Sat 8 Mar 2025
R put in a valiant performance away at K scoring 5 tries and earning a valuable bonus point. Played as a 'Game on' match R fielded more forwards than backs which ultimately was there downfall as the K back line had that little more pace and capitalised on the extra space the found themselves with.
R scored first with Jon Beale diving over the line taking the final pass from Matt Allen who had blitzed through the opposition's defence. Will Spires converted.
K hit back in style with three quick tries from their pacey back line who found gaps running free in the open field. All converted, it was suddenly 21-7 and looking ominous. R however keep the ball tighter, their forwards started to take control and made some punishing runs of their own. Joe Purvis leading the way and returned the passing favour to Matt Allen to score the second R try.
However R were undone to two late tries, a smart move from a line out catch and an interception gave them a 35-12 lead at the break.
Another try after the break added a nail to the coffin, at which point R came back to life. JB scored his second when a stray clearance kick was run straight back for 5 points, Joe Purvis finished off a strong forwards drive and JB snatched his 3rd from a cross field kick.
With conversions from WS and MA it was suddenly 40-31 and R were in sight of an unlikely losing bonus point but K took control of the closing stages, scoring one more late try and secured the result.
R can take great heart from this performance, despite missing a lot of speed they battled hard and kept their discipline throughout.
They now have a week's break before taking on Five Ways OE at home
Matt Allen breaks through, supported by Mike Adams and Rob Clulee
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