low setting sun. Despite that they took an early lead from a penalty kick from Captain Ben Lloyd in front of the posts. 0 - 3
Straight from the re-start Shelford were deemed offside resulting in a Saxons line-out and a minute or two later scored their first try of the game when scrum half Javan Scarff touched after some neat passing across the field. The conversion attempt sailed wide but Southend moved into an early 0 – 8 lead.
But then disaster struck when Saxons no 8 Matt Wagstaff left the field injured after falling awkwardly on the astro surface. He was replaced by B J Tundle. The referee had decided on a penalty against Southend which Shelford kicked into the corner won the line-out and sped over for their first try of the game, the conversion bought them to only one point behind at 7 – 8.
Southend replied soon afterwards with another determined foray into the Shelford half spinning the ball back and forth across the field until it arrived in winger Tom Days hands who touched down wide out. The conversion attempt missed but Southend had extended the lead again to 7 – 13.
An immediate penalty against Southend saw a Shelford line-out deep into the Southend half, which they won resulting in a try under the post and seven points taking them into the lead for the first time at 14 – 13.
But the disaster struck again when Captain Lloyd, twisted and broke his ankle and was taken from the field. Like the game at Colchester Southend had lost two of their most influential players within twelve minutes of kick off. It resulted in a complete re-shuffle with Jac Sexton moving to fly half, Harry Branch coming on at scrum half and moving Scarff to full back.
Things got worse for Southend shortly after. An attacking pass ten meters short of the Shelford try line was intercepted by a Shelford player who ran the length of the field unopposed and touched down under the posts again for a further seven points, 21 – 13.
It looked even bleaker for Southend when a long kick over the top bounced it’s way toward their try line. The race was easily being won by a Saxon back but as the ball looked to be going over the line for him to touch down but it bounced sideways against one of the uprights and ended up in the hands of one of the Shelford chasers for their fourth and bonus point try after only twenty minutes of play. 28 – 13.
Southend began to ship penalties including a ten metre march forward for back chat. It eventually resulted in Harry Branch being yellow carded following desperate defence close to their try line. Shelford took their chance and added a further three points. 31 – 13 and the whistle blew for half time.
Second Half
Southend came out and started where they meant to continue even with only fourteen men. Straight away they attacked getting the ball to prop Tom Reeman who, supported by the rest of the pack, drove forward resulting in another try for Southend. The conversion narrowed the score to 31 – 20.
The Saxon forwards were completely dominant by this time and the many Southend supporters who had travelled to watch began to believe this game was for the winning. Branch came back on and the forwards were awarded a scrum penalty. But the kick just missed and score remained the same.
It looked as though the Saxon’s next storming of the line would result in a score but the final pass was knocked on. It was nearly all Southend now with most of the rugby taking place in the Shelford half. Another scrum penalty to Southend which they decided to take the points despite being so dominant. 31 – 23 still eight points behind.
Another scrum to Southend resulted in a push over for their fourth bonus point try with only one further score to take the lead 31 – 30 and all to play for.
The referee then awarded a penalty for a high tackle against Southend and against the run of play Shelford kicked the ball forward which was not cleanly collected allowing one of them to run forward and score. The conversion missed but they moved six points clear at 36 – 30.
Undaunted Southend continued to dominate mounting attack after attack and forcing penalties at scrum time and breakdown. It all went wrong as chances went begging, all in very similar fashion. Three consecutive penalties followed close to the Shelford try line but instead of electing tap and go or choosing a scrum they decided to kick to the corner and take the line out. All three were thrown to the back and not collected. All fell into the hands of a Shelford player who relieved the pressure. The last one was in the final seconds of the game which finished a disappointing 36 – 30.
The two bonus points Southend came away with kept them in 3rd place in the league with 43 points but now 9 points behind Letchworth.
Next week the Saxons play host to Medway who they beat 36 - 13 away back in September.
