Sat 21 Dec 2024
R were unable to repeat their heroics of the first round and fell narrowly short of an upset win losing by one score to the league leaders, though after the opening quarter that looked far from likely. Playing into the wind D scored two early unconverted tries, one on each wing, as their pacey backs tested the home defence.Will Spires slotted over a penalty kick to shorten the deficit before Matt Allen went on a rampaging run, the first of many, which resulted in Mikey Adams taking most of the the D defence over the line with him for a score also converted by WS to level the scores. However from the kick off D swept straight back to retake the lead but again the conversion fell short.The R forwards were dominant in the set pieces and gained some valuable territory from it, one of many drives opened space to allow Cal Razzak to score the second try and tie up the scores at half time.The breeze was still strong enough to give an advantage if space could be found but with wings lying deep R effectively had 3 full backs and D struggled to take any meaningful advantage. With the ball in hand however D had more joy, and a straight run put them ahead.The R pack enjoyed plenty of possession with Allen and Adams leading the way, building momentum they stayed in the game despite the visitors looking dangerous throughout. R were rewarded with a third try scored by winger Joe Morgan and converted by WS to again level the scores.D were not yet finished and despite some heroic defensive tackling they scored the final try of the game to clinch it. R had a few opportunities late on to snatch a draw but fell short though did gain a losing bonus point.
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