CHELMSFORD Rugby bounced back with a terrific final 15 minute showing to win their opening match 15-12 against Braintree in London & SE Division London 3 Essex.

Ten points down with 15 minutes to go, they bounced back to the delight of Kevin Blackmore.

“The players showed a huge amount of character to win that game,” said the coach. “It wasn’t pretty at times, but local derbies tend to be tense affairs and this was no different.

“Braintree were a very physical side and put us under a fair bit of pressure, particularly first half, but our lads stood firm

“To win the game in the manner we did will do this team the world of good and bodes well for the rest of the season.”

A below-par first half saw just one score, Braintree scoring a penalty to lead 3-0.

And a defensive mistake saw a home attack intercepted and the Braintree centre ran in from 60 metres to score a converted try.

Following a number of penalty awards Chelmsford got back into the contest. From a five metre lineout, captain Myles Reagan caught well and the forwards drove forwards for the ever present Paul Redford to plunge over close to the corner flag. Ed Wild kicked the conversion which saw Chelmsford home.

Next up, Chelmsford visit Millwall.