AG
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SAT 6 DEC 2025
Southend
53 - 20
Sudbury
A Game of Two Halves
Having had little success against Sudbury at home over the past few years Southend Saxons were expecting a tough afternoon of division one South East rugby. One that players and supporters were looking forward to.
First Half.
Following a minutes silence for the passing of John Branch the players and officials took to the field. As has become almost obligatory Southend conceded two try’s and several penalties in the first fifteen minutes to go ten points behind but then knuckled down and fought back.
After spending some time in the Sudbury half and winning phase after phase Captain Lloyd chipped the ball neatly forward for a back to touch down. No conversion meant that the score moved to 5 – 10.
Shortly after the ball was gathered by Matt Wagstaff following a steal at line out by no 6 Mason Nichols and in his indomitable style, he tucked it tight and charged through and touched down leaving Sudbury defenders in his wake. Again, no conversion 10 – 10
Play flowed back and forth for the next ten minutes, eventually Sudbury were penalised thirty meters out. Lloyd successful kick sailed between the posts for the Saxons to take the lead for the first time 13 – 10.
Sudbury responded well mounting attack after attack and forcing Southend into conceding more penalties until they won their line out just outside the Saxons try line and mauled over for their third try of the afternoon Again the conversion attempt missed, 13 – 15 which is where it stayed until half time.
Second Half
The Saxons made a number of changes this half bringing on Tom Reeman at prop, moving Jayvan Scarff from full back to scrum half and Jac Sexton to full back. Second row BJ Tundle also made a welcome return after injury
A fantastic forty minutes of rugby from Southend, delighted their supporters. Completely dominant forward play, backed up by some great support from the backs, running good lines resulted in the try of the game.
The ball coming quickly out of a scum, then passed quickly across the field resulting in a long pass to Tom Day, it looked to be sailing above his head but he jumped high, flicked it back infield with his fingers into the hands of a supporting Saxon who went over and touched down.
Five try’s from Southend in the half, all but one converted, resulted in a 53 – 20 win. Sudbury went home with a bonus point after scoring their fourth try late in the game.
The win keeps Southend in third place in the league on 41 points. They travel to Shelford next week who lay ninth. Man of the Match Josh Groom.
A special mention to under 15’s girls side who provided the ball girls for the game and what a good job they did.
AG
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SAT 29 NOV 2025
Letchworth Garden City
33 - 17
Southend Saxons
What Might Have Been
1st Half
This was an important top of the table game for Southend Saxons only one point behind in third. It started poorly as Letchworth forced seven penalties out of them in the first twelve minutes scoring two converted try’s in the process.
The first following a penalty then a knock on by Southend and a quick exchange of passes across the field for their winger to touch down in the corner and the second from a quick tap and go from a penalty just in front of the Saxons posts. 14 – 0
As usual though Southend kept at it and mounted a series of determined attacks only to see them come to nothing following a series of dropped and forward passes, knock ons and lost line outs. Another series of good phases saw what looked a try as they mauled over the line, only for the referee to spot a knock on and award a scrum to Letchworth.
A few minutes later a hard tackle in midfield saw Southend fly half Ben Lloyd, with the ball. Spotting a large gap in the Letchworth defences he kicked it over the top for a Saxon to run onto. With no defence in place it looked an easy chance for Southend to score their first try of the game. However it all came to nothing as the referee blew up for a Letchworth player still on the ground following the tackle. A pity for Southend as the player quickly got to his feet and jogged back.
Justice was served soon after though as Southend won a scrum just outside the Letchworth 20 meter line spun the ball across the field for an outside player to score the Saxons first try of the afternoon, a successful conversion from Lloyd and the score moved to 14 – 7 with seven minutes left of the half.
This was possibly when Southend lost the opportunity to take something from the game. They were awarded a penalty twenty five meters out in front of the post but decided not to kick it and went for the corner instead. A long throw to the back of the line-out missed the Saxon jumpers and fell into the hands of a Letchworth player who burst though and ran the length of the field to touch down under the post, the conversion took Letchworth into half time at a commanding 21 – 7 lead.
