WOKING concluded their season with a tour match in the Republic of Ireland – almost two months after the closing fixture of their Counties Five Surrey programme.

But the Byfleet Recreation Ground-based oufit were beaten 42-19 by a youthful Boyne side in Drogheda, County Louth.

“Having not played for weeks, we were up against it from the start as Boyne took the game to us,” said Woking’s Rhys Parker. 

“With us struggling to gain a foothold in the match, we were thankful for the hosts’ profligacy. 

“Boyne squandered a series of try-scoring opportunities. And gradually, our experienced pack started to gain control and were able to take the game to Boyne.

“So it was a big surprise when Boyne countered from deep to score the first try, against the run of play, following a handling error by us. 

“A second try followed quickly as the Boyne winger went the length of the pitch to score unopposed.

“Undeterred and spurred on by our captain for the day, Simon Power, we responded through a try by second row Shaun Gilbert  after a series of quick tap penalties. 

“A second try followed for us just before the break. Our dominance in the scrum told, as the referee awarded a penalty try for persistent infringement by the home side.

“Following the break, Boyne came out with a point to prove. And they played some fine running rugby.

“They moved the ball wide at every opportunity and away from our pack, who had been keeping us in the match. 

“Unlike in the first half, the Boyne back line were able to take their chances and put us to the sword by scoring a further three tries. 

“With the hot temperature taking its toll on both sides, the game slowed down. That meant it was played to our strengths again. 

“And it allowed us to grab a late consolation through Power, when he drove over from a couple of metres out.”