Blackheath 12 Ealing Trailfinders 45

 

The champagne flowed in the Ladies' Day marquee, but for Ealing the bubbly will have to remain on ice for just a little longer.

 

Nevertheless, this comfortable five-point victory over a depleted Blackheath side, keeps the Trailfinders firmly on course for an immediate return to The Championship.

 

Ealing's open style of play would give Blackheath chances, especially early on, and Aston Croall, playing at tight-head for the hosts, was driven over for the hosts on 21 minutes, but by that time open-side Arthur Ellis had already crossed for the visitors in similar fashion, and outside-centre Sam Wardingley had latched on to a crossfield kick from a penalty to race home from 40 metres.

 

More than a hint of obstruction accompanied full-back Will Harries' break from Ealing territory for a third try, but there was no doubt about the fourth as number-eight and skipper Tom Brown touched down from the base of the Trailfinders' dominant scrum for a 24-7 lead at the break.

 

Ben Ward's dislocated ankle meant Ealing's unfortunate fly-half and player-coach missed a scrappy third quarter, but his side picked up their game enough for three further tries through inside-centre Andy Reay, Harries and inevitably Phil Chesters, taking the left-wing’s season tally to 33.

 

In between, centre Geoff Griffiths crossed for Blackheath as the hosts gained some continuity in opposition territory, but all too easy for Ealing who now require just two points from two games to achieve their goal.

 

Next Saturday, Blackheath make their final away trip of the National League One campaign when they travel to third-placed Coventry, before their final game at home to Fylde on 25th April.  

 

Blackheath    

 

Tries:   Croall, Griffiths

Conv:  Squires

           

Ealing Trailfinders   

 

Tries:  Ellis, Wardingley, Harries 2, Brown, Reay, Chesters

Conv:  Ward, Daniels 4