2nd Half
It was not long before Letchworth extended the lead further with their fourth and bonus point try after a good long kick into Southend’s half of the field. The conversion took them to 28 – 7.
Southend continued to try and take the game to Letchworth but were finding it difficult as their forwards began to dominate and control both scrums and mauls forcing more and more penalties. Southend defended bravely and resolutely and were rewarded when their number 8, Matt Wagstaff, forced his way up field brushing aside the defenders before him, he eventually passed it outside to the supporting scrum half Harry Branch who made a few more yards before passing it outside to winger Tom Day to score their second try. The conversion attempt failed but the score narrowed to 28 – 12.
They narrowed it still further with their third try from one of their centres. It was not converted but moved them to 28 – 17. With only about 6 minutes to go Letchworth scored another unconverted try to take the final score to 33 – 17.
Southend returned home with nothing to show from this outing and host Sudbury next Saturday who only lost by 1 point at home to leaders Colchester 11 – 12.
AG
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SAT 22 NOV 2025
Southend Saxons
40 - 24
North Walsham
Wet and Windy Win
1st Half
Following a lunch attended by many of our late friend Peter Thomas city colleagues and chums from Lloyds of London and the City, Southend welcomed North Walsham to Warner’s Bridge for this important game. Games between the two have always proved very competitive and so it proved as play swept back and forth for eighty minutes.
The Saxons struck first after being awarded a penalty in front of the Vikings posts. Captain Ben Lloyd took advantage and the ball sailed over the uprights for the Saxons to take an early lead at 3 – 0. They extended it soon after as new signing full back Jayvan Scarff dived over in the corner following a neat exchange of passes across the field. The difficult conversion attempt sailed wide but the score moved to 8 – 0 in Southend’s favour.
It was not to last long though as Walsham’s forwards started to prove dominant at scrum and maul time. They were rewarded with a penalty after ten minutes and decided to take the kick which sailed over to reduce the lead 8 – 3.
With their tails up the Vikings continued to play the ball through their forwards. Southend defences started to creak and conceded several penalties before finally Walsham scored their first try after mauling over the line. The conversion took them into the lead at 8 - 10. As a result of the number of penalties that Southend had conceded leading up to the try their scrum half Harry Branch was yellow carded and one of the props replaced through injury.
Saxons supporters were delighted with the way the team responded as their fourteen men took the game back to Walsham spending much of the next ten minutes in their half forcing them into conceding penalties of their own. One of which resulted in Ben Lloyd kicking another three points from about 35 meters. 11 – 10 where it stayed until half time.
2nd Half
Virtually straight from the re-start The Saxons won another penalty. Lloyd kicked to the corner the forwards won the line out and pushed their way over for their second try, the successful conversion took the score to 18 – 10.
With all guns blazing now The Saxons continued to have their opponents on the back foot and forced a knock on. Another try and conversion followed from the scrum taking the game further away from The Vikings 25 – 10.
Yet another followed, a kick over the top from a Saxon in his own half resulted in a race for the ball as it bounced toward the Walsham try line. The race was won by Saxon Tom Day, with help from a kind bounce he collected the ball and dived over for Southend’s fourth and bonus point try. The good conversion from Lloyd put the game out of reach for the Vikings at 32 – 10. Another unconverted try after a Walsham yellow card took it even further away at 37 – 10.
They did not give up though and scored two more converted try’s of their own 37 – 24 before The Saxons added another three points from a penalty finishing the game as 40 – 24 winners.
This result kept them in third place on 36 points, one behind second placed Letchworth who they travel to next week. Colchester remain top on 44 points after beating Letchworth at home 28 – 24.
AG
Match report bought to you by
SAT 8 NOV 2025
Huel Tring
41 - 24
Southend Saxons
Best team won
Tring were coming into this game after a heavy defeat by Colchester and were naturally anxious to recover quickly from that reversal – Southend were keen to make it 2 wins on the trot especially with Tom Rieman back on the bench after his long absence through injury and hoping to achieve 100 appearances for the Saxons today.
