Match report: Stone RUFC v Burntwood 2nds
Saturday 29th September
Stone went into the game with a 100%-win record in their three fixtures so far. Burntwood were also enjoying good form, having scored over 160 points in their first two league games. The hosts, missing four of their starting pack knew they had a big day ahead. To add to the pressure, the Stone old guard had arrived at Enson Lane, expecting a decent performance from the younger generation.
Burntwood got the game going, and after some good positioning Stone went ahead with Jamie Palmer scoring his first try of the season, using his pace to beat the defence on the left-hand side. Burntwood kicked off again, Stone looked comfortable in position, choosing to off load at contact instead going into ruck play. The play favoured the Stone back-line, Jamie looked like scoring a second, but a last-minute tackle from the away team sent the ball loose. Mitch Freeman cleaned up and dived over the line to make the score 12-0. Josh Reynolds then added to the score with his second try of the season. Once again, Burntwood restarted, but this time Stone looked unorganised, some poor defending in their own area lead to a Burntwood try. The first half finished 17-7.
Stone started the second half poorly. Choosing to try and run the ball deep from their own half backfired, and Burntwood took full advantage. Stone 17, Burntwood 14. GAME ON!
It seemed to be the wakeup call the home team needed, some quick off-loading increased the tempo, the ball was spread to the back quickly, Sam Griffiths carried from his own half to score. Stone attacked again and again, John Bekalo passing to Connor Norton who scored, followed by a great solo effort from scrum half Marcus Reynolds. Ben Powell adds the 7th and final try for Stone.
Final score: Stone 41 – Burntwood 14.
Stone Rugby Club, Enson Lane, Stone – For more information please contact Hon. Secretary, Ruth Millington: stonerugby@gmail.com
