Bridgman: Gosport troops need to shape up for Sidcup

The head coach was shocked by the number of penalties conceded in the second half of the 43-12 defeat against Chobham.

A promising first half led Bridgman to believe his side could win but instead they imploded.

‘Unfortunately it all fell apart in the second half,’ said Bridgman.

‘I honestly thought we were in with a good shot approaching half-time.

‘Even when our opponents scored a try to take a narrow lead at the break we were still in it.

‘At that stage I felt we could win if we played well in the second half.

‘Instead we had a player yellow carded at the start.

‘And then we spent the entire second period in our own half.

‘We didn’t perform and the penalty count against us was appalling.

‘It is vital we learn not to give away so many penalties and stop back-chatting the referee because there was too much of that.

‘I have told the players they need to get back on the horse because this situation isn’t going to go away.

‘We have a difficult game every week and the players need to come training.

‘Some players are okay but as a team we are not fit enough.

‘As a team we cannot progress unless they do that.

‘We need to work together to produce a good squad.’

Fareham Heathens are in friendly action against Eastleigh’s second team at Cams Alders.

After Heathens secured a convincing Hampshire one win over Chineham without conceding a point last Saturday, they are looking to build on their excellent defence.

Coach Nick Davis said: ‘Our defence was solid, committed and organised.

‘It is a key strength of ours and one we’re looking to use to our advantage all season.

‘Attacking-wise, the players and coaches are hoping for an improvement in the ratio of chances created to chances taken.

‘Some try-scoring opportunities are still going begging.’

Skipper Dave Wheaton wants to see communication underpinning numerous tries in the game as the squad continue to mould together.

A first-team debut is handed to prop Josh Gander and morale in the camp is high after a good week of training.

Buoyant Locks Heath Pumas face another stern Hampshire two test at Alresford.

Pumas though are in a confident mood after beating league-leaders Fawley in their last game.

Alex Ainscough and Jez Gandy are promoted into the starting line-up for Locks Heath.

Perry English and Charlie Ford return but have to settle for a place among the replacements.