An early penalty settled the nerves, but the visitors returned the favour with the first try from a period of sustained pressure which opened a 5-3 lead.

The Red and Black gained some control with the scrummage dominant allowing Tommy Lloyd to punch up some quality ball and Aaron Eagle to score from the following phase. This was followed by the try of the game when Beckwith gained some ground in his normal direct style to find Walker in support and a little inside pass found Richie Brand on an intelligent line and the hosts deserved the lead at 15-5.

Beccles were always dangerous with the ball and narrowed the deficit before half time with a second try to finish the half at 10-15 down.

Watton were equally potent with the ball in hand and when a flowing move through the backs was held up just inside the field of play, Michael Stickland found the space and pace to score in the corner.

A second Brand penalty kept the scoreboard ticking along before Beccles scored a third in this evenly balanced contest before another penalty secured the advantage at 28-15.

Watton finished a good performance with the powerful Christian Da Cruz making ground and Aaron Eagle who was s thorn in the oppositions side throughout completed the move and the hosts finished at 33-15.

Watton now host local neighbours Thetford in round two, who are sure to provide a feisty affair at Pages Lane next weekend, where spectators are always welcome.

Andy Leggett
( Vice President )