Norwich arrived at Beef Meadow knowing a win would secure their promotion to London League 2 NE. Having played at a higher level than their big city neighbour's for the last 2 seasons the Bulls were keen to show they were still a force to be reckoned with. From the kick off both teams were fully committed in defence cancelling each other out in the opening quarter. Beccles began to gain ascendency in the set pieces with big performances from skipper Reece Ling and Adam Edwards however Norwich looked dangerous in the three quarters, unfortunately both sides were regularly penalised so could not maintain attacking pressure. After half an hour Beccles number 8 Rob Wilson broke the shackles of his close markers and was able to finish off series of drives in characteristic fashion being unstoppable from 5 metres out. A penalty just before half time by Norwich reduced the deficit to 5-3 at the break with all to play for.

The Beccles management urged the home side to remain patient and continue to play through the phases and attack space to keep Norwich on the back foot. With Chris Hinsley dominant at the front of the line out, the Bulls could also play for territory despite facing the breeze hoping to turnover Norwich possession. Marcus Sale at scrum half had his finest game of the season looking fast and powerful as he broke from the base of a number of rucks to get behind the Norwich defence. After a sweeeping move along the three quarter line to left field Sale was able to dive over for a great team score.

Sam Long counter attacked strongly from full back beating the first tackle of the determined visitors kick chase regularly. From quickly recycled ball fly half Wade showed good awareness mixing his power runners close and allowing Callum Roberts to orchestrate attacks in the wide channels. A text book move allowed Roberts to fire out a perfect missed pass to Long who was able to put John Hoffman in for a score on the right wing. The conversion gave Beccles a 17-3 lead with 20 minutes to play, once a gain an elusive bonus point for the Bulls looked on the cards. Norwich regrouped, their full back made good ground before Beccles were penalised under the posts to allow Norwich to kick a penalty.

Realising a bonus point was in reach Norwich went for break with their fly half using his three quarters well, eventually the pressure told and they were able to score in the left corner to secure the losing bonus point with a 17-11 defeat which could have proved vital.

If Beccles had taken their bonus point opportunities this season they would still have been in promotion contention. This is something they will work on next year. Norwich came off the field disappointed but were soon able to uncork the champagne when news of challengers Upminsters surprise defeat at Brentwood's came through confirming the City outfit had secured promotion after all. In a league which has seen evenly matched sides putting in variable performances Norwich alone have had the one quality essential in a long campaign - consistency. they thoroughly deserve their promotion and it is good for Norfolk Rugby as a whole to have a number of teams moving up the league structure this season.

Beccles Team

T Holtzer, S Lake, R Ling, K Johnstone, A Edwards, C Hinsley, R Hall, R Wilson, M Sale, L Wade, J Hoffman, C Roberts, S Harmer, B Veasey-Lark, S Long, Res. A Guy, D Maeer, T Harrison B & B skips man of the match Marcus Sale