Irving try secures derby win for Esher

ESHER snapped their three-game losing streak and claimed derby bragging rights as a strong defensive display helped them to a hard-fought win at Rosslyn Park.

Two late tries from Park captain Adam Frampton were not enough with Esher’s dominant pack proving key.

The visitors were rewarded for their fast start with wing Kariym Irving’s line-break the catalyst for the only try of the half, as Joe Beckett finished in the corner from Tom James’ offload after 14 minutes.

Rosslyn Park were struggling to work the phases and Esher’s defensive work was so stubbornly organised it belied their lowly 14th position in a compact National 1 table.

They extended their lead as Paul Roberts knocked over a penalty after 23 minutes for 8-0.

Yet Park momentarily kicked into life only for a super try-saving tackle from Irving to deny centre Peter Weightman on a quick break.

Then Roberts’ second penalty as time expired capped an excellent first half for Esher as the home side went in to the sheds pointless.

After the break, Greg Lound kicked the host’s first points but Esher responded as Roberts converted their second try from Harrison Collins.

And a frantic last 10 minutes saw Frampton cross twice for Park either side of Irving’s clincher for Esher.