Tonbridge Juddians 16 Birmingham Moseley 39: National League 1 match report

By David Challis

Despite an excellent first 60 minutes, TJs succumbed to a rampant final quarter from Birmingham Moseley as they slipped to their 15th defeat of the season, 39-16 in National League 1 on Saturday.

The home side simply ran out of steam while Birmingham grew into this game and demonstrated their class at this level.

TJs opened the game the stronger and dominated the early exchanges with a much-improved scrum yielding a couple of penalties and turnover ball. However, the home side lacked a cutting edge to really break down a Birmingham side who held resolute in defence despite giving away a few penalties.

As a result, Tom White was forced to opt for goal on two occasions, opening up a 6-0 lead during the first quarter. However, Birmingham managed to hit back just before half-time and found some territory inside the TJs 22.

A yellow card to returning hooker Ryan Jackson and a try soon after was a killer blow for the home side who had spent much of the first half on top. Instead they returned to the sheds a point behind.

The second half began with a lot more of an even feel during the first ten minutes or so. However, on this occasion it would be TJs who struck first. Off the back of a strong line out and a hard first up carry, Toby Freeman burst round the corner to scythe through the defensive line and score his first try for the club.

It was duly converted by White and suddenly TJs had the initiative. However, this one was to be short-lived as the back three of Birmingham began to run riot off the kick return. A series of classy breaks led to a kickable penalty and the away side closed the gap.

From here, Birmingham kicked on and found space through the middle of the TJs defence. Great phaseplay saw