Maids leapfrog Phoenix

Saturday 13th February 2010

A valiant display from Maidenhead 4ths saw them leapfrog Phoenix to the top of the table after clinging on for a 17-15 victory in a nailbiting finish to their local Derby at Taplow on Saturday.

Phoenix drew first blood with an early penalty, but Maids dominated much of the first half and were rewarded with a try from centre Jan Weddepohl, converted by fly-half Dave Goodman. The home side edged back in front with a converted try, but the Maids' pack responded with an impressive rolling maul for lock Alex Lewendon to score near the corner.

A bright start to the second half saw the visitors extend their lead when winger Shane Watson touched down at the end of a well-worked backs move, but Phoenix gradually worked their way back into the match and reduced the deficit with a disputed try from a five-metre scrum.

As the visitors' frustration mounted after a string of penalties against them, an uncharacteristic lack of discipline resulted in yellow cards for flanker Pete Hickey and prop Paul Kingsley in quick succession. With Maids reduced to 13 men, Phoenix spent most of the closing stages camped in the Maids 22 but were unable to breach their resolute defence. Yet another penalty a few yards in from the touchline gave Phoenix a final shot at victory from the last play, but the kick fell short and Goodman hammered the ball into touch to end a pulsating match.

Maids' scorers Tries: Jan Weddepohl, Alex Lewendon, Shane Watson Conv: Dave Goodman

Maids' man of the match: Alex Lewendon