1st Half
Tring started strongly especially through their strong running centres and within 3 minutes the ball had been quickly moved to their left winger who scored in the corner –the conversion was missed. After 12 minutes Tring collected a kick from Southend near the Tring line and their fullback ran through some ragged tackling to the Southend line and although he did not quite score himself he set up a supporting player who scored under the posts – the conversion was successful. Within 2 minutes Tring’s forwards drove back into Southend’s half and ably supported by their threes they scored under the posts with an easy conversion to follow – Tring now 19-0 to the good.
Southend came back into the match with good forward drives and support from the backs and after 22 minutes the ball was quickly moved to the left wing through Tom Day to George Griffiths who scored in the corner. Ben Lloyd kicked an excellent conversion. Tring then had a strong spell and their forwards began to disrupt and steal ball from Southend ‘s own lineout throws. In addition Southend were also losing their own ball in the scrum.
Tom Reiman entered the fray after 36 minutes in an endeavour to stem the tide upfront. Unfortunately the Tring pack achieved a turnover which resulted in a successful penalty kick.
Southend came back and obtained a penalty which Ben Lloyd successfully kicked.
Half time –22-10 in favour of Tring – Tring had played down the slope and had used this advantage extremely well.
2nd Half
Southend with the advantage of the slope started well and Steve Walker scored a converted try but Tring scored a converted try and added a successful penalty to ease ahead 32-17.
Southend came back with a Tate Holliday try which was converted and Southend were within reach at 24-32. Unfortunately Tom Day sustained a nasty cut over his eye and could not continue.
Tring were now taking the game away from Southend in the pack and were pushing them back at every opportunity which resulted in 3 successful penalties to put the game out of the reach of Southend.
DR
Match report bought to you by
SAT 25 OCT 2025
Southend Saxons
36 - 27
Old Northamptonians
Bits and Pieces.
1st Half
The game began and the heavens opened with a torrential rain shower that sent the spectators scurrying for cover as Old N’s scored their first try after a couple of minutes. A pickup from a dropped pass, a kick over the top, two or three kind bounces and a race for the line won by an Old N player who touched down under the posts. The easy conversion took them into lead at 0 – 7.
Saxons supporters sighed but by now have become used to giving opponents early encouragement. The players responded well though and took the game to Old N’s scoring a great try of their own within four minutes. Having collected the ball in their own half they ran quickly forward, inter-passing and avoiding tackles, culminating in a dummy pass outside but delivering the ball to Saxon 13, Josh Groom, who ran inside and touched down under the Old N’s posts, the conversion levelled the score to 7 – 7.
It was not long before Old N’s regained the lead with another try from their winger in the far corner. The difficult conversion attempt sailed wide but they regained the lead 12 – 7.
Southend began to dominate and were rewarded after winning a line out deep in Old N’s half and mauling it over the line despite the desperate defending. The conversion moved them into the lead for the first time at 14 – 12. They continued to dominate for the next ten minutes and looked like adding to their score but were frustrated as the ball was regularly spilled, knocked on or passed forward. However, after being awarded a penalty, the kick gave them a lineout just short of Old N’s try line who were unable to resist the resulting maul that took The Saxons over the line for their third try. The attempted conversion from wide out missed but the score moved to 19 – 12.
Old N’s were able to narrow the score to 19 – 15 following a successful penalty kick of their own but were unable to improve on it before half time.
2nd Half.
But improve on it they did early in the half as their replacement 22 scored a nice try in the corner following a mazy run. No conversion but they regained the lead at 19 – 20. It didn’t last long though as Southend were awarded two quick penalties and finding themselves in the same situation as their previous try they mauled over again for their fourth and bonus point try. A good conversion from Captain Ben Lloyd meant they regained the lead at 26 – 20.
