Old Patesians 2nd XV – 43
Dudley Kindswinford 2nd XV – 29
Old Patesians 2nd XV got back to winning ways with a shaky, but dominant victory at home to Dudley Kingswinford 2nd XV.
Pats sent them back up the M5 after a hard fought match where Pats were eventually the better side.
The pack were especially impressive, forcing DK off their own scrum and line out time after time. Simon Brown and Jason Rickard led the relentless scrummaging, forcing them back or wheeling them into submission. Josh Stevens and Paul Bennett stole precious line outball time after time.
The first try came through Pats no-8 Nathan Riley from another impressive scrum 5-yards out from the DK line.
DK were quick to reply through some sloppy defense which let DK through on the fringes.
The hard ground took its toll and flanker Dan Morris was forced to retire with a shoulder injury allowing Aaron Ryan on in his place, who straight away showed his tallent with an impressive try saving tackle, but it wasn't enough to hold DK who took advantage of a quick tap penalty to score again.
Pats struck back almost instantly with some impressive patterns through backs Rob Collins and Bruce Crowley, allowing Duncan Spurrier to score in the corner. Halftime came, and Pats trailed by two points.
The second half marked a revitalised Pats, who utalised the infamous slope to their advantage. Keeping DK deep in their own half for the majority.
Pats struck quickly with tries through substitute scrum half James Aherne x2, Henry Tapsall amongst others topped by unparralled goal kicking from Ben Spry, slotting time after time from the sidelines.
Pats let themselves down in the final minute when they allowed DK to score a consolation try and penalty goal.
A great way to blow out the cob-webs ahead of next weeks first league game agaist Coney Hill 2nd XV, which will prove more of a challenge.
By Pat E Sian
