Spalding 15 Stamford 17
A failure to turn first-half chances into points cost Spalding victory as derby rivals Stamford’s greater experience told in their Counties 1 Midlands East (South) meeting at the Centenary Ground.
Defences were on top but Spalding’s scrum had a slight advantage with Sam Cowell returning at prop, alongside captain Luke Turner. With locks Alex Worth and George Douglas supporting, Spalding looked to have a platform to build on.
The deadlock was broken after 30 minutes of play when Stamford conceded a penalty for hands in a ruck and fly half Ryan Firth slotted over the kick for a three-point lead
Ben Shields, Jack Patrick and Ryan Firth all had chances to extend the Elephants’ lead but a scrum to Stamford saw their number eight break from the back to go over from five metres to give the visitors a 5-3 half-time lead.
With the wind behind them, Stamford took the game to Spalding and for the first 15 minutes after the interval it was all about defending inside their 22 with Spalding’s back row of Reece Callaby, Jack Grundy and Will Shields alongside backs Taylor Crowson and Patrick standing up to the visitors’ hard running.
However, Stamford secured the rucks and the pressure finally told with a thrust over the line for the visitors’ second try
Spalding gradually fought their way back into the game but gave away possession on three occasions, with some poor decision-making.
Stamford stole through the middle, despite a valiant chase by Taylor Crowson for a converted try to ease to a nine point advantage with 10 minutes remaining.
A driving maul was brought down by Stamford illegally and a penalty try was awarded to leave just two points between the sides.
However, there was not enough time for Spalding to add to their tally and Stamford held on to take the plaudits.
Spalding: Cowell, Parker, Turner, Douglas, Worth, Callaby, Shields, Grundy, Sutcliffe, Firth, Sharman, Ingleby, Crowson, Shields, Patrick. Subs: Wraith, Brown, Crane.
Pictures by Adrian Smith
