First home win

Witham welcomed Runwell for the first home league fixture of the season. Runwell brought an experienced team and started strongly, putting Witham under pressure. After 10 minutes, Witham broke into the Runwell half but lost possession, from which the visitors counter attacked and opened the scoring with a try. Shortly afterwards, a penalty put the visitors further ahead. Witham were not taking their chances but the visitors were ruthless and another try saw their lead go to 13-0. At this point, the hosts gathered composure and put together some positives phases of play advancing towards the Runwell line. The pressure created spaces and when the ball got to Rob Bennett on the wing he was able to score unchallenged. The conversion by Michael Vidler, along with a penalty shortly afterwards brought the home side back into the game. With the last play of the half, a slick backs move saw Arran Stanier score to give Witham a 15-13 lead at half time.
Runwell restored their lead at the start of the second half with a well taken try but the home side were quick to reply when Liam Ridgewell, flicked the ball to Lea Chesson, who outpaced the defence to score. Another penalty by Vidler put Witham ahead by 23-20 but the home side were still having to defend. With only a few minutes left, Josh Turrell scored the try that secured the 28-20 win for Witham. Next Saturday sees the newly formed Kelvedon Rugby club visit Witham's 2nd XV.