Wimbledon wrapped up their pre-season preparations with exactly the kind of test they wanted, a bruising but entertaining clash against National League 2 side Sevenoaks. The visitors ultimately prevailed 45–31, but the hosts left the field encouraged by five well-worked tries and a spirited second-half fightback.

Playing with the strong breeze at their backs in the first period, the Dons had to absorb early pressure. A deft chip behind the defensive line gave Sevenoaks the opening score, but winger Oscar Norman soon struck back, finishing a move sparked by debutant full back Finley Matthews’ sharp footwork. Matthews then showed his own finishing instincts by darting over for a try of his own to edge Wimbledon in front.

Sevenoaks, though, reminded everyone why they play a division higher. Their pack powered over for a close-range effort before their rapid left wing carved through to give the visitors a 21–12 lead at the break.

The second half opened with Wimbledon undone by some shaky midfield defence, but veteran centre Jack Reville muscled his way across the line after a slick break from flyhalf Archie Heard. Sevenoaks’ heavier forwards took control from there, mauling their way to two more scores and stretching the lead to 45–19.

But if the game looked settled, Wimbledon had other ideas. Replacement flyhalf Sam Veall injected pace and vision, sparking a thrilling late rally. Veall not only orchestrated but also finished two superb tries, dragging the scoreline back to a respectable 31–45 and sending the home supporters away with plenty to cheer.

Director of Rugby Steve Hill was upbeat afterwards: “We knew Sevenoaks would be a tough test but I was really impressed by how our squad stood up to this afternoon’s challenge. We scored some excellent tries and created a few more chances we needed to finish off. We certainly need to improve our individual discipline as too often this gave the visitors strong field position but to finish as strongly as we did was really encouraging. We have a very tough test next Saturday with the visit of Jersey but this performance will give our players a heap of confidence.”

Wimbledon RFC

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