Albion second best in thrilling encounter

IN a thrilling encounter at The Wells, Blackheath emerged victorious over Plymouth Albion by 40-28 on Saturday, delivering a statement win in the National League One race.

- By PABLO CHEEKS

The momentum swung in the home side's favour from early on, and although Albion fought back, Blackheath’s attacking firepower proved the difference.

The home side came out of the blocks with real intent, quickly building pressure in the forwards and spreading the ball wide when opportunities arose.

Their first try arrived through William Harding, the culmination of strong line-out work followed by a slick back-line move that pierced Albion’s defence. The conversion was good, giving the hosts an early seven point lead.

Albion, to their credit, responded with a try of their own. It came courtesy of Jenson Boughton following sustained phases and some clever offloading that kept Blackheath’s defenders scrambling.

On the 30 minute mark, Albion piled on more pressure and actually took the lead after a breakaway try from the inform Bobby Wigginton, with Frankie Dart adding his second conversion of the game.

Blackheath struck again not long before the break, Finn Osbourne exploiting a turnover close to the Albion 22, moving quickly, with a smart finish in the corner to tie the game 14-14 after the made conversion.