Not long after they added to that following another fine try from Tom Day who gleefully ran forward and dived over for another try after a good build up from his fellow Saxons. The conversion took the score to 33 -20.
Saxon prop Harry Phelps- Knight had to leave the field with an arm injury and it was not long before continued Old N attacks were desperately being kept at bay by the Saxons who were warned after conceding a couple of defensive errors. Old N’s eventually prevailed though and went over for their fourth try of the afternoon and a bonus point. 33 – 27.
Despite their best efforts they were unable to breach The Saxons defence again and were to return home with the one bonus point. Southend retained their 3rd position in the league with 31 points and travel away to Huel Tring on the 8th November.
AG
Match report bought to you by
SAT 18 OCT 2025
Hertford
29 - 46
Southend Saxons
Both teams were entering this game with some trepidation having both suffered heavy defeats the previous week and were anxious to come back this week with a strong performance.
1st Half
Ground conditions were good underfoot and the weather was dry with very little wind —
ideal for a good competitive game.
Hertford started strongly for the first 6 minutes and were prepared to take the game to
Southend especially in their threequarters. Southend weathered this start and came back
vigorously through their forwards in the next 10 minutes with excellent driving and rucking
and backed up with their threequarters. Southend were kept at bay by good Hertford tackling. Both teams’ lineouts worked well and secured their own ball to feed their backs and the match was evenly balanced at that stage. Hertford ran strongly in their threes and after concerted pressure scored a try under the post which was converted. Hertford 7-0 up.
Hertford continued strongly through their forwards but Southend then recovered, drove to the line through their pack and the ball was then released to their left wing Jack Sexton who scored in the corner. The conversion was unsuccessful. Hertford drove back from the kick off and Southend conceded a penalty which was successful. 10 - 5
Hertford continued strongly and 7 minutes before half time they scored a further try which was not converted. For the next few minutes Southend came back into the game and three drives from the pack unfortunately failed to produce a try. Hertford then opened up near their own line and released the ball to their speedy left winger on the half way line and he scored an excellent try under the posts with an easy conversion to follow. Hertford were now in the ascendancy leading 22-5. However, Southend rallied and had a spell with strong driving and mauling by the pack in which John Kennard was prominent before Jack Buckley scored under the posts – the conversion was successful and Hertford went in at half time leading 22-12. Southend clearly had to regroup and ponder their options for the second half.
2nd Half
Southend came out from a strong team talk at half time to take the game to Hertford and Southend dominated possession and territory for the next 10 minutes before Tom Day scored a try in the corner which was not converted – Hertford now led 22-17.
Southend continued strongly upfront but unfortunately John Kennard went off injured after 12 minutes of the second half.
After 52 minutes Harry Branch scored a try under the posts which was successfully converted and Southend eased into the lead for the first time 22-24.
After 60 minutes Jack Buckley scored his second try for Southend. The conversion was unsuccessful. Hertford then came back into the game and after a passage of 3 minutes they scored a good try under the post which was converted. The game was on equal footing at 29 points each – clearly the game was now crucially in the balance.
Southend then took the game away from Hertford with strong play and kept the pressure in Hertford territory for the remainder of the game. On 75 minutes Jack Sexton scored another try which was converted. Then a Ben Lloyd penalty followed which pushed Southend ahead 39-29 with three minutes left of play. Southend then scored another try under the posts which was successfully converted and ran out winners by 46 points to 29 after a strong second half performance and a deserved victory.
Southend could perhaps have scored two or three more tries especially during spells when their pack was dominant. However, five bonus points were achieved including seven tries. An excellent second half performance took the game away from Hertford and the Southend team showed a fighting spirit and dominated the second half. This was a good recovery from the poor performance the previous week.
Southend’s next game is at home to Old Northamptonians and Southend will hope to continue their strong recovery.
