Wisbech RFC's difficult run in the Counties 2 Eastern Counties league continued as they were comprehensively defeated 41–5 by Woodbridge at Hatchley Barn on Saturday, October 4.
The squad was missing several key players due to injury and unavailability, forcing them to field a reshuffled side including two 17-year-olds making their senior debuts.
Woodbridge immediately took control of the match, scoring within two minutes.
The home side's dominance at the breakdown allowed them to dictate play, scoring further tries in the 7th, 15th, and 17th minutes, with three of the first-half tries converted to take a 26-0 lead.
Another unconverted try just before half-time saw Wisbech facing a 31–0 deficit.
After Woodbridge scored again within three minutes of the restart (unconverted), Wisbech showed glimpses of promise in the second half, with full-back Matt Esser crossing for a try, but Woodbridge responded with another unconverted try, sealing the victory.
Reflecting on the match, director of rugby Leonard Veenendaal said: "It was a challenging afternoon for Wisbech, who battled valiantly against a strong Woodbridge side and blustery conditions.
"With only 16 players travelling, team spirit never wavered, even as the score line widened.
"But continued unavailability for away matches is undermining the team’s performance, confidence, and momentum."
Despite the loss, the club found positives in the performance of colts Morton Middleton and Joshua Abrams-Stebbings.
Mr Veenendaal said: "On a positive note, colt debutants Morton Middleton and Joshua Abrams-Stebbings rose to the occasion.
"They showed real promise and commitment in their first senior appearances — attributes that will serve both them and the team well going forward."
The team will hope to make amends in their next fixture against Diss at Harecroft Road.
The match will be played at 3pm.
The Wisbech Wildcats will also play their opening Eastern Counties 2 league fixture against Cambridge III at the same time.
Share