Southend Sabres 14 Chiltern Cheetahs 14

Chiltern travelled to Southend hoping for the win that would secure a play-off position for the first time since 1997 but had to settle for a share of the spoils in a hard fought but fair game. Southend gave Chiltern first possession, who were unable to capitalise and this set the tone for the game with both teams defences playing strongly.

Southend had the first opportunity to score with a field goal attempt but this was blocked at the line of scrimmage by Chilterns Ian Hayward, however only 2 possessions later, Southend ran in the first score of the day, the extra point attempt was blocked leaving the score 6-0 The remainder of the half was played out with both teams unable to put any more pressure on the scoreboard. (H/t 6-0)

The second half began with Southend putting Chiltern under immense pressure and they were rewarded with their second touchdown of the day and this time the 2pt P.A.T. was successful. (14-0) Chiltern finally got on the scoreboard in what can only be described as a comedy of errors, Firstly Southend fumbled the ball which was recovered by Chiltern then fumbled, recovered by Southend then fumbled, recovered by Chiltern then fumbled then finally (at the second attempt) recovered by Chilterns Kris Stephens who returned it 18yds for the score, the 2pt P.A.T. was successful with Stewart May catching the pass from Rob Suttling.(14-8)

Going in to the 4th Qtr both teams were pushing hard to increase the score but once again defences were standing tough. With 5 minutes to go Southend were forced to punt, which fell in to the arms of Kris Stephens who returned it 91yds for the tying score, the extra point attempt was blocked and we were set up for the grand finale (14-14)

Both teams had possession but were unable to make the final breakthrough. Chiltern now re-group for their final game of the season this week against the AP Surge from Staffordshire knowing that a win will put them in to the play-offs.