A thrilling comeback was not enough for Spalding to overcome higher ranked Derby in the NLD Seniors Cup semi-final.
The Elephants trailled by 19 points at half-time but mounted a great recovery to level the scores only to be defeated by two penalties in the last few minutes
Derby play two leagues higher than Spalding, so a challenging game awaited
The visitors started the stronger, pinning Spalding back in their 22. The Elephants used their forwards to drive territory forward but with the away side challenging every carry and every ruck a penalty was conceded 10 metres from the try line. Derby passed the ball quickly along their backs and scored in the corner with only three minutes gone.
Spalding missed a long-distance penalty and soon after an away attack down the left saw two missed tackles before a Derby arm reached out to ground the ball on the try line.
Derby were showing greater team work but Spalding had some joy and a penalty saw the forwards gain field position, allowing Jack Grundy to force his way over.
Derby were using a kicking game to good effect and full back James Holland was caught in possession five metres out, allowing the ball to be turned over and a simple try and conversion extended the visitors’ lead. A fourth try put them 19 points up at the break.
The second half was a different story as Spalding came storming back. Ash Anker’s lateral run opened the gate for Grundy to score his second try as Derby started to look rattled.
Fly half Willis Ingleby’s grubber kick set Sam Christie chasing and his pace resulted in a touch down and a successful conversion whittled down Derby’s lead.
Ingleby then intercepted, made a break, and offloaded for Christie to score. The conversion made it 24-24 with 20 minutes remaining
However, Derby had greater depth on the subs bench as injuries mounted and Spalding’s scrum was under pressure as Derby upped the ante.
Finally, two penalties, given away for a high tackle and offside in the last six minutes, sealed Derby’s win to bring Spalding’s season to an end
Elephants: Cowell, Da Silva, Turner, Raimondas, Douglas, Templer, Anker, Grundy, Wraith, Ingleby, Coupe, Christie, Ferguson, Holland. Subs Fraser, Crane, Medlock.
q Touch Rugby has started on Wednesdays, 7pm, for players to maintain fitness levels. Any aspiring rugby players, aged 15 plus, are welcome to join in at Centenary Park, Drain Bank North.
