Despite a convincing win in the reverse fixture just a week earlier at Summers Lane, this encounter proved a real test of character for Phoenix against a determined Romford side.

Finchley made the perfect start. From the kick-off, Amelia Thompson did superbly to reclaim possession, allowing Grace Hunter to power through several tackles and score under the posts inside two minutes. Bailey Oosthuizen added the extras for a 0-7 lead.

The visitors struck again almost immediately. A trademark back-door pass from Sophia Grilli released Taylor Carey deep inside Finchley’s own 22. Carey produced a brilliant solo run to score under the posts, with Oosthuizen converting to extend the lead to 0-14 inside four minutes.

Romford responded strongly, gaining territory and momentum. After 10 minutes, their Player of the Match Sara Malach broke through to score, with Lucy Kerr converting to reduce the deficit to 7-14.

Finchley regained some composure and produced a well-worked backs move, finished by Amelia Thompson on the left wing after 17 minutes, making it 7-19 at the break.
The second half began with sustained Romford pressure, aided by a series of penalties. On 53 minutes, Georgina Kerr crossed in the left corner to bring the score back to 12-19.

Phoenix responded quickly. Just three minutes later, Emeka Dawkins powered over near the posts to restore control at 12-24.

Romford continued to press, but Finchley’s defence stood firm. Captain Anastasia Wilkinson (Forwards Player of the Match) led from the front, while Oceana Ennis (Backs Player of the Match) was outstanding in defence as the visitors absorbed wave after wave of attack.

With the game still in the balance, Finchley sealed the win in style. A superb coast-to-coast move saw Bailey McIntosh sprint down the right wing to score under the posts in the final minute. Oosthuizen converted to complete the scoring at 12-31.

The result keeps Finchley Phoenix firmly in contention for the league title, with crucial fixtures ahead at home to Southend Saxons and Harlow, plus a challenging trip to Cheshunt.

Let’s go Phoenix!

Steven Rigby

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