DSR
Match report bought to you by
SAT 11 OCT 2025
Colchester
99 - 28
Southend Saxons
Try, Try and Try Again
1st Half
But not for the Saxons. A warm windless day being played on 2nd placed Colchester astro turf pitch, an unfamiliar surface for league leaders Southend. However, after only one minute of play they stormed over the Colchester try line and touched down. The successful conversion took them into a very early and unexpected lead at 0 – 7.
Within two minutes Colchester replied with a converted try of their own when they raced forward dodging and breaking attempted tackles from the Saxons defence. 7 – 7.
An early knee injury to Saxon inside centre Manni Mazuzu saw him supported off the field to be replaced by Nick Horton
It was to be the first of 10 unprecedented try’s for Colchester in the first half. They scored almost every time they possessed the ball, either from kicks or turnovers. The Saxons defence could not cope with the agility, dexterity and speed of the Colchester players. They did manage one more try of their own after making touch with a penalty kick just short of the Colchester try line, they won the line out, mauled forward and exchanged a couple of quick passes. The touchdown and conversion took the score to 45 – 14 after 28 minutes.
The first half finished after Colchester added another three try’s all very similar to the seven previous ones taking the score to 68 – 14.
2nd Half.
With the game lost Southend only hope of taking something from the game was to score two more try’s of their own. It was made even more difficult to achieve after our winger Tom Ramsey was taken off the field with what looked like a serious injury to his knee as well.
Colchester scored their eleventh try straight from the restart and another four, one of which was from their number 8 who collected the ball in his own half, evaded and broke through a couple of tackles, then out paced the Southend backs to touch down.
So, with 10 minutes to go the score stood at 99 – 14 to Colchester and looking as though Southend would return home with nothing to show, which for many would be a humiliating defeat. But just after Colchester took their score to 99 the Tannoy announcer’s voice rang out over the ground ‘I’m not sure what we can do about this but our score board does not go above one hundred, we’ll just have to keep counting’
Whether this was what galvanised the Saxons will never be known but they suddenly upped their game and spent those last ten minutes in Colchester’s half and scoring the two more try’s they needed to take one point home, as well as leaving the their fans still wondering if their score board would go above 100!!
After an enjoyable lunch and a welcoming greeting and hospitality from their President Kieron and Chairman Carl. Southend supporters, whilst accepting that Colchester were favourites to win this game and probably the league, had hoped that this game would have been much more competitive.
This result leaves the Saxons with 21 points and in third place in the league on points difference. Next week back on track and another away game at Hertford who are currently eleventh with 6 points.
AG
Match report bought to you by
SAT 04 OCT 2025
Southend Saxons
42 - 37
Westcliff
Another Nail Biter.
1st Half
Saturdays game against old local rivals Westcliff kicked off with Southend Saxons playing into a very stiff breeze left over from storm Amy. Both sides exchanged successful penalty kicks early on leaving them at 3 – 3 each after seven minutes. Five minutes later Westcliff scored another after Southend were penalised for holding on taking them into a three-point lead at 3 – 6.
Play became scrappy with both sides knocking on and dropping passes in the difficult conditions. After one such incident a Westcliff player hacked a loose ball that bounced onward and onward towards the Southend try line. The race was won by a Westcliff player who touched down much to the delight of their considerable supporters in attendance. The conversion from in front of the post took them even further ahead at 3 – 13.
Southend continued to be second best at both lineouts and breakdowns but as of late they continued to press until finally they won a penalty and dispatched the ball well into the Westcliff half, won the line out and rumbled over for their first try of the day. Tom Ramsey still had his kicking boots on and converted the difficult kick into the wind. 10 – 13.
With their tails up now, Saxons became more flamboyant but it proved to be their undoing as a Westcliff back easily intercepted a speculative pass and raced to the line unopposed. Another easy conversion took them further ahead at 10 – 20. Just before half time Southend reduced the difference with a successful penalty kick to peg back the score to 13 – 20.
