Woodford Under-15s beat Braintree but lose to Eton Manor in friendly matches

Having lost to Braintree less than a month ago, Woodford's A team were highly-motivated to wreak revenge.

After nine minutes the home team led 7-0 after Jamie Ali's pace was too much for his opponents and he scored the opening try before Alex Marks converted.

Woodford continued to have the better of the half and the hosts extended their lead before half-time.

Man-of-the-match Robert Yiannakou’s long throw sailed over everyone but Marks tackled as Braintree tried to attack.

Will Carey passed to Delford Perkins, who began a neat passage of play which ended with Marks scoring a well-deserved try which he also converted to make the score 14-0 just before the break.

With seven minutes gone in the second period, Braintree reduced the gap with a converted try despite brave defending from Anthony Hamilton, Carey and Tom Fitzpatrick.

Woodford restored their advantage however, working the ball up-field and Hamilton cut inside and forced his way over for another Woodford try.

Unconverted, Woodford deservedly led 19-7 with less than 10 minutes left to play. Braintree scored another try in the final moments of the game but the result was already confirmed and Woodford will take added confidence into their second league game of the season next Sunday at home to Harlow.

Woodford Bs suffered defeat to Eton Manor although the 35-5 scoreline flattered Manor who scored 14 points in the last five minutes.

Eton Manor scored first but Woodford rallied well with Tom Mead and Haaris Sohoye working hard together and contributing to a try.

Shortly before half-time, Manor extended their advantage to 14-5 and while Woodford continued to absorb pressure in the second period, their opponents ran in two more tries late on Coach Charles Wallace said: "For our B team to take on opposition our A team will be playing in the league and stay in contention shows great spirit.

"The boys should be pleased with what they have achieved."