Robinson penalty wins day for TJs in thriller

FLY-HALF Will Robinson struck with a late penalty to snatch victory for Tonbridge Juddians over Old Redcliffians.

The hosts, for the second week in a row, were grateful for their fly-half ’s accuracy from the tee as he landed five penalties and two conversions.

In a game that could have gone either way, the lead changed hands eight times with TJs in front early through two Robinson penalties.

Redcliffians produced the game’s first try through James Clements converted by Ashley Groves before Robinson’s left boot doubled the home side’s tally. Groves replied with a penalty of his own and the teams headed to half-time with TJs 12-10 ahead.

After the restart, Clements crossed again following a flowing move before Tom Nicoll finished a catch-and-drive score for the home side.

The visitors responded with winger Ed Boxall touched down in the corner, before TJs hit back with powerful driving forward play, ending with Finlay Coxon-Smith touching down to put the home side back in front.

Robinson, faultless with the boot again, converted and TJs led 26-22. However, Reds were not done and Clements went over for his hat-trick but the missed conversion allowed Robinson’s boot to give TJs the lead with a minute left.

Reds missed a penalty to win it with the final kick of an enthralling encounter.