Dorton kicks Gravesend to victory

A grey drab weather day together with a grey drab game was the order of the day for the Gravesend Majority set of supporters. This combined with a referee intent on using his whistle and too many times, getting in the way of play. The first five minutes saw a determined Brighton play phase rugby in the Gees half but not getting past a strong defence until the ball went wide for the Brighton number 8 to score. In fact, Gravesend only touched the ball twice in the first 5 minutes. From the restart Gravesend's defence was again tested which for the rest of the game was solid from all the team. The first venture in the Blues half saw a penalty awarded and the reliable boot of Dave Dorton reducing the deficit to 5-3. Apart from the 8 penalties ( 5 Gees - 3 blues ) the game was played in the middle of the park with both teams defending with no telling yards made over the gain line. That was it, Half time.

The second half continued with scrappy play, knock ons and accidental offsides ( Remember that ref getting in the way ! ) The penalty count escalated with 2 yellow cards for the Blues. Gravesend did not make the numbers work until the second yellow with a penalty kick by Dorton. 5-6. It was the turn of Gravesend to infringe with a yellow for Zac Lewis. Gravesend started to play the better rugby with territory advantage but with the Blues defence holding, no one was taking bets on a try bonus point. A boost of power came from the replacement Marc Klus with plenty of the Ball and powerful contacts, the crowd were getting excited. Alas a small amount of red mist and a dive over the ruck was followed by a yellow card for him. play continued with Gravesend pushing into more attacks into the Blues half. A Penalty kick to Gees left it at 5-9 with what we all thought, 10 minutes to go. The Blues attacked but solid defence until the final whistle at 47 minutes ensured a post New year win for the Gees.

Quote of the day came from the non playing touring side of Turnidge, Andrews and Company. With Ashley Frampton diving on a loose ball he was leant on by a Blues players with considerable more weight behind him without allowing him up first. The touring side shouted at the player " Leave him alone, he's from the under 11's" although we can confirm he is old enough to play, his mum confirmed he is under 11 stone !!!!!

2 players stood out for the supporters. Chris Brady and Ashley Frampton. Both young players who are improving in every game they play. They are combining well with the more experience players around them and are making their mark.