Sat 6 Apr 2024, 15:00
RFU National League 2 East
Saturday April 6
Worthing 22 Esher 50
Written by Richard Spiller
James Botterill's hat-trick led Esher to a victory which sets up Saturday's top of the table clash with Dorking.
Es are four points clear of their Surrey rivals – with just three matches left, possessing a game in hand – and know victory at Molesey Road could effectively end the race.
Lock Hugh Sloan started the destruction of Worthing, going over wide out after six minutes, Sam Morley converting. Wing Botterill's sharp senses paid dividends moments later when he made an interception and sped over with Morley again providing the extras.
Harrison Sims briefly reversed the tide to put the hosts on the board after 16 but normality was restored by Dan Rowland striking three minutes later, Botterill's second coming on 22 with Morley on target both times.
Es lost Rowland to the sinbin soon after, Worthing taking advantage of numerical supremacy to claim a second try when William Gearing-Grief went over courtesy of a driving maul.
Morley's penalty sent the visitors into half time 29-10 ahead and Botterill was through to complete his hat-trick on 56 minutes, touching down after his own kick through. Morley converted superbly from the touchline.
As Worthing sought another score, centre Miles Rawstron-Rudd grabbed the second interception try of the game by powering over from halfway up the pitch just before the hour.
Fraser Bruce struck for the Sussex side's third try, with eight minutes remaining, Jack Forrest recording their only conversion of the afternoon. Conor Ganley's try ensured Esher could reach the half-century mark by recording their seventh try – Alex Seers having taken over kicking duties – but Curtis Barnes gained the fourth try at the other end to earn Worthing their bonus.
Dorking's fightback to beat Tonbridge Juddians 36-33 kept alive their title hopes while Barnes – two points behind them – still have a chance given they host Esher in the final match of the season.
Games to come – April 13: Dorking (H); 20: Guernsey (H); 27: Barnes (A).