2nd Half
Within a minute or two both sides were reduced to fourteen men as the result of yellow cards with Southend being awarded a penalty but the attempted kick sailed wide on the still strong wind. However, within minutes another penalty kick was successful reducing the deficit to only four points 16 – 20 with thirty minutes to go.
The Saxon’s began to dominate play scoring four try’s over the next fifteen minutes without reply. They converted three of them taking the score to 42 – 20 and what looked to be a comfortable win. But Westcliff had other ideas and stormed back scoring two converted try’s of their own, followed by a successful penalty kick bringing them to within five points and Southend hanging on desperately until the final whistle. 42 – 37 and adding another five league points keeping them at the top of the table on 20 points. Second on nineteen is next week’s opponents Colchester always a difficult place to go to.
AG
Match report bought to you by
SAT 20 SEP 2025
Medway
13 - 36
Southend Saxons
Men of The Match
1st Half
All for one and one for all today, away to a club that we have not played at first team level before. Like us they had started the season well so a difficult game was to be expected and that’s what the Saxons got.
Because of injuries and unavailability, Southend had debutants and players playing out of position but they coped with it very well playing as a team that looked as though they played together all the time both defensively and in attack.
The first ten minutes rolled back and forth from one end to another with Medway looking the more dangerous. But Saxons scored first after Medway kicked ahead and the ball carried by the stiff breeze ran out of play. From the ensuing scrum a good kick from Southend in their half bounced into touch in within the Medway twenty- two and so it was a Saxon lineout. The ball was well gathered and the forwards rumbled over, touching down wide out. Tom Ramsey was unable to convert. 0 – 5.
Within a few minutes the referee awarded Medway a penalty for boring in from a scrum right in front of the Saxon posts. The easy kick was gratefully accepted and the score moved to 3 – 5.
Southend continued to exert pressure penning Medway withing their own half with fantastic defensive play. Another long clearing kick from Medway sailed high, far and out of play. The Southend scrum saw the ball run across the field and into the hands of winger Ramsey who evaded a couple of despairing tackles and touched down. He then converted his own try to make the score 3 – 12 which is where it stayed until half time.
2nd Half
Southend took to the field having made one substitution, Harry Phelps Knights, coming on for Tom Mowle in the front row. Almost immediately from the kick off Medway scored their first try of the day, sloppy play from Southend saw them touch down but the conversion sailed wide. 8 – 12. Within another two minutes they scored their second right under the posts but somehow their kicker snatched it wide but they moved into the lead for the first time at 13 – 12.
Southend continued to ship penalty’s which became 13 – 4 against before they scored their third try. It followed a decision to change a line out in favour of Medway after a Saxons player disputed where the ball had gone out. It was of no consequence because they won the lineout anyway distributing the ball smartly until winger George Griffiths went over wide out converted by Ramsey with yet another great kick. 13 – 19.
It was followed straight away with another, when Tom Ramsey made a smart interception and ran the ball half the length of the field to score his second try which he also converted moving the score to 13 – 26.
A rare penalty in the Saxons favour was dispatched for a further three points 13 – 29. Just before full time Southend added another try from winger Griffiths that captain Ben Lloyd converted to take the final score to 13 – 36.
A wonderful team effort from the Saxons with special mention of back row Osa Obasuyi, moving up from the colts side for his impressive debut. The result took them to the top of the league on 15 points one ahead of Colchester.
Next up, neighbours Westcliff at Warners Park on October 4th.
Match report bought to you by
SAT 13 SEP 2025
Southend Saxons
48 - 24
Shelford
Remembering Pete Thomas & Phil Reid
1st Half
Shelford have always been one of Southend’s bogey teams so what better way to celebrate Stu Whatling’s one hundredth game for the club than a win at home in front of three hundred club members and supporters on this windy afternoon.
