It was a fitting farewell for club legend Nick Doherty at St Mark’s, as Tunbridge Wells delivered a statement 43–12 victory over Old Alleynians. Making his final home appearance, Nick bows out after 350+ 1XV caps and as a key figure in the unforgettable Twickenham 2016 squad. An incredible career, marked in style with a dominant team performance.
From the first whistle, Wells set the tone. A powerful scrum and relentless defensive pressure pinned Old Alleynians back, with turnovers and penalties handing the home side early control of territory. The pressure soon paid off, with slick hands and sharp timing sending Hunter over to open the scoring and cap off a commanding opening spell.
Wells were in full flow. Clinical at the set piece and composed through the phases, they dictated the tempo throughout the first half. A well-drilled lineout close to the line set the platform for another score under the posts, before the pack took centre stage, powering over from a driving maul to extend the lead. By the break, it was one-way traffic at 31–0 and total control.
The second half began in much the same fashion. Calm, controlled possession and quick ball movement stretched the defence, creating space out wide for George to finish in the corner and push the score to 38–0. The game looked done, but the momentum briefly shifted.
As conditions worsened, fluency dropped. Handling errors crept in, intensity dipped, and Old Alleynians took advantage, capitalising on loose play to score twice in quick succession and add a hint of pressure.
Wells responded well. Regaining control, they moved the ball with purpose to the right, creating space for Sam to cross in the corner and shut down any comeback hopes. The closing stages were scrappy, but the result was never in doubt as Tunbridge Wells secured a convincing 43–12 win.
Next up, a trip to Rosslyn Park, where Tunbridge Wells face London Scottish in a play-off clash in two weeks’ time.