RUGBY

Chingford 12
Barking 22
(Pre-season friendly)

CHINGFORD'S preparations for the new season moved up a gear with a close-fought clash with National 3 side Barking.

With both sides missing five regulars, it was a chance for squad players to get a run-out.

But any hopes Barking had of an easy time ahead of their league opener on Saturday were put to the sword by the Essex One outfit.

Chingford started brightly although a handling error cost the hosts a chance of registering an early try.

It was the visitors who got on the scoresheet first, although there was some debate surrounding the try. Chingford scrum half John Volkman put in a tremendous cover tackle that pushed the Barking player in touch, but try was still awarded.

Barking extended the lead when the second row forward picked up a loose Chingford pass, raced half the length of the pitch and put down under the posts. An easy conversion followed.

The Waltham Way side responded with a try of their own soon after, Kieran Bowling charging down a kick close to the Barking line and running over.

After the break, the host’s forceful play was rewarded with a try when Volkman sneaked around the blind side to score. James Moore tied the score to 12 all with the boot.

But Barking sealed victory with two breakaway tries late on.

However, Chingford coach Stefan Smith said: “It was a good run out for the guys.

"They learnt a lot from this defeat and also exactly where they are and where they need to be to compete in our league.

“It was a satisfactory day for all concerned.”