The game started brightly for both sides without either managing to get over the line for the first ten minutes. Then following a successful line out and swift moves across the field Saxons winger George Griffiths broke two tackles and went over for a try wide out on the left. The kicking duties fell to full back left footed Tom Ramsey and the wind was blowing fiercely from his left but much to the delight of Southend supporters the ball started out about 15 meters left of the posts but was blown sharply right and sailed over 7 – 0.
Shortly after Southend’s number 8 was yellow carded for, in the referees opinion, which is the only one that matters, tackling someone in the air. It was not long before Shelford took advantage and scored a converted try of their own 7 – 7.
The first half continued with both teams striving to best the other, it ended with a further try and conversion and a successful penalty kick from both sides 17 – 17. Tom Ramsey’s second conversion was another remarkable one in the conditions, very similar to the first.
2nd Half
As the result of not realising my voice recorder was not working properly this is just a summary.
What ever was said in the changing room worked because this half was all Southend Saxons, they put on another 31 points, consisting of five well worked try’s and three successful conversion from that man Ramsey. Shelford managed only one more try and conversion leaving the final score at 48 – 24. Following this result Saxons are now on 10 league points and moved up the league to 2nd on points difference to newly demoted Colchester.
Away next week to Medway, you can travel to support either by boat from the pier or by road.
AG
Match report bought to you by
SAT 6 SEP 2025
Amersham & Chiltern
24 - 29
Southend Saxons
GOODAY
1st Half
A bright windy day at our old friends Amersham & Chiltern who, according to their president, had lost all their previous eleven games against us. He said they intended to change that.
Well after only two minutes it started to look as though he might be right as they rumbled over the line following a scrum just in front of Southend’s posts. The easy conversion took them into an early 7 – 0 lead.
Shortly after Southend responded with a well worked try of their own wide out on the left. Tom Day touching down, the conversion sailed wide on the wind but the gap had narrowed 7 – 5. Unfortunately, Southend’s openside flanker, Lewis Holmes suffered what looked to be a serious pulled hamstring and could take no further part in the game, he was replace by Syd Noyd.
Ten minutes later the Saxons were awarded a penalty in front of the post and Captain, Ben Lloyd, took full advantage and kicked the three points taking Southend into the lead for the first time 7 – 8.
Play flowed back and forth without any further score until Amersham were awarded a penalty of their own. The good kick sailed between the post taking them back into the lead at 10 – 8.
Southend lost one of their players to a yellow card but they continued to press and shortly before half time they scored their second try, again Tom Day touching down. The conversion from Captain Ben Lloyd took them into the lead again. 10 -15 where it stayed till halftime.
2nd Half
Within two minutes Amersham scored what can only be described as a no rugby try. They were awarded a penalty a meter or two in front of their own try line, kicked it to the halfway line, were awarded another penalty from the line-out which they kicked to a couple of meters from the Saxons try line caught the throw in and rumbled over. The successful conversion from wide out took them back into the lead at 17 – 15.
Not long after they scored another, this time a very good try, running the length of the field passing the ball from hand to hand until they scored wide out on the right. Another good conversion took the score to 24 – 15 and looking as though their president might have his aspirations realised.
But Southend had different ideas. Back to fifteen they took the game to Amersham, a couple of penalties saw them throw the ball in 5 meters out for a forwards push, recycle and finally pass the ball out to Saxon Tom Day that saw him touch down for his third try of the afternoon. Another good conversion from Lloyd took the Saxons back into touching distance at 24 – 22 with thirty minutes left.
Amersham looked as though they scored another try but the referee called it held up much to the Southend supporters relief. Shortly later Southend stormed forward and scored their fourth try of the game when the forwards mauled it over the line. Another successful conversion took the score to 24 – 29.
Both teams lost a player each to yellow cards following a tussle off the ball.
The final 20 minutes, including added time where Amersham’s. They dominated but failed to score again partly because they kept losing hard won line-outs and Saxons defense proved resilient much to the relief of the traveling supporters. Five league points on the road is a good start to this seasons campaign. We are in 6th place on points difference. Next up Shelford at home next Saturday.
AG
